The 16 Best Bookstores in Paris

Smith & Son

Immerse yourself in the literary capital of the world with a visit to the charming bookstores in Paris. From quaint independent shops to larger, well-known establishments, the City of Light offers a diverse selection of bookstores that cater to every reader's taste.

Whether you're searching for a rare, out-of-print edition or simply want to browse the latest bestsellers, bookstores in Paris have something for everyone. Let the scent of old books and the promise of new adventures guide you through the cobblestone streets in search of your next literary treasure.

  • Knowledgeable staff to help you find the perfect book
  • A cozy atmosphere that invites you to stay and read for hours
  • A wide selection of books in various genres and languages
  • Regular author events and book signings
  • Convenient locations in popular neighborhoods

Discover the literary gems that Paris has to offer by exploring the list of The 16 Best Bookstores in Paris below.

Smith & Son

+33 1 53 45 84 40

  • Monday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Sunday: 12:30–7 PM

1. Smith & Son

4.5/5 (More than 2610 reviews)
248 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Smith & Son is a charming bookstore located in the heart of Paris, France. Known for its beautiful selection of English language books, this bookstore offers a cozy atmosphere that customers love. The store features a variety of amenities, including Wi-Fi for those looking to spend hours getting lost in a good book.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Smith & Son, highlighting the following key points:

  • Excellent selection of English books, including hard-to-find titles
  • Helpful and friendly staff
  • Cozy and quaint atmosphere, perfect for browsing

Whether you're a book enthusiast or simply looking for a new read, Smith & Son is a must-visit destination for book lovers in Paris.

The Abbey Bookshop

+33 1 46 33 16 24

  • Monday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Sunday: 1–7 PM

2. The Abbey Bookshop

4.7/5 (More than 864 reviews)
29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

The Abbey Bookshop is a charming bookstore nestled in the heart of Paris, offering a wide selection of books for all ages and interests. Customers can enjoy service options like in-store pick-up and multiple payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Visitors rave about their experience at The Abbey Bookshop:

  • Lovely place with a vast selection of books and welcoming staff.
  • Great atmosphere with English books of all genres.
  • Unique, authentic vibe with a thoughtful and friendly seller.
  • Magical bookstore with endless books and friendly staff.
Chantelivre

+33 1 45 48 87 90

  • Monday: 1–7:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

3. Chantelivre

4.7/5 (More than 695 reviews)
13 Rue de Sèvres, 75006 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Chantelivre is a charming bookstore located in the heart of Paris. The store offers a cozy atmosphere that invites visitors to explore and discover new books, especially for kids. The painted walls showcasing Parisian life add a unique touch to the ambiance.

  • Customers praise the vast selection of books available, making it a paradise for children's literature enthusiasts.
  • The staff is described as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, providing excellent guidance to find the perfect book for any reader.
  • Many visitors appreciate the welcoming environment and the easy accessibility to books for various ages and interests.

Whether you are looking for a specific book or simply want to peruse the shelves, Chantelivre is the place to visit for a delightful literary experience on the Left Bank.

Libreria - Italian and French Bookshop

+33 1 40 22 06 94

  • Monday: 2–7 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

4. Libreria - Italian and French Bookshop

4.9/5 (More than 170 reviews)
89 Rue du Faubourg Poissonnière, 75009 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Libreria - Italian and French Bookshop offers a wide selection of books in Italian and French, along with textbooks for language learners. Customers praise the helpful staff who provide informative recommendations on book choices. The shop also hosts events like book presentations and discussions, making it a point of reference for Italian literature. Customers appreciate the friendly atmosphere, great selection, and reasonable prices at Libreria. In summary, customers highlight that the staff is helpful and informative, the shop has a great selection of Italian books, and also hosts events related to literature.
Smith&Son

+33 1 40 33 61 01

  • Monday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–7 PM

5. Smith&Son

4.9/5 (More than 95 reviews)
20 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Smith&Son is a charming bookstore nestled in the heart of Paris, France. Offering in-store pick-up and in-store shopping options, this quaint bookstore caters to all book lovers. The friendly staff creates a welcoming environment for all visitors, making it a LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space.

Customer reviews rave about the exceptional service and book selection at Smith&Son. Here are some key points from their reviews:

  • Outstanding customer service and well-organized store
  • Beautiful bookstore with a traditional Parisian atmosphere
  • Great selection of books and helpful staff
  • Cozy vibes and unique offerings like Mystery Boxes

If you find yourself strolling through Paris, make sure to pay a visit to Smith&Son for a delightful book shopping experience.

L'Écume des Pages

+33 1 45 48 54 48

  • Monday: 10 AM–12 AM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–12 AM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–12 AM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–12 AM
  • Friday: 10 AM–12 AM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–12 AM
  • Sunday: 10 AM–9 PM

6. L'Écume des Pages

4.5/5 (More than 678 reviews)
174 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

L'Écume des Pages is a charming book store located in the heart of Paris that offers a variety of books in English and French. The store provides in-store pick-up and in-store shopping, making it convenient for all book lovers. The welcoming and helpful staff ensures that customers have a pleasant shopping experience.

Customers have left glowing reviews for L'Écume des Pages:

  • Brilliant bookshop with a labyrinth-like interior and a wide selection of books to discover. The beautiful stationary adds to the charm of the store. Highly recommended for book lovers, especially those who enjoy browsing on Sundays!
  • Great service, friendly staff, and a perfect location in Saint Germain des Pres.
  • Brilliant idea to stay open until midnight, allowing customers to satisfy their late-night book cravings. The store offers a fantastic selection of titles, including English books.
  • Fabulous collection of books and stationary goods, will definitely be returning!

These positive reviews showcase the outstanding service and unique offerings that L'Écume des Pages provides to its customers. Visit this book store to experience the magic of literature in the heart of Paris.

Temple Bookstore

+33 1 42 72 38 00

  • Monday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–1:30 PM
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: 10 AM–7:30 PM

7. Temple Bookstore

4.7/5 (More than 226 reviews)
1 Rue des Hospitalières Saint-Gervais, 75004 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Temple Bookstore is a charming bookstore located in the heart of Paris, France. With a rating of 4.7 stars from 226 reviews, it is clear that customers appreciate what this bookstore has to offer.

  • Customers praise the knowledgeable and helpful staff who provide excellent service.
  • The wide selection of books and Judaica available cater to a variety of interests.
  • Visitors mention the unique and special atmosphere of the store, making it a must-visit destination in Le Marais.

Whether looking for a specific book, Judaica item, or just wanting to explore and discover new reads, Temple Bookstore is the perfect place to indulge in the world of literature and Jewish culture.

Book Off

+33 1 44 87 91 14

  • Monday: 11 AM–7:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–7:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–7:30 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–7:30 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

8. Book Off

4.4/5 (More than 1133 reviews)
90 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75012 Paris, France
Used book store

Information and Reviews

Book Off is a popular used book store located in Paris, France. The store offers a variety of services and features to its customers, including in-store shopping and the option to buy used goods. The wheelchair-accessible entrance ensures that all customers can easily access the store. Accepted payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

With a rating of 4.4 stars based on 1133 reviews, Book Off has received positive feedback from customers. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

  • Great selection of books for adults and children, DVDs, board games, and more at great prices.
  • Wide variety of books in different languages, including Japanese, English, German, and Italian.
  • Helpful and friendly staff who make the shopping experience enjoyable.
  • A must-visit store for book lovers and fans of Japanese and Korean culture.

Customers have praised Book Off for its diverse offerings and welcoming atmosphere, making it a top choice for book enthusiasts in Paris.

Librairie Gallimard - Paris

+33 1 45 48 24 84

  • Monday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

9. Librairie Gallimard - Paris

4.6/5 (More than 372 reviews)
15 Bd Raspail, 75007 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Librairie Gallimard - Paris is a charming bookstore nestled in the heart of Paris, France. The store offers a wide range of books and provides exceptional service options like delivery and in-store pick-up.

Customers rave about their experience at Librairie Gallimard, highlighting the following key points:

  • A gem of a bookstore with knowledgeable attendants.
  • Great variety of titles with a highly intellectual selection on display.
  • Friendly staff and a peaceful browsing environment.
  • Knowledgeable and friendly staff that make the experience enjoyable.

With a stellar rating of 4.6 and 372 reviews, Librairie Gallimard - Paris is a must-visit destination for book lovers in the City of Light!

Bookstore Little Egypt

+33 1 47 03 34 30

  • Monday: 12–7 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM–2 PM

10. Bookstore Little Egypt

4.7/5 (More than 180 reviews)
35 Rue des Petits Carreaux, 75002 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Bookstore Little Egypt is a charming book store located in the heart of Paris, France. The store offers a variety of services such as in-store pick-up and multiple payment options including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. Customers rave about their experience at Bookstore Little Egypt, with a remarkable average rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 180 reviews.

  • Amazing place, highly recommended!
  • The best!!! Amazing children's book section and really lovely staff who helped me pick out poetry:) highly highly recommend; just love it
  • Great customer service and professional staff members.

Customers also appreciate the friendly and professional staff, as well as the wide selection of books available. Whether you're looking for beautiful books, Japanese manga, or French poetry, Bookstore Little Egypt is the place to be. So if you're in Paris and in search of a cozy and welcoming bookstore, make sure to pay a visit to Bookstore Little Egypt.

San-Francisco Book Co

+33 1 43 29 15 70

  • Monday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–8 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM–8 PM

11. San-Francisco Book Co

4.6/5 (More than 296 reviews)
17 Rue Monsieur le Prince, 75006 Paris, France
Used book store

Information and Reviews

San-Francisco Book Co is a charming used book store located in Paris that offers a wide variety of English language books. Customers rave about the extensive collection and the helpful staff who are fluent in both French and English. Reviews highlight the unique finds, well-organized store, and the calm ambiance that sets this bookstore apart. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

  • Wide variety of books, with every nook and cranny covered
  • Charming and organized store with a calm ambiance
  • Helpful staff who are fluent in both French and English
  • Great selection of rare finds and first editions
The Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore

+33 1 42 01 81 47

  • Monday: 10 AM–6 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–6 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM–6 PM

12. The Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore

4.7/5 (More than 157 reviews)
two doors up from, 9 rue de Medicis, 75006, 11 Rue de Médicis No. 9, 75006 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

The Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore is a charming bookstore located in Paris. Offering a cozy atmosphere ideal for browsing, this bookstore caters to book lovers of all ages. The proprietor, Penelope, is known for her warmth and expertise when recommending books. Customers are impressed with the diverse selection of literature available, which includes classic works, contemporary fiction, and nonfiction.

  • Customers appreciate the personalized recommendations from Penelope, the owner.
  • The diverse selection of books, covering classics to contemporary works, is highly praised.
  • The cozy and inviting atmosphere of the store encourages browsing and exploration.
  • The staff's knowledge and friendliness make it a must-visit spot for book enthusiasts.
Comme un Roman

+33 1 42 77 56 20

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–7:45 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–7:45 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–7:45 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–7:45 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–7:45 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM–1:30 PM

13. Comme un Roman

4.4/5 (More than 223 reviews)
39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Comme un Roman is a charming book store located in the heart of Paris, France. They offer a variety of service options including In-store pick-up and In-store shopping for the convenience of their customers. The store accepts various payment methods such as credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experience at Comme un Roman. Here are some key points from their feedback:

  • Great choice of books, covering literature, art, and comics.
  • Helpful and friendly staff providing excellent recommendations.
  • Unique and beautiful editions of sought-after books.
  • Cozy atmosphere with a welcoming vibe, perfect for book lovers.

If you find yourself in Le Marais, be sure to stop by Comme un Roman and immerse yourself in a world of literary delights.

Book store Vincent

+33 1 42 03 48 52

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 12:30–7:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 12:30–7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 12:30–7:30 PM
  • Friday: 12:30–7:30 PM
  • Saturday: 12:30–7:30 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

14. Book store Vincent

4.4/5 (More than 180 reviews)
115 Av. de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Book Store Vincent is a renowned book store located in Paris, France. They offer a variety of service options including in-store pick-up and in-store shopping. The store is wheelchair-accessible, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance.

With a rating of 4.4, based on 180 reviews, customers have shared their positive experiences:

  • Excellent location and quality service.
  • Great selection of books and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
  • A unique and special place dedicated to culture and reflection.
  • Highly recommended for unique finds and exceptional customer service.

Visit Book Store Vincent for a memorable book shopping experience in Paris.

Bookstore

Phone not available
Website not available

  • Monday: 2–7 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM–7 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

15. Bookstore

4.3/5 (More than 6 reviews)
12 Rue de l'Odéon, 75006 Paris, France
Book store

Information and Reviews

Bookstore is a charming book store located in Paris, France, offering a cozy atmosphere for book lovers. The store is known for its excellent customer service and professional staff members. Customers appreciate the warm and welcoming environment, reminiscent of the old “Shakespeare and Company” mentioned by Hemingway in his works.

  • Great customer service and professional staff members.
  • This was the old "Shakespeare and Company" in the time of Hemingway.
  • Good.
ANONYMOUS THE BOOK

Phone not available
Website not available

  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours

16. ANONYMOUS THE BOOK

0.0/5 (More than 0 reviews)
nan
Book store

Information and Reviews

ANONYMOUS THE BOOK is a thriving bookstore that offers a wide selection of books for all ages and interests. With its convenient 24-hour operation, customers can indulge in their love for reading at any time of the day. The business accepts credit cards for payment, making transactions quick and easy for everyone.

  • Great variety of books available
  • Convenient 24-hour operation
  • Accepts credit card payments

Customers rave about the exceptional customer service and cozy atmosphere of the bookstore. They appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the ability to find rare and unique books easily. Experience the joy of reading at ANONYMOUS THE BOOK today!

Map of Bookstores in Paris

Paris is a city known for its rich literary history and vibrant bookstore culture. From independent boutiques to large chain stores, there are countless places to explore and discover new literary treasures. Use this map to navigate the sprawling streets of Paris and find the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the world of books.

What are some popular bookstores in Paris?

Paris is a book lover's paradise, with a plethora of charming bookstores to explore. One popular bookstore is Shakespeare and Company, a famous English-language bookstore located near Notre Dame Cathedral. Another well-known bookstore is The Abbey Bookshop, which specializes in new and used English-language books. For visitors looking for French books, Librairie Galignani is the oldest English-language bookstore in Paris, founded in 1801.

Do bookstores in Paris sell books in languages other than French?

Yes, many bookstores in Paris sell books in languages other than French. In addition to English-language bookstores like Shakespeare and Company and The Abbey Bookshop, there are also bookstores that specialize in Spanish, Italian, German, and other languages. Librairie Comme un Roman is a popular bookstore that offers a selection of books in multiple languages, while Librairie Espagnole is a bookstore dedicated to Spanish-language books.

Are there any bookstores in Paris with a focus on a specific genre?

Yes, there are several bookstores in Paris that specialize in specific genres. For art books, Librairie des PUF is a bookstore located near the Sorbonne that offers a wide selection of art books and exhibition catalogs. For comic books, Album Comics is a popular store that features a large collection of graphic novels and manga. Additionally, La Hune is a bookstore that focuses on design and architecture books, perfect for design enthusiasts.

Are there any bookstores in Paris with a cozy reading area?

Many bookstores in Paris offer cozy reading areas where visitors can relax with a book. Shakespeare and Company, in addition to selling books, also has a cozy reading room where customers can sit and read. WH Smith is another bookstore with a comfortable reading area, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee while diving into a new book. For those looking for a peaceful reading spot, Les Utopistes is a bookstore that offers a quiet corner for reading and reflection.

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