Target Audience

The Frommer’s series kicked off with the 1957 book Europe on $5 a Day. It still has the budget traveler in mind — one of its 2005 titles is Italy From $90 a Day. But the series is not as budget-focused as it was in the 50s and always includes some upscale options, too.
To buy: www.frommers.com.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Arthur Frommer retired from active involvement in 1977, but the guides are still strong. They put an emphasis on price ranges and ratings, with many itineraries suggested. “The book layouts make it easy to find what I’m looking for,” says Mary Novak Beatty of Europe Express. Updated every one to two years.

What It Says About Paris

“You don’t have to buy anything to appreciate shopping in Paris — just soak up the art form the French have made of rampant consumerism. Peer in the vitrines (display windows), absorb cutting-edge ideas, witness new trends, and take home with you a whole new education in style.”