16 Best Picture Books for Little Travelers: Kids' Reading List to Spark Wanderlust
One of the best ways we prepare for travel in our family isn’t with packing cubes or passports—it’s with picture books.
Long before Sebbie, our six-year-old son, ever stepped foot on an airplane, he was exploring the world through stories. We’ve visited Venice via gondola with a sassy pig named Olivia, solved a stolen art mystery with a feline detective, and strolled through Paris hand-in-hand with Madeline. These books didn’t just entertain him—they gave him a language for new places, a love for adventure, and a growing curiosity about the world.
Whether you're planning a trip with your child or just daydreaming from the couch, these are some of our favorite picture books to get little ones thinking about life beyond their backyard. Each one is Sebbie-approved and chosen for its visual charm, thoughtful storytelling, and ability to open up conversations about other places and perspectives.
Reading has become part of our pre-trip routine. Before we traveled to France, we pulled out all our Paris-themed books. These books help picture where we’re going, spark questions, and build excitement in a way that’s engaging and age-appropriate. For families with young kids, especially those just starting to travel together, stories like these can lay a beautiful foundation for raising curious, open-minded travelers.
Here are 16 of our favorite travel-inspired picture books that we return to again and again:
1. Around the World Right Now
By Gina Cascone & Bryony Williams Sheppard | Ages 4–8
This picture book explores time zones and geography by showing what’s happening in different parts of the world at the exact same moment. From pandas in China to dancers in Russia, it introduces global thinking in a way that feels natural and accessible. Sebbie was especially intrigued by the idea that someone could be sleeping in one part of the world while someone else was surfing halfway across the globe.
2. Oli and Basil: The Dashing Frogs of Travel
By Megan Hess | Ages 4–8
Two debonair frogs take readers on a city-hopping adventure full of beautiful landmarks and chic fashion. Each page is bursting with elegance, humor, and hidden details that keep little eyes searching. Sebbie loved seeing which city came next, and I loved the playful nods to design and style.
3. Madeline
By Ludwig Bemelmans | Ages 3–7
A classic for good reason. Madeline is spirited and fearless, and the illustrations are rich with old-world Parisian charm. It’s one of those books that sticks with you long after the final page.
4. Piglette
By Katelyn Aronson | Ages 3–7
Piglette heads to Paris in search of sophistication—and finds something even better. The watercolor illustrations are soft and inviting, and the story gently affirms the value of self-acceptance. Sebbie always likes when Piglette discovers pâtisserie delights.
5. Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris
By Megan Hess | Ages 4–8
Claris is determined to make her dreams come true in Paris—and she does it in style. The story is full of energy and warmth, while the illustrations dazzle with couture-inspired detail. This one is as fun to look at as it is to read aloud.
6. Olivia Goes to Venice
By Ian Falconer | Ages 4–8
Olivia brings her full personality to Venice—from bridge critiques to gelato overindulgence. The dry humor lands with both kids and adults, and the setting is rendered with charm. Sebbie laughed out loud the first time we read it, and honestly, so did I.
7. William and the Missing Masterpiece
By Helen Hancocks | Ages 5–9
William is a suave detective cat called to solve the theft of a famous painting. His investigation takes him through stylish cities, art galleries, and clever nods to classic works, including a play on da Vinci's Mona Lisa and Van Gogh’s Starry Night. The illustrations are packed with visual references that make it fun for adults, while the mystery keeps kids engaged. Sebbie enjoys spotting clues and patterns on each reread.
8. On the Go Awesome
By Lisl H. Detlefsen | Ages 3–6
This book is a celebration of movement—from bikes and boats to planes and trains. The bold illustrations and snappy rhythm make it a fun, fast-paced read that gets kids excited for any kind of trip. A favorite part of Paris for Sebbie is taking the Metro.
9. Escargot
By Dashka Slater | Ages 3–7
Escargot is a snail with opinions and panache. The story invites participation, and the character’s voice is unforgettable. It’s a silly, stylish, and surprisingly sweet read.
10. How to Train a Train
By Jason Carter Eaton | Ages 4–8
A tongue-in-cheek manual for adopting and caring for your very own train. The premise is quirky, the humor is understated, and the whole thing is a delight. Sebbie still asks how we might “catch” a commuter train in the wild.
11. Mornings with Monet
By Barb Rosenstock | Ages 4–8
A quiet book that captures the early-morning magic of Monet’s creative process. With lyrical text and serene art, it’s perfect for winding down or setting a calm tone to start the day.
12. Monet’s Cat
By Lily Murray | Ages 4–8
Monet’s mischievous cat Chika escapes into his paintings and brings readers along. The vibrant illustrations introduce young readers to Impressionist art with humor and imagination.
13. My Art Book of Love
14. My Art Book of Sleep
15. My Art Book of Happiness
By Shana Gozansky | All Ages
These elegant board books pair fine art with big feelings, using minimal text and carefully chosen masterpieces. They’re a beautiful way to introduce toddlers and young kids to art while exploring emotions.
16. The Airplane Alphabet
By Jerry Pallotta | Ages 3–6
This A-to-Z guide to airplanes turned out to be one of Sebbie’s most surprising favorites. It features all kinds of aircraft—from classic biplanes to commercial jets—with crisp illustrations and fun facts that fuel curiosity. We read it before a flight, and by the time we were at the airport, Sebbie was pointing out plane types at the gate and calling out model names we didn’t even know he knew.
These books do more than fill a bookshelf. They open up conversations, build anticipation, and help kids make sense of the world around them. Whether you’re packing for your next trip or just want to bring the world a little closer to home, these stories are a lovely place to begin
A Thoughtful Note
Some links are affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Every book here is one we’ve read, loved, and recommend.
