20 unique bookstores to visit worldwide

What started as a place for Anglophone writers to commiserate and for English speakers to find books in Paris is now a cultural institution. Make sure to get there early to avoid lines, especially for the great cafe.

What was once a 19th-century theater is now Portugal’s most beautiful bookstore. The shop has well-preserved stained-glass windows, winding wood staircases and bridges, and Neo-Gothic architecture.

Who doesn’t love a good drink with a new favorite read? Well, the Bookstore Bar & Cafe in downtown Seattle embraces this concept. Enjoy a cocktail or full meal in a library-esque atmosphere surrounded by literary classics (you’re welcome to read during your visit). Reservations are recommended.

This opulent shop in the Argentine capital is a big draw for travelers. The independent seller has frequently been crowned the “world’s most beautiful bookstore” by various publications. And for good reason, the former theater has rows of books in old seating areas, all overlooking the still-maintained red-curtained stage.

Housed in one of the city’s oldest buildings, Clarke’s has a homey feel and has long been a haven for bookworms. The shop specializes in African literature but also has other titles available.

Oregonians will tell you not to miss three things in Portland: Voodoo Donuts, the Rose and Japanese Gardens, and Powell’s. The store doesn’t initially seem like much — just a large warehouse. The unique factor is in the organization, which is by color. It's maddening, but just ask the friendly staff if you’re looking for something specific.

It might not initially look like this small town in Wales is worth a stop. But this adorable store located in the castle ruins has a great open-air setup.

Like so much in Tokyo, this bookstore has a futuristic look. The connected corners of it contain an interesting mix of titles, perfect if you’re not sure what you’re looking for.

This epic bookstore worth a visit is in the northern part of Santorini. Atlantis offers a variety of titles in various languages and one of the best views on the island. 

Located in an old bank building downtown, this symbol of creative resilience is part bookstore, part art gallery. Visitors can enjoy a maze-like experience while searching for their next great read.

Books and coffee go together like burgers and fries! This Mexico City institution is a small local chain, serving some of the best coffee in town while offering a great array of books.

Down in New Zealand, they have an interesting sense of humor when it comes to naming shops. Although this one is after a novel, it’s very much alive. The tiny store has titles stacked literally from bottom to top and feels a bit like a packed attic.

Near the Dutch border with Belgium, this fantastic bookshop feels like you’ve just stepped into another world. The bookstore is in an old monastery (hence the name) and still has well-preserved stained glass and Gothic arched ceilings.

This amazing gem is the heart of Francophone literature in the city. It has well-thought-out window displays and often hosts author readings. Additionally, as it is primarily Quebec literature, you’ll find titles difficult to come by elsewhere. 

As if Venice wasn’t already cool enough, it also houses one of the world’s coolest bookstores. The Libreria Acqua Alta displays books as only the Venetians would — in old gondolas and bathtubs!

This design feat in China’s Zhejiang province will delight even the most skeptical visitors. The all-glass greenhouse appearance is set in the mountains and forest. It’s attached to a hotel and cafe if you want to extend your stay!

No trip to the Big Smoke is complete without a trip to a bookstore. Daunt Books is lauded by many as one of the best. The Edwardian-era building feels like a hidden library with large wood balconies and impressive stained-glass windows.

This large Japanese retailer has a great space in downtown Sydney. The huge space contains massive floor-to-ceiling windows and a colorful interior that feels like being back in school.

Venice and Amsterdam aren’t the only European cities with canals. London has plenty along the Thames River and one of its coolest bookstores is in a canal boat!

Brussels is a city known for culinary icons; waffles, fries, and chocolate, oh my! At Cook and Book, you can dine in nine different literary-themed rooms while you browse the titles.