For those who find solace in the pages of a good book, certain destinations around the world hold a special allure. These places, steeped in literary history and culture, offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of words. Here are the top places to visit for book lovers.
Home to independent bookstores, presses, and all things writerly, Portland is just the bookish city you need for your literary tour. There’s no walking through this city without tipping over some books along the way. In addition to cafes promoting the “feel free to linger” vibe, there are plenty of quiet spaces made for reading and spots that encourage you to wonder about literary history and future pursuits.
✦ Powell’s City of Books: This iconic bookstore is the largest independent bookstore in the world, offering an expansive collection of new and used books across various genres. Its maze-like layout, knowledgeable staff, and frequent author events make it a must-visit for book lovers.
✦ Independent Bookstore Culture: Portland has a strong tradition of supporting independent bookstores, with numerous unique and charming shops scattered throughout the city. These bookstores often host literary events, readings, and book clubs, fostering a vibrant literary community.
✦ Literary Festivals and Events: Portland hosts several literary festivals and events throughout the year, attracting authors, readers, and publishers from around the world. These events provide opportunities for people to connect with writers, discover new books, and engage in literary discussions.
✦ Creative Writing Programs: The city is home to several universities and colleges with strong creative writing programs, nurturing a new generation of writers and contributing to the literary landscape.
✦ Local Authors and Publishers: Portland has a growing community of local authors and publishers, producing a diverse range of books that reflect the city’s unique character and culture.
New York isn’t just a place where novels are set. It’s a place where novels are devoured. Amidst the chaos, people always find quiet places to read. You’ll find people with their noses buried in books in coffee shops, bookstores, sidewalks, subways, the grassy grounds of Central Park, hidden nooks and corners. When in New York, you won’t be surprised to find the hold it has on both writers and readers.
✦ Rich Literary History: The city has been home to countless renowned authors, including Walt Whitman, Edith Wharton, and E.L. Doctorow. Their works often featured New York as a central backdrop, capturing the city’s energy, diversity, and social issues.
✦ Iconic Bookstores: New York boasts a vibrant bookstore scene, with legendary shops like Strand Books and The New York Public Library. These institutions have served as gathering places for readers and writers for decades.
✦ Publishing Industry: The city is a major hub for the publishing industry, attracting writers, editors, and agents from around the world. This concentration of talent fosters a thriving literary community.
✦ Cultural Events: New York City hosts numerous literary events, including book festivals, readings, and author signings. These events provide opportunities for readers to connect with their favorite authors and discover new books.
✦ Diverse Audience: The city’s diverse population creates a demand for a wide range of literature, from classic novels to contemporary fiction and non-fiction. This diversity helps to sustain a vibrant book culture.
Hemingway knew what he was talking about when he described Paris “a moveable feast.” From Victor Hugo’s elegant home to the many bistros and bars frequented by the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Sartre, and hundreds more, Paris is a haven for book lovers.
✦ Literary Giants: Paris has been home to countless renowned writers, including Victor Hugo, Ernest Hemingway, and Simone de Beauvoir. Their works often celebrated the city’s unique atmosphere and inspired generations of readers.
✦ Historical Significance: The city’s role as a center of intellectual and artistic activity during the Enlightenment and Romantic periods solidified its reputation as a place where ideas and creativity flourished.
✦ Iconic Bookstores: Paris is filled with charming bookstores, many of which have been in operation for decades. These establishments offer a treasure trove of classic and contemporary literature, attracting book lovers from around the world.
✦ Literary Cafés: The city’s numerous literary cafés have become iconic symbols of Parisian culture. These cozy establishments provide a welcoming atmosphere for writers, thinkers, and readers to gather, discuss ideas, and enjoy a good book.
✦ Language and Culture: French culture places a high value on literature and intellectual pursuits. The French language itself, with its elegance and precision, has inspired countless literary works.
If there’s a city in America that is quiet and laid back, it is Seattle. Nothing holds a candle to the sheer collection of bookstores present here. Over here, cozy cafes, breathtaking libraries, and a vibrant literary scene abound. You know they are devoted to real books and real bookstores. Book lovers can find plenty to love here from literary-themed hotels to mammoth libraries. You are a writer charged to write in a way that is short, crisp, and like a human.
✦ A Strong Literary Tradition: Seattle has a long history of producing and supporting writers. Notable authors like Richard Hugo, Octavia Butler, and Ursula K. Le Guin have called the city home.
✦ Vibrant Literary Scene: The city boasts a thriving literary scene with numerous independent bookstores, literary festivals, author readings, and writing workshops.
✦ UNESCO City of Literature: In 2017, Seattle was officially designated a UNESCO City of Literature, recognizing its significant contribution to the global literary landscape.
✦ Supportive Institutions: Seattle Public Library and King County Library System are renowned for their extensive collections and programming, fostering a love of reading and learning.
✦ Educational Emphasis: The city has a high percentage of educated residents, which often correlates with a stronger reading culture.
✦ Coffee Culture: Seattle’s coffee culture, often associated with relaxation and contemplation, provides a conducive environment for reading.
There are several must-see destinations for book lovers, including the British Library in London, Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, and Ernest Hemingway’s favorite haunts in Paris. These places offer a perfect mix of literary history and modern literary destinations.
Some iconic independent bookstores include Shakespeare and Company in Paris, City Lights in San Francisco, and The Strand in New York City. These shops are a bibliophile’s dream with collections of rare books and first editions for the most dedicated avid readers.
Absolutely! Stratford-upon-Avon is the go-to destination for William Shakespeare fans, while in Havana, you can visit Ernest Hemingway’s home, now a museum, filled with his books and memorabilia.
A visit to Venice’s famous floating books at Libreria Acqua Alta offers a one-of-a-kind literary experience. For a more immersive trip, book clubs and reading tours in UNESCO cities like Edinburgh, known for its literary heritage, offer opportunities to explore the written word in a social setting.
Cities like Edinburgh, Dublin, and Paris are steeped in literary history. In Dublin, you can visit The Book of Kells at Trinity College Library, while Paris offers the British Library and sites like Les Deux Magots, where literary greats like Hemingway and Sartre gathered.
Yes, some quaint bookshops in smaller towns operate on an honor system where you can browse at your leisure and leave payment for any books you take. These independent stores often support the local community and encourage readers to discover hidden gems.
For rare books, head to specialized independent bookstores like Heywood Hill in London or The Argosy Bookstore in New York. Book fairs and auctions are also great places to find first editions for collectors.
The British Library in London, The Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., and The New York Public Library are world-renowned libraries. They house millions of books in different languages, offering an incredible collection of new books, old books, and rare books alike.
For sci-fi fans, destinations like the Arthur C. Clarke Foundation in Sri Lanka or Philip K. Dick tours in California are great options. For Harry Potter enthusiasts, visiting filming locations in the UK or the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a magical experience.
