English Bookstores in Paris: 7 Hidden Gems & Iconic Spots

Last Updated on July 6, 2025 by April Nicole

Have you ever found yourself wandering through Paris, craving a good book in English, but not knowing where to look? You’re not alone. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or living here long-term, finding English bookshops in Paris can feel like searching for a hidden gem in a sea of French titles.

In an age of instant downloads and e-readers, there’s still something irreplaceable about stepping into a real bookstore, leafing through pages, discovering something unexpected, and having a human being hand you a recommendation you didn’t know you needed.

In this guide, I’ll share the best English-language bookstores in Paris, some iconic, others tucked away on quiet side streets. You’ll learn where to find new releases, rare secondhand treasures, and cozy corners for reading (or people-watching). This post is perfect for travelers, expats, students, or anyone who wants to connect with the literary side of Paris, without the language barrier.

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If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of the best English bookshops in Paris:

1. The Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore

This inviting bookstore offers a carefully selected range of titles, with a strong emphasis on independent publishers and contemporary voices. Its cozy interior is lined with shelves of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction that feel handpicked rather than mass-marketed.

The staff is both approachable and deeply knowledgeable, always eager to recommend something unexpected or delightful based on your tastes. In addition to browsing, visitors can attend regular events like book signings, poetry readings, and intimate book club gatherings that foster a real sense of literary community.

The Red Wheelbarrow feels like a hidden treasure in the Marais. I popped in on a whim and ended up chatting with the staff about poetry and small presses for nearly half an hour. There’s a calm energy to the space, and every shelf feels curated with care. I left with two books I hadn’t planned to buy, but couldn’t put down.

2. The American Library in Paris

Inside, you’ll find a spacious, light-filled environment ideal for reading, studying, or browsing through a collection of over 100,000 books, periodicals, and digital resources. The library includes dedicated areas for children, group study, and quiet reading. As a member, you can borrow physical and digital books, use online resources, and attend events.

The library regularly hosts high-quality programming, from author talks and panel discussions to writing workshops and cultural screenings, featuring both local voices and internationally renowned speakers. It’s more than just a place to find books; it’s a literary sanctuary for expats, students, and curious travelers alike.

Stepping into the American Library is like entering a quiet sanctuary in the middle of the city. I once spent an afternoon in one of their reading corners, completely immersed in a memoir I grabbed off the shelf. The space is bright, peaceful, and full of quiet inspiration. It’s perfect if you want a break from sightseeing and a moment to just read and reflect.

3. Shakespeare and Company

Expect a magical maze of bookshelves filled with an eclectic mix of new and second-hand titles, covering everything from classic literature to contemporary fiction and poetry. Nooks and alcoves invite you to linger, and the vintage typewriters and reading benches add a whimsical touch.

Events are a big part of the experience here, with frequent author readings, workshops, and book launches in an intimate, literary setting. There’s also a cozy on-site café where you can sip coffee while diving into your newest find. Despite its fame, the shop retains a warm, indie spirit that celebrates both storytelling and community.

No matter how many times I visit, Shakespeare and Company always feels magical. I still remember getting lost in their maze-like rooms and stumbling upon a tucked-away typewriter and reading nook. It’s easy to see why writers have been drawn here for decades. I’ve never walked out empty-handed or without a story to tell.

4. The Abbey Bookshop

This delightfully cluttered space is filled with towering stacks of fiction, non-fiction, travel guides, and rare finds. The energy is lively and informal, making it easy to strike up conversations with fellow book lovers. Events like readings and literary meetups are common, giving the shop a strong community feel.

The Abbey Bookshop is the kind of place where you have to gently squeeze between towering stacks of books and I love it. The energy is vibrant, the selection feels endless, and it’s impossible not to strike up a conversation while browsing. It’s chaotic in the most delightful, literary way.

5. Smith & Son (Formally WHSmith Paris)

Expect a broad selection of genres, including bestsellers, children’s books, cookbooks, and English newspapers. The elegant café inside is perfect for a quiet tea break with your new read. Occasional author signings and literary events add to the experience.

Smith & Son is my go-to when I want a comforting slice of British bookstore charm in Paris. I’ve stopped by just to browse, but usually end up in the café with a hot tea and a new novel. The staff are helpful, and the selection is broad enough to suit any mood. It’s a lovely mix of bookstore and cozy hangout spot.

6. San Francisco Book Company

The shelves are packed with gently used books, from classics to rare editions and quirky paperbacks. The layout is tidy and inviting, with a mix of older and newer titles. Staff are friendly and happy to chat or make recommendations.

I love wandering into the San Francisco Book Company on quiet afternoons, it’s one of those places where time slows down. The shelves are full of secondhand treasures, from out-of-print novels to quirky paperbacks. The staff are always up for a chat and often share fun stories about their favorite finds. It’s a relaxing, no-rush kind of bookshop that always surprises me.

7. Librairie Galignani

Inside, you’ll find a curated selection of English and French books, including beautifully bound editions and titles focused on art, literature, and history. The staff are attentive and knowledgeable, making personalized recommendations feel effortless. It’s ideal for readers who appreciate a more polished, tranquil setting.

Librairie Galignani is where I go when I want a more refined, elegant book-browsing experience. Everything is beautifully arranged, and the selection of English and French titles is top-notch. I once treated myself to a leather-bound copy of Pride and Prejudice here, and it felt like buying a little piece of Parisian literary history. It’s a quieter, more classic bookshop that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

Final Thoughts on the 7 Best English Bookshops in Paris

Paris is a city that celebrates literature, and its English bookshops are a testament to that love for books. Each of these bookshops offers a unique experience, from the historic charm of Shakespeare and Company to the community-oriented atmosphere of The Abbey Bookshop.

Whether you’re looking for a rare edition, a contemporary bestseller, or simply a cozy spot to read, you’ll find it in one of these wonderful bookshops.

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