Two things annoy me when exploring a new city: 1) Lugging a cumbersome map while toting a camera, purse/bag, water bottle, and a gaggle of other seemingly necessary items; 2) looking like a tourist with a large paper map spread out before me. What is my solution for avoiding these irritations? Streetwise maps.
Available for most major U.S. and international cities, Streetwise is my choice of map when visiting Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan. The accordion fold eliminates the dreaded multi-folding operation required for most maps and is small enough to easily slip into a coat pocket or purse. These maps are lightweight, making them a perfect fit for today's luggage limits and toting around the town. The best part: they are laminated!
Streetwise city maps are fully indexed and offer insets of historical areas or downtowns. Where applicable, metro maps are also provided.
Although I have found better options for regional travel, my vote is for Streetwise when it comes to exploring Italy's major cities. Maps can be purchased from most major bookstores, streetwise.com, or from my list of recommendations in the right sidebar.
