Shakespeare and Co. is simply a comforting spot to escape busy Paris and read a heavily used novel free of charge, hear a stranger expertly play piano, or stumble upon a famous writer. Read more.
This shop boasts breathtaking Gothic Revival and Art Nouveau architecture, and is suspected to be part of the inspiration for the Harry Potter series' settings. Read more.
Lisbon's most versatile livraria and is equal parts cafe, local art gallery, event venue, and bookstore. Pop in for an espresso, to buy a book, to look at art on both floors, or for a reading. Read more.
Strand is frequented by both tourists and locals for its rare book room, deal bins, and "Strand"-branded tote bags and T-shirts. The Strand has events, from readings and classes to art shows. Read more.
Scorpio Books is home to the largest selection of fantasy and science-fiction books in New Zealand—more than a million titles—making it a perfect stop for Lord of the Rings-inspired tourists. Read more.
Liberia Acqua Alta features steps created from stacks of hardbacks tied together by string. The shop is only about a decade old and houses four cats, who will likely judge you from their as you skim. Read more.
Brattle proprietor Ken Gloss inherited the Brattle from his father, and the family business's outdoor carts come out every day year-round, except on days it rains or snows. Read more.
This shop hosts a book festival every November full of writers and artists. Visitors come for the views from this tiny island, but Atlantis Books is a special part of Santorini's many surprises. Read more.
This store boasts a palace-meets-library vibe thanks to the ritzy, Italian-style theater that it originally was. There are now thousands of rows of book spines throughout two floors. Read more.
This chic bookstore is charming on the inside with paperback birds and mobiles hanging from the ceiling and two floors of glossy covers to keep you shopping for hours. Read more.
City Lights is a can't-miss for its historic past. The bookstore and non-profit publisher focuses on progressive works and printed locally authored collections like Allen Ginsberg's famous Howl. Read more.
