Fathom's 24 Best Indie Travel Guides

Before the Internet existed and websites like Fathom were even possible, travel writers Verlag Karl Baedeker, Eugene Fodor, and Arthur Frommer revolutionized the way travelers explored the globe. The modern guidebook was born, and planning a trip became a whole lot easier.

Fast-forward to today. The companies these pioneers inspired have become the standard bearers in the mass-market guidebook space. And while everyone at Fathom has a favorite mainstream travel guide, our hearts and loyalties are with the smaller, charming independents. (They speak our language, after all.) We're pleased to announce the latest in our 24 Best series: The heavily researched and exhaustively debated list of the 24 Best Indie Travel Guides. These best-in-show volumes are written with passion and are the ones we rely on for in-depth research and inspiration. They're the ones we are happy to make space for in our carry-ons. Have a look. You'll like what you see. 

ABOUT FATHOM LISTS

Fathom has three missions: To help you indulge your love of travel, whether you're on the road or staying home. To narrow down endless options (hotels, sites, destinations) to those that are special. And to find the best travel stories. These guidebooks help us deliver all of the above, through their insight, intelligence, adventures, and great writing. 

WHY 24?

And not 10 or 25 or 100? You'll see 24 a lot around Fathom. For a few reasons: We want to deliver a balanced but concise mix of options, and twenty sometimes isn't enough. And mainly because it's our lucky number.

Herb Lester Associates

What we love: Handsome, retro-inspired city guide maps designed around incredibly endearing themes like "It's Nice to be Alone in Paris" and "How to Find Old New York." The thoughtfully curated selections touch on old and new sites, appealing to tourists and locals alike. They're super affordable and nice keepsakes after a memorable trip. Cities: Major players like London, Paris, and New York, as well as smaller spots like Austin, New Orleans, and Portland. See full list.
Price: From ?4
Where to buy: herblester.com

City Secrets

What we love: Elegant monochromatic guides filled with tips from the most cultured locals. If skipping the tourist spots in favor of secluded churches, hidden gardens, and free tours at dawn sounds like a dream come true or if you want to experience the classic sights with a more artistic and academic sensibility, these guides are for you .

Cities: Florence & Venice, London, New York, Paris, and Rome.                             

Price: $19.95
Where to buy: amazon.com

Photo: Myers Robertson

All-You-Can-Eat Press

What we love: Explore New York City's culinary culture through local food obsessions like diners, doughnuts, and oysters. The indie travel maps pinpoint the city's best, give a thorough history, and make great gifts for the gastronomically inclined traveler. Their most recent release is a Paris croissant map.

Cities: New York & Paris                                                                                                                

Price: $8
Where to buy: allyoucaneatpress.com

Read the rest of Fathom's Top 24 List here.