Barcelona's Best Bookstores: A Guide for Book Lovers

1. La Central

One of the most popular and well-known bookstores in Barcelona, La Central has multiple locations across the city, but the flagship store in Raval is a must-visit for any book lover. Housed in a stunning historic building, La Central offers an impressive collection of books in multiple languages, including Spanish, Catalan, and English. You’ll find everything from fiction and non-fiction to art, design, and philosophy books.

What to Expect:

• Wide Selection: The bookstore offers a vast range of titles, from contemporary novels to academic works.
• Café and Events: La Central hosts literary events, book signings, and workshops, and it has a cozy café where you can sit and read.

Tips:

• Browse the English-language section for a variety of titles, perfect for international visitors.
• Take your time exploring the nooks and crannies of this beautiful bookstore, which feels like a world of its own.

2. Llibreria Calders

Tucked away in the trendy Sant Antoni neighborhood, Llibreria Calders is a hidden gem for those looking to dive into the world of contemporary Spanish and Catalan literature. This independent bookstore has a carefully curated selection of books, with a focus on avant-garde, experimental, and independent publications. It’s the perfect spot for discovering new voices and thought-provoking works.

What to Expect:

• Specialized Collection: The bookstore focuses on literature, essays, and poetry from small publishers and lesser-known authors.
• Local Authors: Llibreria Calders is a great place to explore books by Catalan and Spanish authors that you may not find elsewhere.

Tips:

• Stop by in the evening, when the bookstore often hosts literary readings and discussions with local authors.
• Bring a notebook and pen—this is the kind of bookstore where you’ll want to jot down ideas and inspirations.

3. Altaïr

If you’re a traveler at heart, Altaïr is the bookstore for you. Known as the largest travel bookstore in Europe, Altaïr offers an impressive selection of guidebooks, maps, and travel literature from around the world. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply dreaming of far-off places, Altaïr will ignite your wanderlust with its wide range of travel-related titles.

What to Expect:

• Travel Books and Guides: From hiking guides to cultural histories, Altaïr has everything you need to plan your next trip or learn about a new destination.
• Global Focus: The bookstore is divided by continent, making it easy to find books related to the specific region you’re interested in.

Tips:

• Check out their travel literature section, which includes novels, memoirs, and essays from writers across the globe.
• If you’re a fan of adventure and exploration, browse the section dedicated to mountaineering, trekking, and outdoor pursuits.

4. Re-Read

For book lovers on a budget, Re-Read is the ideal bookstore. With multiple locations in Barcelona, this second-hand bookshop offers a wide selection of gently used books at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for a novel, a travel guide, or a non-fiction title, you’ll find plenty of options here. The best part? Re-Read encourages book recycling, so you can trade in your old books for store credit.

What to Expect:

• Second-Hand Books: Re-Read’s inventory is constantly changing, offering a treasure trove of well-loved books at great prices.
• Eco-Friendly: The bookstore promotes sustainability by encouraging customers to recycle and trade in their old books.

Tips:

• If you have books to exchange, bring them along and trade them for store credit to use toward new purchases.
• Visit regularly, as the selection of second-hand books changes frequently, meaning you never know what you’ll find.

5. Laie Librería

Located just steps from Passeig de Gràcia, Laie Librería is a beloved independent bookstore known for its impressive selection of art, architecture, and design books. It’s a beautiful space that attracts artists, architects, and creative minds, and it’s also a great place to browse literary fiction, children’s books, and philosophy texts. The bookstore has a peaceful café upstairs, making it an ideal spot to relax with a book after a day of exploring.

What to Expect:

• Art and Design Books: Laie Librería is particularly known for its collection of art and design books, making it a favorite among creatives.
• Quiet Reading Spaces: The upstairs café and reading area offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets outside.

Tips:

• After browsing the bookstore, enjoy a coffee or a light lunch at the café while diving into your new book.
• Keep an eye out for special editions and beautifully bound books, which make for great souvenirs.

Conclusion

Whether you’re searching for a unique literary treasure or simply want to get lost in a sea of books, Barcelona’s bookstores offer a little something for every reader. From the expansive travel literature at Altaïr to the quirky, independent offerings of Llibreria Calders, these bookshops are not only a haven for book lovers but also a reflection of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Be sure to visit one (or all) of these bookstores on your next trip to Barcelona!