Looking for the best and oldest bookstores in Paris like Shakespeare & Company or OFR? Whether you are a fan of books or not, they are great places to visit in Paris. Many of the greatest novelists, playwrights, poets and philosophers have lived in Paris. So there is no better place to find out more about the historical as well as current events in this great city. There are countless (English) bookstores in Paris, each with their own characteristics that make it fascinating. There are also many nice bookstores in the covered passages in Paris.
Browse through classic books, poems or an extensive range of books about fashion, fashion & design. You can find a copy of the current exhibitions in Paris in here from many expositions. But you can also simply enjoy the cozy Parisian atmosphere that lives in the oldest bookshops in Paris. In any case, be sure to visit the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore. Just as we love books? We went looking for the 8 best and oldest English bookstores in Paris for you.
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1. Shakespeare and Company: most famous English bookstore in Paris (5th)
Shakespeare & Co is without a doubt the most famous English bookstore in Paris. Over 100 years old and used to be the meeting place of some big names such as Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald. A bookstore full of history and charm.
The current Shakespeare and Company at 37 Rue de la Bûcherie was opened in 1951 by George Whitman, inspired by Sylvia Beach’s original shop from 1919, which was a haunt of literary greats like Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and James Joyce. Whitman turned his shop into a haven for writers and travelers: those who wished to sleep awhile among the bookcases were welcome to do so in exchange for a few hours’ work and the promise of writing a page a day. These Tumbleweeds, as he called them, have become legendary. To this day, the shop remains true to that spirit of hospitality and creativity, making a visit feel like a step back in time and a leap into a world of stories.
Afterwards, enjoy your new reading and a delicious espresso on the nice terrace of the Shakespeare & Company Café, just next door.
37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris | Shakespeareandcompany.com →
2. Librairie Delamain: oldest bookstore in Paris (2nd)
Founded in 1708, Librairie Delamain is the oldest bookstore in Paris. Located in the heart of Paris, this bookshop offers a selection of bestsellers, old books and much more. Ideal as a stopover on your way from the Louvre or to the Comédie Française. You can finish with a drink on one of the best terraces in Paris at Le Nemours, across the street.
155 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris | Librairie-delamain.com →
3. Librairie Galignani: English and French Books (1st)
Librarie Galignani is also one of the best bookstores in Paris, beautifully situated opposite Jardin des Tuileries. With an excellent selection of both English and French literature and history. You will also find a series of books on fashion, design, travel and interior design.
224 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris | Galignani.fr →
4. San Francisco Book Company: A must for bibliophiles (6th)
Tucked away in a somewhat narrow side street (very nice street, by the way), the San Francisco Book Company bookstore is a must for those looking for second-hand English-language books. The bookstore was founded in 1997 and specializes in a very wide range of books such as cooking, biology, children’s literature, theater, cinema, etc. We would like to come back here.
17 Rue Monsieur le Prince, 75006 Paris | Sfparis.com →
5. OFR Bookshop: photography, art and fashion (3rd)
The bookshop Ofr. in the Le Marais district is a paradise for lovers of photography, art and fashion. At the back of the bookstore is a small gallery of 60 m² where events and exhibitions are often held. We always pay a visit when we are in the area. Can not be missed!
20 Rue Dupetit-Thouars, 75003 Paris | Instagram.com/ofrparis/ →
6. Librairie Jousseaume: bookshop in Galerie Vivienne (2nd)
This old bookstore in Paris has existed since 1826 and is located in one of the most beautiful covered passages in Paris, Galerie Vivienne. Specializing in rare and second-hand books on topics such as history, travel, literature, poetry, theater and music. During the Christmas period, the store, like the Galerie Vivienne, is beautifully decorated and definitely worth a visit.
45-46-47 Galerie Vivienne, 75002 Paris | Librairiejousseaume.fr →
7. The Abbey Bookshop: cozy English bookstore (5th)
Located in the historic Latin Quarter neighborhood, The Abbey Bookshop is a cozy bookstore tucked into an 18th-century building. The owner is proud of his extensive English-language collection, with no fewer than 35,000 English titles. Look for a rare book or just have a chat with the friendly owner, who is on hand to answer any questions you may have or tell you a fun anecdote about the area.
29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris | Abbeybookshop.org →
8. Halle Saint-Pierre: at the foot of Montmartre (18th)
This beautiful bookstore in Paris is located at the foot of Montmartre. Once a market hall and now a museum, gallery, bookshop, auditorium and cafe. In the shop a wide selection of books about art, photography, design, the history and culture of Paris and children’s books. The temporary exhibitions and numerous artistic and cultural activities in the arts center are also interesting. Nice to combine this bookstore with a visit to the Sacré-Coeur.
2 Rue Ronsard, 75018 Paris | Hallesaintpierre.org →
Time to discover some of Paris’ best bookstores. You don’t have to be a bookworm to fall in love with the many wonderful bookshops like Shakespeare & Company. You haven’t really been to the city of lights without visiting the best bookshops in Paris. Have fun reading in Paris!
FAQ about the best and oldest bookstores in Paris
1. What makes Shakespeare and Company so special?
This world-famous English-language bookstore on the Seine, opposite Notre-Dame, is a literary landmark. It’s part shop, part library, part writer’s haven, with a magical, slightly chaotic atmosphere that invites you to linger.
2. Can I find second-hand books in Paris?
Absolutely! Shakespeare and Company has a used book section, and the green bookstalls along the Seine (bouquinistes) are full of vintage gems and out-of-print treasures.
3. Are there many English-language bookstores in Paris?
Yes, besides Shakespeare and Company, you’ll find places like The Abbey Bookshop and San Francisco Book Company, offering a wide selection of English titles.
4. Can I get books signed at Shakespeare and Company?
Yes, they host regular book launches and author events. Check their events calendar for upcoming signings and readings.
5. Where can I find the most beautiful French bookstores?
Librairie Galignani and Librairie Delamain are stunning Parisian bookstores combining gorgeous interiors with exceptional French and international collections.
6. Are there bookstores specializing in art and photography?
Definitely. Around the Louvre and in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, you’ll find niche bookshops dedicated to art, design, and rare photography books.
7. Are the bookstalls along the Seine worth visiting?
A must! The bouquinistes offer everything from antique novels to vintage posters and collectible prints, plus unbeatable river views.
8. Can I find literary cafés in Paris?
Yes, some bookstores have cozy coffee corners, including Shakespeare and Company’s café next door, perfect for reading with a cappuccino.
9. When is the best time to visit a bookstore?
Mornings are usually calm, but afternoons bring a lovely buzz, especially at iconic spots like Shakespeare and Company.
10. Do bookstores in Paris host free events?
Many do! International bookstores often organize free talks, poetry readings, and writing workshops open to everyone.
