Historic Bookshops of Paris: Hidden Gems Beyond Shakespeare & Co

Paris has a treasure trove of historic bookstores, from rare bookshops hidden in covered passages to iconic spots that attract book lovers from all over the world. Here are a few iconic ones.

1. Librairie Delamain

Photo: ActuaLitté (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Located near the Palais Royal, this bookstore was founded in 1700. Previously named Librairie Stock, it is one of Paris’s oldest. Specializing in classical literature and French history, its long-standing wooden interiors and knowledgeable staff create a true book-lover’s atmosphere.

La libraire Stock - 1909

2. Librairie Galignani

Photo: Librairie GALIGNANI - 09/2016 © david atlan (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Opened in 1801 on Rue de Rivoli near the Tuileries Garden, this is Europe’s first English-language bookstore. It has an impressive collection of English and French literature and a rich history of serving literary icons, including Ernest Hemingway.

Photo: Librairie GALIGNANI (© david atlan - CC BY-SA 4.0)

3. Librairie Jousseaume

Photo: Librairie Jousseaume

Located in the stunning Passage Vivienne gallery, this amazing bookstore dates back to 1826. Its beautiful glass-covered passage and classic wooden shelves reflect the 19th-century Paris. The store offers an eclectic selection of vintage and antique books.

4. Librairie Auguste Blaizot

Photo: Librairie Auguste Blaizot

Another 19th century bookstore, located on Boulevard Haussmann, known for offering rare books and fine bindings, especially art books. One of Paris’s go-to stores for antique book collectors.

5. Librairie Mollat

Photo: Dinkley (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Established in 1896, Mollat is Paris’s oldest family-run bookstore. It has an extensive French literature collection and is a hub for literature lovers.

6. Librairie La Hune

Photo: Librarie La Hune

Originally opened in 1949 in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, bookstore and gallery La Hune became a literary and intellectual hub during the post-war era. It was recently restored with a striking interior design. A modern selection of art books and contemporary literature.

7. The Abbey Bookshop

Photo: abbeybookshop.org

Nestled on Rue de la Parcheminerie near Notre-Dame, The Abbey Bookshop was founded in 1989 by a Canadian expat. A cozy, crowded ambiance, with an extensive selection of English titles.

8. San Francisco Book Company

Photo: San Francisco Book Company

San Francisco Book Company was founded in 1997 by American expats in the heart of Paris’s Latin Quarter, Rue Monsieur le Prince. It quickly became a favorite for English-speaking readers. It has a carefully curated selection of second-hand books across various genres.