I too like the FFVII map, but... I like FFVI's map even more. Yes I'm a FFVI fanboy, but I'm not being biased here. The first world was great with the northern and southern continents. Everything was peaceful in the north while war raged in the south. Then the Empire learned about the esper in Narshe, bringing the armies up to the northern continent. It was classic. Interestingly, most of the game's heros lived on the northern continent.

Then you get two for the price of one. There's a second world (I'll try not to reveal any spoilers). It's still the only world I know where you can do things in any order you want once you get the airship. Talk about freedom. That second world adds a new dimension to the game, and gives it a totally different atmosphere.

That's what's so great about FFVI's world maps. There were so many different settings. The game sends you on a big trip, and it's great from beginning to end. I've never seen so much diversity in any other FF game.