Thinking of keeping a diary of life in Berlin or got something to write home about? There are several basic chains, such as McPaper, and specialised stationery stores that have all got the write stuff. For the home office, Office Point Germany has all the essentials covered. If you need personalised stationery, www.printjob24.de can put digital prints on business cards, notepaper, flyers and other stationery products.

For stylish stationery, Lamero in Pankow has a great range of Ciak diaries and filofaxes. If you’re willing to splurge, Berlin Confidential sells top-of-the-range Mont Blanc and Monteverdi pens, high-quality European writing paper, perfumed stationery, engraved greeting cards and beautiful gift wrap for special occasions. Papeterie Leporello has striking leather-bound Italian dairies and notepads from Moleskin and Ciak, while eco-conscious consumers should shop at Grüne Papeteri, which stocks recycled paper and stationery products. Sieben Wünsche (030 486 38111) has gift paper that’s far too pretty to be hastily torn and tossed out when unwrapping and leather-bound notebooks that will stand the test of time. Not to be missed are the colourful contents of the super-slick, all-black Mikro stationery store, which has everything from quirky Post It notes in the shape of big lips to vintage paper from the 50s. Staff will also masterfully wrap Christmas gifts to match your description of the recipient’s style from €8.50.