These Are The Most Beautiful Bookstores In The World
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Whether you’re searching for the latest novel or hunting for antiques, there’s something magical about exploring spaces dedicated to books. From Venice to Shanghai, we’ve collected the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Bookworms, these shops are must-adds to your bucket list.
1. The Last Bookstore, Los Angeles, U.S.
On an unassuming corner of downtown Los Angeles, bibliophiles can spend hours exploring The Last Bookstore’s literal maze of literature. The two-level shop has a converted bank vault of true crime and thrillers, a labyrinth of science fiction and fantasy, and a tunnel built entirely of books.
2. El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires, Argentina
This 20th-century Buenos Aires theater was converted into a bookstore in the early 2000s. Browse hundreds of books where audiences once watched tango performances or grab a coffee onstage (there’s a cafe tucked behind the red velvet curtain).
3. Cafebrería El Péndulo, Mexico City, Mexico
Cafebrería El Péndulo’s stacks are bright and airy, with potted plants and leafy trees scattered among the two floors of books. Bring your purchases to the Mexico City shop’s cozy couches for some reading time.
4. Livraria Lello, Porto, Portugal
This Hogwarts-lookalike in Porto, Portugal is worth a visit, if only to see where J.K. Rowling got her inspiration for the magical castle. Yes, the line might be a little long but the photos are worth it.
5. Zhongshuge, Shanghai, China
The huge spaces and perfectly-curated shelves stun at this expansive Shanghai store. At this must-see for any Shanghai-bound reader, mirrored ceilings make the bookshelves appear endless.
6. Boekhandel Selexyz Dominicanen, Maastricht, Netherlands
Boekhandel Selexyz Dominicanen is housed in a 700-year-old church in the Netherlands city of Maastricht. The church fell into disrepair, but luckily, bookworms can expect to see restored frescos and stained glass while shopping.
7. City Lights Booksellers & Publishers, San Francisco, U.S.
Located on Jack Kerouac Alley, City Lights is an ode to the Beat writers of the 1960s. The independent spirit radiates from all corners of this San Francisco shop. Look for handwritten notes from the employees to find your next favorite read.
8. Libreria Acqua Alta, Venice, Italy
Opening right into the Venice canals, Acqua Alta is a chaotic gem. Because of frequent flooding, books are piled in buckets, on top of precarious stacks and even in gondolas. Outside, books lost to the water form steps to a beautiful Venetian view.
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