A political map can be general showing only countries or detailed showing smaller cities and regions of those countries. The countries are often different colors and separated by border lines so you can read the map more easily. Political maps usually show the capital cities of countries and states and many major cities. Capital cities are generally shown with large, dark print and are marked with a big star or circle. Smaller cities are written in smaller print and are marked with a dot.
Most maps have what is called a key or legend.
The key or legend is a box in the corner which tells you what all the map's symbols mean. Once you zero in on your destination city, the political map will no longer be useful. A street map is what you will need to help you get around town. Street maps show the layout of a city with streets, buildings, parks, and districts. Many times street maps show landmarks and points of interest.