27 Best World Atlases For Map Lovers In 2025

Owning a least one good world atlas is a must for any map lover. But why stop at one?

Below I’ve profiled 27 brilliant world atlases all map lovers would be happy to own.

To make your life a little easier I’ve broken them down into 5 categories:

World – classic world atlases.
– Perfect for kids.
Historical – For those that love history.
– For those that love food and/or drink.
Other – The world’s most interesting alternative atlases.

Best World Atlases

I’ve gone through tons of atlases to find the best ones for you. Check out my top picks below!

Brilliant Maps

Cheating a bit on this one, as it’s the British/International version of my book! Here are what some reviewers have focused on:

Pros

Unique and engaging maps
Beautifully presented graphics
Full of interesting factoids

Cons

Some color codes are hard to distinguish
Certain facts might seem odd
Not a traditional geographic atlas

The book’s unique maps showcase fascinating facts, making every page an adventure. There are maps showing things like the different names for Christmas gift-bringers in Europe and the concentration of heavy metal bands per capita.

The graphics and presentation are visually appealing, making it a great addition to my bookshelf or coffee table. This book is perfect when you have a few minutes to spare or if you’re looking for some specific information.

That said, if you’re looking for a traditional geographic atlas, this might not be what you expect.

Still, I think it’s a fun book that I thoroughly enjoyed writing and hope you enjoy reading.

Brilliant Maps for Curious Minds

Really cheating on this one as it’s the US edition of my book.

Pros

Unique and informative maps
Great for all ages
Visually appealing

Cons

Smaller size than traditional atlases
Might not cover every country in detail
Some might prefer more traditional layouts

It’s more or less the same as the British edition, but with a few maps swapped out in favour of a more American focus.

Atlas of the World: Thirty-First Edition

This atlas is a must-have for anyone who loves exploring detailed maps and learning about the world.

Pros

High-quality and detailed maps
Comprehensive updates with the latest geographical data
Hardcover for durability

Cons

Heavier than other atlases
More expensive than some alternatives
Some users may find it bulky

The Atlas of the World: Thirty-First Edition impressed me with its high-quality maps. Each page displays clear and accurate geographical data, making it easy to find locations and understand terrains. I really appreciate how up-to-date the information is, featuring the latest changes in geopolitical boundaries.

On the downside, the atlas is a bit heavy. Weighing in at 1.74 pounds, it’s not the most portable option out there. It also comes with a higher price tag compared to some other atlases, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Lastly, its size can be a bit cumbersome for those who prefer something more compact.

The Times Desktop Atlas of the World

A great pick if you want an informative and compact atlas for your desk.

Pros

Easy to use and very informative
Smart and robust hardback design
Smaller size makes it convenient

Cons

Fewer maps compared to larger atlases
Might feel too small for detailed study
Limited in-depth information

When I first opened The Times Desktop Atlas of the World, I was impressed with how easy it was to navigate. The compact size made it a handy tool to keep on my desk without feeling cluttered. It’s filled with lots of maps that are both clear and detailed.

The hardback cover adds to the appeal, giving it a quality feel. While it’s smaller than other atlases on the market, this makes it easier to handle and store. It’s perfect for quick reference and casual browsing.

On the downside, the smaller size means there are fewer maps. It might not be the best choice if you need deep, detailed geographical information. Overall, it’s a solid and stylish atlas that I enjoyed using.

National Geographic Concise Atlas

This atlas is a great pick thanks to its detailed maps and illustrations.

Pros

Excellent quality of paper and binding
Full of detailed and accurate maps
Informative and educational for all ages

Cons

A bit heavy and bulky
Some may find it a bit pricey

The National Geographic Concise Atlas, is brilliant. The maps are very detailed and accurate, which makes it a pleasure to explore. The quality of the paper is impressive; it feels durable and luxurious, like card stock.

Using this atlas, I found it educational for both kids and adults. It’s filled with a wealth of information that makes learning about different countries enjoyable. It’s clear that a lot of effort has gone into making this a comprehensive resource.

However, the size and weight of the atlas can be a bit daunting. It’s not something you can easily carry around. Plus, it might be a bit expensive for some, but the quality justifies the price. Overall, this atlas is a fantastic addition to any home or classroom.

National Geographic Visual Atlas of the World

This atlas is great for anyone wanting to dive deep into world geography with stunning visuals and detailed maps.

Pros

Beautiful, high-quality photographs
Detailed and up-to-date political maps
Great for education and travel planning

Cons

Very heavy, nearly 10 pounds
Size makes it hard to fit on standard shelves
Might be overwhelming for casual users

This National Geographic Visual Atlas of the World is a beast. It’s almost 10 pounds of maps and photos that can just sweep you away. The visuals are breath-taking, and it feels like you’re traveling the globe from your living room.

What’s really captivating are the cultural sites highlighted throughout the book. You get so much more than just maps. The high-resolution images are a joy to look at. This book isn’t just useful; it’s beautiful.

On the downside, it’s very heavy and takes up a ton of space. Finding a shelf for it can be a challenge unless you have a special spot for large books. If you’re into geography the way I am, it’s a fabulous addition to your collection, though it might not be for everyone.

The Women’s Atlas

If you want an insightful atlas that focuses on women’s issues around the world, this is a must-have.

Pros

Rich with graphics
Beautiful design
Packed with valuable data

Cons

Some pages feel cluttered
Pricey for a paperback
Not ideal on Kindle

The Women’s Atlas is truly a interesting book. From the moment I opened it, I was immediately drawn in by the colourful and detailed graphics. The visuals make complex data easy to understand, and the design is both informative and educational.

I love that it covers women’s issues from all over the world. Each section feels thoughtfully organized with unique maps and charts that highlight major global issues. It’s incredibly informative and eye-opening. I found myself learning new things with every page I turned.

However, some of the pages can be a bit overwhelming with information. It can feel a little busy, but the content is excellent overall. The paperback version may feel a bit pricey, but the quality of the information and presentation makes it worth it.

National Geographic World Atlas

I think this gigantic atlas is perfect for anyone who’s passionate about geography and wants exceptional detail.

Kids & Child Atlases

National Geographic Student World Atlas

A well-rounded and visually appealing atlas that’s perfect for both young learners and adults alike.

Pros

Highly detailed maps
Wonderful pictures and illustrations
Easy-to-read format

Cons

Slightly heavy for younger kids
Limited in-depth information for certain topics
Paperback might not be durable for rough handling

This atlas is a fantastic addition to any home or school library. I was genuinely impressed with the high-quality maps and wonderful illustrations. It’s not just a book of maps; it’s more like a journey around the globe.

I found it incredibly useful for helping kids locate places they hear about in the news or movies. The information is clear and easy to digest, making geography lessons much more enjoyable. The larger text is a big plus for both kids and older readers.

While it’s a bit heavy for younger children to carry around, it’s certainly worth it. The content is rich and full of interesting facts. Just be a little careful with the paperback cover as it might not withstand too much rough use. Despite that, I consider it a great tool for learning about the world.

Countries of the World: Our World in Pictures

A fantastic resource for kids who want to learn about the world with lots of great pictures and clear information.

Pros

Lots of illustrations and maps
Easy to understand for kids
Covers a wide range of topics

Cons

Can be heavy for little hands
Some advanced vocabulary for younger readers
Limited depth in certain areas

I recently picked up the “Countries of the World: Our World in Pictures” book, and it has been a great addition to our home library. The illustrations immediately caught my eye, making it easy to see why kids are drawn to it. Each page is full of colour and interesting facts that keep young readers engaged.

One thing that impressed me was the book’s simplicity. The information is presented in a way that’s easy for kids to understand. It covers a wide range of topics from geography to cultural aspects of different countries. This makes it a fantastic resource for young learners who are curious about the world.

On the flip side, the book is quite heavy. Little hands might find it challenging to handle for extended periods. I also noticed that some of the vocabulary can be a bit advanced for younger kids, which might require some parental guidance. Additionally, while the book covers many countries, it doesn’t delve too deeply into specific details, which can be a bit limiting for kids who want to learn in-depth.

Overall, “Countries of the World: Our World in Pictures” is an excellent choice for a visually dense and informative atlas for kids. It brings the world to life in a colourful and accessible way, making learning about different countries fun and exciting.

Children’s Illustrated Atlas

A fantastic choice for kids who are curious about geography and enjoy bright, visuals.

Pros

Illustrations grab and hold attention
Compact size, easy for kids to handle
Packed with interesting facts

Cons

May be too detailed for younger children
Missing some countries
No dedicated pages for oceans

This atlas is a great way to introduce children to the world. The Children’s Illustrated Atlas is filled with beautiful illustrations that captivate young readers. Each page offers something new and exciting, encouraging kids to explore different parts of the world.

I noticed it’s very easy for children to handle due to its compact size. At just over two pounds, it’s not too heavy for small hands. The book is also sturdy, which is great for frequent use by eager kids.

Some younger children might find it a bit too packed with information. While it’s great for kids aged 8-9, younger ones might need some help navigating it. Also, the atlas doesn’t cover every country. Despite these small issues, it still makes a wonderful gift for curious minds.

World Atlas Sticker Book

An educational gift for young kids, especially those interested in geography.

Pros

Interactive sticker activities
Simple to read content
Enhances fine motor skills

Cons

Limited to younger age groups
Only 40 pages
Stickers can be hard to remove

I recently gave my son the World Atlas Sticker Book, and it was a delightful experience. He was instantly drawn to its colourful and inviting pages. Each page has various sticker activities that keep him busy and learning at the same time. He loved placing stickers on different countries and learning new geography facts.

From my perspective, the book is perfect for a road trip or a quiet afternoon at home. It’s entertaining and educational, making it a win-win for both parents and children. The activities helped the kids develop their fine motor skills without them even realizing it.

On the flip side, the book’s limited number of pages means it might not last long with enthusiastic kids. Also, it is geared more towards younger children, which can be a downside if you’re looking for something for older ones. The stickers can sometimes be tricky to peel off without tearing. Despite these minor drawbacks, I would definitely recommend it for young, curious minds.

Maps

A perfect choice for young explorers looking to dive into a beautifully illustrated world atlas.

Pros

Stunning, detailed illustrations
Kid-friendly content
Great for both kids and adults

Cons

Large size might be cumbersome
Not fully comprehensive
Some countries missing

I loved flipping through “Maps” by Aleksandra and Daniel Mizielinska. The illustrations are beautiful, making each page captivating for both kids and adults. Each country has a two-page spread filled with tiny pictures and interesting facts, making it a delightful experience.

Kids will enjoy the fun trivia and pictures. My son spent hours going through each page, totally absorbed. Despite being targeted at younger readers, every adult who saw the book was equally fascinated.

The book is quite large, which makes it harder to carry around. It’s also not a detailed atlas, so some information is missing. Overall, I think it’s a great book to spark a love for geography in any young reader.

Historical World Atlases

A History of the World in 500 Maps

This atlas is a must-have for history and map enthusiasts alike.

Pros

Beautifully illustrated maps
Informative historical context
High-quality hardcover

Cons

Larger than average size but not oversized
Slightly pricey

“A History of the World in 500 Maps” and it’s an absolute gem. The maps are beautifully illustrated and each one comes with informative historical context that makes it a fascinating read.

While the book is larger than your typical paperback, it doesn’t fit the oversized atlas category.

This hardcover book feels substantial when you’re holding it. It’s a bit on the expensive side, but for anyone who loves history and maps, it’s definitely worth the investment.

Great Maps

A fantastic addition to any coffee table or personal library for those who love maps and history.

Pros

Amazing illustrations
Detailed historical explanations
Quality hardcover

Cons

Slightly heavy
Somewhat pricey
Might be too specialized

I found “Great Maps: The World’s Masterpieces Explored and Explained” engaging from the moment I opened it. The full-colour maps on every page catch the eye and ignite curiosity, making it hard to close the book once you start reading. Covering everything from ancient maps to modern subway maps, this book offers a deep dive into the evolution of cartography.

The quality of the images and the historical context provided make it more than just a pretty picture book. It’s very informative and beautifully put together. Plus, the hardcover ensures it can withstand regular use, whether it’s on a coffee table for guests or as part of a private collection.

While the book is slightly heavy and might seem a bit expensive, its content justifies the cost. For anyone passionate about maps, this book is a worthwhile investment. Even casual readers will appreciate the artistry and historical insights.

History of the World Map by Map

This atlas is perfect for history buffs who love learning through detailed maps.

Pros

Beautifully detailed maps
Informative write-ups
High-quality print and binding

Cons

Large and heavy
Lacks depth in certain areas
Expensive

History of the World Map by Map, is both fun and fascinating. The maps are beautifully detailed, capturing significant historical moments with both accuracy and charm. Each page is filled with informative write-ups that give you a good understanding of different time periods.

However, be prepared for the book’s size. It’s quite large and heavy, making it more of a coffee table book than something you can carry around easily. It also falls short in some key historical areas, lacking the in-depth detail I was hoping for, especially in European history.

Still, I think the overall quality and content make it a great addition to any history lover’s collection. The beautiful pictures and high-quality print are impressive. If you love history and maps, this is a must-have!

Dinosaur Atlas

An informative read for young dinosaur enthusiasts.

Pros

High-quality images and pages
Informative and well-organized content
Interactive for kids

Cons

Geared towards a younger audience
Some dinosaurs have a CG art appearance
May be too simplistic for older readers

I had a blast flipping through the Dinosaur Atlas. The pictures are high quality, making it both visually appealing and educational. It’s perfect for kids who love dinosaurs, with each page dedicating itself to a single creature, providing clear timelines and detailed maps of fossil finds.

One thing I noticed was the CG art style of the dinosaurs, which gives them a somewhat video-game look. Some might not like this, preferring more realistic illustrations. Still, the graphics are captivating and sure to hold the interest of younger readers.

If you’re looking for a gift for a young dinosaur enthusiast, this atlas is ideal.

Atlas of the Civil War

Perfect for any history buff or Civil War enthusiast, this atlas is a must-have addition to your collection.

Pros

Stunning and detailed maps
Comprehensive battlefield information
High-quality printing

Cons

Heavy and large
Some graphic images might be disturbing
Limited modern maps

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed diving into the “Atlas of the Civil War” for its vivid, detailed maps and in-depth battle descriptions. The maps make it much easier to visualize the movements and strategies from the Civil War, providing an interesting way to learn about the conflicts.

The high-quality printing and crisp images are impressive. It’s clear that a lot of effort went into making each page visually informative. The atlas serves not only as a valuable resource but also as an attractive coffee table book.

While the quality is top-notch, the size and weight can be a challenge. It’s not the kind of book you can easily carry around. There are some sensitive images that might not be suitable for all audiences, especially younger readers. Nonetheless, for anyone serious about Civil War history, this atlas is a fantastic investment.

Food & Drink World Atlases

World Atlas of Coffee

A must-have for coffee enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of coffee.

Pros

Richly detailed and informative
Beautiful photographs and diagrams
Great as a gift for coffee lovers

Cons

Can be heavy at times
Might feel repetitive to seasoned readers
Limited focus beyond coffee

This atlas really delves into the world of coffee. I found the detailed information about beans and brewing methods fascinating. The book’s photograph quality is superb, making it visually appealing.

As a coffee lover, I spent hours enjoying the beautiful images and enlightening information. It’s both a great coffee table book and an informative resource. For anyone keen on learning more about coffee, this is definitely a great addition to your collection.

Whether you’re new to coffee or have been a fan for years, this book has plenty to offer. While it can feel a bit repetitive if you’re already knowledgeable, it’s worth it for the rich visuals and in-depth content.

The World Atlas of Whisky

This book is a must-have for whisky lovers who want to dive deep into the world of whisky.

Pros

Fantastic photos and visuals
Well-organized and easy to navigate
Great coffee table book and conversation starter

Cons

Focuses mainly on Scotch whisky
Could have more detailed tasting notes
A bit heavy for casual readers

The World Atlas of Whisky, is a real treat for any whisky enthusiast. The stunning photography and easy-to-follow organization make it an enjoyable read.

One of the best things about the book is its layout. Everything is well-organized, so finding information on different whisky regions is a breeze. Plus, it’s perfect to have on your coffee table, making it a great piece for sparking conversations with guests.

On the flip side, the book’s focus is mainly on Scotch, which might not appeal to those interested in other types of whisky. Also, some whisky lovers might find the tasting notes a tad basic and wish for more depth. Despite this, I still find it a valuable addition to my collection.

World Atlas of Wine 8th Edition

If you love wine and want a deeper appreciation of it, this book is a must-have.

Pros

Packed with detailed information
Beautiful, colourful maps and pictures
High-quality, thick pages

Cons

Slightly heavy and large
Some may find it pricey
Limited focus on smaller wine regions

The “World Atlas of Wine 8th Edition” is my go-to guide for understanding wine regions globally. The visual presentation is stunning, with wonderful maps and images that make the learning experience fun. I found it fascinating to see the topography and geological aspects that influence different wines.

Content-wise, this atlas leaves little to be desired. It offers a wealth of knowledge, from historical contexts to intricate details about wine production. For anyone serious about wine, whether professionally or as a hobby, this book is incredibly resourceful.

One downside is its size and weight, making it less portable. However, I think the detail and quality of information more than make up for it. It’s more of a stay-at-home reference. This atlas is a treasure trove of information worth every penny.

For more details, check it out on Amazon here.

World Atlas of Beer

This book is a must-buy for any beer lover who wants to explore and understand the world of beers better.

Pros

Excellent in-depth information on global beers
Visually stunning with high-quality photos
Easy to follow and well-organized content

Cons

Some might find it bulky
Opinions in the book can be quite strong
The cover might not be very durable

I recently spent some time with the World Atlas of Beer, and it’s a real gem for beer fans. The comprehensive coverage of beers from different countries makes it a fascinating read. Each page is filled with high-quality images that make the content come to life.

What I loved most was how easy it was to navigate through the book. Everything is laid out in a systematic manner, making it simple to find what you’re looking for. The authors have certainly put a lot of effort into ensuring the book is informative and enjoyable.

Despite its many strengths, I did notice that it could be a bit heavy to carry around. Additionally, while the opinions in the book are insightful, some readers might find them a bit too strong. Lastly, the cover isn’t as durable as I’d hoped, which could be an issue if you’re planning to gift it.

If you’re passionate about beer or know someone who is, this atlas is a fantastic addition to your collection.

Other World Atlases

Wild Maps for Curious Minds

This atlas is perfect for anyone who loves exploring unique and fascinating maps with plenty of interesting facts.

Pros

Brilliant colourful maps
Fun for all ages
Makes a great gift

Cons

A bit heavy to carry around
Some topics might be too niche
Could use more detailed explanations

The maps are not just your typical geographic ones. Instead, they offer a fresh perspective on the natural world that’s both fun and educational.

This book truly sparks curiosity. I found myself lost in the unique visuals and interesting tidbits of information. The way the maps are presented makes learning about different subjects entertaining and appealing for both kids and adults.

While most of the content was fascinating, a few maps covered very specific topics that might not interest everyone. Also, more detailed explanations would help clarify some of the data presented.

Terrible Maps: Hilarious Maps for a Ridiculous World

This atlas is perfect for anyone who loves a good laugh along with their geography.

Pros

Super funny maps
Great gift idea
High-quality print

Cons

Limited educational value
Some might find the humour repetitive
Small dimensions

Reading Terrible Maps: Hilarious Maps for a Ridiculous World brought a lot of laughter into my home. Each map is hilariously bad, turning what could be a boring topic into a source of endless fun. The book’s quality is impressive, similar to what you’d expect from a coffee table book.

It’s an excellent choice for gifts, especially for those who are fans of geography but don’t take it too seriously. This atlas is different from your typical world atlas, ensuring your guests get a good chuckle when they flip through it.

On the downside, it doesn’t offer much in the way of actual learning, and the humour may feel redundant to some after extended reading. It’s also relatively small. Overall, I find it a delightful change from the usual dry atlases!

Atlas Obscura 2nd Edition

This book is a treasure for those who love discovering hidden wonders around the world.

Pros

Beautiful photos
Fascinating stories
Perfect for travel lovers

Cons

A bit heavy
Information overload for some
Pricey

I absolutely loved flipping through this atlas. Every page is filled with stunning photos and intriguing stories about unique places. It’s not just an atlas; it’s an adventure book.

The paper quality adds to the experience, making it pleasant to touch and read. I found myself planning trips based on the places mentioned. It’s a fantastic gift for anyone curious about the world.

Its weight, though, makes it less portable. Also, the sheer amount of information can be a bit much for some. Nonetheless, I think it’s worth every penny for the enjoyment it brings.

Random Maps: Fun World Atlas

This atlas is an enjoyable pick for anyone who loves exploring unique and quirky maps.

Pros

Brilliant colourful maps
Covers a wide range of interesting topics
Fun for all ages

Cons

Not as detailed as traditional atlases
Some maps might feel redundant
Small size can make it hard to see details

Browsing through Random Maps: Fun World Atlas is like going on a mini adventure. Each page is bursting with colour, making it a visual treat. The book offers over 100 unusual maps, each one bringing a fresh perspective on different regions and themes.

One thing I really enjoyed is the variety of topics. From historical maps to quirky themes, there’s something new and interesting on every page. It’s an atlas that invites you to flip through and explore rather than just read cover to cover.

On the flip side, it’s not the most detailed atlas out there. If you’re looking for in-depth geographical information, this might not be the best choice. Some of the maps can be a bit repetitive, and the book’s small size might make it hard to catch finer details. Nonetheless, it’s a delightful addition for any map lover’s collection.

National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks

This atlas is a great pick if you love the beauty of national parks and want a detailed guide with stunning visuals.

Pros

Stunning photography
Detailed maps
Informative background

Cons

Heavy and large

I was blown away by the National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks. The photos are simply gorgeous, which is exactly what you’d expect from National Geographic. Each park comes to life with these images, making you feel like you’re right there.

The maps are also super helpful. They show where each park is located and highlight key spots to visit within the park. This atlas isn’t just pretty to look at; it’s practical too. There’s a lot of background information that helps you learn more about each park’s unique features.

On the downside, the book is quite heavy and big.

Still, if you love national parks or know someone who does, this book is a fantastic gift. It’s perfect for the coffee table and is sure to spark some great conversations.

Atlas of Imagined Places

If you love diving into fictional worlds, this atlas is a pleasant find.

Pros

Great for sparking conversations at gatherings
High-quality paper with great colours
Unique content for fantasy lovers

Cons

Kindle version maps are blurry
Not all fictional places are included
Some users find the description misleading

I spent a few evenings flipping through Atlas of Imagined Places and had a blast seeing how different worlds from my favourite books and movies fit together. The paper quality is excellent, and the colours really pop, making the maps enjoyable to look at.

There are so many places to explore, and it’s fun to see where everything fits. You could easily get lost in it for hours. It’s also a great conversation starter, especially when you have friends over.

Unfortunately, the Kindle version isn’t ideal. The maps are fuzzy and hard to read, which is frustrating. I found myself needing the physical copy to really enjoy it. Some of my favourite fictional places weren’t included, but with so many to cover, that’s understandable.

A Brief History of the World in 47 Borders

This atlas is great for those wanting to learn the interesting stories behind the world’s borders.

Pros

Fascinating and unique stories
Great conversation starter
Compact size

Cons

Could use more maps
Some stories feel rushed
Might be too specific for casual readers

I picked up “A Brief History of the World in 47 Borders” recently, and it was a delightful read. It highlights the intriguing tales behind the lines that divide countries. This hardcover book feels well-made and sturdy, perfect for my bookshelf.

The stories in this atlas are not only informative but also really fascinating. I’ve found myself sharing titbits from it with friends, making it quite the conversation starter. The compact size makes it easy to carry, so I can take it along wherever I go.

There are a few downsides, though. I wished there were more maps included to complement the stories. Some tales felt a bit rushed, leaving me wanting more details. For those just looking for general information, it might delve too deeply into niche areas.

Even so, this atlas is a wonderful addition to anyone’s collection who appreciates geography with a twist. It’s worth checking out for anyone curious about the hidden stories shaping our world.

I hope you enjoyed the list. However, if you think I’ve missed any great atlases, please let me know in the comments section below.

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27 Best World Atlases For Map Lovers In 2025 - Brilliant Maps (2025)

Best World Atlases

Kids & Child Atlases

Historical World Atlases

Food & Drink World Atlases

Other World Atlases