8 Coffee Table Books That Quench Wanderlust from the Comfort of Your Couch

Raise your hand if you’re constantly snuggled up on the couch scrolling through travel blogger Instagram accounts. *Raises both hands* It’s time to go analog. Why? Your tiny phone screen and 1:1 ratio images are incapable of truly quenching a hankering thirst for travel. These coffee table books are the exact format that travel photography should be showcased in — that is, if you’re not ready to invest in large-scale travel photography wall decor. These are our favorite coffee table books that are gorgeous on the inside and the outside.

<em>Beaches</em>

Photographer Gray Malin lives an enviable life. He travels the world and captures stunning aerial photographs from doorless helicopters. Lucky for us less-traveled folk, he’s published a book of photographs fit for our coffee tables. This luxurious hardcover features more than 26 countries across six continents and includes snaps from Barcelona, Rio de Janerio, Capri, the Amalfi Coast, and more.

<em>Paris in Color</em>

Many of us dream of sipping rosé in the cafes of Paris as we stash away random bills and build a travel fund hefty enough to take us there. In the meantime, this dreamy coffee table book will help sustain your wanderlust with colorful travel photographs that are #goals.

<em>New York</em>

This coffee table book is on the pricier end, but the pages are absolutely gorgeous. With marvelous landscapes of the city that never sleeps, this collection of photos of New York City serves as travel inspo whether you live in Wisconsin or in the Big Apple itself.

<em>The National Parks: America’s Best Idea</em>

Both history and nature buffs are likely to love this coffee table book; its alluring pages intertwines them both. This collection reveals the history behind National Parks and how they’re protected by the Declaration of Independence. The informative text is juxtaposed with absolutely breathtaking pictures of America’s precious preserved lands. It leaves us wondering: Why can’t all history books be so epically illustrated?

<em>National Geographic Stunning Photographs</em>

Annie Griffiths is a prolific photographer for National Geographic, and after browsing this book, it’s clear why. Everything from stills of rare birds captured mid-flight to the aurora borealis is majestically showcased, alongside powerful quotes and excerpts about our beautiful planet.

<em>One Hundred &amp; One Beautiful Small Towns in France</em>

We love Paris, but there is so much more to France than the Eiffel Tower and colorful macarons. This quaint little travel book teaches you all about the most enchanting hamlets across the country in France; you’ll fall more in love with the country with every page turned.

<em>Wine Trails: 52 Perfect Weekends in Wine Country</em>

Lonely Planet ($25): Vino lovers of the world, unite! This beautiful coffee table book covers the typical wine-making regions like Napa, but it also sheds light on some little-known gems tucked away in Georgia and Greece. This is light reading that’s perfect for minutes or an hour lounging at home and would also make a thoughtful gift for a family member, friend, or coworker who also enjoys wine.