The most beautiful bookshops in Paris: five addresses to discover
Discover five exceptional Parisian bookshops, true treasures for lovers of literature, art and rarities. With their history, unique ambience and never-before-seen books, these places invite you on a timeless journey to the heart of Paris. Let our selection be your guide!
Galignani Bookshop
The Galignani bookshop, founded by Giovanni Antonio Galignani in 1801, is one of the oldest bookshops in Paris. It originally opened on rue Vivienne as a reading place specializing in English-language books. Now located on rue de Rivoli, this historic bookshop still attracts enthusiasts from all over the world. Shelves dating back to the 1930s are filled with English-language works and fine art books. Books come from the USA, England and Italy. Lovers of rare items will also find out-of-print books on themes such as fashion, jewelry and the decorative arts.
224 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Jousseaume bookstore
Nestled in the Galerie Vivienne, considered one of the most beautiful covered passages in Paris, the Jousseaume bookshop opened its doors in 1826. This unique venue attracts tourists and enthusiasts alike, offering an atmosphere of a bygone era. Listed as a Monument Historique, it has retained its authenticity: dark shelves overflowing with old and rare books, transporting visitors to a Paris of yesteryear, as if in a Marcel Carné film.
Galerie Vivienne, 45-46 Galerie Vivienne, 75002 Paris
Rizzoli Bookstore New York
The Rizzoli bookshop, located on the second floor of the Hôtel Cravan, is renowned for its varied collection of antiquarian books. With an unobstructed view of Place Saint-Germain, you’ll enjoy its hushed ambience. The velvet sofa is perfect for reading. Rizzoli, publisher since 1974, is today a worldwide reference for illustrated books in fields as varied as architecture, fashion, industrial design, photography and the culinary arts.
2nd floor of Hôtel Cravan, 165 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris
Librairie Delamain
Founded in 1700 under the arcades of the Comédie-Française, Delamain is the oldest bookshop in Paris. After moving to rue Saint-Honoré in 1906, it was bought by Gallimard in 1986. This historic store attracts a discerning clientele in search of antiquarian books among its 5,000 rare and precious titles. Personalities such as Jean Cocteau and François Mitterrand have frequented this bookshop, which remains a favorite among literature lovers to this day.
155 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris
Palais de Tokyo Bookshop
Located in the Palais de Tokyo, the bookshop dedicated to contemporary art is an essential meeting place for lovers of creativity. Opened in 2002, it offers a cutting-edge selection of art and fashion books and magazines, in a bright 450 m² space. Arty souvenirs and exhibition catalogs are also available to satisfy visitors in search of inspiration and unique objects to take home from this Parisian art center.
13 Avenue du Président Wilson, 75116 Paris
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