Best English Bookshops in Paris: A Book Lovers Guide
If you find yourself wandering the cobblestone streets of Paris, with a love for literature and a desire for a new book, you are definitely in the right place. Amidst the charming bistros and iconic landmarks, there is a haven for book lovers: English bookshops.
Whether you’re an expat craving a taste of home, a traveler seeking literary treasures, or a local looking to explore the world through words, Paris has you covered. From quaint independent shops like The Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore nestled in on quaint streets to historic literary landmarks like Shakespeare and Company, the City of Light boasts a diverse array of English bookstores waiting to be discovered.
Finding bookstores wherever I go is one of my favorite things to do when I travel. There’s nothing better than popping into a bookshop on your way to your next sight. Whether I’m in Barcelona, London, or Tokyo, I just have to find a bookstore for a browse.
So of course, I wanted to take you on a tour of some of the most enchanting English bookshops Paris has to offer. Get ready to lose yourself in the pages of classic novels, discover new voices in contemporary literature, and perhaps stumble upon a hidden gem or two. So, grab your favorite tote bag, sharpen your literary senses, and let’s get into the Paris bookstores.
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Shakespeare and Company
Address: 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris, France
Paris often a once in a lifetime destination full of must-see locations. And no list of bookstores in Paris would be complete without Shakespeare and Company. It’s the most famous Paris bookstore and, honestly, one of the most famous bookstores in the world.
Located in the Latin Quarter across from Notre Dame Cathedral and right on the Seine River, Shakespeare and Company offers a wide selection of English-language books, including classics, contemporary fiction, and poetry. It also has a rich history as a gathering place for writers and intellectuals.
The exterior of the building, adorned with charming ivy and a vintage storefront sign, beckons passersby to explore its enchanting interior. As you cross the threshold, you’re greeted by the warm glow of soft lighting, the faint scent of aged paper, and the gentle hum of bustling book lovers perusing the shelves.
Stepping into this iconic literary haven feels like entering a time capsule, where the walls seem to whisper tales of the past, and the shelves are filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. It is delightfully haphazard, with nooks and crannies filled with reading chairs, antique furnishings, and quirky decorations that add to its charm. Handwritten signs and quotes adorn the walls, offering words of wisdom and literary inspiration to visitors.
In 2015, Shakespeare and Company opened a cafe directly next door. The café has been delighting both locals and visitors with its selection of specialty coffee and Anglo-style vegan and vegetarian dishes and desserts.
They partner with local producers, including Bob’s Bake Shop and Café Lomi to create their signature ‘Mélange Shakespeare’ blend. Situated with uninterrupted views of Notre Dame, the café offers the ideal setting to while away an afternoon lost in the pages of a good book or to sit and have a pastry with a great view on your family vacation to Paris.
Further Reading: 20 of the World’s Best Bookstores
While the bookstore can, at times, be very crowded, especially with tourists taking pictures of the famous storefront, it should be on every Paris Itinerary. And don’t forget to pick up one of their iconic tote bags to carry your books or act as additional luggage for all of your souvenirs.
For more sights nearby and to learn about the history of this unique area, check out this Latin Quarter Tour.
For other bookstores named after Shakespeare, see Shakespeare and Sons bookstore that has locations in Berlin and Prague.
Smith&Son (Formerly WHSmith)
Address: 20 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris
The British bookshop Smith&Son, formerly the giant chain WHSmith, is located near the Place de la Concorde and across the road from the beautiful Tuileries Gardens. As the largest English bookstore in Paris, it’s a popular destination for English-language books, newspapers, and magazines.
Originally the Parisian branch of the esteemed English chain, WHSmith, it is now the city’s largest independent bookstore, all while retaining its historic charm, prestige, and British roots.
Visitors are greeted by the sight of shelves brimming with an extensive selection of English-language books and magazines, catering to diverse tastes and interests. From classic literature to contemporary bestsellers, niche genres to beloved children’s tales, the bookstore offers a treasure trove of reading material awaiting discovery.
Visitors can also indulge in a moment of relaxation at the connected cafe for a mix of British and French sweets, cakes, drinks, breakfasts, and brunches.
The luxurious Westin-Vendôme is just around the corner and is one of the top hotels in Paris if you’re looking for a place to stay in a great neighborhood.
Related: If you’re interested in the literary scene and history of Paris, be sure to see my complete literary travel guide. It has Paris travel tips, hotel recommendations, and obviously everything you need to do in Paris for the best bookish travel experience.
Abbey Bookshop
Address: 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris
Another great bookstore in the Latin Quarter (just a short walk from Shakespeare and Company, is The Abbey Bookshop. This undeniably quaint and cozy bookshop has irresistible charm that beckons book lovers from near and far.
This second-hand English bookstore, opened by Canadian owner Brian Spence in 1989 has a cozy interior, adorned with wooden bookcases and the faint scent of aged paper, invites exploration and discovery. Every nook and cranny is filled with an eclectic array of books, spanning genres from classic literature to contemporary fiction, poetry, philosophy, and more.
What sets The Abbey Bookshop Paris apart is its unique ambiance and personalized touch. The shelves are curated with care, reflecting the owner’s passion for literature and dedication to providing a diverse selection of reading material.
This is a perfect stop during your sightseeing tour of Paris to browse used books and explore an eclectic store, whether or not you’re in the market for a new book.
The Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore
Address: 9 rue de Medicis, 75006, 11 Rue de Médicis No. 9, 75006 Paris
Just a short walk away from the Abbey Bookshop is The Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore. Across the road from the Luxembourg Gardens, this charming bookstore in the Marais district offers a curated selection of English-language books, with a focus on literature, art, and culture.
Despite its unassuming exterior, this charming bookstore holds a world of literary treasures waiting to be discovered by avid readers and curious wanderers alike. Inside, its shelves are filled with options, from classic novels, contemporary bestsellers, poetry collections, and niche literary works.
As visitors explore the bookstore, they may notice the titular red wheelbarrow—a whimsical nod to the famous poem by William Carlos Williams. It serves as a reminder of the power of poetry and the enduring legacy of great literature, inspiring readers to embark on their own journeys of discovery and creativity.
There is also an amazing shop right nextdoor, The Nouvelle Librairie if you read French or just want to browse yet another bookstore in Paris.
If you’re in the mood for some great French food and are looking for a cafe with a little bit of a literary history, try Les Deux Magots, about a 15 minute walk from The Red Wheelbarrow. The cafe has been the preferred gathering spot for renowned artists and writers, including Guillaume Apollinaire, Louis Aragon, André Gide, Jean Giraudoux, Fernand Léger, Jacques Prévert, and Ernest Hemingway. I ate some amazing escargot and goie gras here while soaking in the literary atmosphere with my writing classmates during my MFA program.
San Francisco Book Company
Address: 17 Rue Monsieur le Prince, 75006 Paris
Yet another English bookshop in Paris’s Latin Quarter is the San Francisco Book Company. This English language bookstore is known for its extensive collection, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books.
Inside, it’s shelves are brimming with a diverse array of titles spanning various genres and interests. It feels like stepping into Flourish and Blotts with how many books have been lovingly crammed into this shop.
The majority of the books are second hand which helps to keep the cost down and also reduces waste. However, they often get recently published works so you may be able to find a newer book for a great deal.
Other Amazing Bookstores in Paris
While iconic English bookstores like Shakespeare and Company and Smith&Sons often steal the spotlight, Paris is home to a multitude of enchanting bookstores waiting to be discovered by bibliophiles.
While the stores below aren’t completely English-language shops, they have impressive English and foreign-language sections, making them still worth a visit.
Librairie Galignani
Address: 224 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Librairie Galignani, located between the Place de la Concorde and the Louvre on the prestigious Rue de Rivoli, holds the distinction of being the first and oldest English-language bookstore on the European continent thanks to its massive English Reading Room.
Founded in 1801 by Amedeo Galignani, an Italian bookseller, the bookstore has since become an institution beloved by locals and visitors alike.
The bookstore boasts an impressive selection of English-language books, covering a wide range of genres from classic literature to contemporary fiction, non-fiction, art books, and more. Whether you’re searching for the latest bestseller or a rare collectible edition, Librairie Galignani is sure to have something to satisfy every literary palate.
Taschen
Address: 2 Rue de Buci, 75006 Paris
Taschen’s Paris bookstore embodies the brand’s signature blend of sophistication and creativity.
Housed within a stylishly designed space, the store showcases Taschen’s renowned collection of art books, photography volumes, and design publications. From iconic works by celebrated artists to cutting-edge contemporary design, Taschen offers a curated selection that appeals to art aficionados and book enthusiasts alike.
With its sleek interior, knowledgeable staff, and diverse range of titles, Taschen’s Paris outpost serves as a cultural destination and a haven for those seeking inspiration and beauty in the world of art and design.
Brentano’s
Address: 37 Av. de l’Opéra, 75002 Paris
Brentano’s, nestled in the heart of Paris on Avenue de l’Opéra, exudes a timeless charm that beckons book lovers and literary enthusiasts. Within its elegant confines, patrons discover a curated selection of books spanning diverse genres, from classic literature to contemporary fiction, travel guides, and more.
With its rich heritage, cozy ambiance, and knowledgeable staff, Brentano’s offers a haven for bibliophiles seeking literary treasures and cultural experiences in the City of Light. It remains an enduring symbol of Parisian literary culture and a cherished destination for book enthusiasts worldwide.
Librairie Gourmande
Address: 92-96 Rue Montmartre, 75002 Paris
Librairie Gourmande tantalizes the senses with its exquisite collection of culinary literature and gastronomic delights. Established in 1999, it stands as a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a carefully curated selection of cookbooks, culinary guides, and gourmet magazines from around the world.
From classic French cuisine to international flavors and avant-garde culinary trends, Librairie Gourmande caters to chefs, home cooks, and food lovers alike. With its inviting ambiance, knowledgeable staff, and dedication to the culinary arts, it remains a beloved destination for epicureans seeking inspiration, recipes, and culinary treasures in the culinary capital of the world.
The American Library in Paris
Address: 10 Rue du Général Camou, 75007 Paris
While not a bookstore, I thought I’d share this amazing library in Paris as it’s a significant source of English-language and American books in Paris. The American Library in Paris was founded in 1920 and stands as a beacon of cultural exchange and intellectual discovery in the heart of Paris.
Nestled in a historic building near the Eiffel Tower, it offers a vast collection of English-language books, magazines, and digital resources, catering to readers of all ages and interests. Beyond its extensive literary offerings, the library hosts engaging events, author talks, and workshops, fostering a vibrant community of readers and thinkers.
With its welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to promoting literacy and learning, the American Library in Paris remains a cherished institution for bibliophiles and intellectuals alike.
And so, dear readers, we come to the end of my list of English bookshops in Paris. From the cozy corners of Shakespeare and Company to the bustling shelves of WHSmith, we’ve traversed the diverse landscape of Paris bookshops in search of English language books.
Whether you found solace in a well-worn copy of your favorite classic or stumbled upon a new author whose words ignited your imagination, cherish these moments. For in the embrace of a good book, amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, you found a piece of home, a slice of serenity, and a treasure worth holding onto.
If you are in Paris and visit one of these amazing english bookstores, make sure you take a photo and tag me on facebook or instagram so I can see what literary adventures you’re getting up to! And be sure to check back here because I’m always updating my list of bookstores in different places around the world. If I haven’t done a particular city yet, send me a message and I’ll try to tackle that soon!
Map of English Bookshops in Paris
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Paris English Bookshop FAQs
Can you buy books in English in Paris?
Yes, you can definitely buy books in English in Paris! The city boasts a variety of English bookshops where you can find a wide selection of English-language literature, ranging from classic novels to contemporary bestsellers, non-fiction, children’s books, and more. So where to buy English books in Paris? Some popular places are Shakespeare and Company, The Abbey Bookshop, and San Francisco Book Company.
What is the oldest English bookstore in Paris?
The oldest English bookstore in Paris is Shakespeare and Company. Established in 1919 by Sylvia Beach, it initially operated under the name “Sylvia Beach & Company” and later became known as Shakespeare and Company in 1922. The original bookstore was located at 12 rue de l’Odéon in the 6th arrondissement of Paris.
Shakespeare and Company gained literary fame as a gathering place for expatriate writers during the 1920s, including notable figures such as Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein. Sylvia Beach famously published James Joyce’s groundbreaking novel “Ulysses” in 1922 when other publishers deemed it too controversial.
In 1951, George Whitman opened a new bookstore with the same name in the Latin Quarter, inspired by Sylvia Beach’s original establishment. Located at 37 rue de la Bûcherie, this second incarnation of Shakespeare and Company continues to thrive as a beloved literary institution, offering a wide selection of English-language books and hosting cultural events, readings, and writer residencies. It has become an iconic destination for book lovers from around the world and maintains a rich connection to Paris’s literary history.
What is the name of the famous bookstore in Paris?
The famous bookstore in Paris you’re referring to is likely “Shakespeare and Company.” Established in 1919 by Sylvia Beach, it has become an iconic landmark in the city’s literary scene. The bookstore gained prominence in the 1920s as a gathering place for expatriate writers such as Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein. Located in the Latin Quarter at 37 rue de la Bûcherie, Shakespeare and Company continues to thrive as a beloved destination for book lovers, offering a wide selection of English-language books and hosting cultural events and readings. It has a rich history and remains a symbol of Paris’s literary heritage.
What English bookstore is across from Notre Dame?
The English bookstore across from Notre Dame in Paris is “Shakespeare and Company.” It’s situated at 37 rue de la Bûcherie, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic cathedral. Established in 1951 by George Whitman, it was inspired by Sylvia Beach’s original Shakespeare and Company, which was located nearby in the 1920s. This bookstore has become a renowned literary landmark in Paris, offering a vast selection of English-language books, hosting events, and serving as a hub for writers and book lovers from around the world.
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