Paris has long been a magnet for writers for hundreds of years, with iconic figures like Victor Hugo, Marcel Proust, Hemingway and Jean-Paul Sartre shaping its literary legacy. In the 19th century, Paris was a bohemian hub for writers, artists, and intellectuals, many of whom found inspiration and camaraderie in the city’s cafés like Les Deux Magots, Café Procope, Café de Flore and Le Café de la Paix. Paris continues to captivate literary minds, offering a haven for dreamers and storytellers alike.
And if you’re a bookworm like me, you’ve undoubtedly heard of the famed Shakespeare & Co., heralded as one of the best bookstores in Paris. And for good reason! Stepping into Shakespeare and Company in Paris feels like walking into a dream where books come alive. Wooden shelves are tucked into every corner, with book sometimes spilling onto the floor. Narrow pathways lead visitors through this labyrinth, creating a sense of discovery at every turn. However, Shakespeare & Co. draws massive crowds these days! Located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, near iconic landmarks like Notre Dame and the Seine, it’s a natural stop for tourists exploring the city.
To beat the crowds, visiting early in the morning or during off-peak seasons is best. But even when I followed my advice and arrived early, I saw lineups an hour-long along the Seine. If you don’t have all the time in the world to wait in this line, I want you to know plenty of other fabulous bookstores in Paris deserve your time and money. If you’re searching for a great alternative to Shakespeare & Co., look at this list of my other favourite bookstores in Paris!
Just a short stroll from Shakespeare & Co., The Abbey Bookshop is a cozy, slightly chaotic wonderland of English-language books. Owned by a delightful Canadian expat who adds a personal touch to the shop, this place is stacked (literally to the rafters!) with novels, travel guides, poetry, and history books. Step inside and let the labyrinth of literature pull you in. Pro tip: They sometimes offer free coffee or tea—perfect for browsing on a chilly day.
Hidden at the foot of Montmartre, the bookstore at Halle Saint Pierre is a sanctuary for art lovers and bookworms alike. Housed in a delightful 19th-century building with a unique industrial design, its metal beams and large windows create a bright, open atmosphere, ideal for perusing the extensive collection. This is no ordinary bookstore—it offers a diverse range of books on art, photography, and design, as well as intriguing works that delve into The history and culture of Paris. And to add to its charm, there’s a cozy cafe right inside, perfect for enjoying a coffee while getting lost in a good book or jotting down your thoughts like all those famed writers who came to Paris before you.
The bouquinistes along the Seine are a Parisian icon, instantly recognizable by their green metal stalls brimming with books and other ephemeral treasures such as second-hand prints, postcards, and collectables. The term “bouquinistes” comes from the Flemish word “boeckjin,” which means “small book.” Bouquiniste history can be traced back to their origins in the 16th century, a testament to Paris’s enduring love for literature and art. Their rich history, dating back to 1752, is a testament to the enduring love of Paris for literature and art. Browsing here feels more like a treasure hunt than a shopping trip. My favourite finds are vintage French magazines, replete with stunning photography and ads that reflect back the trends of the time.
Tucked away in the elegant Passage Jouffroy, the Librairie du Passage offers a quiet escape for anyone drawn to books, art, and history. With more than 30,000 titles carefully selected for their focus on creativity and the past, this bookstore feels like a true discovery for those who love to linger among shelves brimming with inspiration. The soft natural light that filters through the passage’s glass ceiling creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for immersing yourself in these literary treasures.
For a more eclectic experience, head to the vibrant Belleville neighbourhood and visit the artistic haven of Le Monte-en-l’air. If it’s your second or third trip to Paris, Belleville is a lesser-known and authentic district that’s well worth your time, with its lively streets, diverse food scene, and artistic flair. And Belleville Park, a local favourite for relaxation, offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Le Monte-en-l’air, an artsy bookstore, is a treasure trove specializing in graphic novels, quirky zines, and contemporary art books. It’s a hub for avant-garde enthusiasts and will inspire your artistic side that comes alive here in the city of art!
Known for its focus on LGBTQ+ literature, this Marais gem is one of Paris’s most welcoming and inclusive bookstores. They offer a mix of French and English titles, with shelves dedicated to poetry, fiction, and queer studies. The friendly staff is always happy to help you find something meaningful.
Appétit is a delightful culinary bookstore nestled in the heart of Paris’s 6th arrondissement, a haven for anyone with a passion for food. Its diverse collection, specializing in cookbooks, gastronomic guides, and food-related literature, spans everything from timeless French recipes to modern takes on global cuisines. Whether you’re a professional chef, a home cook, or simply a foodie, you’re bound to find inspiration on its shelves.
The Librairie Voyageurs du Monde is a must-visit for travel enthusiasts. This bookstore offers a vast selection of travel literature, guides, maps, and atlases. The collection, carefully curated to ensure the highest quality, includes classic and contemporary travel narratives, photography books, and a dedicated children’s section to inspire young adventurers. The store’s inviting atmosphere encourages visitors to explore diverse cultures and destinations through its offerings. These are my favourite kinds of stores to visit when on vacation, to seek out unique books on the city I’m visiting that go beyond traditional travel guides, and to dive into curious subjects like ghosts, gastronomy, and galleries!
For those who enjoy books and history, Librairie Jousseaume is a genuine treasure tucked away in the magnificent Galerie Vivienne in the center of Paris. Having been in business since 1862, this is one of the oldest bookstores in the city. The shop is brimming with rare editions, old engravings, vintage postcards and used books. Stepping inside feels like taking a trip back in time, surrounded by cozy wooden selves, vintage signs and rustic decor. With more than 40,000 books here for you to discover, you can spend an entire afternoon perusing the treasures here.
The Librairie du Centre Pompidou, located within the renowned Centre Pompidou in Paris, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, tourists, and researchers. The best part? You don’t need a ticket to get into the bookstore! It’s the largest bookstore in Europe dedicated to modern and contemporary art, boasting an extensive collection of over 15,000 titles. These include monographs, thematic works, historical analyses, and critical studies from the 20th and 21st centuries. The diverse array of publications, such as exhibition catalogues, art books, and multimedia products, many of which are published by the Centre Pompidou’s own editions, is a testament to their supreme work in the field of art books. Even if you’re short on time to explore all the exhibitions, the books here can transport you to another world.
Artazart, situated along the charming Canal Saint-Martin (my favourite spot to relax and people-watch with a coffee), is a beacon for lovers of visual creativity and innovation. Since its opening in 2000, this distinctive boutique has focused on graphic design, photography, and artistic expression, offering an exceptional array of carefully chosen books and collectibles. Standing out vividly against the serene backdrop of the canal, inside, you’ll discover a treasure trove of works showcasing both renowned creators and emerging visionaries, making it a haven for those seeking inspiration across diverse styles and perspectives.
La Régulière is more than just a bookstore—it’s a creative and community-centred space that combines the charm of a café, the curiosity of an art gallery, and the magic of literature! This gem has quickly become a neighbourhood favourite for its thoughtfully curated selection of graphic novels, children’s books, and beautifully illustrated works. A focus on independent and underrepresented publishers makes its collection particularly unique and appealing to those looking for something off the beaten path. It’s a place that celebrates diversity, creativity, and conversation, making it an unforgettable stop for anyone seeking a bookstore with heart and imagination in the city of Paris.
Paris’s love for literature is not just a passion but part of the city’s cultural heritage. From charming neighbourhood shops to iconic cultural landmarks, each bookstore has its unique character, whether rooted in history, art, design, or fostering a sense of community. These are not just places to find books—they’re spaces filled with inspiration and discovery, perfect for avid readers, art lovers, or anyone looking for a hidden gem. When visiting Paris, don’t miss seeing these magnificent locations, which are not just bookstores but cultural landmarks! And always ask for a bookmark or stamp to remember where you got that book!
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