founder of travel guide series

A short history of travel guidebooks and why they matter more than ever

As independent travel publishers everywhere struggle in the face of covid-19, decorated adventurer and bradt guides founder hilary bradt reflects on the travel guide genre — and what you can do to help it survive..

Bradt Guides launched in the mid-1970s with Backpacking Along Ancient Ways in Peru and Bolivia,  a title based on Hilary's and her then-husband's intrepid travels in Latin America .  Since then, Bradt Guides have independently published hundreds of guidebooks, often giving much-needed coverage to undertouristed regions. Here, a solo hiker follows the Inca Trail leading to the ruined citadel of Machu Picchu, Peru.

The days when we could travel anywhere we wanted, almost at whim, seem like a distant and beautiful memory. Now even a few miles from our home feels like a foreign country. So, for now, the written word has become our virtual reality and has the power to transport us to those places we know we’ll journey to once this crisis is over.

I’d like to share the story of the early days of adventure travel publishing, how Bradt Guides came to be established, and how our approach to travel has shaped a generation of explorers — and how, without your continued support, this global crisis might see this work come to an end. 

It was the 1970s, and George — my then-husband — and I were looking for a publisher for the next edition of our little guide, Backpacking Along Ancient Ways in Peru and Bolivia . We met with the man who was then the leading travel publisher in Britain.

“No, this isn’t for us; it’s too specialised,” he told us. Our description of five hiking trails with off-the-beaten-track recommendations and thoughtful asides on local customs weren’t the sort of things he was interested in. “But I would publish a more mainstream guide to Peru if you’ll write it.”

Hilary Bradt founded Bradt Guides in 1974 with her then-husband, George. Half a century on, the company is one of the country's leading independent travel publishers. 

“But we can’t afford to go back there again,” I replied.

His attitude was cavalier: “That’s all right,” he said. “Just get some brochures from the tourist office and use those.”

And that’s why I ended up becoming a publisher myself. Guidebook writing is serious stuff, and good authors have an obsession with portraying the country they love with passion, accuracy and individuality.

The 1970s was a wonderful time for travellers, with three long-enduring companies starting up. Tony and Maureen Wheeler produced 94 stapled pages of Across Asia on the Cheap in 1973, the same year Bill Dalton put together A traveller’s Notes: Indonesia to sell at a music festival. A year later, George and I sat in our hammocks on a river barge in Bolivia to write up our long-distance hikes in the region, including a walk along an old Inca Trail into Machu Picchu.

We all had one aim: to share our travel discoveries with like-minded young people. We settled in our respective parts of the world — the Wheelers in Melbourne, Bill in California, and George and me in England — and started three successful publishing companies: Lonely Planet, Moon and Bradt, respectively. No financing, no business plan — just an intimate knowledge of our subject and the market. And it worked. Our inexpensive guides were bought by budget travellers relishing the new-found freedom of easy travel and lightweight equipment, with the early editions selling enough copies to fund the next book.  

“By buying a guidebook now, when you have ample time to digest it, you’ll be able to plan your next trip knowing you’ve done your bit for the people in those countries that depend on you.”

Lonely Planet, Moon and Bradt are still around nearly 50 years later. Bradt — still owned by its founder — is suddenly facing extinction as a small independent company. We’d survived ‘the death of the guidebook’ predicted by doom-mongers at the dawn of the digital age and were flying high, still following our original ethos of publishing the sort of books that make a real difference, not just to the traveller but to the country described. (As I step back from the day-to-day running of the company, this is the legacy I’m most proud of.) But this pandemic and the ensuing downturn in the purchasing of travel guides looks to threaten what we’ve built, with far-reaching implications. 

Throughout the decades, we’ve largely focused on unique destinations: places that aren’t covered by other publishers, countries with dodgy politics but wonderful wildlife or scenery, and war-torn nations that need the self-esteem a good guidebook brings. Rwanda is a good example: the president himself congratulated the authors on their role in bringing his country back to prosperity following the genocide.

Small local businesses that rely on guidebooks to tell visitors that they exist would suffer if these sources of information disappear. But that’s not all; we detail charities that welcome tourist visits (and, of course, donations). A children’s centre in Namibia is a case in point. I recently received an email from the its (now former) director, MaryBeth Gallagher, which read:

“I cannot tell you how many visitors and donations we receive because of your guidebook! And it’s been 10 years since you visited us!”

Because it’s the destinations, as well as you travellers, who dream of the holidays you’ll enjoy when this is all over. By buying a guidebook now, when you have ample time to digest it, you’ll be able to plan your next trip knowing you’ve done your bit for the people in those countries that depend on you.

Bradt Guides is offering a minimum of 50% off all books, e-books and gift vouchers on its website. To claim your discount, visit bradtguides.com/shop and enter code DREAM50 at checkout.

Join us on social media

Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Instagram

• Travel and Adventure

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

A Lonely Planet Founder Looks Back

By Emily Brennan

• June 7, 2013

In 1972, when Tony Wheeler, a co-founder of the Lonely Planet guidebooks, traveled from London to Sydney, Australia, overland from Europe to India and Nepal, along what was, tellingly, called the hippie trail, he had little to guide him.

Travel books in those days were staid reads, providing exhaustive details on historical sites but little mention of the sights he and his cohorts were after: beaches, bars and budget hotels.

After so many young people inquired about his trip, Mr. Wheeler, on a whim with his wife a year later, wrote “Across Asia on the Cheap.” After the stapled booklets sold out, Mr. Wheeler decided to go to Southeast Asia, this time intending to write a book. “That’s what really started it,” he said.

By “it,” Mr. Wheeler means Lonely Planet, which has sold some 120 million guidebooks in several languages. Since selling the company in 2007 to the BBC (which recently sold it to an American billionaire), Mr. Wheeler has devoted his time to the Planet Wheeler Foundation, which finances educational and health projects in the developing world, and has written two travel books far off the beaten path. “Tony Wheeler’s Dark Lands” — a follow-up to his previous book, “Tony Wheeler’s Badlands” — will be published in September and takes him to countries in turmoil like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pakistan and Israel and the Palestinian Territories.

To mark Lonely Planet’s 40th anniversary, below are edited excerpts from a conversation with Mr. Wheeler about the days before writing travel guides was much of a thing, let alone a profession.

On the 1970s, when traveling was counterculture: The boomers were setting off to places their parents hadn’t gone. The price of travel dropped. All of these new Asian carriers were popping up. And there was that whole rock ’n’ roll sort of thing, the Beatles were in India — and don’t you know we’re riding on the Marrakesh Express?

Along the hippie trail, there were certain places you all ended up. If you knew someone traveling across Asia, you could sit down and wait for them; you might have to wait six months, but eventually they’d come in the door. The Pudding Shop near the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, which is still there riding along on this ’60s nostalgia, was one of them. The Chicken Street was a traveler’s hangout in Kabul, and halfway down the street was another restaurant called Siggy’s. Everyone was heading to Katmandu — that was the nirvana at the end of the trail — but we continued to hitchhike to Bali, right as all of the surfers were arriving.

On finding travel writers in the early days: You couldn’t just look for travel book writers because they weren’t out there. There wasn’t such an animal. We just told people that if you turn up in a year and a half with a book, we’ll publish it, and we did. It was very rough and ready.

One writer came back with a 600-page guide to Jamaica — every pirate who stopped in got his biography — and we had to cut it by two-thirds. We always included a history of the place because until Wikipedia, where are you going to find a primer on the history of Nepal, besides Encyclopaedia Britannica, which is a bit dull? For a long time we had a problem that every writer wanted to rewrite the history. We’d say, “Why are we rewriting the history of India for the 10th time? Surely, it’s not changing every two years.”

On traveling to troubled states: They’re never as evil as they’re made out to be. My wife and I arrived in Pakistan last year when that YouTube video “Innocence of Muslims” sparked riots in the street. And yet everybody was as nice as can be. They’d say, “What are you doing here? Welcome to Pakistan.” As an individual, you get entirely different treatment. There are a lot of countries that do not get many visitors, and they’re very, very pleased when somebody does make the effort to go there.

The Q&A column last Sunday about Tony Wheeler and his experiences writing travel books and guidebooks misstated his role in the founding of the Lonely Planet guidebooks and the month when his new book, “Tony Wheeler’s Dark Lands” will be published. He is a co-founder of the Lonely Planet guidebooks, not the founder, and his new book will be published in September, not in August.

How we handle corrections

• Skip to search box
• Skip to main content

Princeton University Library

Travel: literature and guidebooks.

• Travel narratives

Finding guidebooks

Contemporary guidebooks, murray's handbooks for travellers, blue guides, guides joanne/hachette/guides bleus, touring club italiano, cook's tours, greatest hits.

• Special Collections

To find guidebooks, it is easiest to search by corporate author, e.g. do an author search for "Karl Baedeker Firm". You can also find guidebooks by doing a subject search for the country and "guidebooks", e.g. "south africa guidebooks"

http://www.baskes.com/travelguides.htm A union list of the holdings of the Newberry Library in Chicago and the holdings of collector (and Newberry trustee) Roger Baskes.

For contemporary guidebooks (Frommer, Fodor, Rick Steves, Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, Let's Go, Insight, Moon etc.), search by place and publisher. Note that we do not buy these comprehensively, and that many are in Marquand and do not circulate. We now have a complete set of current Lonely Planet and Rough Guides, shelved near the Dixon room. Also, try the Princeton Public Library or a bookstore.

The travel book: guide to the travel guides. Jon O. Heise. New York: R. R. Bowker Co., 1981. RECAP Z6011 .H4 [we do not have the 2nd edition, 1993]

Baedeker began publishing guidebooks in German in 1832, and the firm continues today. Guides were also published in French and in English.

For a list of all the guides, see:

Baedeker's guidebooks: a checklist of English-language editions, 1861-1939 . Gretton, John R.  Dereham [England]: Dereham Books, 1994.

Baedeker’s Reisehandbücher, 1832-1990: Bibliographie 1832-1944: Verzeichnis 1948-1990: Verlagsgeschichte mit Abbildungen und zusätzlichen Übersichten . Alex W. Hinrichsen. RECAP Z6011 .H48 1991

http://www.bdkr.com Very useful web site, aimed at collectors. Checklists that replicate much of Hinrichsen's bibliography, and also an online version of the introduction.

To see what Princeton University Library holds, search the Main Catalog for Author=Karl Baedeker (Firm)

Note that Lexis-Nexis University Publications of America sells Baedeker guides in microfiche collections by country or as a complete set. Princeton does not hold this microform set. There is also a guide to the set, Baedeker's handbook(s) for travellers: a bibliography of English editions published prior to World War II . Greenwood Press, Westport, Conn.: Greenwood Press, 1975. Princeton does not have this guide, but it is widely available. 

There are other German-language guidebook series, most notably Meyers Reisebucher, on which see: Wegweiser durch Meyers Reisebücher, 1862-1936 : Bibliographie . Werner Hauenstein ; mit Abbildungen, Tabellen, Register und einer Einführung von Alex W. Hinrichsen. Stadtoldendorf : U. Hinrichsen, 1993. RECAP: Marquand Lib. use only: Z6011 .H36 1993s

Murray's handbooks for travellers were published from 1836 to 1901 (when the series was sold to another publisher). For a good short description of this guidebook series, see the entry "Murray Handbooks" in Literature of travel and exploration: an encyclopedia .

For a comprehensive list, see:

A bibliography of Murray’s handbooks for travellers and biographies of authors, editors, revisers and principal contributors. W. B. C. Lister; with an introduction by John R. Gretton. Dereham [England]: Dereham Books, 1993. Annex A, Forrestal (TEMP): Z6011 .L577 1993

Provides a brief biographical information about the authors and editors of each guide. The introduction by J.R. Gretton is also quite helpful.

To see what Princeton University Library holds, search the Main Catalog for Author=John Murray (Firm). In addition, we have microfiche of the entire set:

Murray's handbooks for travellers MICROFICHE 1480 Printed guide: (FilmB) G150.M87

The English-language Blue Guides were written for many decades by the brothers James & Findley Muirhead, who had previously worked for Baedeker. Their first independent guide is the guide to London published in 1918. The guides are still being published. These guides emphasize art and architecture.

For a complete list, see http://www.blueguides.com/our-guide-books/archive-blue-guides-since-1918/

To see what Princeton University Library holds, search the Main Catalog for Title=Blue Guide

The premier French-language guidebook series began in 1853 and is still publishing. The early guides were written by Adolphe Joanne and covered the various regions of France; there were also guides organized as itineraries along railway lines. The Guides Joanne were rebranded as the Guides Bleus in 1919, after an agreement between Muirhead (which had acquired the Murray guides) and Hachette.

To see what Princeton University Library holds, search the Main Catalog for Title=Guides Bleus or Author=Joanne, Adolphe Laurant

For a complete list of the pre-1919 guides, see:

Les guides-Joanne: genèse des Guides-bleus: itinéraire bibliographique, historique et descriptif de la collection de guides de voyage, 1840-1920 . Hélène Morlier; ouvrage illustré de vignettes, cartes et plans mis au net par Christophe Bailly. Paris: Sentiers débattus; Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe: IMEC, 2007. Firestone Library (F) G156 .M675 2007

There is a brief English-language summary at the back of the book.

Michelin guides were originally distributed free by the tire company to drivers. The red guides describe restaurants and hotels, and introduced the now-famous system of rating restaurants with stars; the green guides describe "points of interest." 

There is also a series of guides to French cities published immediately after World War I.

To see what Princeton University Library holds, search the Main Catalog for Author=Pneu Michelin (Firm)

Le Guide vert Michelin: l’invention du tourisme culturel populaire . Marc Francon. Paris : Economica, c2001. Firestone G156.5.H47 F725 2001

Il Touring club italiano. Stefano Pivato. Bologna : Il mulino, c2006. Firestone G155.I8 P56 2006

To see what Princeton University Library holds, search the Main Catalog for Author=Touring club italiano

Search for Author=Thomas Cook Ltd. to find guides published by Thomas Cook, which organized tours for middle-class travellers within the UK and to the Continent, India, the US, Australia, New Zealand, and the Near East, starting in the mid-19th century.

The history of tourism: Thomas Cook and the origins of leisure travel. London: Routledge/Thoemmes Press : Thomas Cook Archives, 1998. Firestone G155.A1 H58 1998 (a 4-volume compilation)

Thomas Cook: 150 years of popular tourism . Piers Brendon. London: Secker & Warburg, 1991. Firestone G155.G7 B73

Appletons is the premier series of guidebooks to America, and published in America, in the 19th century. There is no convenient way to find them systematically in the Main Catalog. Titles include:

General guide to United States & Canada Handbook of American Travel Railway & steam navigation guide Companion handbook to US & British provinces General guide: western & southern states General guide: New England, middle states Appletons’ guide-book to Alaska and the northwest coast Appleton’s southern and western travellers’ guide Appletons’ guide to Mexico: including a chapter on Guatemala: and an English-Mexican vocabulary

The WPA guides: mapping America . Christine Bold. Jackson : University Press of Mississippi, c1999. Firestone E175.4 .B65 1999

The American Guide Series

To find these guides in the Main Catalog, do a keyword search for "federal writers project guides"

For a complete list of the guides, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Guide_Series, or American Guide Series: Works by the Federal Writers Project. Marc S. Selvaggio. Berkeley, Calif.: Schoyer's Antiquarian Books, 1990 [Princeton does not have a copy].

1936, on the continent; the entertaining travel annual . Eugene Fodor. London: W. Aldor, 1936.

An official guide to eastern Asia; transcontinental connections between Europe and Asia . Prepared by the Imperial Japanese Government Railways. Tokyo, Japan, 1913-17. v. 1. Manchuria & Chōsen.--v. 2. Southwestern Japan.--v. 3. Northeastern Japan.--v. 4. China.--v.5. East Indies. Firestone Library (F) DS504 .I474 1913

Across Asia on the cheap: a complete guide to making the overland trip . Tony Wheeler. [Paddington, N.S.W.]: Lonely Planet, 1973.

The G.I.'s guide to travelling in Europe . Arthur Frommer. [Oberammergau, Ger. : Arthur B. Frommer, 1955.]

Europe on 5 dollars a day; a guide to inexpensive travel. Arthur Frommer. [New York, Trade Distributors: Greenberg, 1957.]

• << Previous: Travel narratives
• Next: Special Collections >>
• Last Updated: Dec 19, 2023 2:19 PM
• URL: https://libguides.princeton.edu/travel

Kirtey Verma | 25 March 2020

10 of the best guidebook series to help plan your dream trip.

Start dreaming of your next adventure, with the help of the experts, insiders and locals who create the the world's best guidebooks. There's one for every destination, interest and type of traveller...

1. DK Eyewitness

(DK Eyewitness)

Who:  Succinct but expert advice, beautifully detailed illustrations that transport you right into city streets and historic buildings,  detailed maps and interesting facts – is there really any wonder why DK's Eyewitness guides impress us so much? 

It's safe to say that you hold them in high regard yourselves, as DK topped the list of best guidebooks at the 2020 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards .

DK has been going strong since 1993, taking us to more than 200 destinations in this time. Their real standout feature is the brand's compelling use of inspirational visuals and illustrations.

Incredibly user-friendly, the photo-packed books paint a clear picture of exactly what you can expect on your travels.

What to read: Check out the latest updates to DK's collection here   – the new 2020 editions offer fresh insights into popular cities across the world, including  Paris  and New York City .

See the city of love in a new light with hand-drawn illustrations showing the interiors of its most iconic sights, from the  Notre-Dame to the Panthéon, and a calendar of exciting events happening throughout the year.

2. Lonely Planet

(©Lonely Planet 2020)

Who: Lonely Planet's travel guides narrowly missed out on the top spot in the 2020 Reader Travel Awards, but they're popular for a reason.

The brand's origins are certainly romantic, too, having been founded by married couple Maureen and Tony Wheeler after their epic overland expedition from London to Australia in the early 70s.

While Lonely Planet's first offering was, of course, the stapled 94-page booklet  Across Asia on the Cheap in 1973,   the brand has come a long way since then. 

With more than 100 million guidebooks printed, the books are t horough, informative and packed with ideas for responsible travel escapes.

What to read:  Pick up a copy of the best-selling   The Travel Book  (2006) – a visual bible on every UN-approved country in the world – or look out for their most up-to-date guides here .

We also suggest updating your bookshelf with Lonely Planet's new edition of the Poland guide, which includes insider tips on everywhere from  Warsaw to the Carpathian Mountains. 

Who: Another perennial favourite, Bradt guides are pretty much the gold standard when it comes to independent travel guides.

Founded by Hilary Bradt in 1974, the pioneering brand is one of your favourites, having taken the top spot  at the Reader Travel Awards many times in recent years.

Delving deep beneath the surface, Bradt's guides are always packed with high quality content , while advocating for sustainable and slow travel. Best known for covering off the beaten track destinations, they are also loved for their guides to the UK. 

What to read: If you're looking for a new insight into Africa, take a look at the recently published guides on Gabon   and Zimbabwe .

After the significant political upheaval of recent years, Zimbabwe is an excellent guide for travellers wanting to dip their toes into the country's attractions, covering everywhere from Victoria Falls to the Zambezi River. 

For more off-the-beaten-track destinations, dive into Bradt's online shop  here  – there's currently 50% off for shoppers who use the code DREAM50. What are you waiting for? 

4. Rough Guides

Rough Guides (APA Publications)

Who? If you're looking for an easy way into a destination, Rough Guides ticks all the boxes.

Famous for its 'tell it like it is' approach to places, the guidebook series initially provided founder Mark Ellingham a way out of getting a 'real job' – but now offer thousands of readers practical and hands-on advice on more than 120 countries across the world, as well as being strong on cultural insights..

What to read? Fans of Japan should look out for the  Rough Guide to Tokyo  (out on 1 April 2020) which promises comprehensive coverage on everything from the dizzying neon lights of Shinjuku to sushi and sake.

Or you can look out for new releases on Rough Guides' online shop here . 

5. Insight Guides

Insight Guides (APA Publications)

Who:  Insight have been in the business for more than 45 years, so it's safe to say that these guides know what they're talking about.

Detailed maps, accurate information and beautiful photography combine within to connect readers to places through their history and culture. 

What to read: Look out for one of Insight's latest offerings – Insight Guides Pakistan – to uncover the country's turbulent past and present, and  encounter its people and politics from an interesting new perspective. 

You'll find more books online here . 

6. Time Out

Who:  Time Out's city guides have long been a trusty travel companion for those of us seeking the freshest take on a city – especially in Europe – but we nearly lost them for good back in 2016.

Now those dark days are over, they're back and better than ever, proving that we still want to discover the latest trends on art, culture, design, food and hotels. 

What to read: Delve into the latest guides online here – there's some excellent European coverage, including Time Out: Amsterdam , the brand's most recent offering, highlighting all that's afloat in the city of canals. 

Detailed street maps will help you find your way when your phone battery dies, leading you to best  museums, restaurants, bars and coffee shops to recharge in the city.

7. Footprint

(Footprint)

Who:  Travelling to Latin America? Footprint Guides are your best bet, having specialised in all things under the South American sun for nearly 100 years.

That's not to say they don't specialise in other parts of the world, though – their shelves include books on the Caribbean and South Asia, only written by expert authors who have lived in that region and can truly capture its essence.

Perfect for travellers who want an intimate insight into a country. 

What to read: Footprint's iconic  South American Handbook is your new best friend for any adventure to the continent, with advice on everything from swinging from the treetops in epic rainforests to dancing in Andean villages and exploring the plains of Patagonia.  

First published in 1924, it's now in its 94th edition, so you're sure to find the answer to any of your burning questions. If you've already crossed that continent, you can explore Footprint's latest releases online here . 

8. Blue Guides

Blue Guides on a bookshelf (Blue Guides)

Who:  With more than a century of history to back them up, Blue Guides are the go-to guides for cultural capers.

From art to architecture and archaeology, these guides aim to inform travellers unsure about where to go next or who want to know more about the museum they're visiting with a series of award-winning maps, diagrams and photographs at your disposal – a great source of knowledge for any trip you're planning. 

What to read:  Don't worry if you can't get to Rome at the moment – you can still plan your next trip to the Eternal City with the help of  Blue Guide: Rome ,  the brand's latest updated guide.

New mentions are  the ruins of Ostia, the port of ancient Rome, as well as information on Tivoli and its famous gardens, but you can also look out for other guides online here .

We also recommend  Travels in Transylvania: The Greater Târnava Valley  – a fascinating insight into Romania's great green heart beyond the blood-sucking stereotypes. 

9. Cicerone

(Cicerone Guides)

Who: Wild walking adventures across the globe have been Cicerone's USP for more than half a century.

If you want to know where to walk, trek, climb, mountaineer or cycle, these guides s panning the UK and Europe are are really the ones to watch out for with clear maps and directions paving the way for an epic hike.

Is it time to dust off those hiking boots yet? 

What to read:  Cicerone celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, marking the occasion with Cicerone: Celebrating Fifty Years of Adventure .

Featuring  50 inspirational tales and trails, the book collates the memories of Cicerone's seasoned writers who have weathered all storms on their adventures, with laugh-out-loud moments and jaw-dropping accomplishments in the mix.

To see Cicerone's latest guides, check their online shop here .

10. Marco Polo

(Marco Polo)

Who: Want to be more like Marco Polo? The pioneering 13th-century Venetian explorer has inspired many adventurers – Columbus, for one – as well as these handy little guides.  

As well as revealing the best things you can do for free, Marco Polo guides are fully equipped for the digital age – download the Touring App and you can freely access detailed  routes and maps on your smartphone.

No internet? No problem – you can access them offline, too, so you won't get an expensive phone bill, either. They really are your best friend when travelling on a shoestring budget. 

What to read: From Marrakech to Mallorca, there's lots of sunny destinations to look out for this year, but if you're dreaming of beaches, forests and mountains in the USA, check out the recently released  California Marco Polo Travel Guide .

Want an Australian adventure, instead? We all do – especially when there's tropical climes, island paradises and epic road trips to be had. Check out the latest info for a trip down under in the   Australia Marco Polo Travel Guide or see what else the brand has to offer here .

More essential travel reading:

Wanderlust 's 77 ultimate travel experiences bookazine is here, the best travel books of 2020 (so far), our favourite travellers share the books that inspired them, related articles, looking for inspiration.

Join our newsletter

Get the very best of Wanderlust  by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.

Plan, Ready, Go

The Best Travel Guides (Online and Books)

Even in the digital age, travel guide books are an important part of my travel planning journey. I have read and tried many different travel books and online travel guides. And I pulled together a list of what I think are the best travel guides (books and online resources). 

I return to my favorite travel guides again and again with each trip that we plan. Once you find a travel guide series that you know and trust, it can really speed up the travel planning process.  

But which travel guides are the best? Keep reading for the full list!  

Need help with planning your trip? Check out our guide to the best travel planning resources .  

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

Are travel guidebooks still used now? 

Absolutely! Although you can find a wealth of travel planning help online, the good old-fashioned travel guidebooks are still very much available and in use. 

Some people prefer to use paper travel guidebooks. You can flag important sections and highlight things you want to remember. We’ve even ripped our books up (they’re meant to be used!) and traveled only with the sections covering the cities and sites we visited. 

E-books are also a great option for travel guides. If you use e-books, you can easily travel with several guides without adding a single ounce to your luggage. It’s a perfect option for those who travel carry-on only .

Rick Steves: best travel guides for Europe 

Rick steves guidebooks .

Some seasoned travelers look down their noses a bit at Rick Steves guide books . There’s no reason for that. Rick Steves knows Europe inside and out from decades of traveling, leading tours, writing books, and producing episodes of his wonderful series  Rick Steves’ Europe.  

Rick Steves books are excellent guides and well worth the money. I highly recommend them, especially for travel planning beginners or for anxious travelers who are looking for an expert to tell them where to visit and how. 

His books are kept up to date and quite detailed, even to the point of including full guided walking tours (often several) and detailed guided tours through major sites. 

• Steves, Rick (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 604 Pages – 09/06/2022 (Publication Date) – Rick Steves (Publisher)

Rick Steves online 

You can also get a lot of good free travel tips and help on the Rick Steves website, including the forums . There are forums specifically for countries, reviews, and several forums about general travel tips topics. 

They’re a great way to get insight and tips from other experienced travelers…even those who disagree with Rick Steves itinerary suggestions. (Shocked face.)

Rick Steves Audio Europe Travel App 

I also highly recommend the Rick Steves Audio Europe Travel App . It’s loaded with audio guides for walking tours and top travel destination sites like the Colosseum in Rome and The Louvre Museum in Paris.  

Download the audio tours for your destination so you can listen to them on your mobile device as you explore your destination. 

Rough Guides: my favorite travel guidebooks overall 

Super practical and easy to read, Rough Guides are my top choice for any destination that isn’t in Europe (for which I prefer Rick Steves guide books ). 

The UK-based company was founded in 1982 with the  Rough Guide to Greece . Since then, they have published travel guidebooks for well over 100 destinations all over the world. 

In addition to their main guidebook series, they also offer Pocket Rough Guides, On a Budget, Snapshots, phrasebooks, and inspirational guides like “Make the Most of Your Time on Earth.” 

• Guides, Rough (Author)
• 840 Pages – 10/18/2022 (Publication Date) – Rough Guides (Publisher)

Rough Guides website 

Rough Guides isn’t just a guidebook publisher though. Since 2017 they have offered tailor-made trips to over 70 destinations. created by local travel experts. 

Their website provides some basic itineraries, travel recommendations, and basic destination information for free that can help get you started on planning your travel itinerary . 

Fodor’s 

The great travel writer Eugene Fodor once said “You don’t need to be rich to travel well.” And that’s been kind of my mantra for the last several years. 

In 1936 Fodor wrote the first modern travel guide book . It was for British audiences and he wrote all 1200 pages himself. The book was O n the Continent: An Entertaining Travel Annual .

According to Fodors.com , “The guide went beyond reporting on the sights and for the first time included information about Europe’s culture and people, practical information like how to tip, and was the first to be annually updated.” 

Since  On the Continent  was first published, Fodor’s has been a trusted name in travel guides. They now claim that their travel writers have covered more than 8,000 destinations around the world . 

In addition to the Signature Guides, their other series include Fodor’s Inside, In Focus, and 25 Best. Fodor’s says that  Fodor’s   Italy  is the company’s top-selling guide book. 

• Fodor’s Travel Guides (Author)
• 896 Pages – 12/20/2022 (Publication Date) – Fodor’s Travel (Publisher)

Fodor’s website 

Fodors.com was one of the first travel websites when it launched in 1996 . Today the site offers destination guides, general travel content, and forums about specific destinations or general travel topics such as air travel. 

Frommer’s 

The venerated Frommer’s travel guides were launched by Arthur Frommer in 1957 with a guide to visiting Europe on $5 a day (yup. $5.). That guide followed his book about how to travel Europe as a GI (Frommer was in the Army at the time). 

Frommer’s quickly grew to become one of the most trusted names in travel guidebooks. 

Several years ago, Frommer’s was acquired by Google, which pulled the plug on their print books in the spring of 2013.

Arthur Frommer reacquired the company shortly thereafter and then quickly made a deal to get the books back in distribution. Frommer’s then started emphasizing their Easy Guides and Day by Day series, which were smaller and easier to read and carry than the typical large guidebooks they saw on the market. 

• Gordon, Yvonne (Author)
• 602 Pages – 08/23/2022 (Publication Date) – FrommerMedia (Publisher)

Frommer’s website 

Frommers.com is a fine place to start planning for a trip for free. Destination information includes city layouts, how to get around, and their top picks for hotels and dining. 

They also provide other general travel content and feature articles plus trip ideas for honeymoons, arts and cultural travel, national parks, family travel, road trips, and more. 

The Frommer’s Travel Show (podcast) 

Pauline Frommer, daughter of Frommer’s founder Arthur Frommer, hosts The Frommer’s Travel Show podcast . New episodes come out approximately once per week or several times a month. 

Bradt Guides 

Known for publishing guides for lesser-traveled destinations (though certainly not less deserving), Bradt bills itself as “the world’s leading independent travel publisher.”  

Bradt guides are the go-to for destinations not covered by other publishers. They say that “over two-thirds of Bradt guides still have no direct competition from other publishers.” 

The Bradts’ first book,  Backpacking Along Ancient Ways Peru & Bolivia , was the first to detail the Inca Trail.

Later they became known for writing guides to destinations “post-conflict.” These included Rwanda, Kosovo, and the Baltic States after the fall of the Iron Curtain. 

In addition to their destination guidebooks, Bradt also publishes a Slow Travel series of UK destinations, a Wildlife series, and general travel literature. 

• McIntyre, Chris (Author)
• 456 Pages – 06/01/2022 (Publication Date) – Bradt Travel Guides (Publisher)

Bradt Guides Travel Club 

Avid travelers can support Bradt by joining their Travel Club through Patreon. There are three tiers: Bradtpacker, Globetrotter, and First-Class Traveller. Each tier offers differing levels of subscriber benefits including things like e-books and access to their bespoke travel planning service. 

Lonely Planet  

Lonely Planet books for a long time were quite popular especially with younger backpackers looking to travel on a budget. The books can be light on the details that certain travelers (beginners, anxious travelers) might wish for when making good decisions about where to spend their travel dollars. 

Lonely Planet books are good for independent and adventurous travelers . Or for those who just want some recommendations but not a prescribed itinerary with a ton of detail.  

In addition to their popular guidebooks, Lonely Planet also publishes phrasebooks, general travel books, food books, and children’s books. 

• Mayhew, Bradley (Author)
• 288 Pages – 03/16/2021 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)

Lonely Planet website  

You can get some basic, inspirational travel information to start your travel planning from the Lonely Planet website . Sadly, they set their forums to “read-only” some time ago. In my opinion, the forums were the best (and most valuable) part of the website. 

Marco Polo 

Marco Polo is best known for its compact and colorful pocket travel guides. They also offer spiral-bound itinerary-based guides, phrasebooks, folding maps, travel handbooks, travel journals, city maps, and road atlases. 

• Marco Polo Travel Publishing Marco Polo Travel Publishing (Author)
• 136 Pages – 10/15/2022 (Publication Date) – Marco Polo Travel Publishing, Ltd. (Publisher)

Marco Polo Discovery Tours App 

The free Marco Polo Discovery Tours app offers travelers a variety of guided itineraries through many destinations. For example, you can download a 23-day driving tour of New Zealand with a step-by-step driving tour over both islands. 

DK Eyewitness: among best travel books for visuals 

I enjoy reading DK Eyewitness guides, especially when I’m looking for information about the history and culture of my destination.  The glossy full-color books feature beautiful photographs and illustrations perfect for inspiring your travel itinerary. They cover more than 100 destinations. 

DK was founded in 1974 by Christopher Dorling and Peter Kindersley. They published their first travel book in the early 1990’s promising to show you “what others only tell you.”

They also cover all the usual grounds for travel guidebooks: itineraries, maps, dining and accommodations recommendations, top sites, etc. 

• DK Eyewitness (Author)
• 592 Pages – 04/26/2022 (Publication Date) – DK Eyewitness Travel (Publisher)

Where to Go podcast 

Produced by the team behind the DK Eyewitness books, each episode of the Where to Go podcast dives deep into a particular destination. New episodes come out every two weeks or so. 

Insight Guides 

For more than 40 years, Insight Guides have published guidebooks covering more than 200 destinations. 

In my experience, they’re quite a bit heavier on destination history and culture than any other travel guide I’ve encountered. So, if that’s not something you enjoy, then these guidebooks might not be your top choice. 

Insight Guides series include: Explore Guides, City Breaks, Pocket Guides, City Guides, and Experience Guides. 

• Guides, Insight (Author)
• 144 Pages – 04/01/2018 (Publication Date) – Insight Guides (Publisher)

Insight Guides website

You will find some travel information on the Insight Guides website , making it a decent place to start if you’re unsure of your destination.

The emphasis of their website seems to be on advertising their Insight Guides trip offerings…not that there’s anything wrong with that. 

Atlas Obscura 

Atlas obscura book .

Unlike all of the other travel guidebooks listed above, Atlas Obscura: An Explorer’s Guide to the World’s Hidden Wonders is not a series of guidebooks but rather one book that details an incredible array of oddities and wonders around the world. 

Here’s how the authors describe their book and website (more on that below): 

“The site, and this book, are a kind of wunderkammer of places, a cabinet of curiosities that is meant to inspire wonderlust as much as wanderlust. In fact, many of the places in this book are in no way ‘tourist sites’ and should not be treated as such. Others are so out of the way, so treacherously situated, or (in at least one case) so deep beneath the surface, that few readers will ever be able to visit them. But here they are, sharing this marvelously strange planet with us.  Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras & Ella Morton,  Atlas Obscura , revised second edition, (New York: Workman Publishing, 2019) vii

The revised second edition (published in 2019) added more than 100 new sites to the 2016 first edition. The book is delightful reading if you’re into oddities around the world. I definitely recommend picking up a copy. 

• Hardcover Book
• Foer, Joshua (Author)

Atlas Obscura website 

Make sure you stop by the Atlas Obscura website  during your travel planning if you like finding out-of-the-way sites, or unusual places to visit, or want to make it a priority to get off the beaten path. 

You can even take Atlas Obscura trips to some pretty unusual places and even with some unusual activities…such as assisting biologists with bee research at Redwood National Park. 

Atlas Obscura podcast 

Atlas Obscura launched a podcast in March 2021, which I’ve really enjoyed listening to. Early episodes covered sites such as the Gates of Hell in Turkmenistan, the Museum of Bad Art in Massachusetts, and the old Widow Jane cement mine in Rosendale, New York. 

Final thoughts on the best travel guidebooks 

The best travel guides will be the ones that you use and that help you plan a trip that you truly love. I personally like to use a combination of travel guidebooks and online travel planning resources. 

But don’t just follow my advice. Try these guidebook series and online travel guides for yourself and find the ones that you will like and use for your trip planning. 

What are your favorite travel guidebooks?

More articles related to travel guides 

• Travel planning resources  
• The top books about travel and self-discovery 
• Best books to read before you travel to Paris  
• The best books about the South 

Pin this post!  

Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

Michelin guides (the green books) are great!

I used to use the “Let’s Go: Europe” guides, which were great. They were targeting college age students mostly, but they had lots of good information re: trip planning for everyone.

Which guidebooks (and/or websites) are best for planning train/plane travel while in Europe? Any standouts?

Thanks for your very helpful information!

You’re welcome, Wayne. The Man in Seat 61 is THE expert in European train travel. His website is: https://www.seat61.com/ . He’s also pretty active on Twitter. I’d also recommend checking out https://www.rome2rio.com/ for helping with planning transportation for any trip. Thanks for reading!

My family had a great time in Paris. We had a wonderful time there and enjoyed the culture of the region. The nightlife was fantastic, and the city’s elegance is indescribable. We are in love with the place and explore so many places like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, Cruise on the Seine, etc. After reading your blog I would like to revisit there.

Oh, I’m so glad you enjoyed your trip. Thanks for reading!

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Privacy Overview

The American Guide Series: American Culture Defined: Tourism: Gaining National Knowledge through Travel

Tourism: gaining national knowledge through travel, a postcard depicting swimmers at benton harbor and st. joseph, michigan, created c. 1930–1945 by tichnor brothers publishers. [click to enlarge].

Tourism in the United States is a flourishing industry that benefits the economy and promotes our cultural identity as a nation. The American Guide Series was instrumental in defining what American culture is while promoting its culture and history through tourism. This promotion of American culture through tourism served to bolster the economy after the economic crisis of the 1930s, the Great Depression.

Tourism has been a feature in human civilization for thousands of years. From religious pilgrimages to exploration and trade, human curiosity and desire to see the wonders of the world has built and fueled this practice. [1] Initially, tourism had largely been restricted to only the wealthy, who could afford time-consuming and expensive journeys for personal motivations. However, in the 19th-century, technological improvements made traveling easier (better roads, railroads, and more common use of cars), and when combined with a middle-class with a larger disposable income, tourism expanded to include a much broader audience. [2] This meant that tourism advertising and attractions adapted to the wider audience as well.

A poster created for the National Park Service in 1938. It depicts a landscape of the Grand Canyon with text promoting the National Park Service and tourism.

During the 19th century, america was still a relatively young country compared to its european rivals and lacked the same cultural history of artwork and literature that characterized many european nations. in place of this, americans utilized their country’s vast and beautiful landscape as a defining characteristic of their national identity. [3]  after the american civil war, american tourism focused on a more national level, encouraging citizens to seek sites beyond their own regions. [4]  it also shifted tourists’ attention to the west, what they viewed as a mysterious wilderness only partially tamed. since the most efficient transportation to the west at the time was still the railroads, this allowed for the railroad companies to control the direction tourism in the west took., railroad companies and travel agencies during the 19th century took the initiative to develop guidebooks about the west. these books included many of the natural wonders and landscapes of the west. in addition to the natural scenic sites, the railroad companies increased the potential tourist locations to include places of national, political, and historical significance. [5] with an increased federal level of nationalism in post-civil war america, the railroad companies and travel agencies claimed the patriotic element of tourism through experiencing and learning about the country by traveling to sites where history was made. this promoted us tourism as not only a pastime but as a civic duty. this would play into advertising campaigns by the federal writers’ project to promote the american guide series, like the see america first campaign that was meant to tell the story of america in a truthful and entertaining manner. [6], a poster created by the federal art project for the united states travel bureau in 1939. it depicts two people exploring a cavern, promoting the new deal see america campaign. [click to enlarge], a poster created by the federal art project for the american guide series in 1939. it depicts a man skiing and text advertising the book skiing in the east: the best trails and how to get there from the american guide series. [click to enlarge], a poster created by the department of the interior, national park service in 1938. it depicts a forest from zion national park with text relaying information about the park.  [click to enlarge], a poster created by the federal art project for the united states travel bureau in 1939. it depicts a man on a horse in front of a mountain range with text advertising tourism in montana. [click to enlarge], a poster from the united states travel bureau, created by the federal art project, advertising the new deal campaign see america first to encourage american citizens to engage in national tourism, 1936..

The American Guide Series was a significant influence on American tourism in the 20th century. The American Guides were made to provide relief work to unemployed writers, create a thorough account of American history and culture, and boost the American economy. All of these tasks were accomplished through tourist guidebooks. The American Guide Series promoted tourism as a method of creating a better sense of national unity. These guides were a medium to educate Americans about America. [7] This allowed for the American Guides to direct the future of Americans’ perception of their own nation. Using the renewed national interest in “rediscovering America,” the guides developed the concept of American exceptionalism through a celebration of extraordinary natural resources. [8]  This was the idea that America had the potential to become a world superpower due to its rich natural resources. These resources were founded in the unique landscapes of America that created regional cultures that all contributed to the larger nation, strengthening America through diversity. [9]  

With President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s New Deal during the Great Depression, there were many projects that built up America’s infrastructure, such as the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps. These projects created a new American landscape, filled with new highways, parks, and trails. [10] The most comprehensive guidebook to the United States prior to the American Guide Series had been written in 1909 and did not include practical information about the use of automobiles, still considered a novelty at that point, so the nation needed an updated guidebook. [11]  This meant that another of the American Guide Series’ tasks was to show Americans how to navigate and understand the New Deal’s newly created landscape.

Tourism in the United States was the mechanism through which the American Guide Series proposed to benefit the nation. The guides improved the economy by encouraging citizens to discover and learn about their nation by traveling to sites of significance. They taught Americans about the nation by defining it through descriptions of its history and landscape, becoming a medium for national knowledge. Through the use of our varied national landscapes, providing an explanation for the variety of cultures found within the United States, and as the justification of American exceptionalism, the American Guides encouraged diversity as a source of national unity. The American Guide Series defined American culture and its progression through its rich informational base and its persuasive descriptions of the nation.

This image is of a poster created by the Federal Art Project in 1940. It depicts a scenic view with text promoting tourism in Puerto Rico. [Click to enlarge]

A poster created by the united states department of the interior for the national park service in 1938. it depicts a geyser, old faithful, in yellowstone with text promoting tourism in yellowstone national park.  [click to enlarge], a poster created by the federal art project for the world’s fair c. 1938–1939. it depicts cars on a highway near a coastline with text encouraging visiting the world’s fair as well as the sea cliff nearby. [click to enlarge], a poster created by the federal art project for the united states travel bureau in 1940. it depicts a scene with a waterfall and text promoting tourism in national parks. [click to enlarge], [1]  jerrold hirsch,  portrait of america: a cultural history of the federal writers’ project (chapel-hill, nc: university of north carolina press, 2003), 102., [2]  meg wesling, “american modernism on display: tourism and literary form in the works progress administration’s guide series,”  amerikastudien/american studies  58, no. 3 (2013): 460,  http://www.jstor.org/stable/43485899 ., [3]  matthew baker, “selling a state to the nation,”  journalism history  36, no. 3 (fall 2010): 169,  http://dist.lib.usu.edu/loginurl=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspxdirect=true&db=ufh&an=55073720&site=ehost-live ., [4] baker, 431., [5] wesling, 431., [6]  federal writers’ projects, “writers’ projects of the works progress administration” [c. 1935], 4. folder 1, box 1, mg 218, vardis fisher papers, university of idaho library, special collections and archives., [7] wesling, 432., [8]  wesling, 434., [9]  david a. taylor,  soul of a people: the wpa writers’ project uncovers depression america  (hoboken, nj: john wiley & sons, inc., 2009), 20., [10]  christine bold,  the wpa guides: mapping america (jackson, ms: university press of mississippi, 1999), 3–4., [11]  e. current-garcia, “american panorama: (federal writers’ project),”  prairie schooner  12, no. 2 (summer 1938): 81,  http://www.jstor.org/stable/40622837 ..

Blue Guides, the best-researched, best-presented cultural travel guide books in English

TRAVEL GUIDES AND INDEPENDENT ADVICE

The classic guide book series for history, art and architecture.  Beautifully presented, meticulously researched, clearly laid out.

“designed for the traveller who desires to understand more fully what he or she sees”

Award winning maps | Detailed floorplans | Architectural drawings | Expert glossaries | Reliable recommendations

Recent article Tired of London? Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), the great lexicographer, journalist, conversationalist, inveterate London pub-goer and general good egg, famously remarked that if a man is tired of London, he is tired of life…

History resources: Rome Popes and emperors Pilgrim’s Rome | 20 key dates in Roman history | 10 top popes | A dictator and handful of Roman emperors

Somerset Books presents Blue Danube Blue Danube is a sister imprint to Blue Guides, the august 100 year old guide book series. The new imprint focuses on literature, history and travel in Central Europe.

Most recent Blue Guides

Blue Guide London

Blue Guide Trentino & the South Tyrol

Blue Guide Friuli-Venezia Giulia

We publish articles by Blue Guides writers and editors reviewing books and exhibitions and giving updates on the beautiful and historic destinations covered in our series.  We also share comments and updates on each individual title – do feel free to add your own comments or to contact us .

“guide books in the grand tradition of thoroughness and objectivity”  Georgia Review; “the Blue Guides still hold the cultural high ground”   Sunday Times; “a gold standard for accuracy and depth”   Daily Telegraph.

Blue Danube titles

WRONG PASSPORT

The Remarkable Mrs ANDERSON

The MONKEY and other stories

Privacy overview.

Word Lanes US founder of travel guide series, Arthur __ [ Answers ]

• by Game Answer

Dear Visitors, I will provide you in this topic all what you need to succeed and solve Word Lanes US founder of travel guide series, Arthur __ like appeared on Level 408 . This game is developed By Fanatee games studios and is running under a game template used rarely. Where you have to find words from hints and swipe a shape. We have in addition a beautiful map in landscapes. Crosswords are easy to solve except some which are hard. We will try to help you as much as possible, with this serial of topics to reach the end of the game.

Word Lanes US founder of travel guide series, Arthur __ Answers:

Test your vocabulary! Find the hidden words! Discover Wonders! Become a master! Words Of Wonders will test your vocabulary as you discover the wonders filled with challenging levels. Begin your journey with the first wonder and climb your way up to reach the final wonder. Each wonder and level will get progressively harder and will be unique, thanks to the game’s rich word database. Connect the letters without lifting your finger, find the hidden words on the board! Enjoy simple and beautiful game design! Variety of level designs will give you more fun during the play! Words Of Wonders is the top rated word game from the makers of Wordz.

Word Lanes Answers

The answer to this hint is :

When you are done with this clue, you can refer to the following topic to find all the words you need to complete the current level : Word Lanes Level 408 .

I hope you got your answers from this post. If any problem, please do not hesitate to write a comment.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

US founder of travel guide series, Arthur __ Word Lanes [ Answers ]

Dear Friends, if you are seeking to finish the race to the end of the game but you are blocked at Word Lanes US founder of travel guide series, Arthur __ , you could consider that you are already a winner ! You have reached this topic and you will be guided through the next stage without any problem. This game released by Fanatee Games interested a lot of word games players because it is using a well stuffed english dictionary; thing which is rare in play store. In addition to the answers, we have added many extra words in order to give a good bunch of coins without using additional cheats.

Word Lanes US founder of travel guide series, Arthur __ Answers :

PS: the below topic, will guide you to the next puzzle’s answers : Word Lanes Answers

The game is not over, still some forward clues to solve ! For this same or next level, just find them through the above link.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• March Madness
• AP Top 25 Poll
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

James Patterson looks back through history in new ‘Time Travel Twins’ series

• Copy Link copied

NEW YORK (AP) — James Patterson never seems to run out of ideas.

The ultraprolific author is launching a new middle grade series, “The Time Travel Twins,” about a boy and girl who witness key moments in U.S. history, starting with the era of the Revolutionary War.

Released by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, and co-written with Tad Safran, the series begins Sept. 9.

“I’ve always said that the hardest job with kids is to get them in the habit of reading. Like all of my children’s books, the goal of ‘The Time Travel Twins’ is for a kid to finish it and say, ‘Please, give me another book,’” Patterson said in a statement Monday.

Patterson’s hundreds of books include children’s stories, his “Maximum Ride” and “Alex Cross” thrillers, political thrillers co-written with former President Bill Clinton and a novel written with Dolly Parton about the Nashville music scene.

This story corrects that the characters are a boy and a girl, not two boys.

Passing Thru Travel

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring 10 Historic Churches 2024 – Sacred Spaces and Their Stories

Posted: February 21, 2024 | Last updated: February 21, 2024

Exploring historic churches is not just a journey through religious architecture; it’s an exploration of history, art, and spirituality. These sacred spaces, ranging from grand cathedrals to intimate chapels, offer a glimpse into their times’ cultural and spiritual life. This guide will take you through 10 of the world’s most historic and awe-inspiring churches, revealing their stories and the secrets they hold.

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris, France

Experience the grandeur of Gothic architecture at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Situated on the Île de la Cité, this historical marvel boasts flying buttresses, gargoyles, and remarkable rose windows. Inside, the cathedral is just as impressive, with its high vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass. Don’t miss the Treasury for its sacred relics and the opportunity to climb the towers, where you can enjoy a stunning view of the Seine and the Parisian skyline. Visit in the evening to catch the magnificent light show or attend an organ concert for an immersive experience.

Insider’s Tip: Attend an evening concert to experience the cathedral’s acoustics.

When To Travel: Spring or fall for fewer crowds.

How To Get There: Easily accessible via the Cité or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame metro stations.

2. St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, Italy

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to witness the heart of the Catholic world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Inside, you’ll find stunning works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. The climb to the top of the dome offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome and the Vatican gardens. The scale of the basilica is awe-inspiring, from its imposing facade to the vastness of its interior. Remember to dress modestly as a sign of respect when visiting this sacred site.

Insider’s Tip: Dress conservatively as a sign of respect for this sacred site.

When To Travel: Visit in the off-season to avoid long lines.

How To Get There: Reachable by metro (Ottaviano-S. Pietro-Musei Vaticani station).

3. Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain

The Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s renowned unfinished masterpiece, uniquely explores architectural innovation in Barcelona. The church’s facades, each depicting different biblical themes, are a testament to Gaudí’s creative genius. The stained-glass windows create a symphony of light that illuminates the intricate columns and ceilings. Ascend the towers for a closer look at the architectural details and a panoramic view of the city. The ongoing construction, part of the church’s charm, speaks to the evolving nature of this iconic structure.

Insider’s Tip: Book tickets online in advance to skip the long queues.

When To Travel: Early spring or late fall for a more peaceful visit.

How To Get There: Accessible via the Sagrada Família metro station.

4. Westminster Abbey, London, England

Explore the rich history of England at Westminster Abbey in London. This Gothic church is a place of worship and a significant site for royal ceremonies and burials. The abbey houses tombs of monarchs, poets, and scientists, each with their own story. The Poets’ Corner is particularly noteworthy, resting place of figures like Shakespeare and Dickens. Try to attend Evensong for a traditional Anglican service accompanied by the renowned choir, a truly serene experience.

Insider’s Tip: Attend the Evensong service for a spiritual and musical experience.

When To Travel: Weekday mornings are typically less crowded.

How To Get There: A short walk from Westminster or St. James’s Park tube stations.

5. St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow, Russia

St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, with its colorful, onion-domed towers, symbolizes Russia’s architectural creativity. Each dome of this iconic cathedral represents a different chapel, with vibrant frescoes and ornate altars. The interior is a maze of narrow corridors and small chapels, each uniquely decorated. Visit at night when the cathedral is illuminated to fully appreciate its beauty and the intricate details of its design.

Insider’s Tip: Visit at night when the cathedral is beautifully illuminated.

When To Travel: Late spring or early summer for pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Located in Red Square, it’s easily accessible on foot from many parts of central Moscow.

6. Chartres Cathedral, Chartres, France

Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and stained-glass windows. The cathedral’s labyrinth on the floor is a highlight, offering a meditative journey for visitors. The blue Chartres stained glass, especially in the famous Rose Window, is renowned for its vibrancy and craftsmanship. The cathedral also hosts light shows illuminating its exterior, showcasing its spectacular architectural details.

Insider’s Tip: Try to visit on a sunny day when the stained glass truly comes to life.

When To Travel: Spring or early fall to avoid the tourist peak season.

How To Get There: About an hour by train from Paris.

7. Duomo di Milano, Milan, Italy

Discover the Duomo di Milano, an iconic symbol of Milan and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Its elaborate façade, adorned with numerous statues and spires, is an architectural marvel. The interior is equally impressive, with high ceilings and stained-glass windows depicting various biblical stories. Don’t miss the chance to visit the rooftop terraces, where you can walk among the spires and enjoy a unique view of Milan’s cityscape.

Insider’s Tip: The rooftop is especially impressive at sunset.

When To Travel: Visit in the shoulder season to avoid crowds.

How To Get There: It’s located in the city center and accessible by metro (Duomo station).

8. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey

Explore the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, a magnificent structure that has stood as a church, a mosque, and now a museum. This architectural marvel boasts a massive dome, stunning mosaics, and Islamic calligraphy. Its upper galleries provide a closer view of the intricate mosaics and offer a unique perspective of the interior and the sprawling city outside. The Hagia Sophia is a testament to Istanbul’s diverse religious history and architectural innovation.

Insider’s Tip: Look for the Viking graffiti on the upper gallery marble balustrades.

When To Travel: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

How To Get There: Situated in Sultanahmet, it’s easily accessible by tram.

9. Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Florence, Italy

Visit the Florence Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece in the heart of the city. Known for its striking red dome designed by Brunelleschi, the cathedral stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Renaissance. The exterior, with its intricate marble panels, is as impressive as the vast interior. Climbing the dome is a highlight, offering stunning views of Florence and a close-up look at the frescoes inside the dome.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the adjacent Baptistery to see the famous bronze doors.

When To Travel: Early spring or late fall to avoid the heavy tourist crowds.

How To Get There: Located in the heart of Florence, it’s best explored on foot.

10. Cologne Cathedral, Cologne, Germany

Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of Cologne Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s twin spires dominate Cologne’s skyline, and its interior houses an impressive collection of art, including the Shrine of the Three Kings. The stained-glass windows, particularly the modern ones in the south transept, are notable for their intricate designs and vivid colors. Climbing the south tower rewards you with a panoramic view of Cologne and the Rhine River.

Insider’s Tip: Climb the south tower for a breathtaking view of the city and the Rhine.

When To Travel: Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.

How To Get There: Conveniently located near the main train station in Cologne.

The Bottom Line

Your journey through these historic churches is more than just a tour of religious sites; it explores history, culture, and art. Each church offers a unique window into the past, from the Gothic spires of Cologne to the Byzantine domes of Hagia Sophia. As you wander these sacred spaces, take a moment to appreciate the silence, the beauty, and the stories they hold. Every stone, window, and painting in these churches has a tale to tell, waiting for you to discover.

More Articles Like This…

Barcelona: Discover the Top 10 Beach Clubs

2024 Global City Travel Guide – Your Passport to the World’s Top Destination Cities

Exploring Khao Yai 2024 – A Hidden Gem of Thailand

The post The Ultimate Guide to Exploring 10 Historic Churches – Sacred Spaces and Their Stories republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Korkusung.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

More for You

Jared Kushner Subpoena Over Saudi Deal Stopped by House Republicans

Trump Wants To Rule America Like Kim Jong Un, Says Former National Security Advisor

'Ozempic babies' are surprising women taking weight loss drugs. Doctors think they know why.

D.C.'s unelected financial officer pulls budget power move on mayor

Midwest state on verge of defying Biden with Texas-style bill to combat illegal immigration

19 Things You’re Officially Allowed to Do When You Get Old

Social Security Benefits Will Increase for Some Seniors

RNC Already Helping Raise Money For Trump’s Legal Bills, Despite Campaign's Claims

'That Girl Lay Lay' creator's wife announces end of series after David A. Arnold's death

11 Facts You Should Know About Hard-Boiled Eggs

National Park Service sued over cashless entry at parks, historic sites across US

20 Things That Push Men to End Relationships

Autism May Have 'Unnoticed' Driver, Say Stanford Neuroscientists

Conservatives claim Ismail Mohamed “hates” America for not conducting victory speech in English

NBC bosses share concerning news over future of Christopher Meloni's Law & Order series, offer update on One Chicago

The 5 most common deathbed regrets, according to a palliative care nurse

Trump trials’ comedy of errors – is legal inexperience to blame?

Huge rock band reportedly books Las Vegas Sphere fall residency

Navy fires SEAL commodore in latest high-profile dismissal

Leprosy Is Spreading in Florida