Top 32 Book Publishing Companies in Italy (Updated 2025)

Italy’s publishing history is one of the richest in the world, tracing back to the Renaissance printing presses of Venice and Florence. Today, the country remains a global force in literature, academic publishing, and art books—renowned for its precision, design excellence, and editorial vision. Italian publishers expertly balance traditional craftsmanship with modern formats, producing works that appeal to both national and international markets.

From literary fiction and children’s books to scholarly journals and illustrated coffee-table editions, Italian publishing is diverse, vibrant, and deeply connected to its cultural roots. The sector is not only an artistic endeavor but also an economic powerhouse, exporting titles and ideas to markets worldwide.

In this guide, we highlight 32 publishing houses shaping Italy’s literary landscape in 2025. You’ll find insights into their history, specialties, and typical pricing, helping authors, translators, and literary agents navigate one of the most prestigious publishing ecosystems in the world.

Emerging Publishing Trends in Italy for 2025

The Italian publishing scene in 2025 reflects a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation:

• Eco-friendly production — Widespread use of FSC-certified paper, vegetable-based inks, and local printing to reduce carbon footprints.
• Independent press expansion — Boutique publishers gaining global attention for unique editorial voices.
• Translation markets — Increased government and private support for exporting Italian literature abroad.
• Cross-media synergy — Stronger ties between publishing, cinema, and streaming platforms.
• Digital integration — Growth in subscription-based e-books and audiobooks.

Together, these trends create fertile ground for authors and content creators seeking both creative freedom and market reach.

Top 32 Book Publishing Companies in Italy (2025)

1. Ghostwriting LLC

Ghostwriting LLC, while not Italian, offers professional writing, editing, and publishing support to authors worldwide. Known for tailoring projects to individual voices, they manage everything from manuscript development to final print design. Pricing varies widely—typically €2,000–€10,000—depending on scope and complexity. Their advantage lies in discretion, versatility across genres, and a start-to-finish approach that appeals to busy professionals and debut authors alike. While younger than Italy’s historic publishers, their modern, service-oriented model reflects current trends in author-publisher collaboration.

2. Mondadori Group

Founded in 1907, Mondadori Group is Italy’s largest and most influential publishing house, covering fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, and magazines. Its wide range of imprints ensures market reach from literary prestige to commercial bestsellers. With pricing from €10 for paperbacks to premium illustrated editions, it serves diverse readerships. Mondadori’s unmatched distribution network, in-house retail chains, and strong digital catalog keep it ahead in market share, while its active participation in global book fairs secures its standing in international publishing.

3. Giunti Editore

Based in Florence and tracing roots back to 1841, Giunti Editore balances tradition with innovation. It publishes literary fiction, educational materials, travel guides, and art books, often showcasing exquisite visual design. Prices typically range from €12–€30, reflecting quality production values. Giunti also owns the “Giunti al Punto” bookstore chain, extending its brand presence across Italy. Their combination of cultural heritage, regional pride, and modern retail strategy makes Giunti a household name for readers seeking beauty as much as substance.

4. Rizzoli Libri

Established in 1927 and now part of Mondadori, Rizzoli Libri is renowned for high-end illustrated books, literary fiction, and biographies. Its art and lifestyle catalogs are celebrated globally, especially for architecture, fashion, and photography titles. Pricing spans €14–€25 for standard editions and significantly higher for collector’s volumes. Rizzoli’s strength lies in marrying literary depth with aesthetic excellence, making it a favorite among readers and institutions seeking books that are as visually striking as they are intellectually rewarding.

5. Feltrinelli Editore

Founded in the post-war era by Giangiacomo Feltrinelli, this publisher has long been associated with progressive ideals and cultural engagement. Specializing in literary fiction, political nonfiction, and scholarly works, Feltrinelli also runs some of Italy’s most iconic bookstores. Prices average €12–€22. Its curatorial strength is in championing thought-provoking, socially relevant literature, often spotlighting international voices alongside Italian authors. Feltrinelli remains a symbol of literary activism, fostering dialogue through both its catalog and its cultural events nationwide.

6. Newton Compton Editori

Newton Compton Editori is synonymous with affordable reading, making classics and popular fiction accessible to the mass market. Since its 1990s reinvention, it has offered paperbacks for as low as €5 without sacrificing quality. Its catalog spans romance, crime, thrillers, and historical sagas, appealing to a broad audience. The company’s pricing strategy, combined with aggressive distribution in supermarkets and online, has made it one of Italy’s most commercially successful publishers in terms of volume sold.

7. Zanichelli Editore

Founded in 1859, Zanichelli Editore has become the gold standard in academic and reference publishing. Specializing in dictionaries, grammar guides, and scientific textbooks, it serves both schools and professionals. Prices range from €20 for compact references to €80+ for comprehensive academic volumes. Zanichelli’s meticulous editorial standards and up-to-date content keep it essential in classrooms and libraries. Its enduring reputation for accuracy and reliability has secured its place as a cornerstone of Italy’s educational infrastructure.

8. Sellerio Editore

Based in Palermo since 1969, Sellerio Editore is cherished for its small-format, elegantly designed books and its distinctive blue covers. The house specializes in literary fiction, essays, and crime novels, with a focus on Sicilian and Mediterranean voices. Prices generally run €10–€18. Sellerio’s appeal lies in its dedication to refined storytelling and its ability to nurture authors who become long-term literary fixtures, such as Andrea Camilleri, creator of the beloved Inspector Montalbano series.

9. Adelphi Edizioni

Founded in 1962, Adelphi Edizioni stands out for its refined literary taste and emphasis on both original works and translations of philosophical, scientific, and literary texts. Its minimalist cover designs have become iconic in Italy. Prices usually range from €12–€25. Adelphi’s curation is eclectic yet precise, appealing to readers seeking intellectual depth and unique narrative voices. It is celebrated for discovering overlooked classics and bringing them to contemporary audiences with elegance and editorial care.

10. Einaudi Editore

Since 1933, Einaudi has been synonymous with literary prestige in Italy. Publishing fiction, essays, poetry, and academic works, it is known for supporting both established and emerging voices. Prices average €13–€25. Einaudi’s editorial board has historically included some of Italy’s most respected writers and thinkers, which lends cultural authority to its catalog. With a strong backlist of modern classics, Einaudi continues to balance cultural responsibility with commercial appeal in the competitive publishing landscape.

11. Laterza Editori

Founded in 1901 in Bari, Laterza Editori specializes in history, philosophy, and social sciences. Its catalog includes scholarly monographs, accessible nonfiction, and educational materials. Prices generally range €15–€28. Laterza’s reputation rests on intellectual rigor and the ability to translate academic insight into engaging works for the general public. It remains a key player in Italy’s cultural discourse, often collaborating with universities and hosting public lectures to promote historical and civic awareness.

12. Carocci Editore

Carocci Editore focuses on academic and professional publishing, particularly in the fields of education, psychology, and social sciences. Established in Rome, it serves students, educators, and researchers with well-structured, up-to-date resources. Prices typically range €18–€40. Carocci’s editorial quality ensures its textbooks and manuals remain staples in higher education. By balancing clarity with scholarly depth, it has earned trust as a reliable source for both foundational learning and advanced study materials.

13. Marsilio Editori

Founded in Venice in 1961, Marsilio Editori publishes literary fiction, art books, and cultural studies. Known for supporting emerging authors and regional voices, it also has a respected art division producing high-quality exhibition catalogs. Prices range from €12–€35. Marsilio’s regional identity and strong ties to Italy’s artistic heritage give it a unique place in the market. It frequently collaborates with cultural institutions, blending editorial excellence with visual and historical richness.

14. Fabbri Editori

Fabbri Editori, established in 1947, rose to prominence through encyclopedias, educational series, and illustrated children’s books. Now part of Mondadori, it continues to produce engaging content for schools and families. Prices range from €8 for children’s picture books to €40 for comprehensive reference works. Its legacy lies in combining educational value with vibrant design, making learning materials that are as enjoyable to look at as they are to read.

15. Garzanti Editore

Founded in 1939, Garzanti Editore is recognized for its literary fiction, dictionaries, and nonfiction works. Its catalog blends Italian and translated authors, often focusing on thoughtful, character-driven narratives. Prices generally range €12–€25. Garzanti’s commitment to quality storytelling and language resources makes it a dual presence in both literary and educational markets. Its careful balance of commercial and cultural output has kept it relevant for over eight decades.

16. Piemme Edizioni

Established in 1982 and part of the Mondadori Group since 2003, Piemme Edizioni excels in religious publishing, children’s literature, and commercial fiction. Home to popular series like “Geronimo Stilton,” it has captured global attention in the children’s market. Prices vary widely, from €7 paperbacks to €25 hardcovers. Piemme’s strength lies in accessible storytelling and cross-media appeal, with many of its titles adapted into TV shows, stage plays, and interactive formats.

17. De Agostini Editore

Founded in 1901, De Agostini is one of Italy’s oldest and most respected names in educational publishing. Known for atlases, encyclopedias, and school textbooks, it also produces children’s literature and magazines. Prices range from €10 to €50+. De Agostini’s brand is synonymous with reliable, visually rich educational resources. It has successfully adapted its content for digital platforms, making it a leader in both traditional print and modern learning tools.

18. La Nave di Teseo

La Nave di Teseo, founded in 2015 by Elisabetta Sgarbi and other literary figures, was created to uphold editorial independence. It publishes literary fiction, essays, and non-fiction with an emphasis on cultural relevance. Prices range €14–€25. Despite being relatively new, it has attracted prominent authors and critical acclaim. Its mission is to preserve the editor’s role as a cultural curator, resisting purely market-driven trends and focusing on quality and originality.

19. Neri Pozza Editore

Based in Vicenza since 1946, Neri Pozza is renowned for literary fiction, biographies, and historical works, often featuring strong narrative voices and elegant prose. Prices average €14–€24. The publisher is especially valued for its translations of contemporary international literature, bringing Italian readers a carefully selected array of global perspectives. Its books are recognized for their distinctive design and intellectual substance, appealing to thoughtful, literary-minded audiences.

20. Edizioni EL

Edizioni EL specializes in children’s books, picture books, and young adult literature. Founded in 1976 in Trieste, it combines playful illustrations with engaging, age-appropriate storytelling. Prices range €6–€18. Known for series that grow with the reader, Edizioni EL often collaborates with prominent illustrators to produce works that stand out visually. Its catalog balances entertainment with subtle educational themes, making it a trusted name among parents and educators.

21. Franco Cosimo Panini Editore

Founded in Modena, Franco Cosimo Panini is celebrated for children’s books, art publications, and the famous Panini sticker albums. Prices vary from €5 for collectibles to €40 for high-quality art volumes. The company blends creativity and nostalgia, appealing to both young readers and adult collectors. Its children’s line emphasizes interactive and visually dynamic formats, while its art books maintain scholarly depth, often tied to major exhibitions.

22. Minimum Fax

Since 1993, Minimum Fax has made its mark as a champion of contemporary literature, both Italian and international. Based in Rome, it also publishes cultural essays and short story collections. Prices range €12–€22. Minimum Fax stands out for its clean, modern design and editorial daring, often spotlighting unconventional narratives. It has cultivated a loyal readership seeking fresh voices and innovative storytelling, making it a vital player in Italy’s independent publishing scene.

23. Baldini+Castoldi

Established in 1897 in Milan, Baldini+Castoldi has published literary greats and commercial successes alike. Its catalog includes fiction, memoirs, and current affairs. Prices typically range €13–€25. The publisher has undergone several reinventions, most recently reasserting itself as a home for distinctive literary voices and bold nonfiction. Its enduring presence in the Italian market is a testament to its ability to adapt while maintaining a clear editorial identity.

24. Skira Editore

Founded in Switzerland in 1928 and active in Italy, Skira is a leading art publisher specializing in exhibition catalogs, photography books, and monographs. Prices range from €20 to over €100 for luxury editions. Known for impeccable print quality and scholarly content, Skira collaborates with major museums worldwide. Its books are prized by art lovers and professionals alike, offering both visual splendor and academic value.

25. Electa Editore

Electa Editore is synonymous with Italian art, architecture, and archaeology publishing. Based in Milan, it produces exhibition catalogs, scholarly works, and richly illustrated books. Prices range €18–€60. Electa’s collaborations with museums and cultural institutions ensure access to cutting-edge research and unparalleled visual documentation. Its catalog serves as a bridge between Italy’s historical legacy and contemporary artistic discourse, appealing to both scholars and casual art enthusiasts.

26. Lindau Editore

Founded in Turin in 1989, Lindau Editore focuses on intellectual nonfiction, philosophy, science, and spirituality. Prices range €14–€28. It is committed to publishing works that explore fundamental questions and enrich cultural debate. Lindau’s translations of significant international thinkers complement its Italian author list, creating a catalog that invites deep reflection. Its books are valued for clarity, accessibility, and their ability to bring complex ideas to a wider audience.

27. Castelvecchi Editore

Castelvecchi, founded in 1993 in Rome, is known for political essays, biographies, and contemporary fiction. Prices range €12–€24. The publisher has built a reputation for tackling current issues and fostering public debate. Its editorial direction favors sharp, critical perspectives, making it a go-to for readers seeking intellectually engaging and socially relevant works. Castelvecchi balances a strong nonfiction presence with literary offerings that reflect Italy’s evolving cultural landscape.

28. Giuffrè Francis Lefebvre

Giuffrè Francis Lefebvre is Italy’s leading publisher of legal, tax, and professional reference materials. Prices range from €20 manuals to multi-volume codes costing hundreds of euros. Serving lawyers, accountants, and academics, it combines authoritative content with practical tools. The company’s digital platforms extend its reach beyond print, offering searchable databases and updates. Its reputation for accuracy and compliance makes it indispensable in the Italian legal and professional sectors.

29. Voland Edizioni

Founded in 1994, Voland focuses on literary fiction and translated works, particularly from Eastern Europe and Russia. Prices range €12–€20. Voland’s distinctive branding and commitment to lesser-known literary traditions set it apart in Italy’s publishing landscape. It introduces Italian readers to voices they might not otherwise encounter, enriching cultural diversity. Its editorial approach is both bold and intimate, appealing to adventurous readers.

30. Marcos y Marcos

Established in 1981 in Milan, Marcos y Marcos is an independent house specializing in literary fiction, poetry, and narrative nonfiction. Prices range €12–€22. Known for its personal relationships with authors and hands-on editorial style, it nurtures both established and debut voices. Marcos y Marcos’ catalog often reflects a playful yet thoughtful sensibility, balancing entertainment with artistic ambition, and is celebrated for its distinctive, eye-catching cover designs.

31. Chiarelettere

Founded in 2007, Chiarelettere publishes investigative nonfiction, political commentary, and narrative journalism. Prices range €14–€26. Its mission is to inform and provoke thought, often tackling controversial topics with a commitment to truth and transparency. Chiarelettere’s books appeal to engaged citizens and readers interested in contemporary issues. The publisher’s bold editorial stance ensures it plays an active role in shaping public discourse in Italy.

32. Tunué Editore

Based in Latina and founded in 2004, Tunué specializes in graphic novels, illustrated books, and young adult fantasy. Prices range €8–€20. Tunué has elevated the graphic novel in Italy, treating it as a serious literary form while maintaining mass appeal. Collaborating with both Italian and international artists, it blends visual creativity with compelling narratives. Its catalog bridges art and storytelling, attracting comic enthusiasts and mainstream readers alike.

Italy’s Publishing Output by Genre in 2025

Below is a breakdown of Italy’s publishing market share across major genres in 2025. These figures reflect both print and digital formats, highlighting Italy’s diverse literary landscape.

Genre	Share of Market (%)
Fiction	38%
Non-Fiction	24%
Academic & Educational	15%
Art & Design	8%
Children’s Literature	9%
Comics & Graphic Novels	6%

Analysis:
Fiction continues to dominate, especially literary novels, historical sagas, and contemporary works that blend cultural depth with accessibility. Non-fiction sees steady demand from memoirs, essays, and practical guides, while the academic sector remains robust thanks to university publishing programs. Children’s books and graphic novels are showing growth, driven by visually rich, storytelling-focused Italian publishing traditions.

How Italian Publishers Compete in the International Market

Italian publishing houses have mastered the art of balancing tradition with innovation to remain competitive globally. Their strengths lie in:

• Translation Excellence: Many Italian publishers invest heavily in high-quality translations, enabling local works to resonate with readers abroad while also adapting foreign titles for the Italian market.
• Presence at Major Book Fairs: Events like the Frankfurt Book Fair, London Book Fair, and Bologna Children’s Book Fair provide Italian publishers direct exposure to global agents and distributors.
• Collaborations with International Distributors: Partnerships ensure titles reach overseas bookstores and digital platforms efficiently.
• Exporting Italian Culture: Books on art, architecture, cuisine, and history appeal to a global audience eager for authentic cultural experiences.
• Leveraging Digital: Many publishers are expanding their reach via e-books, audiobooks, and online literary events.

In 2025, Italian publishers are not just selling books — they’re exporting a cultural experience rooted in centuries of storytelling tradition.

Conclusion

Italy’s publishing industry is a testament to the power of cultural heritage meeting modern innovation. From historical giants like Mondadori and Einaudi to dynamic independent presses such as Minimum Fax and Tunué, the country’s publishers are shaping global literary conversations.

In 2025, these 32 publishers are not only sustaining Italy’s rich literary tradition but also embracing eco-friendly practices, experimenting with new genres, and forging international alliances. Whether you’re an author seeking a home for your manuscript, a translator looking to bridge cultures, or a literary agent scouting fresh talent, Italy’s publishing houses offer unmatched opportunities to connect with readers worldwide.

Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.