Books

Best bookstores in Paris

Discover the top bookstores in the French capital, featuring iconic literary destinations and hidden gems. Explore establishments known for their historical significance, unique ambiance, extensive collections, and cultural importance. Find the perfect spot for book lovers, from independent shops to grand institutions, offering a wide range of genres and literary experiences in one of the world's most romantic cities.

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  1. 1

    Librairie Gibert Joseph (Paris, 5th arrondissement)

    187 Global Votes
    • Amazing selection of books, vinyl records, CDs, and stationery

      (+4)

    This bookstore is an emblem of Boulevard Saint Michel, renowned for its vast collection of new and used books. It is an essential destination for any book lover seeking a wide variety of titles.

  2. 2

    Voyageurs du Monde (Paris)

    117 Global Votes
    • Fantastic little travel bookshop

      (+2)

    This bookstore combines a passion for travel and literature, offering inspiration for new adventures. It is ideal for those seeking books related to different cultures, destinations, and travel stories.

  3. 3

    WHSmith (Paris)

    65 Global Votes
    • Largest English bookshop in France

      (+4)

    WHSmith is one of the largest English bookstores in Paris, offering a wide selection of genres. It is a landmark for Anglophones and for those seeking international literature in the city.

  4. 4

    La Mouette Rieuse (Paris)

    30 Global Votes
    • Aesthetically-pleasing book & gift/stationery shop

      (+4)

    This three-story bookstore in Le Marais combines reading with art and coffee, offering a cozy and dynamic space. Its events and varied offerings make it a vibrant place for culture lovers.

  5. 5

    The Abbey Bookshop (Paris)

    28 Global Votes
    • Independently owned Canadian bookshop

      (+4)

    This Canadian bookstore is a hidden gem in Paris, offering an immersive experience with books everywhere. Its charm and background jazz music make it an ideal place to discover titles in English.

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  7. 6

    Librairie Galignani (Paris, 1st arrondissement)

    26 Global Votes
    • Oldest English bookshop in France

      (+4)

    As the first English bookstore on the European continent, Galignani combines a rich history with a curated selection of literature and art books. Its elegance and prestige keep it as one of the best literary experiences in Paris.

  8. 7

    Le Dilettante (Paris)

    21 Global Votes
    • Non-mercantile spirit

      (+4)

    Le Dilettante is a publisher and bookstore distinguished by discovering new talents and unusual works of the 20th century. It is a must-visit for those seeking fresh stories and promising authors.

  9. 8

    TASCHEN Store Paris (Paris)

    16 Global Votes
    • Elegant and minimal space designed by Philippe Starck

      (+4)

    The TASCHEN publishing house store is a paradise for art, design, and photography lovers. It offers a unique experience with high-quality and visually stunning editions, being a benchmark for illustrated books.

  10. 9

    L'Eau et les Rêves (Paris)

    12 Global Votes
    • Unique floating bookstore and café

      (+4)

    This barge-bookstore offers a unique and charming concept, turning it into a floating 'Ali Baba's literary cave'. Its originality makes it a must-visit destination for avid readers and lovers of different experiences.

  11. 10

    Yvon Lambert (Paris)

    8 Global Votes
    • Art bookshop, publisher, and gallery

      (+4)

    Yvon Lambert is an institution for collectors and contemporary art enthusiasts, recognized in 2025 as one of the best independent bookstores. Its specialization in catalogs and monographs makes it unique.

  12. 11

    Librairie Delamain (Paris, 1st arrondissement)

    7 Global Votes
    • Beautiful library

      (+4)

    Delamain is a classic and renowned bookstore in the heart of Paris, appreciated for its charm and curated selection. It maintains its reputation as a reference point for book lovers in the French capital.

  13. 12

    Librairie Jousseaume (Paris, 2nd arrondissement)

    5 Global Votes
    • Sells special book editions

      (+4)

    With nearly two centuries of history, this second-hand bookstore is a paradise for collectors of rare and antique books. Its classic atmosphere and vast collection make it a gem in the Galerie Vivienne.

  14. 13

    Librairie Le Feu Follet (Paris)

    5 Global Votes
    • Specialist in rare and antique books

      (+4)

    Le Feu Follet is a collectors' paradise, specializing in antique, rare, and precious books. Its vast selection of over 25,000 volumes makes it an essential destination for bibliophiles.

  15. 14

    Les Bouquinistes de Paris (Paris)

    4 Global Votes
    • UNESCO status

      (+4)

    These iconic stalls along the Seine offer a quintessential Parisian literary experience. They are ideal for strolling, exploring, and discovering second-hand literary treasures, forming part of the city's cultural landscape.

  16. 15

    Librairie des femmes (Paris)

    3 Global Votes
    • Specializes in books by women

      (+4)

    With over 50 years of history, this bookstore is a feminist reference in Paris, standing out for its commitment to making women's voices visible. Its international recognition in 2025 underscores its cultural importance.

  17. 16

    La Hune (Paris)

    3 Global Votes
    • Focal point for intellectuals like Sartre and Camus

      (+4)

    This legendary bookstore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés has been a meeting point for intellectuals since the fifties. Its historical atmosphere and multidisciplinary offering make it a paradise for creative minds.

  18. 17

    Librairie Artcurial (Paris)

    2 Global Votes
    • Hidden gem for art lovers

      (+4)

    Located in the prestigious Artcurial auction house, this bookstore satisfies the most demanding tastes of collectors and art connoisseurs. It offers unique and valuable publications, including rare books and limited editions.

  19. 18

    En Balzac En Rodin (Paris)

    1 Global Votes
    • Specializes in art and architecture books

      (+4)

    This bookstore, passed down from father to son, is a temple for art and architecture lovers. Its recognition in 2025 as one of the best independent bookstores in the world validates its exceptional offering.

  20. 19

    Marché du Livre Ancien et d'Occasion (Paris)

    1 Global Votes
    • Offers a fascinating and eclectic collection of books, maps, and posters

      (+3)

    This market of rare and second-hand books is a treasure for bibliophiles, offering a unique browsing experience. With over 50 stalls, it is the ideal place to find special and collectible editions.