Judging a Book Store By Its Cover
We know we’re not supposed to make snap judgments, but we can’t help it—the world is filled with incredible book stores, each one worthy of its own tome. Unfortunately, we can’t spend all day penning love letters, so why don’t we just step into our picks for the most beautiful shops? Get your camera (and your wallet) ready!
1. Livraria Lello, Portugal
Often touted as Europe’s most beautiful bookstore, there’s a lot to take in when you visit. A massive stained glass window sits atop the stunning architecture and the iconic red staircase, a feature smack-dab in the middle of this classic tourist spot. You’ll see art installations, rooms dedicated to Le Petit Prince, and a testament to Portugal’s history.
2. Leakey's Bookshop, Scotland
At first glance, Leakey’s doesn’t boast more than beautiful masonry and a modest sign out front. Don’t let that fool you—the true beauty lies in its history. This family-run bookstore has been in business over 40 years, securing its place as Scotland’s second-largest secondhand bookstore! Lucky bookworms can peruse the collection and soak in the organized chaos.
3. Evripidis Bookstore, Greece
If you ever happen to find yourself in Greece, why not stop by Evripidis, a dreamy location filled with floor-to-ceiling shelves? The only thing more exquisite than its collection is the lighting—unique fixtures that somehow manage to capture the country’s charm in a chandelier.
4. Selexyz Dominicanen Bookstore, Netherlands
Fans of gothic literature and gothic architecture alike will have a field day in this 700-year-old converted church! It only takes a foot in the door to stand in awe of the ceiling’s murals and intricate stonework throughout. Oh, and you’ll have an incredible book selection, too.
Bert Kaufmann @ Flickr, from Roermond, Netherlands on Wikimedia
5. Shakespeare and Company, France
Who wouldn’t love to shake hands with Shakespeare? You might not meet him—or his friends—but you’ll be in good company at this bookstore. Those telltale walls have been around for over 50 years, and its classic door is the most famous in France.
6. El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Argentina
We’ve stepped foot inside a converted church, but what about a perfectly preserved theater? Welcome to El Ateneo Grand Splendid, the breathtaking bookstore that’s been crowned one of the world’s most beautiful. It’s hard to put the rounded balconies or ceiling dome into words, but let’s just say it’s a one-of-a-kind stage for any humanities major.
7. Dujiangyan Zhongshuge Bookstore, China
It’s hard to believe this bookstore is only a few years old—the surreal architecture and grandiose shelves look straight out of a fairytale, but its pages were only opened in 2020. It didn’t take more than a few years to make its presence known, and book-lovers everywhere won’t know where to turn first.
8. Carturesti Carusel, Romania
The Carturesti Carusel almost feels like the Colosseum. Grand staircases and lily white columns give the whole space an ancient feel, and it’s not one you’ll forget on the flight home. If you aren’t blown away by the selection, the impressive cartouches ought to catch your eye.
9. The Last Bookstore, United States
What comes to your mind when you picture California? Maybe heat waves and palm trees? Shopping on Rodeo Drive? Well, sightseers, may we direct your attention to The Last Bookstore, a colossal independent bookstore located right in Los Angeles? With incredible book sculptures and over 20,000 square feet to explore, it’s no wonder it was voted the most photographed bookstore!
vagueonthehow from Tadcaster, York, England on Wikimedia
10. The Gently Mad Book Shop & Bookbinder, Scotland
You’d have to be mad to pass up on this bookstore! Amid the cluttered shelves, you’ll find rare titles with gorgeous covers and all sorts of fun antiquities for any collector in your life. It might look tiny, but the biggest things come in the smallest packages.
11. Barter Books, United Kingdom
There’s no denying the charm of this massive secondhand bookstore, a quirky shop located in the heart of Alnwick's Victorian station. Everything about it—from the paper lanterns and fireplace to the rustic brick walls—beckons a good book and a nice cup of tea.
12. Word on the Water, London
You’ve heard of reading by the fire, but what about reading on a boat? Grab your floaties and head into Word on the Water, a whimsical little place right on the waves! What makes this so much more impressive is just how many titles they managed to cram in one spot, making it a must-see for any bookworm.
13. Powell’s City of Books, United States
Portland wasn’t kidding with its name—this place really is a city of great bookcases and greater titles. There might not be a stained glass window or carved columns, but it’s the collection that makes our jaws drop. As the largest independent bookstore, you won’t walk away empty-handed.
14. Eterna Cadencia, Argentina
If mood lighting and rich mahogany is more your scene, this Argentinian bookstore is right up your alley. With a cafe on site, you have walls of books to sift through and a comforting cup of coffee to go with it. It’s sort of like stepping into a professor’s personal library, and it’s one we never want to leave.
15. Daunt Books, London
With massive skylights and floor-to-ceiling shelves, there’s not a bad spot in the house at Daunt Books. It’s a charming spot that doesn’t pretend to be a big box store, and that’s precisely what we love about it. When we think of a quiet afternoon with our favorite titles, you’ll catch us by the signature accent wall.
16. Brattle Book Shop, United States
It’s not enough that Boston’s home to one of the most prestigious universities—they’re also home to one of the largest used bookstores! Step right under the giant number 2 pencil and into this adorable shop, one filled with brick walls and classic artwork that capture the heart of the city.
Rob Faulkner from Leeds, United Kingdom on Wikimedia
17. Pages of Hackney, London
You might just miss this shop on the streets of London. It’s small, it’s blue, and it’s nestled between equally colorful spots on Clapton Road. But keep your eyes peeled because its treasures are unmatched. There’s something about it that reminds us of our elementary school library in the best way…maybe it’s the yellow walls.
18. Libreria Acqua Alta, Italy
Venice is hardly a hidden gem anymore, but this little bookstore preserves the city’s charm with its unique decor. Staircases made of encyclopedias? Gondolas filled with books? Cats at every corner? You’ll find it all just beyond the green barn doors.
19. Atlantis Books, Greece
You can’t ask for more than full bookshelves and a picturesque cliffside. With such gorgeous scenery outside, the interior has its work cut out for it, but you’ll find just as many treasures inside. It has all the charm of a long-standing bookstore—with more than a few rare titles tucked in the aisles.
20. Addyman Books, United Kingdom
Addyman Books looks straight out of Harry Potter. If you can peel your eyes away from the cozy exterior, you’ll find nothing but blue shelves and easy chairs inside. Oh, and a ton of books on antique shelves, just waiting for any book lover.
