For lovers of literature, journaling, and fine paper, Rome is a paradise. The Eternal City is home to charming bookstores tucked into alleys, artisan paper shops selling hand-marbled notebooks, and stationery stores that make you want to start writing letters again.
Whether you’re seeking an English novel, a handmade journal, or a wax seal for your next project, here are Romeโs most beautiful bookstores and paper shops โ all worth browsing slowly.
๐ 1. Libreria del Viaggiatore โ The Travelerโs Bookstore
- Location: Via del Pellegrino 165 (Campo deโ Fiori area)
- Why Visit: A cozy space entirely dedicated to travel literature โ maps, guides, travel memoirs, and atlases in multiple languages.
- Vibe: Quiet, reflective, and highly curated.
- Affiliate angle: Travel journals, niche guidebooks, map-themed decor
๐ 2. Almost Corner Bookshop โ Beloved English-Language Bookstore
- Location: Via del Moro 45 (Trastevere)
- Why Visit: A long-standing favorite for expats and travelers, offering a wide range of English books, including fiction, poetry, history, and childrenโs titles.
- Vibe: Homey, friendly, and full of character.
- Tip: Ask for local recommendations โ the staff are passionate readers.
- Affiliate angle: Online bookstore links, paperback accessories, reading lights
๐ 3. Anglo American Bookshop โ Romeโs English-Lit Classic
- Location: Via della Vite 102 (near Spanish Steps)
- Why Visit: One of Romeโs largest collections of English-language books, including academic texts, classics, and new releases.
- Vibe: Clean, organized, with an old-world European bookstore feel.
- Great for: Replenishing your travel library mid-trip.
- Affiliate angle: Bookstore affiliate programs, Kindle vs paperback travel tips
๐ 4. Il Papiro โ Marbled Paper & Artisan Stationery
- Location: Via del Pantheon 50
- Why Visit: This shop is a visual feast โ selling hand-marbled paper, wax seals, fountain pens, calligraphy sets, and leather-bound journals. A favorite for writers and artists.
- What to Buy: Marbled bookmarks, travel-size journals, envelope sets.
- Vibe: Elegant, inspiring, and truly Roman.
- Affiliate angle: Calligraphy kits, writing journals, sealing wax sets
๐๏ธ 5. Cartoleria Pantheon โ Elegant Roman Stationery
- Location: Piazza della Rotonda (just in front of the Pantheon)
- Why Visit: A classic cartoleria (stationery shop) offering fine pens, parchment paper, postcards, and leather organizers โ many items handcrafted in Italy.
- Vibe: Sophisticated, historic, and perfect for meaningful souvenirs.
- Tip: Great place to buy a thank-you gift or graduation present.
- Affiliate angle: Fountain pens, handmade notebooks, office decor
๐ 6. Antica Legatoria Piazzesi โ Italyโs Oldest Bookbinder
- Location: Via del Leoncino 28 (Campo Marzio)
- Why Visit: Founded in 1851, this is Romeโs oldest artisan bookbindery. Youโll find hand-bound journals, leather notebooks, marbled albums, and rare binding tools.
- What to Buy: Personalized notebooks, album covers, wax-sealed letters
- Vibe: Luxurious, niche, and wonderfully old-fashioned
- Affiliate angle: Leather-bound journals, custom bookbinding gifts, Etsy paper crafts
๐บ๏ธ Bonus: Other Worthwhile Paper & Book Spots
- Otherwise Bookshop โ Feminist, queer, and progressive titles in Trastevere
- Tigre Paper Store โ Modern, aesthetic notebooks and desk accessories (budget-friendly)
- La Cartoleria Fontana โ Family-run, paper goods with a Roman flair
โ๏ธ Tips for Book & Stationery Lovers in Rome
- Ask if custom embossing or personalization is available โ many artisan shops offer this
- Bring a list of titles or paper preferences to avoid impulse buys
- Donโt be shy โ ask shopkeepers for recommendations, they love to help
- Support independent shops when possible, especially those carrying local authors or handmade goods
๐ Affiliate-Ready Gift Picks
- ๐ Travel & writing journals
- โ๏ธ Calligraphy kits and ink sets
- ๐ Leather-bound planners and notebooks
- ๐ฏ๏ธ Wax seal stamps & artisan envelopes
โ๏ธ Final Thoughts
Rome isnโt just a feast for the eyes โ itโs a gift for writers, readers, and stationery lovers. Whether you’re searching for the perfect travel journal, a rare novel, or a marbled paper notebook to take home, these shops offer quiet joy and timeless beauty.
Because sometimes, the best souvenir is the one youโll use โ page by page.