travel guide book sample

Travel Guide Book Templates in Google Docs and Word

Our travel guide book templates offer versatile and geo-personalized layouts for covers, spines, and pages. we offer ready-made printable formats for travel guides about norway, spain, new york, china, australia, and other countries and cities. edit them in any convenient format, from google docs and word to google slides and powerpoint..

Bright Travel Guide Book

Light Simple Travel Guide Book

Fantastic Norway Book

NY City Book

New York Travel Guide Book

Light Travel Guide Book

Chinese Culture Book

How to Write a Perfect Travel Guide From Home

For many aspiring bloggers, writing about travel seems daunting because they don’t yet have extensive travel experiences. However, lots of travel experience is not necessary, as today one can easily make a travel guide from the comfort of their home. In this post, we’ll define what is a travel guide book or travel post, what sections you should include, and how to monetize your guide with affiliate links.

To monetize the travel guide using partner links, join the Travelpayouts partnership platform . Here you can find the travel affiliate programs of many popular travel brands, such as Booking.com, TripAdvisor, GetYourGuide, etc.

By promoting travel brands, you help your audience save money on travel and, as a result, travel more. In addition, you can turn your hobby into income. Signing up only takes a couple of minutes and you can start integrating partner link in relevant pages of your guide. You’ll earn every time a user follows your link and purchases a service.

Monetize your project with Travelpayouts, embark on a new journey, and create inspiring content for your audience.

Join the Travelpayouts Partnership Platform

Access exclusive tools and the best travel partner programs, including flights, hotels, car rental, insurance, tours, and activities, all in one place.

Can You Write a Travel Guide From Home?

Naturally, writing travel guides based on your own experiences and illustrating them with your own photos is much easier and more authentic than writing about a destination you have never visited, although it is not always possible or even necessary to do so. With such a large selection of travel posts on the Internet today, you can easily create a detailed travel blog without ever leaving your home.

In this article, we’ve prepared some travel guide writing tips and a template to help you create useful blog materials. To make your posts even more appealing, explore travel guides created by locals who have a deep knowledge of your selected destination. Of course, be sure to double-check all the information that you share.

Choose a Destination

The first step towards writing a travel guide is selecting a destination. You may choose any location from the world’s most-visited cities, such as New York or Paris, to small idyllic villages. Just remember that your writing will largely depend on this initial choice. As there are already tons of guides about popular destinations, you’ll probably have to find a fresh perspective to make your materials stand out. When it comes to lesser-known spots, it will likely be easier to draw the attention of your audience.

While writing a guidebook, make sure to check with locals who know your destination inside out and can share invaluable advice. Try to connect with them through platforms such as CouchSurfing.org or Facebook.com . Ask them questions or ask them to check over your guide.

Use Travel Guide Structure

While the style of travel guides varies widely, most of them have a similar structure, which consists of tips on transportation, accommodation, tours, activities, popular sites, travel costs, and so on. Make sure to include these sections in your article so that it presents all the information that readers are looking for.

1. How to Get There

Normally, travel guides present several options for getting to each destination, including which cities are nearby, which modes of transportation are available, and the price of those transportation options. 

Also, you can offer some tips and tricks on how to plan a trip more efficiently. For example, in some cases, it’s cheaper to take a plane, while, in other cases, ground transportation is a better option. You can also share some money-saving tricks.

2. Accommodations

Today, there are plenty of ways to arrange accommodations in any destination. You can start by suggesting a hotel or hostel via Booking.com , which many tourists are familiar with or have already used. You can then offer to rent places to stay with locals through platforms like Airbnb or HomeAway .

At this point, you can also offer tricks to save money. In some popular locations, such as Barcelona, it is usually cheaper to rent accommodations in the nearest town instead of within the city itself, while, in other destinations, like Paris, choosing the right town while avoiding marginalized areas can be far trickier. Be sure to carefully research the destination and offer valuable advice.

3. Tours and Attractions

After learning about their transportation and accommodation options and costs, tourists will want to explore their destination’s sights and entertainment opportunities. In this section, you can create a list of attractions to visit and excursions that will make sightseeing more exciting. Include options from walking tours to bus excursions to boat trips. For inspiration, look through the Experiences section on Airbnb.com .

4. Getting Around

Another important topic to cover is transportation options within the destination. For example, the first thing travelers would like to know is how to get from the airport/railway/bus station to the city center. There are usually dozens of transportation methods and the price differences between them can be massive, so your readers will appreciate such advice.

It is also important to describe different methods of getting from the transportation hubs to the main attractions while offering options to save a few bucks. In this section, it might be a great idea to ask locals to share tricks. For example, in Lisbon, taxis are often the same price as public transportation or lower.

5. Travel Costs

This is one of the most important parts of any travel guide, as travel costs greatly influence booking intent. Thus, you should briefly cover the prices of flight tickets, accommodations, tours, food and drink options, public transport insurance, and other relevant travel products. Also, for budget travelers, provide tips on how to save money or find the best value.

6. Staying Safe

In this section, you can cover concerns that tourists might have about security. Different cities and areas have different regulations and concerns, so make sure to do the proper research and possibly even ask locals for advice.

So, which questions and concerns should you cover? Consider topics like: where to park a car or exchange money, what areas are best to avoid, are there many pickpockets, and so on.

7. Best Time to Visit

Each destination offers different experiences to travelers at different times of the year. For example, Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, so it’s worth mentioning the best time to catch them in bloom. European destinations are especially beautiful during the winter holidays thanks to their abundance of Christmas markets and celebrations.

You can recommend the best season to visit each place or offer specific advice for different times of the year. 

8. Food and Drinks

In this section, you can describe features of the local cuisine and recommend popular dishes. Then, suggest specific restaurants, markets, or shops with high ratings and positive reviews. To get inspired, check Google Maps , TripAdvisor , or Instagram .

It’s worth mentioning food markets, as they usually have local treats and a wide variety of products at low prices, such as La Boqueria in Barcelona.

How to Write a Travel Guide: Best Practices

Below, you’ll find the best practices for travel writing that will help you make your guides appealing, valuable, and easy to monetize. 

1. Add Pictures

Using schemes or images for travel guides is beneficial for many reasons. Posts with pictures receive over 90% more views than ones with plain text. Images help break posts into small parts and make them easier to digest. Readers retain more information and remain interested for a longer time if the text is paired with an image. In addition, 90% of the information that the brain receives is from visual cues. 

Thus, make sure to illustrate your post with a few appealing photos to help the audience get inspired. You can also add maps or schemes so that readers can better navigate in the destination, as well as other image types to make the content more illustrative and versatile.

Where to find photos? You can buy photos at photo banks or download free stock images . Moreover, if you stumble upon a nice picture on social media, consider contacting its owner and ask for permission to use it on your site. Another option is to download a stock photo and edit it with one of the free design apps to make it look original. In any case, try choosing only high-quality, unique photos to make your blog look professional.

2. Research Keywords

Keywords are important in terms of website promotion. If you want to drive more traffic from search engines, be sure to run keyword research for your niche . To automate the process, try dedicated tools like Google Keyword Planner and Keywordtool.io (free tools) or SEMrush and Ahrefs (paid programs).

Then, it’s equally important to use keywords properly . That is, find the best placement within the text so that they attract attention and help navigate the text. Also, follow keyword density best practices so that your post doesn’t look spammy. And try to use keyword variations to enrich the text and drive more traffic.

Keywords differ widely: they can be short-tail or long-tail, short-term or long-term, high volume or low volume, geo-targeting, LSI, and more. Some keywords have higher competition, such as short-tail, high-volume keywords, thus aspiring bloggers might find it extremely difficult to compete with established sites. You can start with long-tail keywords and then work your way through the other types as you go.

More practical tips about SEO, including finding and using keywords, can be found in the free SEO course from Travelpayouts and Sharon Gourlay. Watch one lesson from the “Boost Travel Affiliate Revenue Using SEO” course to find out how many keywords you should use in your articles and how to search for them easily and quickly. 

All Travelpayouts Academy courses are free for everyone. So feel free to view all the lessons that will help you increase your income.

3. Place Affiliate Tools

When writing a travel guide, don’t forget to insert an affiliate link, widget, banner, or other tools . This can help you monetize your guide and increase your ranking in the SERPs. 

The most important thing is to add only relevant tools. For example, when describing sights, add a link to a tours and activities platform, such as Expedia or Musement, so that readers can book an excursion immediately. In the accommodations section, you can link to Booking.com, HomeAway, etc. Such an approach helps your readers easily find a solution to their problem or an answer to their question while generating additional income for you.

We recently published a more detailed guide on using affiliate links on our blog.

4. Choose the Right Format

There are plenty of formats available for travel guides. You can choose to make a post on your blog, a PDF guide, an eBook, and the list goes on. 

If you plan on writing multiple guides for your blog, it makes sense to create a separate section and publish all the guides there. You can also create subsections for each country to facilitate better navigation.

To get more leads, you can even create city guides in PDF format and offer to send them for free in exchange for a users’ email address. This could help you grow the number of your subscribers. 

If you are writing a travel guide covering multiple destinations, consider adding a table of contents so that readers can easily navigate.

Travel Guide Examples

It might be a good idea to find inspiration before you start writing. Check out a few travel blogs and if you like the structure, perspective, etc., why not adopt those elements for your blog and audience?

Here are a few good travel blogs to check out:

• AgainstTheCompass
• Lost With Purpose
• The Blonde Abroad
• Roads&Kingdoms
• Nomadic Matt  

How to Create Online Travel Guides

You don’t need extensive travel experience to create your own travel guidebook or series of travel posts. Start by choosing a destination that will be interesting to your audience, think about the structure of your guide and the various aspects of travel, and perhaps ask locals for additional tips. Also, don’t forget to choose the right format, fill your text with keywords to reach a larger audience, and insert affiliate tools to start earning money immediately.

Calypso Tree

34 free travel itinerary templates (word, excel & pdf).

Free travel itinerary templates:  Your itinerary refers to your journey’s more detailed plan. Usually, highlights some places to be visited and the travel plan. By having itinerary templates, you will benefit from having the travel arrangement in one location for easier referencing and retrieval. 

Your travel plan is usually placed in the front of the folder full of your tickets, brochures, and confirmation receipts – this is also a good source to get information on the road. 

Although the information includes the travel plan for yourself or other people might contain different items, the basic structure was usually still retained. You can use your best itinerary templates.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Using an Itinerary Template

Traveling is an adventure! But planning for it can sometimes be stressful. That’s where a  travel itinerary template  can be your best friend.

• All-In-One Location:  Say Goodbye to Chaos!

Do you have flight details in your email, hotel bookings on an app, and excursion times on a sticky note? Stop the madness! An itinerary template puts all these details in one simple place. Just open it up, and you’ll know what’s happening next.

• Easy to Use:  No Tech Skills Needed!

You don’t have to be a computer genius to use an itinerary template. Most of it comes with clear fields for you to fill in. Just type your flight time here your hotel name there, and you’re done! It’s like filling out a fun quiz.

• Be Organized:  Know What Comes After What

The best part about being organized is knowing what’s next. You see your trip like a story when you put your plans in an itinerary template. First, this happens, then that. You can enjoy the trip more when you know what’s coming up.

• Shareable:  Keep Everyone in the Loop

Traveling with family or friends? Send them the itinerary template! That way, everyone knows the plan. If someone asks, “What time is dinner?” tell them to check the itinerary!

• Free:  More Money for Fun Stuff!

The best things in life are free. Well, most travel itinerary templates are free, too! That means you can save cash for fun stuff like snacks, souvenirs, or an extra special adventure!

• Time-Saving:  Quick Changes Made Easy

Plans change. Maybe it rains, and you can’t go to the beach. With an itinerary template, it’s super easy to swap things around. Just a few clicks, and you have a new plan!

• Keeps You On Track:  No More Missing Out

Need to catch a flight or need to remember a dinner reservation? With an itinerary, you’ll get reminders. It’s like having a helpful friend who says, “Hey, time to go!”

• Peace of Mind:  Worry Less, Enjoy More!

When you’re organized, you feel calmer. That means you can enjoy your trip more and less worrying about it.

Are you ready to try an  itinerary template ? Trust us, it will make your next trip so much easier! ????

Essential Elements in a Travel Itinerary

So you’re convinced that a travel itinerary template is a good idea. Great! But what should you include in it? Don’t fret; here’s a list of the  key things to put in your travel plan .

• Title and Dates: What’s the Trip For?

Start with a striking title that sums up your trip. Are you going on a “Summer Adventure in Hawaii” or a “Weekend Getaway in Paris”? Include the dates so you always know the timeframe.

• Names: Who’s Going?

If you’re traveling with other people, write down everyone’s name. It’s an easy way for everyone to know they’re looking at the right plan.

• Departure and Arrival: Take-Off and Landing

Include details about when and where you’re starting and ending your journey. Include times, places, and how you’re getting there. Plane? Train? Automobile?

• Transport Info: All Aboard!

Note any flight numbers, train cars, or other key details. It’s also smart to list any reservations and helpful phone numbers in case of delays.

• Lodging: Home Away From Home

Where are you staying? Include the name, address, and check-in/check-out times for each place you sleep.

• Activities: The Fun Stuff!

What’s a trip without cool stuff to do? List all the tours, visits, or shows you plan to attend. Add times and places so you remember.

• Meetings: Can’t-Miss Appointments

Are you mixing a little business with pleasure? Include any meetings or important appointments you have. Who, what, where, and when—it all goes here.

• Meals: Yummy in My Tummy

Planning to eat at that must-try café? Put it in the itinerary.

• Free Time: Do What You Want

It’s your trip, after all! Include some blocks of free time for spontaneous fun.

• Emergency Contacts: Just in Case

Include some emergency contacts, like local hospitals or a trusted friend back home.

• Checklist: Remember!

Add a small list at the end for any last-minute things you need to do or bring. Passport? Snacks? It goes here.

That’s your  travel itinerary essentials  covered! With everything in your template, you’re ready for an awesome, stress-free trip! ????

Tips for Crafting a Useful Travel Itinerary

It isn’t just about jotting down names and places. Here are some tips.

Be Realistic: Time Matters!

Always consider how much time each activity will take. Keep your day manageable. You want time to enjoy the places you visit!

Group Activities by Location: Smart Mapping

Put things that are close to each other on the same day. This way, you spend less time moving and more time doing.

Always Have a Plan B: Be Flexible

Sometimes, things go differently than planned. Maybe it rains, or a place is closed. Have a backup plan, so you’re never stuck with nothing to do.

Check Opening Hours: No Unwanted Surprises

Imagine showing up at a museum you’re excited to visit, only to find it’s closed on Tuesdays. Check opening times in advance to avoid this.

Share It: Keep Everyone in the Loop

If you’re traveling with others, ensure everyone has a copy of the itinerary. You could even make a shared online version.

Local Customs and Laws: When in Rome.

Check for any local customs, rules, or laws you should know about, like dress codes at religious sites.

Remember Time Zones: Sync Up!

If you’re crossing time zones, adjust all your times so you’re always on local time.

Add Some Breathing Room: Take It Easy

Don’t schedule something every minute of every day. You’ll need some downtime to relax and soak it all in.

Include All Confirmation Numbers: Quick Access

For flights, hotels, and activities that require booking, include all confirmation numbers for quick and easy access.

Double-Check All Details: Be Sure, Be Safe

Before you finalize your itinerary, double-check all times, dates, and reservations.

Print and Digital: Best of Both Worlds

Have both a printed copy and a digital copy available. Technology can fail, and you might only sometimes have Wi-Fi.

Keep it Handy: Easy Access.

Put your itinerary somewhere easy to get to. Save it on your phone or put it in a pocket in your bag.

Free Travel Itinerary Templates

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 01

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Free Travel Itinerary Templates 03

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 04

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 05

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Free Travel Itinerary Templates 15

Travel Itinerary Template Word

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Free Travel Itinerary Templates 08

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 09

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 10

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 11

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 12

Easy to Use

One of the best things about using a Word template is its simplicity. You don’t have to be a computer wizard to figure it out!

Customizable

Word lets you change fonts and colors and even add pictures. Make your template  truly your own .

You can open a Word document on almost any device. It’s super  easy to share  with family or travel buddies, too.

Pre-made Templates

Word offers a variety of  ready-to-use templates . Just plug in your details, and you’re good to go!

Checklist Features

You can add  checkboxes  next to each activity or place. It feels so good to check them off as you go!

Safe and Secure

You can easily  lock the document  to keep your travel plans private.

Great for Printing

Word documents  print beautifully . It is a great option if you like having a paper copy of your plans.

How to Use It

• Open Word and choose a blank document or a pre-made template.
• Fill in your travel details like flights, hotels, and fun stuff to do.
• Add any  extra notes  or  checklists .
• Save it, print it, or share it via email.

Tips for Using Word Templates

• Spell-check : Always run a spell-check to avoid any errors.
• Save Often : Keep up your hard work. Save your doc often!
• Backup : Email a copy to yourself or save it in the cloud.

Using a Word template for your travel itinerary is a smart way to keep all your plans in one place. Give it a try for your next trip!

Free Travel Itinerary Templates Excel

Do you like spreadsheets?  Excel templates  offer even more ways to stay organized. You can sort your plans, filter them, and find what you need fast!

If you’ve been using regular Word documents or even pen and paper for your travel plans, it’s time to  upgrade to Excel ! Here’s why and how:

Easy to Edit: Change On-the-Go

Excel allows you to add or remove items quickly. If your plans change, delete a row or add a new one!

Sort and Filter: Find What You Need

Say you want to see all your flight details at once. Excel lets you sort and filter to find what you’re looking for in a snap.

Color Codes: Make It Pretty and Practical

Blue for sightseeing and red for meals. It makes it easier to understand your day at a glance.

Formulas: Count the Hours

You can use simple Excel formulas to add how much time each day’s activities will take.

Shareable: Easy to Send

Excel files are easily shared by email or cloud services like Google Drive. You can also password-protect it if it has sensitive data.

Collaborative: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Everyone can add their activities or notes in the same Excel sheet if you’re traveling with others. It’s a team itinerary!

Tabs for Days: One File, Many Uses

You can use different tabs for different parts of your trip. One tab for flights, another for hotels, and so on.

Links and Notes: Extra Info

You can add links to websites or notes with additional information in Excel.

Offline Access: Always Available

Once downloaded, Excel files are available even without internet access, making them reliable and handy.

Templates Galore: Start with a Bang

It is lots of pre-made Excel itinerary templates available online. It can give you a head start and create planning even quicker.

Itinerary Templates Excel

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Weekly Itinerary Template

Birthday Itinerary Template

Daily itinerary planner

Program itinerary template, meeting itinerary template, travel itinerary template pdf.

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Free Travel Itinerary Templates 20

Itinerary Template – Free Travel Itinerary Templates

Business Tour – Free Travel Itinerary Templates

Business Travel Diary- Free Travel Itinerary Templates

Stable and Consistent

One of the biggest perks of using a PDF is that it looks the  same  on every device. No surprises!

Easy to Share

PDF files are  super easy to send  in an email or message. They can be opened on almost any gadget.

No Accidental Changes

Once you save it, it stays that way. You can’t accidentally mess up your plans!

Universal Acceptance

Almost all businesses can open and read PDFs. Most people can easily check your plans if you need to show them.

Password Protection

PDFs can be  locked  with a password. Your plans stay  safe and private .

Fantastic for Printing

If you like paper copies, PDFs print out  just how they look on screen .

• Make your plans in any software that can be saved as a PDF.
• Double-check all your details and  spelling .
• Save or ‘print’ your plans as a PDF file.
• Share or print your  snazzy  new PDF itinerary!

Tips for Using PDF Templates

• Read-Only : Remember, most PDFs can’t be easily changed. Make sure all your info is correct before you save it.
• Compatibility : Always ensure the people you share the PDF with can open it.
• Document Size : PDFs with lots of pictures can get big. Keep an eye on the file size if you need to email it.

A PDF travel itinerary template is  rock-solid  for keeping your travel plans organized and easily accessible. It’s a popular option, especially if you want a file that stays how you made it.

Common Mistakes in Using Travel Itinerary Templates

Skipping the Details : One of the most common errors is  filling in all the blanks . It can lead to confusion during your trip.

Ignoring Time Zones : Many must remember to account for time zone changes. It can mess up your plans.

Overstuffing the Itinerary : It’s tempting to pack your day full of activities. But this leaves  no room for rest or unexpected events .

Forgetting to Share : If you’re traveling with others,  forgetting to share  the itinerary can make things hard for everyone.

Not Checking Operation Hours : Imagine going to a museum only to find it’s closed. Always  check the working hours  of places you want to visit.

Skipping Backup Plans : Weather changes. Plans fall through. Having  no Plan B  can ruin your day.

Bad Formatting : If your itinerary is hard to read, it’s almost useless. Make sure you use  clear and easy-to-read formats .

Not Updating : Sometimes plans change.  Only updating your template  can make sure you get all the things.

Ignoring Local Customs and Laws : Failing to account for local customs or laws can be embarrassing and sometimes problematic. Always do your  basic homework .

Not Double-Checking : A small mistake in flight numbers or hotel booking IDs can be a big hassle. Always  double-check your details .

Avoiding these common mistakes can make your itinerary a powerful tool for a smooth and enjoyable trip!

Traveling is more fun when you’re organized. Using a  travel itinerary template  can help a lot! So why wait? Download a free template today!

Additional Resources

Want to know more? Click the links below for free templates and helpful travel apps.

• Free Itinerary Templates
• Best Travel Apps

Happy traveling! ????

What Is a Travel Itinerary Template?

A travel itinerary template is like a  map for your trip . It shows where you need to go, what you’ll do, and when you’ll do it.

Where Can I Find Free Travel Itinerary Templates?

You can find free templates online, in apps, Excel, or Word. Some travel websites also offer them for  free .

Should My Template Be Detailed or Broad?

That depends on you! Some folks like a  minute-by-minute plan , while others want just the  big events  listed. Choose what works for you.

Can I Use the Same Template for Different Trips?

Yes, you can! Just  change the details  to fit your new trip.

What Should I Include in My Template?

Include key info like  flights, hotels, and activities . Remember  small but important details  like transport from the airport to the hotel.

Do I Need to Print My Itinerary?

Only sometimes. You could keep it on your phone. But a printed copy is good, just in case your phone  runs out of juice .

How Many Copies Should I Make?

It’s a good idea to have  more than one copy . Leave one with a friend or family member back home, keep one with you, and maybe have a  digital copy .

Can I Add Last-Minute Changes?

Yes, you can. Just  update all your copies  so you’re not working off old info.

What Do I Do If My Plans Change Mid-Trip?

No problem! Just  update your template . You can do it with a printed copy or update the digital one on your device.

Is It OK to Leave Free Time in My Plan?

Absolutely! It’s your trip, after all. Free time lets you  explore  or  rest  as you feel like it.

The content creator team at calipsotree.com is dedicated to making topics accessible to everyone, with over 9 years of experience in writing and breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand articles that answer readers’ financial questions.

About The Author

Calypsotree.com.

The content creator team at calipsotree.com is dedicated to making topics accessible to everyone, with over 9 years of experience in writing and breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand articles that answer readers' financial questions.

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How To Write A Travel Guide

Editorial 0 comments 5463

How to write a travel guide: ’48 Hours in’

This article is a step-by-step guide showing you how to write a travel guide for the 48 Hours in series of travel guides.

I am subdiving this writing guide into three chapters that cover (i) the aspiration of a 48 Hour guide, (ii) its structure and (iii) its content

Chapter #1: 48 Hours guides are authentic

Each episode of  the 48 Hours in series wants to introduce one city to the single male traveler from the point of view of a local. Just think about what kind of advice and tips you would give to a single male friend who is coming to your city for the very first time and you have all you need in order to write a good guide.

For the 48 hours in guides it is the local’s perspective that makes them so interesting. The episodes are no tourist brochures that tell you what sights are a “must”. If you do a Google search for “what to do in Paris” you will come across millions of articles telling you that you should visit Eiffel Tower and the Louvre — nice, but who really wants to read that?

In a 48 hour in guide local tells things how they are, mentioning the good and the bad.

If you were writing about a city where most hotels/apartments have bad service, but high prices then you should mention that (see my article on Kiev hotels ). And if you were writing about a city that, in your opinion, is nicer, cleaner and more lively than any other city in the country then you should mention that as well.

Here’s an example of authentic writing:

In the 48 hour guide to Wroclaw Poland I had to find a hotel in the middle of the night when almost all hotels were booked.

What I did was walk to the main railway station and enter the first hotel I saw in the hope they had a spare room. As the hotel was across the railway station where drunks were bumbling around I didnt expect much. To my surprise the hotel was not only cheap, but also newly refurbished. It could easily pass as a 4-star hotel in Munich or London and cost just 44€ for the night.

I added a nice picture of the hotel room and then put the mini-anecote into the guide. Here is what it looks like:

Screenshot taken from https://euromentravel.com/48-hours-in/48-hours-wroclaw-poland

People liked it. Why did they? Because it is authentic. The main thing is to give the reader little insights that stem from your own personal experience . This makes it so much easier for the reader to relate to what you are saying.

Chapter #2: The structure of the guide

All guides follow a simple 3-step structure. Each step is about a specific topic. These are:

• Flights/driving/buses
• The city & places to stay
• Activities.

Let’s start with the first topic titled “How to get there”:

“How to get there” – The most common way to reach your city?

“the city of [name] [country]” – brief outline of the city and hotels & apartments, “what to do” – b est daytime actitives & nightlife venues.

This is the most creative part. Think of your male friend coming to town and tell him about the ins and outs of your city: What is interesting to do during the day time?

This is not so much about sightseeing, but more about the lesser known spots in your city.For example, the guide to Varna Bulgaria tells you everything about the number one daytime activity in Varna, the beaches. But it also tells you about everything Varna’s Retro Museum with Soviet memorabilia that is not located in oldtown Varna, but somewhat hidden inside a shopping mall.

Chapter #3: The content of the guides

Now that we know the structure all we need to do is fill it with information. Here are some guidelines to what information the three chapters should contain:

How to get there

Here, you need to do some research by looking up prices on the websites of airlines, bus services etc.:

• Name 3-5 airlines that offer cheap flights to your city and link their names to their websites.
• Name 1-3 bus services that offer cheap rides to your city and link their names to their websites (if applicable).

Screenshot taken from: https://euromentravel.com/48-hours-in/48-hours-jakarta-indonesia/

Note that you do not need to put any screenshots of city maps/special offers/nice apartments/great hotels into your guide. I will do that for you. However, what you need to do is tell me where these special offers can be found so I can implement them.

The City of [XYZ]

• What is traffic in the city like? Is there good public transport? What is a good part of the city to stay in?
• How much is a taxi ride from A to B? There is a local smartphone app that everybody uses to order taxis? There is? Great, mention it and write about it!
• Write about some good offers that you see on apartment sites like Airbnb.com or booking.com and name 3-5 good hotels . Link their websites to their names.
• Look up the prices for a night in a hotel room/apartment and add the price after the hotel’s name Another very important factor is communication:
• What does a local SIM card cost?
• With a local SIM card: What’s the average price level for calls/texts/internet?
• Write a continuous text that describes your experience with about 3 daytime activities. This can be anything from spending a day at the beach to the picturesque old town or the area with the best local food.
• In your text, add 5-8 links to the names of popular daytime locations.
• Have a look at the other 48 hours in guides for inspiration.
• Write a continuous text that describes your experience with about 3 nightlife venues.
• Again, have a look at the other 48 hours in guides for inspiration.

And last but not least:

• Send in 10 high quality pictures of your city that you took yourself. If you can then send in more than 10. Actually, send in as many high quality pictures as you can! Choosing the cream of the crop from a large pool is always nicer.

In total, your 48 Hour guide will now have 1200-1600 words and is ready for editing.

Do not forget to give me your Twitter, Instagram and a short bio if you like and then allow me some time to do the editing. And before you know it your travel guide will go live on euromentravel.com.

This short synopsis on how to write a travel guide for the ’48 hours in’ series should cover most of your questions. If you have any other questions, do not hesitate do contact us via the form below.

See you around and happy traveling!

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Travel Advice

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

6 unexpected experiences you can have in North Dakota

Explore Birmingham, the cultural heart of Alabama

Pick your seasonal adventure in Slovenia

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How to Pick the Best Travel Guide Books

Ann-Marie Cahill

Ann-Marie Cahill will read anything and everything. From novels to trading cards to the inside of CD covers (they’re still a thing, right?). A good day is when her kids bring notes home from school. A bad day is when she has to pry a book from her kids’ hands. And then realizes where they get it from. The only thing Ann-Marie loves more than reading is travelling. She has expensive hobbies.

View All posts by Ann-Marie Cahill

Travel. I love it. I live it. I breathe it . In my view, it all starts with the rush of exhilaration when I choose the magical destination for my next trip…only to come crashing down when I have to choose a damn travel guide to start my research. Because you don’t want to be lugging around every travel guide. You need to narrow it down to the best travel guide books. And I mean, really narrow it down. 

I hate that part.

We’re not talking the travel-inspiring books . We’re talking the more practical side of travel planning. And seriously, there are so many travel guides on the market, it is a nightmare of global proportions to choose only one. Add to that how q uickly the information can date, and you are left wondering if this really is such a good idea.

The thing is, each travel guide has its pros and cons. Some are perfect for the USA, some have a better understanding of the winding roads of New Zealand. There are guides perfect for your architectural adventures through Rome while others take you on a culinary tour of Paris. But unless you have nine months to read up on every travel guide, it’s really hard to know which is the best travel guide books. 

So I did the hard work for you. I narrowed it down to 11 of the best travel guide books and the reasons why (just so you know I didn’t simply accept whichever book was left on the library shelf). And how did I choose the best? Well, I read each of their editions for a city or country I am already VERY familiar with. Now, usually, we would only be reading travel guides of places we want to learn more about, right? What better way to ‘test’ a travel guide than to see if they know it as well as a local!

Before you start buying up on guidebooks, here are a few tips to help you choose your own:

The Best Travel Guide Books

Lonely planet guide.

Great for: Big picture travel across a whole country for most regions but especially Oceania, Asia, and the “Shoestring” range. New Zealand is the best ever.

Not so great : They need to update their South America collection. The most recent edition for Ecuador was lacking in detail and encouragement to try new things, especially for the Galapagos Islands. Really felt like at least two of the white male writers phoned it in from their NY base.

Great for: The best highlights of any city, especially in Europe (e.g.  Paris ). 

Not so great: Personal local touch, or if you plan to stay in one place for longer than a week at a time.

Recently, they have been changed their focus to a more budget-friendly approach, but I don’t think it is coming through with their local writers.

Great for: Mainstream Travel with an upmarket touch, especially Western Europe (see Frommer’s Europe ).

Not so great: “One block over” travel, stepping away from the regular, e.g. the Melbourne guide did little to entice me into exploring the city’s famous laneways of culture, coffee, and bookshops.

DK Eyewitness

Great for : visually inspiring your holidays. Beautiful for places like Rome or London. Great guide for Italy . 

Not so great: Day-to-day travel details. Once I stepped out of the Vatican Museum, it was pretty much useless.

Rick Steves

Great for: First-timers travellers visiting one of the major cities of the world, like London or  Paris

Not so great: Anyone looking for a little more depth, e.g. do not use for Venice—that’s a city you need to be lost in at least once.

Rough Guides

Great for : Historic or off-the-beaten-track adventures, like SE Asia, NZ, South America

Not so great: Big cities or glossy photos for visual cues. It was of no help in Kuala Lumpur.

Bradt Guides

Good for: Cultural highlights of countries and regions, especially Macedonia .

Not so great : Asia. The Borneo guide was lacking in details about the various cultures and land issues for the locals.

Blue Guides

Great for : Book Riot, history and literary buffs, that big cultural holiday you were taking through the Romantic History of Europe. The Blue Guide: Greece (The Mainland) is especially lovely to read!

Not so great: The rave scene in Berlin. Not really the Blue Guide style.

Footprint Travel Guides

Great for : transport. Really useful in busy, stretched out places like Bangkok and Thailand

Not so great : Budget details.

Insight Guides

Great for: Giving you an idea in your mind of where you want to go. The Insight Guides Turkey  is especially memorable

Not so great: Actual travel. Don’t rely on these books to get you around a city like Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

This is… by Miroslava Saska

As always, I’m open to suggestion and we LOVE suggestions here at Book Riot. So, if I have missed your favourite, please tell us all about it in the comments. Or if you are looking for a suggestion for your dream destination, ask us!

Bon Voyage!

[Ed.’s Note: This article originally incorrectly stated that The Insight Guides is produced by the Discovery Channel; they’re produced by APA Publications, which is not affiliated with the Discovery Channel.]

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11 BEST Travel Guides for 2024 [Websites & Guidebooks]

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL;DR: The two best travel guides are Rick Steves for first time travelers—especially anyone going to Europe—and Bradt Guides for off-the-beaten-path destinations and “Slow Travel.” Both are reliable, will give you ideas for what to do, and help you plan the best trip.

The way we travel has changed drastically in my lifetime. Information is more readily available in the digital age, a massive plus for traveling. 

Everyone, including myself, wants to make the most of every trip abroad. That’s why I love reading travel guide books or online guides. 

Some of these guide books help you get off the beaten path. Others give information on tours you can take on your own to learn the history of a certain destination you’re visiting. 

But which are the best?

After years of reading and doing research, I have found the best travel guides for you to use when planning your next trip abroad!

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Here’s a quick look at our recommendations

• DK Eyewitness
• Bradt Guides
• Rick Steves
• Lonely Planet
• Blue Guides
• Footprint Guides
• Frommer Guides
• Tripadvisor
• Rough Guides
• Moon Travel Guides
• Insight Guides

Table of Contents

#1 DK Eyewitness

DK Eyewitness is one of the best travel guide books on the market today. But they offer more than just travel information. 

After publishing books for over 45 years, DK Eyewitness Books cover everything from travel, science, history, pop culture, and children’s topics.

Their travel guides give the information you desperately need for travel– such as maps, itineraries, accommodations, where to eat, and more! 

I also love how easy their visuals are to look at. I sometimes get lost in their maps and start imagining myself there (I’m a big daydreamer if you can’t tell!).

DK Eyewitness Travel guide books might not be the most in-depth on a particular location, but they help with travel inspiration. 

If you want more information, DK Eyewitness has a podcast called ‘Where to Go,’ which is another excellent way to get your travel information on the go!

• 100+ destinations
• Heavy on history
• It has both outdoor and city guides
• Amazing visuals
• Not as in-depth as other guides

#2 Bradt Guides

A Bradt travel guide is perfect if you’re interested in visiting countries that are less traveled to— written by experienced travelers with fantastic insider tips. 

Bradt travel guide books has a reputation as the “World’s leading independent travel publisher.” They are also the best India travel guide company.

Some unique destinations include Iraq, Sri Lanka, Galapagos Islands, and Grenada. But don’t worry. Bradt Guides also has a British series for those interested! 

Lately, I’ve been striving to travel like a local. Bradt has a ‘Slow Travel’ guidebook series, which I love using these days because it helps me travel like a local. 

The trip ideas are great in detail but might not be for your preferred country to visit. 

Bradt Guides prides itself on being the most comprehensive on the market. Their authors give cultural insights and expressions of interest and knowledge.

You can support Bradt’s Guides even further by subscribing to their Patreon! Here you can pay monthly for a specific tier and earn different things like one free e-book a month.

• More off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Slow travel series
• Has a Patreon page
• Unique style of travel not for everyone

#3 Rick Steves

Rick Steves books are the guide books your mom hands you when traveling to your dream destination in Europe. And that’s a good thing! They’re trusted by many for a reason.

These travel guide books are always up-to-date, thanks to Rick Steves’ research partners. 

Rick’s books will have you feeling like you’re on guided tours! He ensures you’ll have some fantastic cultural experiences. 

I love Europe, but there are many other cultures throughout the world that I’m even more interested in. So, since Rick Steves’ guidebooks are primarily Europe-focused, I’m not as drawn to them.

Also, traveling in Europe long-term can get expensive. His books cater to a more wealthy crowd. 

Pick any European country, and you will have high-quality content on that destination. Rick has visited Europe countless times, and other travel websites can’t compete. 

Rick’s bestseller is his Italy guide, which isn’t surprising. In that guide, he goes over the best places to eat and sleep and how to beat the crowds. 

It’s a good idea to grab a Rick Steves’ book simply for the detailed maps.

• Best guides for Europe
• It gives in-depth information for solo tours
• Perfect for a beginner traveler.
• Catered to upper and middle-class travelers

#4 Lonely Planet

I’m sure you’ve heard of Lonely Planet , as they’ve been a dominant force in the travel scene for quite some time now. Their goal is to make travel planning easy, and they’ve succeeded!  

I loved using Lonely Planet books when I first started traveling. These books helped me up my game as a budget traveler. 

Lonely Planet dominates the internet with a wealth of online resources. While the information they offer online is easy to access, it can be vague. 

You can subscribe to Lonely Planet on their website for free. I’ve done this, but I’ve found that there tends to be some destinations/articles that are low in detail. 

Considering Lonely Planet’s sheer amount of content, it’s not too surprising that they sometimes gloss over details. 

Their claim to fame is their numerous experts located worldwide. These experts cover adventure travel, family holidays, food and drink, and much more. 

Plus, a Lonely Planet magazine is an amazing coffee table piece, am I right?

• Backpacker friendly
• An extensive collection of guides for the entire world
• Free information is available
• Some of their content is outdated or not detailed

#5 Blue Guides

If you love the art and history of Italy, then Blue Guides is for you! People often plagiarize Blue Guide books due to the amount of accurate information each book has. 

With over 14 books on Italy alone, you won’t find more detailed information on a particular destination than with Blue Guides– they deliver it all! 

Italy was the first country that I visited outside of the United States, and I’m so glad that I had a Blue Guide book with me. 

Their award-winning maps and exceptional attention to detail made it feel like I was on a private tour! 

Be aware: there aren’t a lot of online articles from Blue Guides or many countries to choose from, which could be an issue if you like to visit more unusual locations.

Blue Guides’ first publication date was in the early 1900s, so it’s undoubtedly a top guidebook for a travel junkie!

• Helps travelers understand art and history
• Multiple guides on Italy
• Extremely thorough in their research
• Not a lot of destinations

#6 Footprint Guides

Footprint Guides is the go-to source for Latin American travel tips for all budgets! My love for this region of the world has only grown since I started using their books.

Even if Latin America isn’t one of your top destinations, they do offer other print books. All Footprint Guides are written by experts who have lived in that destination. 

Unfortunately, for North American travelers looking to plan a dream road trip, you won’t find much helpful information here, as their focus is decidedly on the south. 

Alongside their practical information, Footprint adds a layer of imagination to their guidebooks, giving them an edge that makes them one of the best travel guide series available today!

• Wide range of budgets
• Specializes in Latin America
• Practical information
• Not much content on the United States

#7 Frommer Guides

Does traveling on $5 per day sound appealing to you? Arthur Frommer thought so when he set out to create his Frommer travel guides . 

Alongside some of the best guidebooks, Frommer also offers other forms of information, including podcasts, online articles, and hotel deals!

I love using Frommer guides on road trips because they help me in many different situations. 

I usually like to have a podcast for when I’m driving , a guidebook on specific destinations while I’m in a hotel room, and online sources when on the go. 

Having Frommer guides in all their varied forms is essential since each one typically doesn’t go into heavy detail. 

If purchasing travel guide books doesn’t interest you, then keeping up to date with Frommer’s online travel guides is the way to go.

• Many styles of information are available
• Updates information frequently
• Offer hotel deals
• It covers only the main details

#8 Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is an online source that most travelers have heard about. It’s unique on this list of travel guides because you interact with other travelers!

If you’re looking for help with trip planning, look no further than the Tripadvisor forum . Here you can talk with fellow travelers about your upcoming trip! 

When I have a specific question that needs answering, I always check Tripadvisor first. They have information on most countries, but some info on the forums can be outdated. 

Tripadvisor is great because it’s free! But they’re more than just a review and forum-based platform; you can also book different travel deals and tours through their website.

Sometimes the sheer amount of information can be overwhelming to click through.  If that sounds relatable, you might want to purchase some guidebooks instead. 

Tripadvisor started the wave of online travel planning. They’re worth browsing, even if you just want to write down a few travel tips!

• Multiple reviews from other travelers
• Travel deals available
• Forum can be out of date
• The massive amount of information can be overwhelming

#9 Rough Guides

Rough Guides has grown into a leader in the travel industry with its amazing travel guidebooks and online travel guides. 

What I love about these books is their authenticity. Their recommendations from locals helped to grow them into who they are today.

It all started with their Greece travel guide, and it quickly blew up. Demand increased for more and more Rough Guide content; they released a guidebook series for people who were eager for more. In 2017, Rough Guides expanded even further.

Today Rough Guides are more than just a travel guide company that sells books. They offer tours, custom-made itineraries, and more! I love using their website when planning my next trip. 

These custom-made itineraries and tours are expensive but for a reason. Rough Guides’ experts are located worldwide to give you the best travel experience ever. 

Rough Guides best selling guides offer a ton of background information and local tips, making them worth the high price!

• Detailed itineraries
• Personal recommendations from locals
• An extensive list of countries
• High prices for tours and custom itineraries

#10 Moon Travel Guides

Moon Guides are my favorite guidebooks for traveling around the United States. Planning that perfect road trip is challenging but Moon Guides makes it easier.

Moon’s travel guidebooks are all about traveling sustainably. I’ve used them countless times in the Americas and have found them super helpful.

But Moon Guides don’t focus on the Americas only– they also offer some of the best travel guides for Japan in particular.

I’ve learned to use these books more for research instead of bringing them on my travels– they don’t always hold up with how rugged traveling can get for me.

Moon’s detailed maps are so good in their guidebooks that I fill my phone library with them. They are easy to read and use, which is what I think makes a good map. 

The best travel tips are from locals, and that’s what Moon’s travel guidebooks bring. They don’t have a fancy touring app or anything, but they don’t need it. 

If you want one of the best travel guides for families, then there’s no better choice than making Moon Guides your tour guide when traveling. 

Find your dream destination, get travel inspiration from their maps, and book that plane ticket.

• Emphasis on the Americas and the Pacific
• Easy-to-understand maps
• Many pages of information solely for hotels/accommodations
• Guidebooks aren’t durable

#11 Insight Guides

Insight is one of the best travel guidebooks on the market for a reason. The beautiful photographs in these travel guidebooks will have you daydreaming for days.

Insight guides are perfect for those history buffs out there like me. They combine great information with also some off-the-beaten-track activities. 

Insight has produced over 200 guidebooks and language books. Their books provide information on nearly any country you can think of (besides Mexico).

I love their books because they also have a mini-series.

During the Covid years, I was in the mood to read a lot. I picked a different destination each week and bought a new e-book. 

I could do this because they only cost five to ten dollars! Most of the best travel guidebooks are double this.   

Besides its guidebook series, Insight offers a handmade trip planned by experts to the destination of your choice. What more could you ask for?!

• Multiple countries in each continent
• Has language guides
• Sells hand-picked vacation packages put together by locals
• Offers mini versions of guides to sell for cheap
• No Mexico guide

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Travel Guide

What to Look for in Travel Guides

Is the information up to date.

Picking the best travel guidebooks can be an overwhelming process. But the most important thing to watch out for is making sure the information is up-to-date.

Compared to online sources, guidebook information tends not to get updated as quickly for obvious reasons. 

You don’t want a travel guide taking you to a restaurant that doesn’t exist anymore, do you? No. You want to get off the beaten track but not THAT off that it gets you lost.

Pick Locally-Based Travel Guides

My ideal travel style is meeting locals, living, and eating like a local. I have the best travel experiences when I dive deep into the culture.

The best information about a destination comes from locals. When you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, wouldn’t you want to consult someone who has lived there for many years?

When you rely on locals’ recommendations, you’ll truly have an experience of a lifetime. 

Know What Type of Traveler You Are

This next tip can be difficult for some, and it can change from year to year. I have gone from being a true budget traveler to somewhere in the middle. 

I used to love history (I still do) and would base my travels around that. Now I seek adventure activities. 

Different types of guides will focus on different things, such as budget travel, adventure, expensive tours, food, or history. 

Finding the travel guide that fits your style will be more beneficial in the long run.

Know Which Destination You Want to Visit the Most

The best world travel guidebooks are often better for certain locations than others. For example, Rick Steves has a reputation for being the best travel guide for Europe and, specifically, the best travel guide for Italy. 

So, choose your travel guide based on which one specializes in the area you’re curious about.

Other Helpful Travel Guides

Travel is a huge industry which means there are more guides than you could ever possibly use. 

If you prefer your travel content in video form, one of the best travel guide Youtube channels is Ryan Shirley . 

His videos showcase the top places to visit in different countries with some of the best drone shots you’ll ever see. 

FAQs About Travel Guides

Should You Even Buy a Travel Guide?

A travel guide has its place. It may seem outdated to use one, but you can find some of the best information in them. 

Some guides take years to make and are very specific in the details they write for certain locations. The maps tend to be better and easier to read in these types of guides as well.  

Which is better: Lonely Planet or Rough Guide?

It depends on the style of travel you prefer. I prefer budget travel and tend to take fewer tours, so I like Lonely Planet. Rough Guide also has amazing tours if you’re interested in those.

What is the difference between Fodor’s and Frommer’s travel guides?

Frommer travel guides are excellent for those who want an easy read. Fodor is typically the better choice if you want more details about your activities. 

Fodor also has one of the best travel guides for Ireland, so check out Fodor if that’s your destination.

Is it better to travel with a tour guide or alone with a travel guide?

The answer differs from person to person! If you want your trip planned, then a tour guide is perfect. Going alone with a travel guide is nice because you can go at your own pace. 

Do people still buy travel guides?

Absolutely! There’s something different about having a travel guidebook to look at rather than scrolling through a website. 

Rick Steves and Bradt are my favorite travel guides.

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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 

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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.

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15 Best Travel Guidebook Series & Why You Will Love Them

• Updated: 07/09/2024

Are you an avid traveler or someone who loves exploring new places? If so, you know the value of good travel planning  information and particularly the value of editorial independent guidebooks . Though—with so many options, how do you choose the best book? 

In this article, I share the top 15 must-have travel guidebook series , from Lonely Planet to Rick Steves and everything in between. These books offer essential resources for travelers seeking reliable details about destinations, local cultures, and tips for a seamless journey.

The guides deliver a one-stop-shop that combines the best of the internet without the pop-up ads and paid-for-placement “recommendations.”

So, join in—as I delve into the pros and cons of each travel guidebook series, considering factors like accuracy, depth of coverage, user-friendly layout, and unique features. I will cover what sets these guidebooks apart, helping you to make the best decision on which one to choose before your next trip.

Table Of Contents

Why travel guidebooks are still relevant in the digital age.

From our early days of travel, I remember one of the heaviest parts of backpacking around the world used to be shouldering the weight of hefty printed guidebooks as we made our way from one country to another. We would often carry four or five thick books at a time. This heavy stack included guides for our current country, our recently visited country, and, if we happened to be organized—for the country we were going to next.

We did this because, at the time, we had no other choice. Before the prevalence of e-books and travel blogs, YouTube channels, and social media, old-school travel guidebooks provided the only source of travel information available.

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However, today, when information is just a few clicks away, you might wonder if travel guidebooks still hold any value. The truth is, despite the abundance of online resources, guidebooks continue to be an essential tool for travelers worldwide.

Here are three reasons why: 

• Travel guidebooks offer a curated, reliable, and comprehensive source of information . While the internet can provide a wealth of data, it can also be overwhelming and often unreliable. Guidebooks, on the other hand, are meticulously researched, are editorially independent (aka do not receive payment from businesses for placements), written by experts who often share a distinct opinion on a place and its attractions, and are constantly updated to ensure accuracy.
• Guidebooks provide a complete overview of a destination. They go beyond just listing tourist attractions, offering insights into possible itineraries, local customs, traditions, and lesser-known gems that are easy to miss. Whether your interests lie in history, art, food, or adventure, guidebooks typically cover it all comprehensively.

For example, after reading Frommer’s EasyGuide to Washington, DC  before a family spring break visit, I learned I needed to act fast to request tickets for Capitol and White House tours. Because the guidebook let me know to reserve so early, we successfully booked a tour and visited the Capitol building. Standing in the historic and beautiful US Capitol Rotunda and viewing the House and Senate Chambers was an unforgettable experience I would not have wanted to miss. 

With these benefits in mind, we will explore things you should consider when choosing the best guidebook in the section below.

5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Travel Guidebook

To help you choose the ideal travel guidebook for your next trip, here are five key factors to consider:

1. Destination: Consider the specific destination you plan to visit. Some guidebook series specialize in regions or countries, offering more in-depth coverage and insider tips. For example, Rick Steves’  travel guidebooks focus on Europe only.

2. Travel Style: Think about your travel style and preferences. If you are a backpacker looking for budget-friendly recommendations—you will likely want to read Lonely Planet . Or are you more interested in luxury and upscale experiences? Then, a DK Eyewitness Guide or a Fodor’s might be more to your taste. Different guidebook series cater to specific travel styles, so choose one that best aligns with the way you travel.

3. Content: Evaluate the type of content you are looking for. Do you prefer detailed historical information, practical tips, or recommendations for off-the-beaten-path experiences? Some guidebooks, like Culture Smart! , focus on cultural insights, while others provide a broader overview.

4. Layout and Format: Consider the layout and format of the guidebook. Is it easy to navigate? Are there maps, photos, or illustrations? Does it offer an easy-to-follow rating system for top recommendations like the Frommer’s guides include? A well-organized guidebook with clear visuals can significantly enhance your travel experience.

5. Publish Date: Reference the date the travel guidebook was most recently published. If it is several years old, see if a newer version with updated content is available for your destination from a different guidebook series. 

Now that we have covered the factors to consider, check out the top 15 picks for the travel guidebook series in the sections below.

Lonely Planet: The Iconic Travel Guidebook Series

Best for: Budget and mid-range independent travelers.

Coverage: 50+ countries throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, Americas, Australasia & the Middle East.

Lonely Planet  is—undoubtedly—one of the most well-known and respected travel guidebook series. For over five decades, Lonely Planet  has been helping travelers discover the world with its comprehensive guides.

Here are three things that set Lonely Planet apart:

• Accuracy: Lonely Planet guidebooks are known for their accuracy. Writers and editors meticulously research the information, ensuring that you have the most up-to-date and reliable details at your fingertips.
• Depth of Coverage: Lonely Planet offers extensive coverage of destinations worldwide. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, you will find detailed information on attractions, accommodations, transportation, and more.
• User-Friendly Layout: Lonely Planet guidebooks have a user-friendly layout that makes it easy to navigate and find the information you need quickly. Clear maps, color-coded sections, and helpful icons enhance the reading experience.

However, it is worth noting that Lonely Planet guidebooks can sometimes be overwhelming due to the vast information provided. Additionally, since it focuses primarily on budget and mid-range travel, you may want to consult other sources for more luxury recommendations.

Though given that their library is so extensive and refreshed so frequently, they may offer the only up-to-date travel guidebook for your destination. We recently used their Lonely Planet Malta & Gozo guide for a spring family trip to Gozo  and Valletta and found it an excellent resource. 

The only other downside when it comes to Lonely Planet for travelers who prefer e-books is that it can be slow to e-publish new editions, offering only print guides for sale.

Rick Steves: A Comprehensive Guide for the European Traveler

Best for: Independent European travelers.

Coverage: 30+ European countries.

For travelers planning a trip to Europe, Rick Steves’ guidebooks are a must-have. With a focus on European destinations, Rick Steves has been helping travelers explore the continent for over four decades. 

Three reasons why travelers regard Rick Steves’ guidebooks so highly:

• In-depth European Coverage: Rick Steves’ guidebooks offer unparalleled coverage of European destinations. Whether visiting popular cities like Paris and Rome or exploring lesser-known towns, like Dingle Town in Ireland, you will find detailed information and valuable insider tips provided by experts. For example, in his Ireland guidebook, the excellent detail for the Dingle Peninsula self-guided route is supplied by a local archeological tour guide and retired police chief, Tim Collins.
• Cultural Insights: Rick Steves is known for emphasizing cultural immersion. His guidebooks provide insights into local customs, traditions, and history, helping to give you a deeper understanding of the places you visit.
• Practical Advice: Rick Steves packs his guidebooks with practical advice for European travel. From transportation options to money-saving tips, you will find everything you need to make the most of your trip.

One downside of Rick Steves’ guidebooks that might be an upside is that Rick always has an opinion, and he shares it. You may love his strong point of view. Or you might not agree with what he thinks. 

For example, I love Rick Steves and always reference his guides for any new European destination. However, in his Switzerland guidebook , Rick shares his low opinion of a Berner Oberland mountain hub town called Grindelwald for being too busy and overly commercial. Upon visiting Grindelwald, I could see his point. However, a short five to 10-minute walk from the train station showed me a very different view of a beautiful and much quieter destination that I would, without hesitation, highly recommend for any traveler to visit. 

Read Rick for his deep knowledge of Europe, though take some of his strongest opinions with a grain of salt. Then, visit and form your own views. 

Fodor's: The Go-to Guide for Luxury and Upscale Travel

Best for: The upscale traveler.

Coverage: 150+ guides for countries throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, Australasia & the Middle East.

For travelers seeking a more luxurious and upscale trip experience, Fodor’s guidebooks are an excellent choice. With a focus on high-end destinations and experiences, Fodor’s offers a curated selection of recommendations for the discerning traveler. 

Here are three things that make Fodor’s stand out:

• Luxury Recommendations: Fodor’s guidebooks offer comprehensive coverage of luxury accommodations, fine dining options, and upscale experiences. If you want to indulge in the finer things during your travels, Fodor’s has you covered.
• Insider Tips: Fodor’s guidebooks offe r insider tips and recommendations from local experts. Whether a hidden gem or an exclusive experience, you will find unique suggestions that cater to luxury travelers.
• Beautiful Photography: Fodor’s guidebooks are known for stunning photography. The visuals not only inspire wanderlust but also provide a glimpse into the luxurious experiences that await you.

However, due to its upscale focus, you may find Fodor’s guidebooks to be not as budget-friendly as other series. If you are on a tight budget, you may need to supplement this book with additional resources.

Frommer's: A Trusted Guide for Budget-Conscious Travelers

Best for: The all-around traveler looking for value for money. Also, for family travelers.

Coverage: 350+ guides split across 10+ different series from Frommer’s Complete Guides to EasyGuides that cover Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, Australasia & the Middle East.

If you are a budget-conscious traveler looking for value-for-money recommendations, which includes most family travelers, Frommer’s guidebooks offer an excellent choice. With a focus on affordable travel, Frommer’s offers practical advice, insider tips, and a reliable rating system, bestowing one to three stars on places and experiences it recommends as worth your time and money.  

Over the years, and as a value-conscious traveler always looking to get the most out of my travel budget, I have come to rely on Frommer’s guidebooks as my first resource for how I want to shape a trip. I use these guides to set high-level itineraries and develop a broad-strokes list of things I want to see and do most. For example, its Hawaii guide provided just the right amount of information for me to figure out which islands were best for our family to visit on a two-week trip. 

These three factors set Frommer’s apart:

• Budget-Friendly Recommendations: Frommer’s guidebooks provide a wide range of budget-friendly recommendations, including affordable accommodations, dining options, and attractions. They also offer money-saving tips to help you stretch your travel budget.
• Practical Information: Frommer’s guidebooks are known for their practical and detailed information. From transportation to multiple sample itinerary options, you will find everything you need to plan your trip efficiently.
• Local Insights: Frommer’s guidebooks include insights and recommendations from local experts, allowing you to experience a destination like a local. This adds a unique perspective to your travel experience.

One limitation of Frommer’s guidebooks is their coverage, which may not be as extensive as other series. Especially if you are visiting lesser-known destinations, you will want to consult additional resources.

Rough Guides: The Adventurous Travel Companion

Best for: The adventure traveler.

Coverage: 100+ countries throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, Australasia & the Middle East.

For adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, Rough Guides is the perfect companion for your journeys. With a focus on adventure travel, R ough Guides offers a wealth of information for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

Here are three things that make Rough Guides unique:

• Off-the-beaten-path Recommendations: Rough Guides detail recommendations for lesser-known destinations and experiences. Whether trekking through remote mountains or exploring hidden cultural gems, Rough Guides will inspire your adventurous spirit.
• Adventure Travel Tips: Rough Guides offer practical advice for adventure travel, including information on outdoor activities, gear recommendations, and safety tips. If you are planning a hiking, diving, or wildlife-focused trip, Rough Guides supply a valuable resource.
• Cultural Immersion: Rough Guides emphasize cultural immersion, providing insights into local customs, traditions, and indigenous communities, helping you achieve a more authentic travel experience.

One potential drawback of Rough Guides is their limited coverage of popular tourist destinations. If you plan to visit major cities or well-known attractions, you may need to consult additional guidebooks.

DK Eyewitness Travel: Visual Guides for Immersive Travel Experiences

Best for: Travelers who love to learn while they travel.

Coverage: 200+ guides to destinations throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, Australasia & the Middle East.

If you are a visual learner or prefer a more immersive travel experience, DK Eyewitness Travel guidebooks or their Pocket Top 10 guides are a perfect choice. Or the ideal complement to read along with a more detail-intense series. With its stunning visuals and in-depth coverage, DK Eyewitness Travel offers a unique way to explore the world. 

Here are three things that make DK Eyewitness Travel stand out:

• Visuals: DK Eyewitness Travel guidebooks are known for their beautiful photography, detailed illustrations, and 3D maps. These graphics bring destinations to life and help you visualize your travel experience.
• Immersive Content: DK Eyewitness Travel guidebooks provide immersive content beyond just listing attractions. They offer insights into local culture, history, and traditions, helping give you a deeper understanding of the places you visit.
• User-Friendly Layout: DK Eyewitness Travel guidebooks have a user-friendly layout with color-coded sections, detailed maps, and easy-to-read text. Readers find these convenient to navigate, helping them to find the information needed.

However, it is worth noting that DK Eyewitness Travel guidebooks may not offer as much depth of coverage or budget-friendly recommendations as other series. If you seek more specific or detailed information, you will want to pick this up elsewhere.

National Geographic Traveler: Discover the World Through Stunning Photography

Best for : Travelers who want their guidebooks to double as keepsakes and prefer a culturally immersive experience. 

Coverage: 40+ guides to destinations throughout the world, with the heaviest coverage in Europe and a few titles for top destinations in the US, Central America, Asia & Africa.

National Geographic Traveler guidebooks offer a unique perspective on travel, combining stunning photography with informative content. 

Three factors that make National Geographic Traveler guidebooks a must-have:

• Photography : National Geographic Traveler guidebooks are known for breathtaking photography. The visuals capture the essence of a destination and will inspire your wanderlust.
• Insider Tips: National Geographic Traveler guidebooks provide insider tips and recommendations from National Geographic experts. These insights offer a deeper understanding of a destination, allowing for more unique travel experiences.
• Cultural Exploration: National Geographic Traveler guidebooks emphasize cultural exploration, focusing on local customs, traditions, and indigenous communities. These elements add a deeper layer of authenticity to your travel experience.

One potential limitation of National Geographic Traveler guidebooks, like the DK Eyewitness Guides , is their limited coverage of the logistics of travel as compared to other series. If you are planning a trip to lesser-known or off-the-beaten-path locations, you may need to consult additional resources. 

8 Other Notable Travel Guidebook Series

1. Bradt Travel Guides : Known for their offbeat and unconventional destinations, and Slow Travel titles to British regions, Bradt Travel Guides are perfect for travelers seeking unique experiences.

2. Moon Travel Guides: Moon Travel Guides offer comprehensive coverage of worldwide destinations. Though—it publishes many titles for less mainstream places. For example, Moon offers the best, and in some cases, the only guidebooks for less common places like Vermont  and Door County, Wisconsin .

3. Berlitz Pocket Guides : Berlitz Pocket Guides provide concise and practical information for travelers who prefer a more compact and portable guidebook.

4. Michelin Green Guides : Michelin Green Guides are known for their meticulous attention to detail and focus on cultural, historical, and architectural landmarks. Although, check the date of publication. Many of its Green Guides are due for an update.

5. Blue Guides : These in-depth guides are indispensable for culture and history lovers. Expect a deep and thorough dive into art, architecture, and history for major and minor destinations and sites throughout Europe. Also, look for their Art/Shop/Eat guides  for major international cities.

6. Culture Smart! : Culture Smart! guides offer excellent pre-trip reading. Learn about the people, the culture, and the dos and don’ts travelers should adhere to while visiting. These illuminating guides—we read Culture Smart! Switzerland  before a trip to the Bernese Oberland —written by long-term expats, journalists, professors, and diplomats, help provide visitors with a deeper understanding of a place and direction on how to be a good guest. 

7: Not for Tourists : Although these guides, mainly offered for major US cities and a few large international ones, are designed for residents, they provide an excellent alternative read for visitors seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

8: Independent Local guidebooks: When planning a visit to any new destination, search online for the term “best guidebooks for [your destination]” and see what you find. Many travel locales offer hyperlocal guidebooks written by experts in the know and are sometimes not easily found without an engaged search.

A good example of this is the Himalayan Travel Guides  series, offering 20+ titles dedicated to in-depth information about trekking in the Himalayas. Or the Hawaii Revealed  series, which provides the most extensive and detailed travel resource for the four most visited Hawaiian Islands. I read both the Oahu Revealed  and Kauai Revealed  guidebooks before a two-week Hawaii stay, and each was excellent. 

Or even for a recent trip to Acadia National Park   in Maine, I found and read two non-mainstream travel guidebooks, Acadia: The Complete Guide  and Ten Days in Acadia—A Kids Hiking Guide to Mount Desert Island , both off-the-radar reads written by locals. The history section in the Complete Guide was so good that I read it twice. And our heavily used dog-eared copy of the Hiking Guide is a testament to how valuable I found it to be during our trip. See a few pics from our Maine visit below.

About Finding the Perfect Travel Guidebook for Your Next Adventure

Choosing the best travel guidebook can easily enhance your travel experience, providing you with the most useful information, insights into local culture, and practical tips. From Lonely Planet  to Rick Steves , Fodor’s to DK Eyewitness Travel , each guidebook series has its own unique strengths and specialties.

Consider factors like accuracy, depth of coverage, user-friendly layout, and unique features to help pick the right book. Determine the destination, travel style, and content you are looking for to choose a guidebook series that fits your needs best. 

If you are still unsure which travel guidebook is the right one, try one out. Borrow a book from your local library, visit a nearby bookshop to skim their travel section , or take a leap and buy and download an e-book to determine if you want to keep or return it.

Guidebooks continue to offer a valuable travel planning resource in the digital age, delivering curated and reliable information not often replicated by online sources. So, before your next adventure, find your perfect travel companion from the travel guidebook series that fits you best. Happy travels!

Related Reading

If you are searching for more travel planning assistance to help you save time and money and to stay organized, check out the related articles below.

• 49 Things You Need to Do to Plan Your Best Trip (Free Travel Research & Planning Checklist)
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• Pack Faster & Better with This Universal Printable Packing List
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Additional Trip Planning Resources

To further help you with travel planning, I share my go-to resources for every trip below. 

Google Flights. My first research stop for affordable flights for every trip. Learn why here . 

Google Hotels . Use its “ Where to stay ” button to discover the best neighborhoods to base your visit.

Booking.com. For hotel and rental bookings, I appreciate its flexible cancellation, candid user reviews, discounts, loyalty program, and easy-to-use interface.

Viator , Get Your Guide , & Airbnb Experiences . Quickly find and book highly-rated tours and activities on these sites.

Google Travel Things to Do & Google Maps . Find more things to do in your destination on Google Travel, then record where you want to visit on a custom Google Maps list. 

AllTrails . Love to hike? Me too. I religiously use AllTrails to discover hiking and biking trails and download its offline maps to manage my hikes.

Guide Along . 5-star self-guided audio tours that are GPS-compatible for US road trips and national parks. We loved the Glacier National Park tour .

Insure My Trip. I never travel internationally without trip insurance. Learn why here . My preferred place to shop and compare policies is InsureMyTrip.com . 

Plus, check out the 15 travel apps I use on trips, my preferred guidebooks , and my free customizable travel itinerary template , downloadable in four file formats.

About the author : Janice Moskoff is a travel writer and blogger who loves hiking, exploring the world, and reading. She writes to inspire travel-loving families, adult friends, and couples on her blog, Gather and Go Travel . After attending the University of Michigan undergraduate business school and following a career in retail strategy and event management, she returned to focus on her first love—travel. Read her bio , learn how she became a blogger , and discover how to work with her . Sign up for her monthly Discovery Newsletter to get her latest travel recommendations and how-to’s .

Love to travel? Sign up for m y monthly Gather & Go Travel Discovery Newsletter and get a free trip budget calculator.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. And the income goes to keeping the site community-supported and ads minimal.

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Welcome to  Gather and Go Travel , a blog inspiring families, adult friends, and couples to explore US and international destinations and to get outdoors. I am Janice, a world traveler to 50+ countries, a travel writer/blogger, and a book lover. Learn more  about me , read  our story , and how to  work with me . Get my latest updates, how-tos, and trip ideas in my monthly  Discovery Newsletter .

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How To Write A Perfect Travel Guide ?

Table of Contents

Creating an ideal travel guide is significant as it can offer helpful insights to tourists and enable them to have a hassle-free and delightful journey. A guide that is well-crafted can aid travelers in organizing their schedules, maximizing their time, and steering clear of typical mishaps.

Also, it can offer insider tips and unique suggestions to improve one’s travel experience. Providing accurate and current information about local customs, cultural sensitivities, and environmental concerns can assist travelers in making informed decisions and avoiding any unpleasant surprises.

Welcome to this blog post, where we will delve into the vital components of a well-crafted travel guide and offer guidance on conducting research, structuring, and conveying information. So grab your notebook, and let’s get started!

Understanding Your Target Audience

To create a perfect travel guide, you should first remember to understand your target travelers’ insight clearly. When determining the demographics and preferences of the target travelers, several important factors must be considered. These may include:

Age Gender Income level Current location Occupation Religion Ethnicity Family size Marital status.

Luxury Solo or group Adventure Relaxation Backpacking Business Etc

Preferred activities Preferred mode of transportation Destinations Special needs such as dietary restrictions or accessibility requirements. Etc

To gather all this information, you can conduct market research to gather insights into their interests and needs through:

• Surveys and questionnaires
• Focus groups and interviews
• Asking open-ended questions and encouraging discussion
• Analyzing data from travel websites and social media

By blending these methods, you can create a comprehensive profile of your target travelers and tailor your guide to cater to their unique interests and desires.

Example : A travel blogger researching their audience’s preferred travel destinations and activities through surveys and social media engagement. They could post a poll on their Instagram story asking their followers to vote for their favorite travel location, ask their followers to share their travel experiences and recommendations in the comments section of their posts, etc.

Choosing A Destination And Researching

You can create a list of potential locations and, when considering different ones, research each location’s attractions, accommodations, dining options, transportation, and safety.

Utilize various resources such as travel websites, guidebooks, personal anecdotes, social media, travel blogs, online forums, etc to gather the exact information.

Tips: Focus on highlighting specific details that would benefit the travelers. Rather than simply mentioning that a place has “good restaurants,” provide more valuable information, such as the names of highly-rated or locally recommended restaurants.

Example: A travel writer visiting a destination and exploring its various aspects (attractions, accommodations, dining options, and transportation systems) to gather first-hand information for the guide. During the stay, record experiences and engage with locals or fellow travelers to obtain insider tips and insights. This can involve seeking recommendations on places to visit and things to do and learning about the local customs and cultural norms.

Structuring the Travel Guide

This usually includes advice on introduction, getting there, attractions, accommodations, dining, activities, safety tips, and more. Covering these topics in detail is vital to ensure your guide is comprehensive and valuable.

• Comprehensive overview of the destination and its purpose.
• Be captivating and informative
• Encompass a brief history, geography, climate, distinctive characteristics, and tourist attractions.
• Contain practical information, such as the optimal time to visit, prevailing currency, and spoken language.

Detailed, up-to-date, and accurate information on how to reach the destination, including

• Information on flights, airlines that fly to the destination, and airport transfer options.
• Information on other transportation options such as trains, buses, car rentals, visa requirements, and border crossings.

Provide detailed information on the destination’s top sights and activities.

• Name historical landmarks, museums, natural wonders, cultural experiences, etc.
• Brief description, practical information such as opening hours and admission fees, and tips for visiting.
• Also contain photos and maps to help travelers plan their itinerary.
• List of hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, camping options, and more.
• Added information such as amenities and location and tips for booking.
• Organize the information by price range or location to make it easy for travelers’ budgets and preferences.
• List of restaurants, cafes, street food vendors, local specialties, and more.
• Information by cuisine or location, opening hours, prices, and tips for ordering.

Attach location, cost, and tips for participating

• Outdoor activities: hiking and biking
• Cultural experiences: cooking classes, dance performances
• Entertainment options: nightlife and shopping

Information on

• Local customs and cultural sensitivities
• Health concerns such as vaccinations and food safety
• Crime rates and safety concerns
• Emergency contact information

Example: A travel agency designing a travel guide with a user-friendly layout, including a table of contents for easy navigation. Consider organizing the information into clear and logical sections with headings and subheadings to make your guide easy to read and understand. Adding visual elements like photos, maps, and icons can help break up the text and make the guide more engaging for readers.

A table of contents can also be a useful feature for easy navigation. By following these steps, you can create a user-friendly guide that your audience will appreciate.

Writing Engaging and Informative Content

When creating a travel guide, aim to produce interesting and informative content that will assist your readers in planning a remarkable journey.

Using a captivating introduction to grab the reader's attention

Crafting an alluring opening to seize the reader’s interest is a crucial element when composing a flawless travel guide. An aptly written introduction has the potential to establish the mood and allure readers to peruse further.

• Be descriptive
• Provide an overview
• Be engaging

For instance: “Welcome to our travel guide to the vibrant city of Tokyo, Japan! From its neon-lit skyscrapers to its tranquil temples, Tokyo is a city of contrasts that offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Shinjuku’s bustling streets, the Imperial Palace’s serene gardens, and the trendy boutiques of Harajuku. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Tokyo has something to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of the most exciting cities in the world!”

Providing accurate and detailed information

Here are some pointers on how to provide accurate and detailed information about attractions in your travel guide:

Research the history and significance of the attraction: What is its cultural or historical significance? Who built it, and why? What is its role in the local community?

Describe the critical features: Explaining their significance What makes them unique?

Write practical information: The attraction’s hours of operation Admission fees Accessibility information Special events or activities that take place there

Incorporating personal experiences, anecdotes, and storytelling

One effective approach to make your travel guide more appealing and captivating for readers is by incorporating personal experiences, anecdotes, and storytelling. Adding these elements can help readers connect with the guide on a personal level.

Including Practical Tips and Recommendations

Incorporating useful advice and suggestions into a travel guide can greatly assist travelers in organizing their journey, economizing their time & finances, and augmenting their overall travel encounter. Through the provision of exclusive recommendations, valuable knowledge, and insights, a proficiently composed travel guide can enable visitors to make informed choices, evade typical setbacks, and relish an unforgettable and authentic experience.

Offering practical advice

Some advice you should focus is transportation, local customs, currency, and communication

Transportation

Provide detailed information on the transportation options available in the destination, including Public transportation, taxis, car rentals, and ride-sharing services. Included information on routes, schedules, fares, and safety tips.

Provide information on the local currency of the destination, including Exchange rates, ATM availability, and accepted forms of payment. Tips on how to get the best exchange rates and avoid common scams

Communication

Provide information on communication options at the destination, including Cell phone coverage Internet access Emergency contact numbers Tips on how to stay connected while traveling and how to communicate effectively with locals

Recommending specific restaurants, cafes, and local dishes

• Research the local cuisine
• Find the best places to eat: Use online reviews, local food blogs, and recommendations from locals to find the best places.
• Include a variety of options
• Highlight local dishes: This can include traditional dishes, regional specialties, and street food.

Incorporating high-quality photographs, maps, and illustrations

When writing a perfect travel guide, incorporating high-quality photographs, maps, and illustrations can greatly enhance the guide’s visual appeal for visitors. Here are some tips on how to do this:

• Use high-quality images
• Include a variety of visuals: This can include photographs of local landmarks and attractions, maps of the area, and illustrations of local customs or traditions.
• Use visuals to enhance the text
• Be mindful of layout

Formatting and Design

Proper formatting and design can enhance readability, improve visual appeal, make information easier to find, and reflect professionalism. By focus on these elements, you can create a travel guide that is easy to read, visually appealing, and user-friendly, helping to establish trust with the reader and make them more likely to follow the recommendations in the guide.

Using clear headings, subheadings, and bullet points for easy readability

Using headings, subheadings, and bullet points can greatly improve the visual appeal of a travel guide. These elements help to make the guide look organized and professional, grabbing the reader’s attention. To effectively use these elements, choose clear and descriptive headings, use consistent formatting, effectively use white space, and incorporate design elements such as color and images.

Choosing an attractive layout and font style

• Using columns, boxes, or other design elements to organize information logically
• Selecting a font size that is large enough to be easily legible, clear, and uncluttered.
• Using color to highlight important information or use graphics or images to enhance the visual appeal of the guide.

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Proofreading and Editing

Improving the accuracy of the information, enhancing readability, boosting credibility, and reflecting professionalism are all achieved through proofreading and editing. When you meticulously proofread and edit your travel guide, you can produce a trustworthy, professional, and accurate guide that is more likely to be followed by readers and recommended to others.

Check for grammar, spelling, and factual accuracy

When creating a travel guide, it’s crucial to edit it for clarity, coherence, and flow. To achieve this, use plain language and avoid technical terms to keep the text simple and accessible. Group similar information together using headings and formatting for better organization.

Make sure there are smooth transitions between sections by using transitional words and phrases. Lastly, eliminate any unnecessary information to keep the guide concise and to the point.

When crafting a travel guide, it is imperative to consider your intended audience, conduct thorough research on your chosen destination, and present your content in a clear and logical manner. Incorporating personal anecdotes and storytelling can add an element of relatability and engagement to your guide, while also providing accurate and comprehensive information on local attractions and insider tips that can enhance the travel experience.

Furthermore, including visual aids such as photographs and maps can help readers visualize the destination and better plan their itinerary. By following these guidelines, you can create a high-quality travel guide that will assist travelers in having an unforgettable and fulfilling journey.

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Blog Data Visualization 17 Travel Brochure Examples For Traveler & Tourism

17 Travel Brochure Examples For Traveler & Tourism

Written by: Danesh Ramuthi Oct 12, 2023

Travel brochures are vital, acting as silent ambassadors for countless destinations. At their core, travel brochures are printed or digital guides, crafted with precision by graphic designers, meant to showcase intriguing destinations, unforgettable experiences, and enticing offers, all with the purpose of beckoning tourists.

These aren’t just mere pages filled with colorful images and minimal text; they are the heartbeats of travel agencies, painting vivid dreams of beach getaways, wildlife watching, and outdoor activities.

In this blog post, I’ll explore various travel brochure examples and provide helpful information on creating designs that not only catch the eye but also encourage visitors to embark on a journey.

If you’re looking to enhance or create your own masterpiece, Venngage offers an easy way to create irresistible travel brochures . With our user-friendly platform and a plethora of travel brochure templates , even those new to design can craft brochures that take potential customers on a journey before they even set foot at the destination.

So, let’s set forth on this journey together, ensuring that your travel business and its offerings take the center stage in the minds of tourists and travelers alike.

Click to jump ahead:

Trifold travel brochure example

Travel guide brochure example, adventure travel brochure example, cruise travel brochure example, beach travel brochure example, vintage travel brochure example, minimalist travel brochure example, modern travel brochure example, city tour brochure example, travel brochure example for students, travel brochure example for travel agency.

• What to include in a travel brochure?

How to make a travel brochure?

Final thoughts.

Widely preferred by travel agencies and businesses, the travel trifold brochure template is a compact, yet effective means to showcase travel destinations with finesse and clarity. This tri-fold brochure design, meticulously crafted by graphic designers, is an art of balancing minimal text, colorful images, and strategic placement of details to captivate the potential customer.

The beauty of the trifold design lies in its structure. With three distinct panels, it allows a business to segregate information efficiently, dedicating space for highlighting specific travel destinations, detailing travel insurance options, and even showcasing enticing beach getaways or outdoor activities.

Creating an effective trifold travel brochure requires more than just filling in a template. It involves understanding the target audience, selecting images that resonate, and providing helpful information without overwhelming the reader. 

Travel guide brochures serve as a comprehensive roadmap for tourists, encapsulating the essence of a destination. These brochures, often crafted by skilled graphic designers, emphasize not just the beauty of travel destinations but also offer helpful information to potential tourists.

Such brochures not only highlight the picturesque landscapes and popular spots but delve deeper into the local culture, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path treasures that make every trip memorable.

Travel agencies recognize this and invest in high-quality brochure designs, often leveraging free travel brochure templates to kick-start the creative process. Such brochures can easily be customized with one’s own photos, brand assets, and unique design elements to resonate with the target audience.

For businesses, the travel guide brochure also doubles as a marketing tool. An effective brochure, which is more than just a compilation of images and minimal text, encourages visitors to explore the destination, engage with local businesses, and soak in the experiences offered.

Adventure travel brochures are designed to ignite the spirit of adventure in potential travelers. Unlike regular travel brochures, these focus on adrenaline-pumping activities, remote locations, and experiences that push boundaries. 

Each page aims to evoke a sense of thrill, showcasing activities like wildlife watching, mountaineering, deep-sea diving, or exploring rugged terrains. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey and the challenges that come with it.

Knowing that the reader is seeking thrills, the brochure design prioritizes showcasing outdoor activities, perhaps offering details on off-season perks or travel insurance tailored to adventure sports.

Every element, from the photos to text boxes, is strategically placed to offer the reader just enough information to pique their curiosity, but not too much to give everything away. 

After all, adventure is about the unknown, and a well-designed brochure ensures the potential customer is eager to embark on that journey of discovery.

Cruise travel brochures serve as a beacon to those seeking luxurious adventures on the high seas. These beautifully curated pieces often give potential travelers a glimpse into the grandeur of life aboard a majestic liner. 

With pictures of expansive sun decks, gourmet dining experiences, and panoramic ocean views, the cruise travel brochure is designed to captivate. Additionally, detailed itineraries often accompany these images, showcasing the various ports of call, on-shore excursions, and cultural events passengers can partake in. 

Moreover, the brochure provides insights into the various amenities on board, be it rejuvenating spas, entertainment options, or themed nights. For many, the allure of a cruise lies in the harmonious blend of relaxation and exploration, and a well-designed brochure ensures that this balance is perfectly conveyed.

Beach travel brochures are an invitation to a world of sun, sand, and serenity. Evoking the rhythmic sounds of crashing waves and the gentle warmth of golden sands, these brochures are crafted to transport readers to idyllic coastal paradises. 

Vivid photographs of palm-fringed shores, azure waters, and sun-drenched landscapes take center stage, promising a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Beyond the natural beauty, these brochures delve into the experiences that beach destinations offer. 

From thrilling water sports and beachside activities to local seafood feasts and tropical nightlife, readers are given a comprehensive overview of what awaits.

A well-constructed beach travel brochure doesn’t just showcase a destination; it encapsulates the very essence of a beach holiday, offering both tranquility and excitement in equal measure.

Vintage travel brochures harken back to an era of classic adventures, romanticizing travel in a way that’s nostalgic and deeply evocative. With designs reminiscent of the golden age of travel, these brochures showcase destinations using sepia tones, retro fonts, and artistic illustrations. 

Beyond the visuals, vintage brochures transport readers through time, recapturing the charm of old-world journeys, steam trains, and early air travel. 

These travel brochures, often sought after by collectors and history enthusiasts, serve as a beautiful reminder of how travel used to be, making them not just informative pieces but also treasured keepsakes.

Minimalist travel brochures are the epitome of the adage “less is more.” Rooted in clean lines, muted color palettes, and uncluttered design, these brochures present travel information in a straightforward yet impactful manner. 

Gone are the excessive embellishments; instead, every element, from images to text boxes, is thoughtfully curated and placed. 

Such a design approach prioritizes clarity, ensuring that the potential customer isn’t overwhelmed but is instead drawn into the essential aspects of the travel offering. 

Minimalist brochures resonate particularly well with a target audience that appreciates simplicity, elegance, and the sheer beauty of unadulterated visuals.

Modern travel brochures embody the zeitgeist of contemporary design. They are vibrant, dynamic, and often interactive, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of today’s travel trends. 

These brochures leverage the latest in graphic design techniques, incorporating bold colors, innovative layouts, and often, digital elements like QR codes linking directly to immersive online experiences. 

Modern brochures cater to the tech-savvy traveler, ensuring that while they provide essential details in print, they also seamlessly bridge the gap to the digital realm. 

Be it through embedded videos, virtual tours, or interactive maps, these brochures represent the cutting edge in travel marketing, appealing to a generation that seeks both adventure and convenience at just a click.

Navigating the urban jungle becomes an exhilarating journey with the right city tour brochure. Tailored to showcase the pulsating heart of metropolises, these brochures offer vivid glimpses into architectural wonders, historic landmarks, bustling markets, and hidden gems. 

Maps take center stage in many of these designs, guiding tourists seamlessly from one point of interest to another, ensuring they soak in the essence of the city. 

Additionally, the city tour brochure provides helpful information, from local dining spots to modes of transportation. 

For travelers keen to explore a city’s fabric beyond its main attractions, such brochures are invaluable, granting them both direction and inspiration.

Travel brochures for students prioritize experiences that are both enriching and budget-friendly. Recognizing the unique needs and aspirations of the student traveler, these brochures highlight destinations and packages that offer a mix of learning, adventure, and cultural immersion. 

Details on affordable accommodation options, group discounts, and off-season deals are crucial. Graphics and images within these brochures often resonate with youthful energy, focusing on outdoor activities, wildlife watching, and community engagements. 

Moreover, with students often relying on digital platforms for planning, a good travel brochure for this demographic would seamlessly integrate QR codes or links to websites, ensuring detailed information is available at just a click.

Trekking brochure example

Trekking brochures are aimed to attract the hikers’ attention to visit the routes and trails described on them.  In case a reputable trekking company intends to sell  Tour du Mont Blanc  the detailed info will be referred exclusively to this route. 

For travel agencies, the brochure is more than just an informational tool; it’s a potent marketing asset. These brochures are meticulously designed to showcase the agency’s expertise in curating memorable vacations. 

From the selection of travel destinations to the arrangement of tours, the brochure communicates the agency’s commitment to providing unparalleled experiences. High-quality photos and colorful images of destinations take the reader on a visual journey, while testimonials and reviews build trust. 

The design often reflects the brand assets of the travel agency, ensuring consistency in messaging. 

Clear call-to-action prompts, such as “Contact us for customized packages” or “Visit our website for exclusive deals,” encourage potential clients to take the next step.

In essence, a travel agency’s brochure serves as a bridge between the agency and its potential customers, emphasizing reliability, variety, and expertise.

What to include in a travel brochure? 

Crafting an effective travel brochure requires the amalgamation of essential information, captivating visuals, and purposeful design.

Whether you’re a seasoned travel agency or just trying your hand at travel brochure design, having a checklist of indispensable elements can help in creating an impactful brochure that appeals to your target audience. Let’s delve into the key components to include:

• Destination name : Clearly mention the travel destination to set expectations for potential tourists.
• Eye-catching cover photo : Use a colorful image or a collage of images that captures the essence of the destination, ensuring it takes center stage on the brochure cover.
• Brief description : Give a succinct overview of the destination, highlighting its unique selling points and major attractions.
• Map : Include a map to highlight key attractions, accommodations, and transportation options.
• Travel itinerary : Detail day-to-day activities, sites to visit, and recommended spending time at each location.
• Accommodation options : Provide a list of recommended places to stay, catering to a range of budgets.
• Local attractions : Spotlight on main tourist spots, wildlife watching areas, outdoor activities, and lesser-known hidden gems.
• Travel tips : Offer helpful information about local customs, necessary travel insurance, off-season travel benefits, and other points of interest.
• Photos and images : Integrate high-quality photos of the destination, ensuring they resonate with the overall theme of the brochure.
• Testimonials : Include positive feedback from previous customers to build trust and encourage visitors.
• Contact information : Detail the travel agency’s contact information, including website link, phone number, and physical address.
• Call to action : Encourage potential clients to reach out, book a trip, or visit the agency’s website for more information.
• Customizable templates : If offering free travel brochure templates for potential clients or graphic designers, ensure they can easily customize them with their own photos or brand assets.
• QR code : Integrate a dynamic QR code linking to additional resources, booking pages, or exclusive offers, ensuring details are just a click away.

Related: 88.2% Of People Travel The World To Get Their Hands On This… [INFOGRAPHIC]

Creating an engaging travel brochure is both an art and science, capturing the essence of a destination while ensuring practicality. From enticing travelers with stunning visuals to offering valuable details that assist in planning their journey, a well-crafted travel brochure is a fundamental tool for every travel business. Let’s delve into the intricacies of designing a brochure that stands out.

Understanding the target audience

Every destination has its unique allure, captivating a distinct set of travelers. While some might be in search of adrenaline-pumping adventures, others could be seeking a serene beach getaway.

Recognizing the target audience’s preferences is pivotal in crafting a brochure that resonates with them. Analyzing feedback from previous clients, surveying potential customers, and studying travel trends can provide insights.

These insights inform not only the content but also the overall design, ensuring the travel brochure effectively engages its intended readers.

Selecting the optimal format

Travel brochures come in various formats, each serving a specific purpose. For a concise snapshot of a destination, the tri fold brochure is a popular choice among travel agencies.

On the other hand, a more extensive booklet format allows for an in-depth exploration of the travel destination, perfect for those offering a range of experiences or a comprehensive guide to a region.

Use a color scheme

The power of color in evoking emotions and setting the mood cannot be understated. The colors chosen for the travel brochure can transport readers, offering a glimpse of the destination’s ambiance. For example, earthy tones might suggest wildlife watching adventures, while cool blues could evoke images of serene beach getaways.

Moreover, the color scheme should complement the images and align with the brand assets of the travel business. Working with a graphic designer can help in selecting a palette that both represents the destination and appeals to the target audience.

Integrating practical information

While captivating visuals and narratives are vital, the functionality of a travel brochure is equally crucial. A well-designed map highlighting essential attractions, transportation hubs, and recommended accommodations aids travelers in their journey.

Additionally, crucial details like travel insurance options, off-season benefits, and links to associated travel agencies enhance the brochure’s utility. Equally essential is the inclusion of contact details right on the cover, ensuring potential clients can reach out with ease.

Comprehensive directions, both within the brochure and via digital means like QR codes or website links, further support travelers in their planning phase.

Embracing modern design elements

Today’s travelers expect a blend of traditional and digital touchpoints. Incorporating QR codes, which lead to immersive video tours or detailed websites, can seamlessly bridge this gap.

Furthermore, ensuring the brochure’s design is optimized for both print and digital ensures a broader reach, catering to varying preferences of tourists.

Use a pre-designed template

For those not looking to start from scratch, utilizing pre-designed travel brochure templates, like those offered by platforms such as Venngage , can be a time-saving choice. These templates, crafted by professional designers, ensure that the brochure design is visually appealing.

They can then be customized with their own photos, details, and branding, creating a professional travel brochure with ease.

Related: Top 10 Best Brochure Design Software in 2022

It’s evident that every brochure serves a unique purpose, reflecting the essence of its respective travel destination. A travel brochure is more than just a collection of colorful images and enticing descriptions; it’s a bridge between potential clients and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re a travel agency aiming to draw tourists to a hidden beach getaway or a graphic designer hoping to showcase a city’s charm, the right brochure design takes center stage.

The wide selection of travel brochure examples showcased here is a testament to the versatility and significance of these tools in the world of tourism. As travelers, these brochures become our initial window to the world, guiding us, inspiring us, and fueling our wanderlust.

Ready to craft your own captivating travel brochure? Dive into the world of effortless design with Venngage and create a travel brochure that stands out with our customizeable templates.

Embark on your creative journey now!

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