I really like paper city maps, but don't care for Streetwise maps. I know that hotels and TIs have maps but I'd like to get there with something useful already in my hand. What is your favorite map and why? I'm especially looking for Venice, Florence, and Rome.
In Rome I used the tiny but practical Roma New City Map, unfolded it messures 42x45cm, folded 8x15cm so fits easy in the pocket. I think you can buy them for €2 anywhere in Rome, like souvenir street stalls. Green cover (with little map of the metro lines), the maker seems to be Macart, info: [email protected] For me this map was ok for finding my way, not too big, detailed enough, no advertising, didn't need more.
The Roma Pass comes with a handy, compact map, but we got it in Rome at a Tabac shop, so we didn't have it beforehand. We also used & liked the color map in the front of Rick's Italy book, which clearly shows parks, pedestrian zones, and major sights, but of course the book isn't so compact.
We did fine in Venice with the pop-up map, which is easy to carry and use. But it doesn't show every little thing.
Since you live in Seattle, why not go down to Metzger Maps on 1st Avenue by the Market? They have a variety of city maps and you can look at them In person and choose the one you like best.
Theresa,
"Best paper city maps" is what you have in your hand when you need it.
I havent found any map that does it all. the closest ones i like are the Bosch ones that are laminated. I like the laminated since i will mark them with a sharpie with my points of interests. Also, i can use some isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to wipe the marks off. The maps are not small but i can fit one in my pocket.
i dont remember if they have any for your areas of interest.
happy trails.
@Ray - is suppose in a pinch you might also be able to use India Pale Ale (IPA) to wipe off your map marks; just don't spill any on your map in a pub :-)
@ cyn,
About the only way India Pale Ale (IPA) will be near me is if you are drinking it. Drinking Alcohol and my genes dont mix.
Happy trails.
@Ray Ok, I got it. I'm sure you won't be drinking either kind of IPA, then ;-)