Iconic, English-language bookstore stocking new & used titles in bohemian surrounds since 1951.
At a glance
#40 of 162 Tourist attractions in Paris #29 of 58 Book stores in ParisLocalGuideWorld score: 4.60
Rating breakdown
-
5 ★74%
-
4 ★18%
-
3 ★6%
-
2 ★1%
-
1 ★1%
Quick facts
- What is the rating of Shakespeare and Company?
- Shakespeare and Company is rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 21,480 reviews.
- How does Shakespeare and Company rank in Paris?
- Shakespeare and Company is #40 of 162 Tourist attractions in Paris by LocalGuideWorld score (rating weighted by number of reviews).
- Where is Shakespeare and Company located?
- 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris, France — 0.9 km from the center of Paris.
- How can I contact Shakespeare and Company?
- Phone: +33 1 43 25 40 93 · Website: shakespeareandcompany.com
I love this bookstore so much! It's so cozy and chill; I love going there just for the experience. This place inspires me to read and write—it's like every writer and reader's dream come true.
Unfortunately for this review (but very fortunately for the integrity and ambiance of the bookstore itself, in my opinion—it's a way of preserving its charm), taking pictures inside is not allowed. I personally really appreciate the variety of languages spoken due to the presence of many tourists; it’s music to my ears (granted, I’m very passionate about languages). Don’t get me wrong, though—it’s not noisy inside at all; on the contrary, it’s a very calm place.
The staff are very friendly, though a few might not be as personable. The only minor hiccup is that, since it’s an English bookshop in Paris, if you speak both French and English, you might feel a bit unsure about which language to use when interacting with them. This can make me personally anxious—I tend to avoid interactions altogether, haha. But this isn’t a downside at all, just a quirky observation.
If you’re visiting Paris and love books, Shakespeare and Company is an absolute must, in my opinion!
Unfortunately for this review (but very fortunately for the integrity and ambiance of the bookstore itself, in my opinion—it's a way of preserving its charm), taking pictures inside is not allowed. I personally really appreciate the variety of languages spoken due to the presence of many tourists; it’s music to my ears (granted, I’m very passionate about languages). Don’t get me wrong, though—it’s not noisy inside at all; on the contrary, it’s a very calm place.
The staff are very friendly, though a few might not be as personable. The only minor hiccup is that, since it’s an English bookshop in Paris, if you speak both French and English, you might feel a bit unsure about which language to use when interacting with them. This can make me personally anxious—I tend to avoid interactions altogether, haha. But this isn’t a downside at all, just a quirky observation.
If you’re visiting Paris and love books, Shakespeare and Company is an absolute must, in my opinion!
Shakespeare and Company offers a charming experience with a quick-moving line and friendly service. Inside, you'll find a wide selection of books and literary treasures. A must-visit for book lovers in Paris.
A legendary and very charming bookshop. You feel like you are in a movie. I loved the fact that you can’t take pictures inside. That way you can really experience the moment.
Really enjoyed this bookstore even with the standing in the line. The atmosphere is very cozy and chill, so many beautiful old school reader and writers spots inside, and charming that no photos are allowed. Found myself a French phrase book and non fiction about the importance of bookstores.
Excellent English language bookshop in a great location. Nice selection of books across numerous genres. Staff is very friendly and helpful as well. You will likely have to queue up before entering since they limit the number of patrons in the store to make sure the book browsing is as pleasant as can be.
A beautiful must see for book lovers who visit Paris. Free to visit, and only a short queue to enter which moves quickly, however once inside you are able to spend as long as you want and the place is quiet, incredibly well set out and it is as if you’ve entered another world. Upstairs is a floor for reading. With every purchase they offer you a free stamp and bookmark (per book) no matter how much you spend/how many books, which is a thoughtful touch. Attached to the main bookstore is a second hand store as well as a cafe. You can honestly find books of all types, genres and for all ages. Cannot recommend this gem enough - a definite highlight of my trip.
I can’t believe I’m giving 4 stars because I ADORE this place and had always wanted to come here. It’s lovely and whimsical and everything you want a bookshop to be. However, it’s located right next to the Seine and carries almost zero French books. Nearly everything is in English. Just felt strange for a Parisian bookstore. They do stamp your book for you (if you wish) and it’s a great keepsake.
Such a beautiful and cozy book shop, I love that they offer to stamp your books and give you free bookmarks with your purchase. The perfect souvenir for your trip to Paris. I purchased 2 books for myself and my sister in law as she is a book lover. She was beyond excited with the gift. I would definitely return again :)
Note that they don’t allow photos inside even though there are many on here.
Note that they don’t allow photos inside even though there are many on here.
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