Most unique bookstores in the world

17 Most Unique Bookstores in the World

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Table of Contents

Introduction

In an increasingly digital age, physical bookstores have become more than just places to buy books. They have evolved into sanctuaries for book lovers, destinations that reflect creativity, culture, and a deep appreciation for the written word. Across the globe, certain bookstores stand out for their selections and unique atmospheres, architecture, and history. These literary havens transport visitors into a world where books take center stage, often blurring the line between reality and imagination. The write-up explores 17 most unique bookstores in the world.

Whether nestled in historic buildings, converted from unusual spaces, or floating on water, these bookstores offer more than just a place to shop. They provide a cultural experience that invites exploration, reflection, and discovery. From classic European bookshops to quirky and whimsical spots in Asia and the Americas, these 17 bookstores are must-visit destinations for any bibliophile looking for something extraordinary.

1. Shakespeare and Company (Paris, France)

A literary landmark since 1951, Shakespeare and Company is more than just a bookstore; it’s a symbol of Paris’s bohemian literary history. Located on the banks of the Seine, just across from Notre Dame Cathedral, it has long been a gathering place for writers, artists, and intellectuals. 

With narrow, winding staircases and reading nooks tucked into every corner, the shop feels like a maze where every twist leads to literary treasures. Visitors often find themselves in the company of aspiring writers who temporarily live in the bookstore in exchange for helping out around the shop. This tradition continues to this day.

2. El Ateneo Grand Splendid (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

Housed in a former theater built in 1919, El Ateneo Grand Splendid is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. The transformation from theater to bookstore was carefully done, preserving many of the building’s original features, such as ornate balconies, frescoed ceilings, and stage. 

The theater’s old boxes are now reading areas, and the stage has been converted into a café. This bookstore offers a truly theatrical experience, with its opulent architecture providing a dramatic backdrop for browsing the thousands of books.

3. Livraria Lello (Porto, Portugal)

Livraria Lello, often considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, is renowned for its stunning architecture. The bookstore’s neo-Gothic façade gives way to an interior that is nothing short of magical, with its intricate wooden carvings, grand staircase, and stained-glass skylight. 

Many believe Livraria Lello inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, as she lived in Porto while writing the early drafts. The store’s enchanting atmosphere, with its sweeping staircases and art nouveau design, draws visitors from around the globe, making it a must-see for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts.

4. Boekhandel Dominicanen (Maastricht, Netherlands)

Boekhandel Dominicanen is a unique bookstore housed in a 13th-century Dominican church. The church’s Gothic architecture has been preserved, with its vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows, and intricate stonework creating a stunning contrast to the modern bookshelves and minimalist design. 

Visitors can admire the church’s historical beauty while perusing a wide selection of books. The space also hosts cultural events, book signings, and live performances, making it a place to shop for books and a cultural hub in the heart of Maastricht.

5. Selexyz Dominicanen (Maastricht, Netherlands)

Another bookstore housed in a former church, Selexyz Dominicanen, offers a different kind of charm. The church’s high ceilings and Gothic architecture have been cleverly adapted to house towering bookshelves that extend to the upper reaches of the building. 

The multi-level design allows visitors to browse through shelves while gazing up at the stunning vaulted ceilings, creating a reverent and modern experience. A café sits beneath the ancient arches, offering a peaceful space to enjoy a coffee and a good book.

6. Libreria Acqua Alta (Venice, Italy)

Libreria Acqua Alta is one of the most unique bookstores in the world, not only for its collection of books but also for its unusual layout. Situated in a city famous for its canals and frequent floods, this bookstore has taken a whimsical approach to the ever-present risk of water damage. 

Books are stored in bathtubs, gondolas, and other water-resistant containers, adding a sense of adventure to the shopping experience. Visitors can climb a staircase made entirely of old books to get a view of the nearby canal, making the store as much an art installation as it is a literary destination.

7. The Last Bookstore (Los Angeles, USA)

The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles is a testament to the city’s creative spirit. Housed in a former bank, the bookstore’s massive interior is filled with not only books but also art installations and sculptures made from repurposed books. Its famous “book tunnel” and towering shelves create an almost otherworldly visitor experience. 

In addition to its impressive selection of new and used books, the store also offers a vinyl record section, art gallery, and space for live performances, making it a cultural hotspot in downtown Los Angeles.

8. Cook & Book (Brussels, Belgium)

Cook & Book combines two of life’s greatest pleasures—reading and eating. This bookstore-restaurant hybrid features several themed rooms, each with its distinct design and selection of books. For example, one room has books suspended from the ceiling, while another resembles a cozy library with shelves reaching the ceiling. 

Visitors can explore different genres while enjoying a meal or a cup of coffee, making it an ideal afternoon spot. The unique blend of literary and culinary experiences ensures that Cook & Book is a destination for bookworms and foodies alike.

9. Librería El Péndulo (Mexico City, Mexico)

Librería El Péndulo is a lush, plant-filled oasis in the heart of Mexico City. The open, airy design and abundant greenery make it feel more like a garden than a traditional bookstore. Bookshelves are interspersed with potted plants and trees, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. 

El Péndulo also has a café and hosts live music performances and literary events, making it a vibrant cultural space and a place to buy books.

10. Atlantis Books (Santorini, Greece)

Atlantis Books is perched on the cliffs of Santorini, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea alongside its collection of books. This charming bookstore is small but brimming with character, featuring hand-painted signs, shelves filled with new and used books, and an open-air terrace where visitors can read while taking in the breathtaking scenery. 

The store was founded by a group of friends who wanted to create a literary haven on the island, and it has since become a beloved destination for book lovers visiting Santorini.

11. Bart’s Books (Ojai, USA)

Bart’s Books in Ojai, California, is a truly unique bookstore—its shelves line the exterior walls of the building, making it the largest outdoor bookstore in the world. The store operates on an honor system for its exterior shelves, allowing visitors to browse and buy books even when closed. 

Inside, visitors will find a mix of new and used books and a peaceful courtyard where they can sit and read. With its open-air design and laid-back atmosphere, Bart’s Books offers a truly Californian bookstore experience.

12. Librairie Avant-Garde (Nanjing, China)

Located in a former underground parking lot, Librairie Avant-Garde in Nanjing is a vast bookstore that feels like a literary temple. The minimalist design and cavernous space give it an almost sacred atmosphere, allowing visitors to reflect quietly while browsing its extensive collection of philosophical and academic works. 

Most unique bookstores in the world

The bookstore’s design incorporates elements of modern architecture while paying homage to its former life as a parking garage, with concrete walls and subtle lighting adding to the contemplative ambiance.

13. Powell’s City of Books (Portland, USA)

Powell’s City of Books in Portland, Oregon, is the world’s largest independent bookstore, spanning an entire city block and housing over a million books. With its color-coded rooms and map needed to navigate the store, it offers an overwhelming yet exhilarating experience for book lovers. 

Powell’s has become a literary institution in Portland, attracting locals and tourists alike. In addition to its vast selection of new, used, and rare books, Powell’s hosts frequent author readings and literary events, solidifying its place as a cultural cornerstone of the city.

14. Word on the Water (London, UK)

Word on the Water is a floating bookstore located on a 1920s Dutch barge, moored along London’s Regent’s Canal. This charming floating shop offers a carefully curated selection of secondhand books and a cozy atmosphere where visitors can browse while gently swaying on the water. 

In addition to its unique setting, Word on the Water often hosts live music performances, poetry readings, and literary events, making it a vibrant part of London’s cultural scene. Its intimate, whimsical charm makes it a favorite among book lovers and canal-side strollers alike.

15. Leakey’s Bookshop (Inverness, Scotland)

Leakey’s Bookshop is a second-hand bookstore located in a converted 18th-century Gaelic church in Inverness, Scotland. With towering bookshelves that reach the rafters, a wood-burning stove to keep the shop cozy, and the faint smell of old paper filling the air, Leakey’s offers a truly nostalgic experience for book lovers. 

The store’s vast collection includes rare and antiquarian books, making it a treasure trove for literary gem seekers. The church’s original stained-glass windows and high ceilings add to the bookstore’s serene, old-world charm.

16. BooksActually (Singapore)

Tucked away in Singapore’s Tiong Bahru neighborhood, BooksActually is a beloved independent bookstore that specializes in literature, poetry, and rare editions. The store has a retro, nostalgic feel, with vintage furniture, typewriters, and quirky decor giving it a unique charm. 

In addition to its carefully curated selection of books, BooksActually is known for championing local authors and regularly hosting literary events, book launches, and readings. Its dedication to nurturing Singapore’s literary scene has made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

17. Livraria Cultura (São Paulo, Brazil)

Located in São Paulo’s bustling Avenida Paulista, Livraria Cultura is a multi-level bookstore known for its impressive architecture and vast collection of books. The store’s sprawling layout features open spaces, cozy reading corners, and modern design elements, creating a welcoming environment for book lovers. 

In addition to its wide selection of books in multiple languages, Livraria Cultura hosts literary events, author signings, and discussions, making it a vibrant part of São Paulo’s cultural life. Its size and design make it one of the most iconic bookstores in Brazil.

Conclusion

Physical bookstores remain vital, not just for their books but for the experiences they offer. These 17 most unique bookstores in the world prove that literature has a place in both history and innovation. From floating shops to grand theatres-turned-libraries, these spaces connect people with stories in ways that transcend the ordinary.

Visiting these bookstores is more than just a shopping trip; it’s an opportunity to experience a space where history, culture, and imagination collide. Whether you’re a serious bibliophile or just someone looking for a cozy place to read, these bookstores will transport you to worlds beyond the page.

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