GaN nanostructures have been extensively studied due to their important properties and applications in many fields. The recent synthesis and uses of these nanostructures have been reviewed. The different synthesis methods such as catalyst-assisted and catalyst-free methods to make GaN nanostructures and different reaction conditions have been also reviewed. This review covers the synthesis, growth mechanism, crystalline structure, properties, applications, structural and optical characterization of GaN nanostructures. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.