Travel isn’t just about going to new destinations, it’s about discovering places that tell real stories. In recent years, bookstores have evolved into much more than places to buy books. They’ve become cultural hubs where architecture, literature, and atmosphere come together to create unforgettable experiences. If you travel with Royal Holiday Club, adding some of the world’s most unique bookstores to your itinerary can make your trip even more memorable. With TravelXtra, you can design routes that include these inspiring stops and turn every journey into something truly special.
10 BOOKSTORES THAT ARE WORTH THE TRIP
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Bookstore Guide
Around the world, certain bookstores stand out for their history, design, and one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Here are some of the most iconic:
- Shakespeare and Company, Paris. A legendary bookstore on the banks of the Seine, known for its rich literary history and as a haven for writers and travelers.
- El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires. Housed in a former theater, it’s often ranked among the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
- Livraria Lello, Porto. Famous for its stunning staircase and neo-gothic design, it’s one of the most photographed bookstores.
- The Last Bookstore, Los Angeles. A creative space where books meet art installations.
- Barter Books, England. Located in a former train station, this bookstore is cozy and full of charm.
- Acqua Alta, Venice. Known for storing books in gondolas and bathtubs to protect them from flooding, a true Venetian original.
- Zhongshuge Bookstore, China. Famous for its futuristic and surreal interiors.
- Powell’s City of Books, Portland. One of the largest independent bookstores in the world, offering millions of interesting books.
- Ler Devagar, Lisbon. A cultural space inside a former factory where books, art, and creativity come together.
- Cook & Book, Brussels. A unique concept combining dining and literature in beautifully themed spaces.
BOOKSTORES THAT BECOME DESTINATIONS
These aren’t just stores to buy a book, they’re places to slow down, explore, and connect. Some impress with breathtaking architecture, others with their rich history, but all offer something special: an experience.
Visiting a bookstore like these gives you a deeper, more intimate way to discover a city, far from the typical tourist plan. Discover which Disney attraction you are based on your personality
A DIFFERENT WAY TO TRAVEL
With Royal Holiday Club, you can go beyond traditional sightseeing and incorporate meaningful experiences into your trips. Through TravelXtra, you’ll enjoy greater flexibility, more destination options, and the ability to design itineraries that include cultural gems like these.
From visiting literary landmarks across Europe to discovering creative spaces in the Americas, every journey becomes richer when you travel with intention.
TRAVELING AMONG BOOKS
Exploring bookstores around the world is a unique way to connect with the soul of a destination. These are places where time slows down and there’s always something to discover.
With Royal Holiday Club, your travels can become more than just vacations, they can become experiences and stories worth telling.