Bookstores to Visit Around the World - Travel inspiration

Any bookworm will tell you that one of the best ways to experience the heart of a city is through its bookstores - both chain and independent.

Bookstores are comforting in their familiarity, yet each one offers its own unique curiosities to be discovered. Not only do you get a sense of the place you’re in, you can usually find authors unique to the area (and of course, you can pick up an excellent souvenir or two… or three).

And while the big chains should not be ignored, it is the smaller boutique shops that will provide a lasting local impression.

So without further adieu, here are some must visit bookstores around the world and one famous one to skip:

Livraria Lello - Porto, Portugal

Address: R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161

Livraria Lello, Bookstore, Porto, Portugal

The oldest bookstore on this list and one of the oldest in Portugal, Livraria Lello has often been called the most beautiful bookstore in the world. For good reason! The building is fully adorned, inside and out, with Neo-Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco design elements. The highlight for most visitors is the stunning central staircase and stained-glass skylight. Many visitors will also come to see the place that apparently inspired J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world. There is Potter-themed memorabilia hidden throughout the store to reward those in search of magic. Note also the wonderful selection of Portuguese literature, from Fernando Pessoa to José Saramago.

Note: Visitors will have to first purchase a ticket/voucher (€5 per adult) before entering this bookstore. However, the cost of entering can be deducted from any book purchased.

Store hours: Open daily from 9:30am - 5pm.

The Strand - New York, USA

Address: 828 Broadway at 12th Street

You may recognize this iconic bookstore from one of its many film and television appearances. From The Bishop’s Wife (1948) to Julie and Julia (2009) to Sex and the City (1998-2004), The Strand is deservedly famous. The massive Broadway location claims to house over “23 miles” of books and it feels like it! You could spend an entire day browsing the selection of both new and used books, as well as some rare collectibles. Make sure to check out the staff recommendations for some hidden gems. Or just pop in for a picture and a tote bag! Either way it is definitely a New York landmark to put on your list. And what better way to spend a sunny afternoon in New York than grabbing a book to read in one of the many city parks?

Store Hours: Monday-Sunday from 10:00am - 8:00pm.

Luytens and Rubenstein - London, England, UK

Address: 21 Kensington Park Road, W11

*(Image Source: https://www.gessato.com/map_listing/lutyens-rubinstein/)*

Tucked away in Notting Hill, founded by literary agents Sarah Lutyens and Felicity Rubenstein, you’ll find the lovely Lutyens and Rubenstein Bookshop. Though it is the smallest store on this list, it is also one of the most lovingly curated. Find the newest bestsellers alongside harder to find indie titles. Follow the winding staircase down to the basement where they have a wonderful selection of classics. Alongside the books you’ll find a dazzling array of stationary and trinkets – perfect to pack in your suitcase as a last-minute gift. Bag already too full? Ask the staff about their new book subscription service – whether you’re into literary fiction, cookbooks, or children’s literature, there’s something for everyone here! After browsing the titles, take a stroll down Portobello Road to find more treasures, or stop for tea and treat at Biscuiteers.

Store Hours: Monday-Saturday from 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm.

Shakespeare and Co - Paris, France (5ème)

What could be more romantic - and literary - than a famous bookstore, named after a beloved playwright, in the heart of Paris? Sadly, the reality of visiting Shakespeare and Co. looks nothing like your dark academia Pinterest boards and saved Instagram posts. The experience is more reminiscent of a trip to Times Square, as you sweatily elbow your way through other tourists while disgruntled shop attendants point to a sign that says “NO PICTURES.” Once the be-all-and-end-all of expat bookshop experiences, the glamour of Paris’ beloved English bookstore has somewhat lessened in recent years.

Luxembourg Gardens, Paris, France — *Become a local and find yourself a spot to read at the lovely Luxembourg Gardens, Paris.*

However, the shop is still worth a visit in off-hours if you’re determined to check it off your bucket list or just happen to be in the area. That said, do yourself a favour and avoid this tourist heavy spot, and instead opt for more local gems, such as the more low-key but equally charming Red Wheelbarrow (9, rue de Médicis, 75006, Paris).

Opened by Canadian Penelope Fletcher, named after a William Carlos Williams poem, The Red Wheelbarrow offers all local expat charm without the tourists. Situated on the edge of Le Jardin du Luxembourg, you’ll want nothing more than to grab a new book before sprawling out amongst the statues and fountains in this large city park. And you won’t be alone, as locals can always be found reading (and napping) in front of the Palais du Luxembourg.

Stay tuned - more bookstores and shops to be added!