There’s something extraordinary about stepping into a bookstore. The smell of fresh paper and ink, the soft murmur of pages turning, and the sense of endless possibility make it a place like no other. Now, imagine a bookstore that feels downright magical. Some bookstores go beyond being a place to buy books and become destinations in their own right. From whimsical décor to hidden treasures, these stores draw readers not only for the books they sell but also for the unforgettable experiences they offer. Whether you're a casual reader or a devoted bibliophile, these eight unique bookstores are worth putting on your must-visit list. Prepare to fall under their spell!

1. Shakespeare and Company (Paris, France)

Nestled along the Seine River, Shakespeare and Company is a book lover’s dream. This legendary shop has been a haven for writers and readers since the early 1920s. This bookstore is a piece of literary history. With its creaky wooden floors, cozy nooks, and resident cats, the space invites you to linger. Visitors can browse everything from poetry to prose, and upstairs, there’s even a lending library where readers can kick back on old couches. The shop has been featured in films like Midnight in Paris and Before Sunset, solidifying its place as a magical stop for book lovers in the City of Light.

2. The Last Bookstore (Los Angeles, USA)

More art installation than bookstore, The Last Bookstore is exactly what its name suggests: a final paradise for book lovers. Located in downtown Los Angeles, its massive floor plan is filled with labyrinth-like tunnels of books, colorful displays, and quirky sculptures made entirely out of novels. One of its standout features is the “book tunnel,” where stacks of books form a literal tunnel you can walk through. Alongside the books, you’ll find vinyl records, quirky artwork, and even mystery books wrapped in paper to keep their titles a surprise. It’s an Instagrammer’s paradise and a true celebration of creativity and literature.

3. Atlantis Books (Santorini, Greece)

Perched on the cliffs of Oia, Atlantis Books looks like it belongs in a storybook itself. With its bright yellow walls and a backdrop of the sparkling Aegean Sea, this quaint little bookstore feels like a hidden treasure. Inside, shelves are packed from floor to ceiling with books in multiple languages, making it a favorite among international travelers. The store also hosts events like readings and sunset book signings on its rooftop, offering panoramic views of the island. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a book and lose yourself in a Mediterranean dream.

4. Livraria Lello (Porto, Portugal)

If you’ve ever wanted to step inside a Harry Potter-esque setting, Livraria Lello is the bookstore for you. Found in Porto, this cathedral-like shop features stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a sweeping staircase that seems like it leads to another world. It’s no surprise that Livraria Lello served as inspiration for J.K. Rowling when she lived in Porto and was writing the early Harry Potter books. The bookstore charges a small entrance fee, which can be put toward a purchase, but the chance to take in its breathtaking beauty is absolutely worth it.

5. El Ateneo Grand Splendid (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

Imagine a bookstore housed in a former theater. That’s El Ateneo Grand Splendid. Located in Buenos Aires, this gem is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. The stage, once reserved for performers, is now a café where you can enjoy a latte alongside your latest read. The ceiling retains its original ornate frescoes, and the theater boxes have been converted into cozy reading alcoves. With its mix of history, artistry, and books, El Ateneo offers a truly unforgettable experience for anyone who walks through its doors.

6. Powell’s City of Books (Portland, USA)

Famous for being the largest independent bookstore in the world, Powell’s City of Books spans an entire city block in Portland, Oregon. With over a million books on its shelves, it’s a bibliophile's paradise. The store breaks its inventory into color-coded sections, making it easy to get lost in its vastness. From rare first editions to an entire floor dedicated to new and used books, there’s something here for everyone. Powell’s hosts regular readings, author signings, and workshops, fostering a strong connection between the store and its community of readers.

7. Libreria Acqua Alta (Venice, Italy)

Situated in the heart of Venice, Libreria Acqua Alta is a quirky bookstore that fully embraces its city’s watery nature. Books are stacked inside bathtubs, gondolas, and waterproof bins to protect them from the frequent flooding that Venice experiences. Outside, you’ll find a staircase made entirely out of books, which provides a panoramic view of the canals. Inside, the atmosphere is one of organized chaos, with cats meandering among the stacks. It’s a bookstore experience like no other, with the charm of Venice woven into each corner.

8. Boekhandel Dominicanen (Maastricht, Netherlands)

A bookstore in a 700-year-old church? Yes, please! Boekhandel Dominicanen in Maastricht transforms a historic Dominican church into a stunning literary haven. The high, vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows create a serene and almost spiritual atmosphere. Alongside shelves of books, you’ll also find a café where you can sip coffee and admire the historic architecture. Whether you’re religious or not, there’s something truly mesmerizing about reading in a place that feels sacred to both faith and literature.

Besides wonderful books, bookstores offer experiences, memories, and moments of magic. From the cliffside charm of Atlantis Books to the art-filled wonders of The Last Bookstore, each of these unique spots is worth adding to your travel bucket list. Visiting them is like stepping into a whole new world, one page at a time. If you find yourself near one of these gems, don’t just walk past it. Step inside and see the magic for yourself!