Traveling through ancient civilizations doesn’t always require a plane ticket! The right book can transport you through time, revealing lost cities, forgotten cultures, and epic adventures. Whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming of exploring the past, these books will immerse you in history.
Some of the best travel books do more than describe places; they connect you to the people, landscapes, and mysteries of ancient worlds. Through these pages, you can walk the sands of Egypt, stand before the ruins of Rome, or hike the Andean trails to Machu Picchu—all from your armchair. In this guide, I’ll share the best ancient civilization travel books that blend travel and history, offering insights into ancient civilizations while fueling your wanderlust.
1. Best Books on Ancient Egypt Travel
The Nile: A Journey Downriver Through Egypt’s Past and Present – Toby Wilkinson
This book takes you on a journey along the Nile, uncovering the secrets of ancient Egypt while also exploring how the river shaped modern civilization. Wilkinson weaves historical analysis with firsthand travel experiences, making this an engaging read for anyone fascinated by the land of the pharaohs.
Red Land, Black Land: Daily Life in Ancient Egypt – Barbara Mertz
If you want to step into the shoes of an ancient Egyptian, this book is a must-read. Mertz, an Egyptologist, paints a vivid picture of daily life in ancient Egypt, from food and fashion to burial rituals. This book is perfect for those who love detailed cultural insights.
Travelers in the Third Reich – Julia Boyd
While primarily about travelers witnessing the rise of Nazi Germany, this book includes intriguing accounts of foreigners experiencing Egypt in the early 20th century. It’s a fascinating perspective on how the country’s ancient past intersected with modern history.
2. Best Books on Ancient Rome Travel
SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome – Mary Beard
Mary Beard brings ancient Rome to life, dismantling myths and revealing the raw realities of life in the empire. If you’re traveling to Rome, this book provides an incredible foundation for understanding the city’s ruins, from the Colosseum to the Roman Forum.
Rome: A History in Seven Sackings – Matthew Kneale
Rome has been invaded and rebuilt multiple times, and Kneale takes us through seven of these moments. His storytelling makes you feel like you’re walking through the city’s streets as history unfolds around you.
City: A Story of Roman Planning and Construction – David Macaulay
For those who love architectural history, this book is a visual journey through how the Romans built their magnificent cities. With detailed illustrations, it’s a great companion for any traveler who wants to see beyond the ruins.
3. Best Books on Ancient Greece Travel
Greek to Me: Adventures of the Comma Queen – Mary Norris
This delightful memoir blends travel, language, and history. Norris shares her deep love for Greece, from its myths to its modern charm, making this a wonderful companion for anyone planning a Greek adventure.
Greece: Biography of a Modern Nation – Roderick Beaton
This book provides historical depth to any visit to Greece. It explores how the country evolved from its ancient roots to modern times, helping travelers appreciate the layers of history embedded in its landscapes.
The Parthenon Enigma – Joan Breton Connelly
Want to truly understand the Parthenon beyond the postcard image? Connelly digs into its controversial history and cultural significance, offering a new way to see Athens’ most famous landmark.
4. Best Books on Mesoamerican and Andean Civilizations
1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus – Charles C. Mann
Mann challenges the traditional view of pre-Columbian America, revealing the sophistication of ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. It’s a must-read for those visiting the ruins of the Maya or Aztecs.
Turn Right at Machu Picchu – Mark Adams
Ever wanted to follow in the footsteps of the explorers who rediscovered Machu Picchu? Adams does just that, blending history with adventure travel in this entertaining read.
The Conquest of the Incas – John Hemming
For a deep dive into the fall of the Incan Empire, Hemming’s book is an essential companion. It provides context that will enrich any journey through Peru.
5. Best Books on Lost Cities and Forgotten Civilizations
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon – David Grann
Grann retraces the steps of the British explorer Percy Fawcett, who vanished in search of a lost city. If you love adventure mixed with history, this book is for you.
Jungleland: A Mysterious Lost City and a True Story of Deadly Adventure – Christopher S. Stewart
A real-life Indiana Jones tale, Stewart’s book explores the search for a hidden civilization deep in the jungles of Honduras.
The Road to Ubar: Finding the Atlantis of the Sands – Nicholas Clapp
This book follows the discovery of Ubar, an ancient city lost in the Arabian desert. It’s a thrilling mix of archaeology and adventure travel.
6. How to Choose the Right Book for Your Journey
- If you’re traveling to a specific place, pick books that provide both historical context and modern travel insights.
- For adventure lovers, books about lost cities and real-life explorations add excitement to any trip.
- Where to buy: Check Amazon, Bookshop.org, or local independent bookstores. (Affiliate links included.)
Conclusion
Whether you’re a history buff or an armchair traveler, these books offer an incredible way to explore ancient civilizations. They transport you across time and continents, helping you experience the world’s greatest cultures through the eyes of historians and adventurers. Pick a book that aligns with your travel plans or historical curiosity, and get lost in the stories of the past.
Do you have a favorite book on ancient civilizations? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
If you love exploring history through travel, check out more fascinating journeys in our Historical Travel section!
