Otherwise Rome

This independent English language bookshop near Piazza Navona is heaven for booklovers. There’s an excellent selection of contemporary fiction (impressive for its range of independent publishers), non-fiction and children's books, as well as a small section for second-hand books. It’s a great place to look for presents or souvenirs, with a huge range of books about Rome and Italy (both fiction and non-fiction). And if you want to read an Italian novel but your language isn’t quite up to scratch yet, check out the shelves for Italian literature in translation.

Otherwise is more than just a bookshop. There are regular events, from author talks and book clubs to live music and language exchanges (sometimes hosted by sister-bookshop Altroquando, just across the street). Although it’s located right in the heart of touristy Rome, it doesn’t just cater for tourists – you get the sense that the owners value regular customers and want to create a community.