Looking for the best and oldest bookstores in Paris? Whether you are a fan of books or not, they are great places to visit in Paris. Many of the greatest novelists, playwrights, poets and philosophers have lived in Paris. So there is no better place to find out more about the historical as well as current events in this great city. There are countless (English) bookstores in Paris, each with their own characteristics that make it fascinating. There are also many nice bookstores in the covered passages in Paris.
Browse through classic books, poems or an extensive range of books about fashion, fashion & design. But you can also simply enjoy the cozy Parisian atmosphere that lives in the oldest bookshops in Paris. In any case, be sure to visit the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore. Just as we love books? We went looking for the 8 best bookstores in Paris for you.
• Fun to do: Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor or Summit (Option) & Cruise on the Seine (1h) →
1. Shakespeare and Company: most famous bookstore in Paris (5th)
Shakespeare & Co is without a doubt the most famous English bookstore in Paris. Over 100 years old and used to be the meeting place of some big names such as Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald. A bookstore full of history and charm. Afterwards, enjoy your new reading and a delicious espresso on the nice terrace of the Shakespeare & Company Café, just next door.
37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris | shakespeareandcompany.com →
2. Librairie Jousseaume: bookshop in Galerie Vivienne (2nd)
This old bookstore in Paris has existed since 1826 and is located in one of the most beautiful covered passages in Paris, Galerie Vivienne. Specializing in rare and second-hand books on topics such as history, travel, literature, poetry, theater and music. During the Christmas period, the store, like the Galerie Vivienne, is beautifully decorated and definitely worth a visit.
45-46-47 Galerie Vivienne, 75002 Paris | librairie-jousseaume.com →
3. Librairie Galignani: English and French Books (1st)
Librarie Galignani is also one of the best bookstores in Paris, beautifully situated opposite Jardin des Tuileries. With an excellent selection of both English and French literature and history. You will also find a series of books on fashion, design, travel and interior design.
224 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris | galignani.fr →
4. San Francisco Book Company: A must for bibliophiles (6th)
Tucked away in a somewhat narrow side street (very nice street, by the way), the San Francisco Book Company bookstore is a must for those looking for second-hand English-language books. The bookstore was founded in 1997 and specializes in a very wide range of books such as cooking, biology, children’s literature, theater, cinema, etc. We would like to come back here.
17 Rue Monsieur le Prince, 75006 Paris | sfparis.com →
5. OFR Bookshop: photography, art and fashion (3rd)
The bookshop Ofr. in the Le Marais district is a paradise for lovers of photography, art and fashion. At the back of the bookstore is a small gallery of 60 m² where events and exhibitions are often held. We always pay a visit when we are in the area. Can not be missed!
20 Rue Dupetit-Thouars, 75003 Paris | instagram.com/ofrparis/ →
6. Librairie Delamain: oldest bookstore in Paris (2nd)
Founded in 1708, Librairie Delamain is the oldest bookstore in Paris. Located in the heart of Paris, this bookshop offers a selection of bestsellers, old books and much more. Ideal as a stopover on your way from the Louvre or to the Comédie Française. You can finish with a drink on one of the best terraces in Paris at Le Nemours, across the street.
155 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris | librairie-delamain.com →
7. The Abbey Bookshop: cozy English bookstore (5th)
Located in the historic Latin Quarter neighborhood, The Abbey Bookshop is a cozy bookstore tucked into an 18th-century building. The owner is proud of his extensive English-language collection, with no fewer than 35,000 English titles. Look for a rare book or just have a chat with the friendly owner, who is on hand to answer any questions you may have or tell you a fun anecdote about the area.
29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris | abbeybookshop.org →
8. Halle Saint-Pierre: at the foot of Montmartre (18th)
This beautiful bookstore in Paris is located at the foot of Montmartre. Once a market hall and now a museum, gallery, bookshop, auditorium and cafe. In the shop a wide selection of books about art, photography, design, the history and culture of Paris and children’s books. The temporary exhibitions and numerous artistic and cultural activities in the arts center are also interesting. Nice to combine this bookstore with a visit to the Sacré-Coeur.
2 Rue Ronsard, 75018 Paris | hallesaintpierre.org →
Time to discover some of Paris’ best bookstores. You don’t have to be a bookworm to fall in love with the many wonderful bookshops. You haven’t really been to the city of lights without visiting the best bookshops in Paris. Have fun reading in Paris!
These are the best hotels to stay in Paris right now
• 7x Best hotels closest to Eiffel Tower with view
• 7x Best cheap hotels in Paris on a budget
• 6x Best boutique hotels in Le Marais Paris
• 5x Best boutique hotels in Montmartre Paris
• 12x Best romantic hotels in Paris for couples
• 7x The most expensive hotel rooms in Paris
• 8x Most charming boutique hotels in Paris
• More hotels in Paris? Have a look at booking.com
