The Abbey Bookshop

The Vault at the Foot of Notre Dame

This charming bookshop is filled from floor to ceiling with new releases as well as classics and first releases. But claustrophobes beware! If you have broad shoulders it may be a bit tight—I had to crab walk the whole way through! And during peak hours it can get a bit crowded due to its popularity, so try to visit in the week and as early as you can.

If you’re looking for a unique experience while buying your books, this place definitely won’t disappoint. Sat right on the “Road of Parchment” (Rue de la Parcheminerie in French) it’s like a walk through the pages of history.

Librairie Galignani

Distributing Books Since the Printing Press

With an extensive family history dating back to the 16th century, Galignani has maintained a reputation as a source of literature of all sorts and genres. Their English section boasts a wide variety of books, from self-help to art history. The boutique’s floorplan is quite spacious and very picturesque, so be sure to snap a few photos while you’re there.

This bookshop has the perfect location to grab a novel and sit in the Tuilerie Gardens right across the street. It’s also on the same covered passage as the charming cafes of Rue Rivoli, a perfect spot to enjoy a hot cocoa and a good read on a chilly winter day.

Taschen

A Bastion of Art History

Opening their critically-acclaimed collection of Basic Art books 40 years ago, Taschen has made many introductions to amateurs of art history. Their series titled Bibliotheca Universalis follows the same vein, with a standard hardback format sold for 15 euros and published in English, German and French.

Just be prepared to see their 18+ section as well, which proposes erotic photography, magazines and essays. It’s all tasteful and artistic, so as long as you don’t mind seeing some human forms, it’s nothing to worry about.

Shakespeare & Co.

A Big Name in Literature

Undoubtedly the most famous English bookshop in Paris, Shakespeare and Co. has only gained in popularity over the years. Just opposite Notre Dame, it’s been a hub for events and visitors since its opening in 1951. Its original location saw F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway and T. S. Eliot as regular patrons.

Its reputation precedes it, so the store can get quite busy in season, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re not afraid of the crowds. They regularly organize book readings and signing events, so check out their website to see if there’s anything you want to see on their docket.

The Red Wheelbarrow

An Homage to a Poem

Taking its name from a French poem, this bookshop offers a great range of classic and contemporary literature. Founded in 2001, it’s a much younger establishment than most of the places on this list. That hasn’t stopped it, however, from making its place in the market.

Having expended to a second location just next door in 2021, The Red Wheelbarrow has also ventured into the specialty of children’s books under the name The Red Balloon. It’s a great place to buy a gift for the young readers in your life.

Gibert Joseph

Physical Media Both New and Used

This chain proclaims itself the “Leader of Bargains Since 1886”. Their stores sell all sorts of physical media, from DVDs and vinyl records to books and comics of all ages.

With their large shops boasting impressive collections, you’re sure to find something to your taste. And since they have multiple locations in Paris, it’s an easy detour no matter where you’re staying.

Smith & Son

A Passage in British History

Walking up the stairs of this shop is quite literally walking into history. Having been refurbished in 1908 in the ‘Old English’ style inspired by Shakespeare’s house in Stratford-upon-Avon, the shop has kept its quaint and old-world vibes. The first floor has since been redone in a modern style, with a small coffee stand with snacks for a nice break while you read.

Brentano’s

A Shop Far From Home

From 5th Ave. at Rockefeller Center to Ave. of the Opera in Paris, Brentano’s has built an international empire as ‘Booksellers to the World’. The American company saw the inauguration of their Paris location in 1887 and survived the second world war and the changing times ever since.

Deceivingly large compared to its modest facade on the street, they sell exclusively English literature from their spectacular library. Based in a wonderful neighborhood of Paris, This store makes for a nice place to grab some American tomes.

Now Flip The Page!

Paris awaits you with open arms and lovely spots to enjoy your reading, so make some time on your next trip to take advantage of these literary havens.