7 Must-Have Elements Every Tourism Map Should Include
- City Wayfinding
7 Must-Have Elements Every Tourism Map Should Include
A good tourism map isn’t just about getting from Point A to Point B — it’s about inspiring exploration.
When you design a map for visitors, you create a tool that shapes their entire experience with your destination.
But what separates a "good enough" map from a great one?
It’s all about having the correct elements in place.
Here are the 7 must-have features every tourism map should include to truly make an impact.
1. Clear and Simple Landmarks
Visitors need quick visual anchors to orient themselves.
Your map should clearly show:
Major attractions
Hotels and accommodations
Transportation hubs (bus stops, train stations, parking areas)
Visitor centers or welcome desks
Pro tip: Use familiar, easy-to-recognize icons for quick scanning.
2. Easy-to-Understand Pathways and Routes
Navigation paths should be intuitive and straightforward, whether it's walking paths, bike trails, shuttle routes, or main roads.
Highlight main travel routes in bold or distinct colors
Include walking or biking distances if possible
Use directional arrows where helpful
The goal is to move and feel natural, not confused.
3. Key Amenities and Services
Think about what visitors often look for first:
Restrooms
Food and drink options
Information points
ATM locations
First aid and emergency services
Adding these to your map saves visitors' time and reduces questions to your staff.
4. Branding and Style That Reflect Your Destination
Your map should feel like your city, park, or property.
Use:
Brand colors
Logo and tagline
Typography consistent with your other marketing materials
A well-branded map builds trust and makes your destination more memorable.
5. Featured Recommendations or Highlights
Showcase the hidden gems and must-see spots that set your destination apart.
You can add:
“Top 5 Things to See” lists
Featured restaurant or shopping areas
Seasonal event highlights
Visitors appreciate curated suggestions — it makes them feel like insiders.
6. Practical Information for Visitors
Include helpful extras like:
Emergency contact numbers
Visitor center hours
Shuttle or ferry schedules
Weather tips (especially for outdoor locations)
Small touches like this turn a map into a full-service guide.
7. Readable Layout (Even When Folded)
Finally, a beautiful design is worthless if it becomes confusing when folded.
Make sure:
Key information isn’t hidden in creases
Labels remain legible at small sizes
Important routes or landmarks appear on front-facing panels
Good folding design makes maps more user-friendly — and ensures visitors actually keep and use them.
Quick Recap: Must-Have Elements for Tourism Maps
✅ Clear landmarks and easy navigation
✅ Amenities like restrooms, food, and first aid
✅ Strong destination branding
✅ Curated visitor recommendations
✅ Practical traveler information
✅ Smart layout and folding for real-world use
Ready to Create a Tourism Map That Visitors Will Love?
At PocketMaps, we specialize in designing tourism maps that are not only beautiful but also built for real-world visitors and use.
Whether you’re promoting a city, a national park, a resort, or a downtown district, we’ll help you create a custom map that invites exploration, strengthens branding, and leaves a lasting impression.
And with our easy online ordering dashboard, managing your project is stress-free.
Track your project status from design to delivery
See estimated ship dates and production progress
Update addresses, split shipments, or upload new files anytime
Please chat with our customer service team directly through the platform
👉 Start your custom tourism map project today with PocketMaps.
Let’s create something visitors will treasure — and share.
Manage Your Project with Full Transparency
When you work with PocketMaps, you get great design and printing, and get complete visibility into your order every step of the way.
Our easy-to-use online dashboard lets you:
Track your project from design to proofing to production to shipping
See estimated ship dates and delivery times
Upload updated files or split shipments if needed
Chat directly with our customer service team anytime
We built this platform because, before PocketMaps, we were customers too — and we couldn’t find a solution that worked.
After 10 years of building and refining our system, we’re proud to offer you a faster, easier, stress-free experience.