Bar a Book is one of the first bars in Rome of its kind in the capital’s burgeoning trend for such convivial spots. Get lost in the kaleidoscopic shelves of colourful art, literature and photography books with no pressure to buy, or pull up a pew at the central table amid all the retro design décor and peruse the newspapers round the clock with a laidback, cool and clever crowd. The day starts with a cappuccino and croissant and continues via lunch snacks to a pre-supper aperitivo and then relaxed de-parching and discussion after dark. Perfect for a glass of wine and some book shopping before dinner at the nearby Tram Tram restaurant.