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As someone who loves spending time in bookshops, gently wandering along aisles of shelving, browsing the wide variety of titles on offer. This post is where I’ve put together a list of bookshops across the world that I have visited, but mostly the ones that I would love to visit.
24 Bookshops Across the World to Visit
UK
St Ives Bookseller, Cornwall
St Ives Bookseller is an independent bookstore located in the picturesque town of St Ives, Cornwall. This charming shop is well-known for its curated selection of books that spans a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, and local interest titles. Given its location, the store often features works by local Cornish authors, as well as books on Cornwall’s history, culture, and landscape.
The bookstore is beloved by both locals and visitors alike, often serving as a cozy retreat for those looking to escape into the world of books after exploring the town’s famous beaches, art galleries, and scenic views. St Ives Bookseller’s warm, welcoming atmosphere, combined with its knowledgeable staff, makes it a treasure for book lovers in the area.
Location: 2 Fore Street, St Ives, Cornwall, TR26 1AB,
Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, Bath
Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights is a renowned independent bookstore located in Bath. It has gained a stellar reputation for its personalized service, unique book recommendations, and creative approach to bookselling. The shop is famous for its “Reading Spa” experience, where customers can enjoy one-on-one consultations with knowledgeable staff to discover tailored book suggestions while sipping tea or coffee. Another popular service is the “Book Subscription” offering, where subscribers receive handpicked books suited to their tastes.
Mr B’s Emporium is known for its quirky and inviting atmosphere, with cozy reading nooks, vibrant decor, and shelves brimming with a wide variety of genres, from contemporary fiction to non-fiction, children’s books, and more niche selections. The store frequently hosts events, including author talks, reading groups, and workshops, making it a cultural hub for the local community. Its commitment to fostering a love of reading and creating memorable literary experiences has earned it multiple awards and a loyal following.
Location: 14-15 John Street, Bath, BA1 2JL
Jaffé and Neale, Stow-on-the-Wold
Jaffé and Neale is an independent bookstore and café located in the charming Cotswold town of Stow-on-the-Wold. Established in 2001, it is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists who appreciate its warm, welcoming environment and excellent selection of books. The store offers a carefully curated range of genres, including contemporary fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature, and titles of local interest, with a focus on quality and originality.
What sets Jaffé and Neale apart is its combination of a bookshop with a café, where visitors can enjoy freshly brewed coffee, homemade cakes, and snacks while browsing or reading. The inviting atmosphere encourages lingering and conversation, making it a social hub as much as a literary one. The shop also hosts regular events, such as book launches, author talks, and reading groups, further enriching the local community’s cultural life. Known for its excellent customer service, knowledgeable staff, and delightful setting.
Location: 8 Park Street, Stow-on-the-Wold, GL54 1AQ
Barter Books, Alnwick
Barter Books, located in the historic town of Alnwick, Northumberland, is one of the largest second-hand bookstores in the UK. Housed in a former Victorian railway station, this unique and expansive bookshop offers a one-of-a-kind literary experience. Barter Books is renowned not only for its vast collection of second-hand books across all genres but also for its charming and nostalgic atmosphere.
The store operates on a barter system, where customers can exchange their used books for credit to spend in the shop. Visitors are greeted by cosy seating areas, open fires during the colder months, and a model railway that runs around the top of the bookshelves, enhancing the railway station ambiance. The building’s high ceilings, vintage decor, and classic railway features add to its charm, making it feel like stepping back in time.
In addition to books, there is a café on-site, where customers can enjoy tea, coffee, and homemade treats while browsing or relaxing. With its distinctive character, extensive book selection, and cosy setting, Barter Books has become a destination in its own right, attracting book lovers from far and wide.
Location: Alnwick Station, Northumberland NE66 2NP
The London Review Bookshop, London
The London Review Bookshop, located in Bloomsbury, London, is one of the city’s most esteemed independent bookstores. Founded in 2003 by the team behind the renowned London Review of Books, the shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books, particularly in literature, philosophy, history, politics, and poetry. The focus is on high-quality writing, often featuring challenging and thought-provoking works from around the world.
The bookshop also includes a café, known for its excellent coffee, cakes, and light lunches, providing a perfect setting for reading, studying, or catching up with friends. The quiet, intimate ambiance of the shop, combined with the expertise of the staff, creates a space where literature is truly celebrated.
Location: 14 Bury Place, London, WC1A 2JL
The Book Hive, Norwich
The Book Hive, located in the heart of Norwich, is a celebrated independent bookstore known for its eclectic selection and vibrant literary spirit. Opened in 2009 by Henry Layte, the shop has become a cultural hub for both locals and visitors, offering a carefully curated range of titles that focuses on quality and originality. Its collection spans a variety of genres, from contemporary fiction and poetry to art, design, and children’s literature, with a particular emphasis on small press and independent publishers.
The Book Hive is housed in a quirky, multi-level building with a unique, welcoming atmosphere. Its playful layout and cozy reading nooks encourage exploration, making it a place where visitors can easily lose themselves in browsing. The knowledgeable staff are known for their personal recommendations and passion for books, adding to the store’s charm and reputation for excellent customer service.
Location: 53 London Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 1HL
Village Books, Leeds
Village Books is an independent bookstore and creative space located in the city of Leeds. Known for its focus on art, design, photography, fashion, and independent publications, Village caters to readers with a passion for visual and contemporary creativity. It specializes in limited edition books, magazines, zines, and prints, making it a go-to destination for those seeking unique, hard-to-find works, often by emerging or independent artists and publishers.
The shop has a modern, minimalist design, creating a clean and inviting atmosphere where the carefully curated selection of books and prints can be explored. Village is more than just a bookstore; it functions as a cultural space, regularly hosting exhibitions, book launches, and talks by artists, photographers, and writers. These events help foster a strong sense of community among creatives in Leeds and beyond.
Location: 3 Thornton’s Arcade, Leeds, LS1 6LQ
EUROPE
Libreria Acqua Alta, Venice
Libreria Acqua Alta, located in Venice, Italy, is one of the most unique and atmospheric bookstores in the world. Known as the “bookstore of high water,” it is famous for its eclectic design and creative approach to dealing with Venice’s frequent floods. Books are housed in gondolas, bathtubs, barrels, and other waterproof containers, which keep the stock safe when the acqua alta (high tide) rises and floods the shop.
One of Libreria Acqua Alta’s most famous features is its picturesque outdoor area, where a staircase made of old books leads to a view over one of Venice’s canals, creating a perfect spot for book lovers and photographers alike. The store’s charm and character, combined with its resilience in the face of the city’s environmental challenges, make it a must-visit for book lovers exploring Venice.
Location: Calle Longa Santa Maria Formosa Castello 5176 – 30122 Venice
Livraria Lello & Irmão, Porto
Livraria Lello & Irmão, located in Porto, Portugal, is one of the world’s most stunning and iconic bookstores. Opened in 1906, the bookstore is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, blending neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. Its intricate wooden interiors, grand spiral staircase, and magnificent stained-glass ceiling make it feel more like a cathedral to literature than a typical bookshop. These unique features have made Livraria Lello a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the globe.
Though it now requires an entrance fee to manage the crowds, Livraria Lello continues to operate as a fully functioning bookstore, offering visitors the chance to purchase books while admiring its extraordinary interior. It’s not just a place to buy books, but an essential stop for lovers of literature and architecture alike.
Shakespeare & Co., Paris
Shakespeare and Company, located in the heart of Paris on the Left Bank, is one of the most iconic and historic independent bookstores in the world. Established in 1951 by George Whitman (under the original name “Le Mistral”), the bookstore has become a literary landmark, celebrated for its rich history and association with numerous famous writers.
The store is housed in a charming, picturesque building with a distinctive Tudor-style façade. Inside, the space is cozy and eclectic, filled with narrow aisles lined with bookshelves, old wooden furniture, and an array of literary memorabilia. Shakespeare and Company has a storied past as a gathering place for writers, poets, and intellectuals. It was a haven for expatriate authors such as Allen Ginsberg, William Burroughs, and Anaïs Nin, and it played a significant role in the Beat Generation and post-war literary movements.
The bookstore is renowned for its free literary events, including readings, book launches, and discussions. It also has a tradition of offering “tumbleweeds” (unpaid interns) a place to stay in exchange for working at the store, continuing its legacy of fostering a community of writers and readers.
The current owner, Sylvia Whitman, continues her father’s legacy of maintaining the bookstore’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Shakespeare and Company remains a must-visit destination for book lovers and anyone interested in literary history, offering not just books but a deeply immersive cultural experience.
Location: 37 rue de la Bucherie, Quartier Latin, 75005 Paris
Carturesti Carusel, Bucharest
Carturesti Carusel is a stunning bookstore located in the heart of Bucharest, Romania. Opened in 2015, it quickly gained acclaim for its breathtaking design and has become a major cultural landmark in the city. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, Carturesti Carusel combines historic charm with modern aesthetics.
Carturesti Carusel also houses a café and a restaurant, providing a relaxing space for visitors to enjoy a coffee or meal while surrounded by books. The store frequently hosts cultural events such as book launches, readings, and exhibitions, further enhancing its role as a cultural hub in Bucharest.
The bookstore’s combination of architectural beauty, literary offerings, and cultural programming has made it a popular destination for both locals and tourists, solidifying its reputation as one of Bucharest’s premier independent bookstores.
Location: Lipscani 55 Bucharest
Open Door Bookshop, Rome
Open Door Bookshop, located in Rome, Italy, is an independent bookstore known for its inviting atmosphere and curated selection of books. Situated in a charming area of the city, the shop offers a wide range of titles across various genres, including literature, history, art, and travel.
The bookstore is appreciated for its personal touch, with staff who are knowledgeable and passionate about books, providing tailored recommendations and creating a warm, welcoming environment for visitors. In addition to its book offerings, Open Door Bookshop often hosts events such as book presentations, author readings, and discussions, contributing to Rome’s vibrant literary scene.
The store’s name reflects its commitment to openness and inclusion, creating a space where book lovers of all backgrounds can feel at home. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring the city, Open Door Bookshop provides a cozy retreat and a chance to discover both new and classic literary works.
Location: Via della Lungaretta 23 – 00153 Rome
Saint George’s English Bookstore, Berlin
Saint George’s English Bookstore in Berlin is a cherished independent bookstore that caters primarily to English-speaking readers. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Kreuzberg, the store is well-regarded for its extensive selection of English-language books across a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature, and more.
Saint George’s has built a reputation for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, often serving as a cultural hub for the English-speaking community in Berlin. The bookstore is known for its personalized service, with knowledgeable staff who provide thoughtful recommendations and foster a sense of community among book lovers.
Location: 27 Wörther Straße, Bezirk Pankow Berlin, Berlin, 10405
Librería AltaÏr, Barcelona
Librería Altaïr, located in Barcelona, is a well-regarded independent bookstore that specializes in travel literature, geography, and cultural studies. Established in 2003, Altaïr is known for its comprehensive selection of travel guides, maps, and books about different cultures and destinations from around the world.
The bookstore’s design is both modern and inviting, with an extensive range of books that cater to travelers, explorers, and those with a keen interest in global cultures. In addition to its impressive array of travel literature, Altaïr also features books on photography, history, and adventure.
Librería Altaïr serves as a cultural hub, hosting events such as travel-related talks, book presentations, and workshops. Its knowledgeable staff provide personalized recommendations and share their expertise on travel and cultural topics, enhancing the store’s reputation as a go-to destination for both seasoned travelers and those planning their next adventure.
Location: Gran Via de Les Corts Catalanes, 616, 08007, Barcelona
Írók Boltja, Budapest
Írók Boltja, located in Budapest, Hungary, is a celebrated independent bookstore known for its focus on Hungarian literature and its role in the local literary community. Founded in 2000, the store is dedicated to promoting both contemporary and classic Hungarian authors, as well as offering a selection of works in translation.
The bookstore has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with a curated collection that includes novels, poetry, essays, and works on Hungarian culture and history. In addition to its book offerings, Írók Boltja often hosts literary events such as author readings, book launches, and discussions, making it a vibrant cultural space in Budapest.
Írók Boltja is not only a place for book lovers but also a community hub where writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts can come together. Its commitment to supporting Hungarian literature and fostering a love of reading has made it a beloved fixture in Budapest’s literary landscape.
Location: Andrássy út 45, Budapest
REST OF THE WORLD
The Last Bookstore, Los Angeles
The Last Bookstore, located in downtown Los Angeles, is one of the city’s most iconic and unique independent bookstores. Established in 2005 by Josh Spencer, it has gained a reputation for its vast selection of books and its creative, artistic atmosphere.
The bookstore occupies a large, multi-level space in a historic building, featuring an impressive collection of new and used books, vinyl records, and art. One of its most famous features is its visually striking book sculptures and installations, including a large book tunnel and whimsical arrangements of books throughout the store, which create an immersive and playful experience for visitors.
Location: 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Cafebrería El Péndulo, Mexico City
Cafebrería El Péndulo, located in Mexico City, is a unique and beloved bookstore that combines a literary haven with a café. Established in 2003, El Péndulo is known for its inviting atmosphere and extensive selection of books across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, art, and children’s literature.
The bookstore’s design features comfortable seating areas, a relaxed café space, and a visually appealing layout that encourages visitors to browse and linger. In addition to its impressive book collection, El Péndulo offers a range of beverages, including coffee, tea, and pastries, making it a popular spot for reading, working, or socialising.
Location:
Bart’s Books, Ojai
Bart’s Books, located in Ojai, California, is a renowned independent bookstore celebrated for its charming open-air design and extensive collection of books. Established in 1964 by Richard Bartinsdale, the bookstore has become a beloved fixture in the Ojai Valley, attracting book lovers from near and far.
In addition to its impressive book collection, Bart’s Books has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, with areas for reading and relaxing. The bookstore also hosts occasional events, such as author signings and book discussions, adding to its role as a cultural hub in the Ojai community.
Bart’s Books is not only a place to find great reads but also a destination that embodies the charm and spirit of Ojai, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors.
Location: 302 W Matilija St, Ojai, CA 93023
Grolier Poetry Book Shop, Boston
Grolier Poetry Book Shop, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, near Harvard University, is one of the oldest and most esteemed poetry bookstores in the United States. Established in 1927 by Maurice J. McCarthy, the shop has a long-standing reputation for its focus on poetry and its role in the literary community.
The Grolier Poetry Book Shop is known for its curated selection of poetry books, including works by both established and emerging poets. Its intimate and welcoming atmosphere makes it a haven for poetry lovers and those seeking to explore the rich world of verse. The bookstore also serves as a gathering place for poets, writers, and readers, hosting readings, discussions, and other literary events that contribute to its vibrant cultural presence.
Location: 6 Plympton St, Cambridge, MA 02138
Longfellow Books, Portland, Maine
Longfellow Books, located in Portland, Maine, is a cherished independent bookstore known for its diverse selection and welcoming atmosphere. Established in 2000, Longfellow Books offers a wide range of titles across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, local interest, and children’s books.
In addition to its strong focus on books, Longfellow Books also hosts a selection of gifts, stationery, and locally made products, making it a popular destination for both book lovers and those looking for unique items. Its commitment to fostering a love of reading and supporting local authors and events makes it a beloved part of Portland’s literary landscape.
Location: 1 Monument Way, Portland, ME 04101
The Poisoned Pen, Scottsdale, Arizona
The Poisoned Pen, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a highly regarded independent bookstore specializing in mystery, crime, and thriller genres. Established in 1989 by Barbara Peters and Robert Rosenwald, the store has built a strong reputation for its extensive collection of mystery and crime fiction, as well as its knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff.
The Poisoned Pen is known for its welcoming and cozy atmosphere, with an impressive array of books from both popular and lesser-known authors in the genre. The bookstore also hosts a range of events, including author signings, book launches, and discussions, often featuring prominent mystery and thriller writers. These events contribute to the store’s vibrant literary community and make it a key destination for fans of the genre.
Location: 4014 N Goldwater Blvd Ste 101, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Books Actually, Singapore
BooksActually, located in Singapore, is a distinctive independent bookstore known for its eclectic selection and creative approach to bookselling. Founded in 2005 by Kenny Leck and Rachel Yeo, the store has become a beloved cultural hub in Singapore, celebrated for its unique offerings and community engagement.
The bookstore features a curated collection of books across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and local interest. It is particularly noted for its focus on independent publishers, local authors, and hard-to-find titles, catering to a diverse and discerning readership.
Location: 9 Yong Siak St Singapore 168645
Better Read Than Dead, Sydney
Better Read Than Dead, located in Sydney, Australia, is a well-regarded independent bookstore known for its diverse selection and welcoming atmosphere. Established in 2005, the store has built a reputation for offering a wide range of books across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature, and more.
The bookstore is noted for its personalized service, with knowledgeable staff who are passionate about books and eager to provide recommendations. The store often hosts events such as author talks, book launches, and book clubs, fostering a vibrant literary community in Sydney.
Better Read Than Dead also features a cozy and inviting space that encourages visitors to explore and discover new books. Its commitment to providing a great reading experience, along with its focus on community engagement and support for local authors, has made it a favorite destination for book lovers in Sydney.
Location: 265 King Street, Newtown, Sydney 2042
Where is your favourite bookshop?
Let me know in the comments.
