Best Bookshops Around The World

There is nothing better in the entire world than walking into a hip, independent bookshop and taking in the bibliosmia (the scent of books). If you’re a self-proclaimed bibliophile, you’ll know the joy of a new book purchase. You’ll want to book your next trip with these destinations in mind and visit some of the best bookshops around the world!

Shakespeare and Company

Paris, France

The Shakespeare and Company bookstore has a rich history, with famous patrons such as Ernest Hemingway, Djuna Barnes, Anais Nin, Ezra Pound, and many more. During World War II, Sylvia Beach chose to shut down the shop rather than sell her books to the occupying German forces. The shop was reopened in 1951 by George Whitman, who designed his shop to be the ultimate bibliophile experience. Each room of the shop is like a chapter of a book, with new corners to sink into and new titles to dive into. Next time you’re in Paris, visit the shop on the rue de la Bucherie.

The Strand

New York City, New York

The Strand has stood the test of time, remaining the only bookstore on Book Row since 1927. This shop boasts over 18 miles of books and hosts its unique “books by the foot” sales. You’ll find a massive trove of new, used, and rare books, as well as one of the largest collections of art books in the world.

City Lights Books

San Francisco, California

Founded in 1953 by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, City Lights Books was the United States’ first all-paperback bookstore. In an era where bookstores catered to the business center and kept standard business hours, City Lights Books became a literary mecca for budding writers and publishers. City Lights Books became the center of an obscenity trial after publishing Allen Ginsberg’s Howl in 1956, launching the shop to infamy. The bookstore-cum-publisher is widely heralded for championing First Amendment rights. This gem is a truly historic landmark and has been acknowledged by the City of San Francisco.

Powell’s City of Books

Portland, Oregon

Powell’s is the largest independent bookstore globally and takes up an entire city block in the heart of Portland. The flagship store boasts over a million books and not just any books! They carefully choose each book that lines their shelves and pride themselves on amassing a collection of some of the most acclaimed titles in the world.

Foyles on Charing Cross Road

Soho, London, England

You’ll find Foyles in the heart of the West End on Charing Cross Road. Foyles is by far one of the most famous bookshops in the greater London area. The children’s section alone is big enough to get lost in for hours! The shop is lined with thousands of books and memorabilia. The café is absolutely cozy and welcoming, so you can dive into your new favorite book while nipping on some tea and cakes.

No matter where you travel to next, be sure to check out the local literary shops and find yourself a new book to take on your adventures!