C’mon, let’s face it. Every bibliophile out there has dreamt of a grand expedition to explore all the world ‘s best bookstores.
After all, there’s nothing quite like getting lost among the shelves of books in a magical library or discovering hidden gems tucked away in a cozy corner bookstore. But who has the time or money to travel around the world?
Well, you don’t have to! With this list of the best bookstores around the globe, I’m bringing my dream journey to you – no airfare required. So get ready for a literary adventure from the comfort of your home!
Let’s go on a tour of the world’s most extraordinary bookstores and see what gems we can find. From must-visit indie shops to majestic libraries, these are the ultimate destinations for book lovers.
Prepare to fall in love with stories in every language and memory-filled aisles full of books. Ready to explore? Let’s go!
Visit These Enchanting Bookstores and Feel Like You’re in Another World
1. Shakespeare and Company
What better place to start than at the quintessential bookstore for book lovers?
Located along the Seine in Paris, the original Shakespeare and Company became a mecca for writers and intellectuals in the 1920s. Ernest Hemingway famously called it his “second home” – so it’s no surprise that this fabled literary landmark has been captivating readers ever since.
This iconic bookstore has been serving the literary community for over 100 years. Browse through their two stories of bookshelves filled with classic literature and unique finds from around the world. Plus, visitors can get an autograph from the resident cat!
In addition to being a bookstore, Shakespeare and Company also functions as a hostel; if you’re looking for somewhere to stay while traveling through Paris, this is an excellent option.
Related: Caffeine-Fueled Reading Sessions – Why I Love to Read in Cafes
Related: The Ultimate Reading Essentials Kit: What Every Book Lover Needs
2. El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires
When you think of bookstores, you probably don’t imagine a grand opera house with red velvet curtains and balconies lined with bookshelves – but that’s exactly what you’ll find here!
The former live theater was transformed into one of the world’s most beautiful libraries in 2000, making it an unforgettable destination for readers from all over the world.
3. Livraria Lello, Porto: Best Bookstores in the World
This iconic bookstore is renowned for its striking art nouveau architecture and winding staircases. Step inside this magical shop and you’ll find gorgeous wood-paneled walls lined with bookshelves full of literary treasures.
Don’t forget to take a picture in front of the iconic red staircase!
4. Libreria Acqua Alta, Venice
It’s no surprise that the ‘City of Water’ has one of the world’s most unique bookstores! It’s named after the annual high tide (acqua alta) that floods the city with seawater.
Located in a small alleyway near St. Mark’s Square, Libreria Acqua Alta is full of books – both on land and in gondolas floating in a canal inside the building!
5. Librairie Avant Garde, Shanghai
This vibrant underground independent bookstore may be small, but it’s full of literary gems.
Explore the two stories of bookshelves and find everything from classic Chinese literature to contemporary novels.
6. Waterstones, Piccadilly: Best Bookstores in the World
This gorgeous London bookstore is home to over 8 miles of books! Prepare to be dazzled by the exquisite Art Nouveau architecture as you wander through four floors filled with every type of book imaginable.
7. The Last Bookstore, Los Angeles
Who says physical books aren’t popular anymore? For proof that print isn’t dead, look no further than The Last Bookstore in downtown L.A., which has been selling new and used volumes since 2005.
The Last Bookstore is an independent bookstore and coffee shop in downtown Los Angeles. It was founded by Josh Spencer, who wanted to create a space where people could buy, sell, and discover books.
The Last Bookstore is more than just a place to browse through shelves or pick up a new read — it’s also an art gallery. The space houses over 100 artists’ work on display at any given time, which makes this store unique among bookstores worldwide. Plus, their giant mural made out of books is a must-see!
The Last Bookstore also hosts monthly events such as Story Time with Malibu Ken (a librarian who reads children’s books), Record Store Day celebrations, and various author signings.
8. Kalk Bay Books, Cape Town
Tucked away near an old blacksmith’s store near the bay, this cozy independent bookstore is known for its excellent selection of books. Stop by on a Saturday and you might just catch one of their many events or live readings!
9. Cook & Book Brussels: Best Bookstores in the World
Do you like to read while eating? Then this book café is the perfect place for you! Cook & Book has both a restaurant and a bookstore, so you can grab a bite to eat while browsing through their shelves.
10. Atlantis Bookshop, London
Located in the heart of central London, this historic shop has been a haven for occultists and spiritual seekers since 1922. Head here to find rare and hard-to-find books on all things related to Magick, witchcraft, and the paranormal.
11. Le Bal des Ardents, France
This unique bookstore is packed with both new and used books in multiple languages. It’s also home to a cafe with an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy your book while taking in the beautiful views of the old city center.
12. St Mark’s Bookshop, New York City
Located in the East Village neighborhood of downtown Manhattan, this independent bookstore has been serving readers for over 40 years. Stop by for excellent selection of fiction and nonfiction titles plus weekly events such as author readings and live music!
13. Librairie Ulysse, Montreal: Best Bookstores in the World
This beloved local bookstore is known for its friendly staff and fantastic selection of books in English and French. Plus, they have a café area where you can relax with a book and a cup of coffee!
14. Selexyz Dominicanen Bookstore, Maastricht
This stunning 13th century former church-turned-bookstore is one of Europe’s most beautiful book stores.
Explore the grand stained-glass windows, soaring ceilings, and winding staircases while you search for your perfect read!
15. Book & Bed Tokyo
If you’re looking for an unusual place to stay in Japan’s capital city, look no further than this unique bookstore-hotel hybrid.
Pick from a selection of bunk beds inside the shop or take your pick from their vast selection of books – both new and used – to get lost in for hours on end!
16. Munro’s Books, Victoria
This family-owned bookstore has been supplying readers with an unbeatable selection of books since 1963.
If you’re looking for something specific, their friendly staff are always happy to help – and there’s even a cozy café onsite where you can relax with your new read!
17. Bookz & Booze, Ghent: Best Bookstores in the World
This quirky little bookstore is perfect for bibliophiles who also enjoy a good drink!
Pick out your favorite book and then make your way to their cozy bar to enjoy a beer or glass of wine while you curl up with your new find.
18. Leakey’s Bookshop, Inverness
This Scottish bookstore has been around since 1843, so you know you’re in for a treat when it comes to selection!
Take your time browsing through the shelves and pick up some classic titles or rare finds – plus they have a cozy café attached where you can enjoy your new book.
19. Librairie Mollat, Bordeaux: Best Bookstores in the World
This beautiful bookstore has been around since 1895 and still boasts its original stained glass windows and artwork.
With over 150,000 titles to choose from you’ll be sure to find something that fits your fancy – plus they offer discounts on new releases every month!
20. Powell’s City of Books, Portland
The largest independent bookstore in the world, Powell’s is a must-see on any book lover’s list.
With over a million titles to choose from, it’s easy to get lost in the shelves – but don’t worry, their knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help you find what you’re looking for.
21. The Book Loft, Columbus
This 32-room shop is one of the largest independent bookstores in the United States and boasts an incredible selection of titles for all ages.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of books, take a break at their café to enjoy some snacks and refreshments!
22. Word on the Water, London
As one of London’s only floating bookstores, Word on the Water is truly unique!
Pick from an eclectic selection of secondhand reads as you marvel at their 1920s barge. Plus, they often host live events on board – so don’t miss a chance to experience something truly special!
23. Bart’s Books, Ojai: Best Bookstores in the World
This outdoor bookstore is the perfect spot for browsing in the sunshine!
With over 300,000 titles stocking the shelves, it’s not hard to get lost in literature – but don’t worry, their helpful staff are always on hand to help you find what you’re looking for.
24. Honesty Bookshop, Edinburgh
This independent bookseller has been around since the 1960s and is still as popular as ever!
Here you’ll find a wide selection of international titles alongside rare and collectible editions. Plus, they have an in-house café where you can enjoy a cup of tea while browsing the shelves!
25. Strand, New York City: Best Bookstores in the World
This iconic bookstore has been open since 1927 and is a must-visit spot for any book lover. With its signature 18 miles of bookshelves, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your fancy – plus they host many events throughout the year.
No matter where in the world you wander, there is a bookshop waiting to be explored!
Whether it’s an old-fashioned store or a unique floating barge, each of these bookstores will take you on an unforgettable literary adventure.
So go ahead and take a literary adventure – you never know what hidden gems you’ll discover along the way!
“The bookstores of the world are like a thousand entrances into a single magical realm, filled with treasure and adventure beyond compare.”
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