Free alternatives to Bembo
The closest free alternative to Bembo is Cardo, based on the same Aldine type from 1495. EB Garamond and Crimson Pro work well for book text.
- 5 free alternatives
- Free for commercial use
- Updated November 2026
At a glance
| Font | Match | Weights | Italics | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardo | Close match | 400 to 700 | Yes | Books and scholarly text |
| EB Garamond | Close match | 400 to 800 | Yes | Books and classic editorial |
| Crimson Pro | Similar feel | 200 to 900 | Yes | Books and long reads |
| Cormorant Garamond | Similar feel | 300 to 700 | Yes | Refined, quiet branding |
| Gentium Book Plus | Similar feel | 400 to 700 | Yes | Books and long text |
The 5 best free alternatives
Same widths: drawn to the same letter widths, so nothing reflows. Close match: nearest look. Similar feel: same mood, different details.
Cardo
Close match
Best alternative
A Renaissance book serif based on the Aldine type of 1495. Regular, bold and italic.
EB Garamond
Close match
A Garamond based on Claude Garamond's own type, with weights from 400 to 800 and italics.
Crimson Pro
Similar feel
A classic book serif with weights from 200 to 900 and italics.
Cormorant Garamond
Similar feel
A refined, high-contrast Garamond with weights from 300 to 700 and italics. Best at larger sizes.
Gentium Book Plus
Similar feel
A classic, open book serif with regular, bold and italics.
Pair it with
Curated pairings that use these alternatives.
About Bembo
Bembo was released by Monotype in 1929, based on type cut by Francesco Griffo for Aldus Manutius in Venice in 1495.
- Designed by
- Monotype, 1929, after Francesco Griffo
- License
- Paid
- Best free match
- Cardo
Questions about Bembo
Is Bembo free?
No. Bembo needs a paid license for websites, apps and commercial work.
What is the closest free font to Bembo?
The closest free alternative to Bembo is Cardo, based on the same Aldine type from 1495.
Is Bembo on Google Fonts?
No. Cardo, EB Garamond and Crimson Pro are the closest Bembo-style fonts on Google Fonts.
What font pairs well with Cardo?
Cardo pairs well with TASA Orbiter or Elms Sans.
More font alternatives
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