Best Bookstores and Print Shops in Paris

Shakespeare and Company has been a meeting place for anglophone since 1951. Located prominently in the heart of Paris, the English-language bookshop was once a gathering place for some the greatest expat literary writers in the world. Expat writers like Joyce, Hemingway, Stein, Fitzgerald, Eliot, Pound visited often, alongside other famous French writers.

Unassuming at a glance, Ofr is your one-stop shop for almost any kind of coffee table book. From fashion magazines to artist biographies, the store is stacked with books from the bottom to the top and always brings an eclectic crowd. Photography, fashion, retrospectives and anthologies line the walls along with posters, postcards, pottery pieces and even apparel merch. The store doubles as its own independent publishing house and an agency that hosts regular exhibitions and book signings. Big fashion names like Raf Simons and Kim Jones have done magazine and book signings at the store.

Artazart is a bookshop dedicated to images and illustrations. The store brings whimsy and fun for those looking for all things visual arts, whether it's a book of posters, uniquely illustrated playing cards, limited edition hand-drawn home goods, photography prints and more.

Librairie Delamain is considered to be the oldest bookstore in Paris. Located amongst the other historical attractions in the 1ae arrondissement on Saint-Honoré, the bookstore was founded in the 18th century. Now a heritage and cultural site, the store is a dream destination for bibliophiles looking for both old and modern books.

Two of the largest trademarks in the art world, Walther König and Cahiers d'Art, have joined forces to create one of the largest art bookshops in Paris. Offering a global selection of books and magazines within the realm of fashion, art and more, the shop is also a go-to spot for creative trinkets and objects associated with the exhibitions currently at the Palais de Tokyo.

A proud historical landmark that is known to be the first English-language bookstore on the European continent since 1801, Librairie Galignani still stands as a part of bibliophilic culture. With over a million titles, the bookshop is one of the most prestigious in the world. Boasting an impressive history, the international bookstore is for book seekers of all interests, featuring a comprehensive selection of titles across classics and fiction alike.

Considered to be one of the most magnificent and ancient bookshops in Paris, the Librairie Jousseaume is a dream for bibliophiles looking for rare books. A haven for famous French artists and writers, this spot serves books with a side of history. Located at Galerie Vivienne, which is one of the most iconic passages in Paris, the experience of visiting Librairie Jousseaume is like none other.

For fashion and art lovers alike, the Bookshop located at the foundation was built as a nod to the famous couturier's passion for books and the arts. The bookstore is located in the inner courtyard of the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation and offers publications related to Mr. Alaïa work and universe in fashion, history, exhibitions and more.

For a broad selection of coffee table books, Assouline's bookstore is the spot for you. The luxury bibliophilic shop is just a stone's throw away from the famous Café de Flore and Les Deux Margot in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. With signature red walls, it is warm and inviting, welcoming guests to step into a world of wonder.

L’Eau Et Les Rêves aka the Water and Dreams book store in Paris is uniquely situated on a boat by the bridge of Rue de l’Ourcq. Also doubling as a café, the boat or péniche, features a wide range of books fit for the imaginative reader.

La Librairie du Passage is a hidden gem located in the charming and historical Passage Jouffroy. Passage Jouffroy is also home to many antique trinkets and shops. Recognizable by its wooden panels, the store gives the vintage aesthetic and sells volumes of catalogues and monographs surrounding design, contemporary and classic arts.