Books about cities and travel

Family Escapes, A Love Letter to the Most Beautiful Family Friendly Hotels
Author: Andrea Stadlhuber

Family Escapes is a stylish coffee table book that celebrates luxurious family holidays in the world's most beautiful destinations. This inspiring travel guide brings together carefully selected family hotels and resorts that meet the highest standards of comfort, design, and hospitality — without compromising on the wishes of both children and adults.

Compiled by travel expert Andrea Stadlhuber, founder of The Family Project, Family Escapes combines high-quality photography with personal stories and exclusive travel tips. This photo book takes you on a visual journey of discovery to special places where quality time, relaxation, and experience are central. From luxurious seaside resorts to charming hideaways in nature: every address has been chosen with an eye for detail, authenticity, and family-friendliness.

More than just a beautiful picture book, Family Escapes is also a valuable source of inspiration for parents looking for tailor-made comfort and unforgettable travel experiences for the whole family. An elegant coffee table book for travel enthusiasts, design-conscious families, and anyone who wants to effortlessly combine luxury and family time.

What to expect

• An exclusive selection of luxurious, family-friendly hotels and resorts worldwide
• Inspiring travel ideas tailored for both adults and children
• High-quality photography that brings destinations and accommodations to life
• Personal recommendations and authentic stories from an experienced travel expert
• A stylish coffee table book and practical inspiration guide for luxurious family holidays

About the author

Andrea Stadlhuber is an internationally recognized travel expert and the founder of The Family Project, a platform specializing in tailor-made luxury travel for families. With her in-depth knowledge of the travel world and her personal experience as a mother, she knows better than anyone how important balance, quality, and experience are during a family holiday. In Family Escapes, she shares her carefully built network, expertise, and love for travel, inspiring families to discover the world together — in style and comfort.

London in Frames
Author: Ovidiu Selaru

London in Frames is an impressive coffee table book in which street photographer Ovidiu Selaru captures the city of London in all its raw beauty and human diversity. After years of wandering through the city and intense contact with its inhabitants, Selaru presents a visual portrait of a metropolis that never stands still.

With a unique combination of technical precision and a poetic gaze, Selaru manages to capture the extraordinary in the everyday. His photos – both in color and in black and white – show not only the streets of London, but especially the people: their emotions, stories, and moments, captured in time. Every page exudes energy, intimacy, and authenticity.

This photography coffee table book takes the viewer on a visual journey through the vibrant culture and rhythm of London city life. London in Frames is an ode to diversity, humanity, and the urban landscape, and serves as a lasting source of inspiration for lovers of street photography, urban culture, and visual storytelling.

What to expect:

• Intense street photography of London by Ovidiu Selaru
• A mix of color and black-and-white images with strong emotional impact
• A visual exploration of city life, people, and their stories
• A stylish coffee table book for lovers of photography and urban art

About the author – Ovidiu Selaru

Ovidiu Selaru, born in Romania, discovered his passion for photography at a young age within a creative family of artists. His work is characterized by an intuitive approach: he doesn't chase images, but lets the moment and the light find him.

This philosophy is clearly visible in his street photography, where he captures the essence of human existence. Selaru's images speak on a deep emotional level, making him one of the most sought-after street photographers of his generation. With London in Frames, he shares his personal and sincere vision of one of the world's most iconic cities.

Wanderlust – Compact Edition, Hiking on Legendary Trails
Authors: gestalten & Cam Honan

Wanderlust – Compact Edition is an inspiring coffee table book for anyone who dreams of hiking the most beautiful and legendary trails in the world. This compact edition offers the same rich content and visual power as the original book, but in a handy format that is perfect for home, on the go, or as a stylish gift.

This photo book takes you step-by-step along iconic hiking routes across all continents. From the spectacular Narrows Top Down Route in the United States and the dizzying El Caminito del Rey in Spain to the spiritual Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route in Japan and fairytale trails in the rugged landscape of Norway. Each path is brought to life with breathtaking photography, clear maps, and inspiring stories.

Wanderlust shows how hiking is more than just movement: it's a way to truly experience landscapes, cultures, and history. From icy glaciers and vast deserts to coastlines, mountains, and green forests – this book celebrates the diversity and beauty of nature worldwide. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone longing for peace, space, and a sense of discovery.

What to expect

• Iconic hiking routes from all over the world in one clear overview
• Impressive landscape photography that invites adventure
• Practical maps, background information, and hiking tips
• Suitable for both novice walkers and experienced hikers
• A compact coffee table book full of travel inspiration and nature experiences

About the authors

gestalten is an internationally renowned publisher from Berlin, known for its high-quality books on travel, nature, design, and contemporary culture. Their publications combine strong visual storytelling with in-depth content and are loved by a global audience.

Cam Honan is an internationally recognized hiking and adventure expert. He has covered thousands of kilometers on foot along some of the world's most legendary long-distance trails. As a writer and photographer, he shares his in-depth knowledge, personal experiences, and practical insights, inspiring hikers to discover the world at their own pace.

Wanderlust USA – Compact Edition, The Great American Hike
Authors: gestalten & Cam Honan

Wanderlust USA – Compact Edition is an inspiring coffee table book for anyone who wants to discover the grandeur of American nature on foot. This compact edition brings together the most beautiful and iconic hiking trails in the United States in a stylish and accessible format, ideal for home, on the go, or as a gift for outdoor enthusiasts.

From world-famous national parks to lesser-known, rugged trails: this photo book takes you along the most impressive hikes America has to offer. Together with adventurer and long-distance hiker Cam Honan, you will explore 30 carefully selected hiking routes, ranging from relaxed day trips to challenging multi-day treks. Think of the imposing depths of the Grand Canyon, the vast wilderness of Yosemite, and the rugged, snowy landscapes of Alaska's Denali National Park.

In addition to these main routes, the book contains an extra selection of 20 bonus hikes spread across the US. Clear maps, practical hiking tips, and captivating stories are combined with breathtaking nature photography. Wanderlust USA shows how diverse the American landscape is and invites you to experience the freedom, silence, and power of nature for yourself.

What to expect

• 30 legendary hiking routes across the United States
• Extra chapter with 20 additional hikes
• Practical tips on preparation, safety, and equipment
• Detailed maps and background information
• Impressive photography of national parks and wilderness
• Suitable for both beginner hikers and experienced trekkers

About the Authors

gestalten is a leading international publishing house from Berlin, known for its high-quality coffee table books on travel, nature, design, and contemporary culture. gestalten's books are known for their strong visual style and depth of content.

Cam Honan is a globally recognized hiker, writer, and photographer. He has walked over 96,500 kilometers in 61 countries on six continents and was described by Backpacker Magazine as one of the world's most traveled hikers. Through his platform The Hiking Life and his books, he shares practical knowledge, personal experiences, and a deep respect for nature and adventure.

Ridiculously Good Looking Saunas
Authors: gestalten & Christopher Selman

Ridiculously Good Looking Saunas is a distinctive and visually powerful coffee table book that redefines the sauna as a place where architecture, nature, and sensory experience converge. This book shows how the contemporary sauna has grown to be much more than a wellness space: it is a sanctuary for peace, focus, and mindful living.

Curated by sauna expert Christopher Selman, the book presents 35 exceptional saunas from around the world. From minimalist cabins deep in the forest to sculptural pavilions on the water, each project demonstrates how warmth, wood, light, and landscape combine to create a unique atmosphere that influences body and mind. The designs are bold, pure, and often spectacular, but always rooted in simplicity and presence.

With impressive photography and in-depth texts, Ridiculously Good Looking Saunas explores the cultural significance of the sauna and shows how this ancient tradition is being reinterpreted within contemporary architecture and design. An inspiring photo book for lovers of architecture, interior design, wellness, nature, and slow living.

What to expect

• A selection of 35 striking, contemporary sauna designs from around the world
• Intense photography focusing on raw materials, wood, warmth, and natural environments
• Insights into how sauna culture evolves into both a retreat and a design principle
• Inspiration for architects, designers, wellness enthusiasts, and design collectors
• A powerful coffee table book that brings together tranquility, aesthetics, and experience

About the authors

gestalten is a leading international publisher based in Berlin, known for its high-quality books on architecture, design, lifestyle, and contemporary culture. The publisher is renowned for visually strong publications that combine content and aesthetics at a high level.

Christopher Selman is a sauna explorer, author, and founder of the popular platform @SaunaHotRightNow, which showcases sauna culture worldwide. He is also co-founder of Out of the Valley, a British luxury sauna brand. Selman is considered one of the most important contemporary voices in the field of sauna, wellness, and architectural experience.

Designed to Stay, The Design Hotels™ Book
Authors: gestalten & Design Hotels™

More than a stay, a journey through the world's most beautiful design hotels.
• Explore 300+ unique hotels where architecture, culture, and experience merge
• An inspiring look at contemporary hospitality and interior design
• For lovers of travel, design, lifestyle, and architecture

Designed to Stay is a visual and substantive ode to the world of Design Hotels™, a global collection of over 300 independent hotels distinguished by innovative design, local embeddedness, and authentic hospitality. Each hotel is a creative masterpiece, designed by passionate hoteliers - the so-called Originals - who translate their personal vision into a unique place full of character.

Whether it's a hidden gem in the heart of a bustling metropolis or a secluded retreat in harmony with nature: each hotel tells its own story. In this coffee table book, you'll discover accommodation concepts that go beyond just spending the night. They invite connection, reflection, and discovery.

With breathtaking photography, inspiring stories, and sharp insights, Designed to Stay shows how contemporary hospitality is evolving into an art of experience, where aesthetics, emotion, and location converge.

What to expect:

• A carefully curated selection of Design Hotels™ worldwide, from urban hotspots to remote havens
• Impressive photography that brings the atmosphere, design, and character of each location to life
• Stories behind the hotels, focusing on architecture, culture, and the vision of the founders

About the authors:

Design Hotels™ has been a leading platform since 1993 for independent hotels that prioritize design and local culture. The collection now comprises over 300 hotels worldwide, from avant-garde city hotels in New York, Paris, and Tokyo to serene retreats on hidden beaches or mountaintops. Each hotel is a personal translation of the hotelier's vision, an ode to uniqueness, authenticity, and sensory experience. Together with publisher Gestalten, known for their visually powerful lifestyle books, they bundle their passion for travel, aesthetics, and meaningful hospitality in the photo book Designed to Stay.

This book about Ibiza has been created from a photographic perspective, focusing on discovering the value of things through the eyes of unique artists behind the camera. The authors have found an innovative approach to understanding quality and doing things in a better way, with care, dedication, attention to the environment, and respect for the surroundings. This new approach reveals forms and colors that would otherwise go unnoticed, offering a unique view of Ibiza. This book takes you on an enchanting journey to hidden, magical, and surprising places that will forever stimulate your senses.

Through the Eyes of a Venetian.

Venice as nobody knows it: a surprising and intimate look at the "Serenissima".

The only illustrated book about Venice on the market in black and white

Photographer Federico Povoleri is a born Venetian and knows his hometown like no other. With his poetic black and white photographs, he captures an atmosphere of the lagoon city that usually gets lost in the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowds.
Federico Povoleri's knowledge of the city allows him to capture motifs that we seem to know - and yet show us Venice in a new light. And so his illustrated book is a melancholic declaration of love for his hometown and at the same time a memorial to the creeping destruction of its unique beauty.

Luxury Trains, Splendour, Elegance & Extravagance: Take a Fabulous Journey on the World's Most Luxurious Trains

Discover more than 25 breathtaking trains in this beautifully illustrated book. From the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and the British Royal Train to Le Train Bleu, the Pride of Africa, the Eastern Express, and many others, this book offers a unique look at the world's most luxurious trains.

Luxury Trains is a perfect gift for travelers and enthusiasts who love luxury, pomp, and grandeur. The stunning photographs take you on a visual journey through luxurious interiors, breathtaking views, and the unique charm of these trains. Almost feel the constant motion of the trains and let yourself be transported to distant destinations.

Luxury trains have always captured our imagination. They are a source of style, romance, and exoticism and have played an important role in literature and Hollywood films. This splendid book evokes the bygone days of travel, when trains wrote international railway history, from the Orient Express to Le Train Bleu. Today, train companies from all over the world are creating new "palaces" on rails. This book offers a journey through this extravagant and luxurious world.


“The magnificent photos invite you to enjoy the luxurious ambience, the views and the very special flair and to let the constant rattling of the train wheels carry you to distant lands.” — Lovely Books

“Hopefully history’s extravagant chariots serve as inspiration for the trains of the future. Newly published book Luxury Trains is full of elegant examples of how to travel in real style.” — Hoom Magazine

“Transports you back to the golden age of travel, with pictures of 25 of the most elegant trains in the world.” — Good Housekeeping UK


Whether you are sitting comfortably in the dining car of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express as you glide past the Venetian Lagoon, traveling through the Highlands of Scotland aboard the famous Royal Scotsman, or admiring the ancient splendor of Machu Picchu at the Hiram Bingham bar on the Andean Explorer, this book celebrates the wonders of these magnificent locomotives. A splendid gift for any traveler and anyone interested in the decadent charm of these trains.

Experience Living on Mallorca: Discover Architecture and Design on the Island

Dream away amidst the beauty of Mallorca, where the stunning Mediterranean environment meets a rich culture and an atmosphere of tranquility. Mallorca Living is the ultimate guide to the unique architecture and latest interior trends of this beautiful island, created by renowned architects and designers who shape Mallorca's contemporary lifestyle.

Browse through this coffee table book and discover inspiring villas that reflect Mallorca's rich architectural history, alongside sleek, minimalist homes that embrace modern style. Each project offers an exclusive look at the versatile styles that make Mallorca a true Mediterranean gem, with a perfect balance between tradition and innovation.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or dream of living on Mallorca, Mallorca Living allows you to experience the island's timeless beauty and continuous renewal. Immerse yourself in the essence of life on Mallorca with this photo book, where luxury, culture, and design reinforce each other and every page offers new inspiration for a stylish and relaxed life.

Charming France by Heide Christiansen: An Enchanting Coffee Table Book that Awakens the Desire to Travel!

Imagine: "living like a God in France" - this beautiful coffee table book takes you on a visual journey through the most beautiful places in the "Grande Nation", from enchanting Brittany to the sun-drenched Côte d'Azur! With breathtaking photography and captivating stories, you'll discover the most charming corners of France. The book reveals insider tips for tourists, from picturesque villages and historic cities to lively bistros and cozy boutiques, and shows where authentic French lifestyle and culture come to life.

Seductive Travel Inspiration and Breathtaking Photography of France

Let yourself be enchanted by the captivating beauty of France, captured in vivid photographs and personal stories that take you to the soul of each destination. Explore the rustic charm of Provence, the romance of castles and parks, and the vibrant atmosphere of Paris - always inspiring, always enchanting! This coffee table book is a treasure trove of dreams and travel ideas, perfect for lovers of French culture and adventure.

A Must-Have Gift for France Lovers!

Heide Christiansen, known for her passion for perfect imagery, pays tribute to her love for France with this book. As an experienced photo editor and travel enthusiast, she shares her favorite places and secret gems, from picturesque villages to cosmopolitan cities. "Charming France" is not just a coffee table book, but an invitation to experience the real France - an indispensable gift for every lover of travel and beauty.

London
Author: Serge Ramelli

A breathtaking visual ode to the vibrant British capital.
• World-class colorful and high-contrast photography by master photographer Serge Ramelli
• Iconic landmarks and hidden gems in one luxurious coffee table book
• A unique perspective on London, as an artistic masterpiece and a travel destination
• Featuring previously unpublished images in a high-quality hardcover edition

Discover the magical allure of London through the lens of internationally acclaimed photographer Serge Ramelli. In this impressive coffee table book, Ramelli presents 176 pages filled with masterful photographs that capture the character and versatility of the British capital in an inimitable way. From the imposing Tower Bridge and the iconic Big Ben to charming secret corners: each shot tells its own story.

Serge Ramelli is known for his ability to portray cities that have been photographed thousands of times in a completely new light. With a keen eye for light, shadow, and composition, he transforms the urban landscape into pure art. His distinctive style – a powerful interplay of contrast and color – makes this photo book a true visual experience.

London is not just a photo book; it is an artistic journey through one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Perfect for lovers of photography, art, and London.

About the author

Serge Ramelli is an internationally renowned photographer and filmmaker who has been captivated by the power of images since his youth. In 2005, he turned his passion into his profession and developed into an expert in urban photography, with an emphasis on visual experience and technical perfection.

In addition to his work as a photographer, Ramelli shares his knowledge through popular YouTube tutorials and photography workshops, inspiring nearly 1 million followers worldwide. His style is characterized by bold contrasts, vibrant colors, and a cinematic sense of atmosphere.

With previously published titles on Paris and New York, and now this high-quality hardcover book on London, Ramelli confirms his status as one of the leading photographers of our time. London is a must-have for every coffee table, a source of inspiration for photographers, and a stylish travel guide for London enthusiasts.

Sailing the Seas – A Voyager's Guide to Oceanic Getaways 

Discover the magic of sailing: from short trips with friends to epic solo ocean expeditions.

For centuries, sailing has symbolized ultimate freedom. There's no greater adventure than feeling the wind in your sails, the salty water on your skin, and discovering new islands, coastlines, and cultures. The coffee table book Sailing the Seas takes you on a world tour by water, from the American East Coast to the Caribbean islands, along classic routes in the Mediterranean, and exotic destinations such as Thailand and French Polynesia.

This photo book presents a fresh, modern perspective on sailing and introduces you to the beauty, sounds, tastes, and unique experiences that life on board offers.

With stunning photos of breathtaking locations, detailed itineraries, and practical "Captain's Notes" full of tips and insights, Sailing the Seas inspires both novice sailors and seasoned adventurers to brave the waves.

About Sailing Collective:
Sailing Collective is a dynamic team of captains, culinary artists, and explorers who sail the world together. With their passion for adventure, they organize unique sailing experiences to the most exotic destinations.

Preface and texts by Dayyan Armstrong and Ross Beane.

A must-have coffee table book for anyone who dreams of life at sea and unforgettable nautical experiences.

Wanderlust British & Irish Isles: Discover the Ultimate Hiking Routes through Great Britain and Ireland

The British and Irish Isles: A hiking paradise full of breathtaking nature, fascinating local history, and timeless culture. This coffee table book is more than just a travel guide – it's a visual and informative journey through one of the most diverse hiking destinations in the world.

What makes this photo book unique:

• Stunning photography of diverse landscapes
• Detailed route maps and practical hiking tips
• In-depth insights into local culture and history
• Recommendations for the best seasons to hike

Discover the journey:

• From the mystical Scottish Highlands
• Through the green valleys of the Lake District
• Along the wild coasts of Ireland
• To the vast English Riviera

About the author:
Alex Roddie is an experienced mountaineer and hiker with over 15 years of expertise in exploring wild natural areas. As an editor, writer, and photographer specializing in outdoor sports publications, he brings unique expertise to this book.

Ideal for:

• Hiking enthusiasts
• Travelers
• Nature photographers
• Culture lovers

An essential travel and nature guide for anyone who wants to discover the untouched beauty of British and Irish nature!

Experience the vibrant soul of New York through the iconic images of Elliott Erwitt, who has been capturing the city since 1948. His photographs capture unexpected, everyday moments with a unique irony, from celebrity encounters to striking street scenes.

This revised edition unveils Erwitt's timeless work, with the addition of previously unreleased images from the 1950s and 60s. From playful humor to deep emotion, his photographs bring the essence of the city and its inhabitants to life.

Elliott Erwitt’s New York is the last book the photographer personally worked on before his death on November 29, 2023, at the age of 95.

More information about Elliott Erwitt can be found here

Hit The Road - Vans, Nomads & Roadside Adventures
Author: gestalten

For everyone who dreams of ultimate freedom on four wheels

Hit The Road is an inspiring coffee table book for adventurers, travelers, and lovers of life on the road. From a weekend trip to months-long expeditions off the beaten path: this photo book takes you on a journey with people who chose to make their home on wheels and explore the world.

Let yourself be swept away by impressive stories of modern nomads and their unique vehicles - from classic Volkswagen vans to robust 4x4 campers and stylishly renovated Airstream trailers. Each story is enriched with stunning photography, routes, and personal anecdotes from people who changed course and chose a life full of freedom, nature, and adventure.

Whether it's a culinary couple who traveled through Spain, Portugal, and England in a VW T4, friends who drove a Porsche 944 to Cape Town, or a solo traveler who crossed Canada under the northern lights in a Honda Element - Hit The Road offers a glimpse into the lives of travelers who deliberately choose the unknown.

Why this coffee table book is highly recommended:

• An ode to the freedom of travel and the outdoor life
• Perfect for lovers of campers, vans, off-grid living, and road trips
• Full of inspiring photos, stories, and practical travel insights
• Ideal gift for adventurous souls or for inspiration for your next trip

From the deserts of Africa to the snow-capped mountains of Mongolia – this book motivates you to pack your bags, start the engine, and follow the horizon.
Get inspired and… Hit the Road.

Discover the most beautiful hiking trails along the Mediterranean Sea with the coffee table book 'Wanderlust Mediterranean, Exploring Trails Along the Mediterranean Sea' and experience the best hikes under the southern sun with practical tips, comprehensive maps, and breathtaking photography.

The Mediterranean Sea is home to some of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes in the world. From high mountain ranges and vast forests to deep valleys and rugged coastlines, this region is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. From Spain to Jordan, via Italy and Greece, the Mediterranean offers an unparalleled hiking experience.

In Wanderlust Mediterranean, long-distance hiker Cam Honan takes you on a journey along the most beautiful hiking trails in Southern Europe and beyond. Explore spectacular paths in countries such as France, Italy, the Balkans, and Morocco. This photo book features over 25 unique hikes, including the breathtaking Caminito del Rey, the Peaks of the Balkans, and the challenging Selvaggio Blu.

Additionally, the book includes a dozen extra bonus routes, detailed maps, stunning photography, and expert commentary. Whether you are a beginner hiker or an experienced trekker, this coffee table book offers countless tips and inspiration to make your hiking adventure a success.

About the author
Over the past three decades, Cam Honan has covered more than 112,000 kilometers across 61 countries and six continents. He previously wrote four bestsellers for Gestalten: Wanderlust, Wanderlust USA, Wanderlust Himalaya, and Wanderlust Nordics. According to Backpacker Magazine, he is “the most traveled hiker in the world.”