Best Tarot Decks for Beginners (2025 Edition)

Starting your tarot journey is an exciting step toward self-discovery, spiritual growth, and intuitive insight. Choosing the right tarot deck can make all the difference in how approachable and enjoyable your practice is. In 2025, many decks appeal to beginners with clear symbolism, accessible artwork, and thoughtful design. Here’s our curated list of the best tarot decks for beginners this year.

1. Rider-Waite Tarot Deck (Original or Modern Reprints)

Why it’s great: The Rider-Waite deck remains the gold standard for beginners. Its images have become the foundation for countless tarot traditions. The symbolism is rich but direct, making it easier to learn card meanings without getting overwhelmed.

Highlights:

• Classic imagery known worldwide

• Simple yet profound symbolism

• Large availability of guides and tutorials

2. The Modern Witch Tarot

Why it’s great: The Modern Witch deck updates the Rider-Waite tradition with vibrant, inclusive artwork that resonates with today’s diverse world. Its playful and modern vibe invites newcomers to connect with tarot in a fresh, relatable way.

Highlights:

• Bright, modern illustrations

• Inclusive representation across gender, race, and culture

• Easy-to-follow symbolism rooted in Rider-Waite

*BONUS ADD-ON: There’s a companion journal by the same author, The Modern Witch Tarot Journal, which is lavishly illustrated with all-new full-page color work. The journal provides detailed guidance and layouts for:

• Studying the cards
• Recording readings
• Collecting and creating your own tarot spreads
• Tarot deck and books inventories and wish lists
• Compiling all your online resources
• Contact directory for your tarot circle

Compatible with all tarot decks and intended for all levels of tarot readers, the Modern Witch Tarot Journal is an indispensable tool for developing your craft.

3. GILDED Tarot ROYALE

*Luna’s Personal Favorite!
Why it’s great: The Gilded Tarot Royale is one of Llewellyn's bestselling tarot decks, and for good reason. This new edition has been updated with brilliantly refreshed art and comes complete with an updated guidebook. With borderless cards, richer colors, and stylish design improvements, the deck retains its powerful readability with a more contemporary look to engage its many fans and new users alike. Abounding with medieval magicians, priestesses, emperors, and knights, the Gilded Tarot Royale will continue to inspire tarot readers for years to come.

Highlights:

• Clean, stylish art with gold accents

• User-friendly guidebook

4. Everyday Tarot Mini

Why it’s great: This compact deck is designed specifically for ease of use, with bold images and straightforward symbolism. The cards are smaller, perfect for taking with you anywhere, and the guidebook uses plain, conversational language ideal for first-timers.

Highlights:

• Portable size

• Simple, approachable card meanings

• Friendly, down-to-earth guidebook tone

5. The Light Seer's Tarot

Why it’s great: Blending traditional tarot symbolism with a soft color palette and intuitive artwork, The Light Seer’s deck helps new readers trust their inner voice. The artwork encourages connection beyond textbook definitions, inviting beginner readers to explore personal interpretations.

Highlights:

• Soft, dreamy imagery

• Encourages intuitive reading style

• Companion book with guidance and insights

Tips for Choosing Your First Tarot Deck

• Connect with the art: Pick a deck whose artwork resonates with you; this connection will make learning enjoyable.

• Consider your learning style: Do you want a traditional experience or something modern and fresh?

• Use available resources: Some decks come with detailed guides or online support—great for beginners.

• Start simple: Don’t overwhelm yourself with complicated symbolism at first. Focus on decks with clear, meaningful images.

Starting with the right tarot deck sets the tone for a fulfilling and magical tarot journey. Whether you prefer classic imagery, modern inclusivity, or minimalist design, 2025 offers plenty of beginner-friendly options to explore. Trust your intuition, enjoy the process, and watch your tarot practice bloom.

Happy reading!