24 Most Beautiful Bookshops in Madrid
Discover the charm of the 24 Most Beautiful Bookshops in Madrid and immerse yourself in the city’s literary wonders. Madrid, the vibrant Spanish capital, is not only a city of stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and lively culture but also a haven for book lovers. Among its bustling streets lie hidden treasures, enchanting spaces where the love for books thrives. In this journey through the 24 most beautiful bookshops in Madrid, we invite you to embark on a literary adventure, exploring places steeped in history, charm, and an abundance of fascinating books.
Books have an inherent magic; they can transport us to different times and places, inspire our home decor, or become cherished decorative pieces themselves. Thus, the spaces where books are sold should be as special as the books themselves.
1. Librería Bardón
Address: Calle de Alcalá, 79, 28009 Madrid, Spain
Our journey begins at Librería Bardón, a family-owned gem founded in 1947 by Luis Bardón. This cozy bookshop boasts vintage aesthetics and dark wooden shelves that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s renowned for offering limited and antique editions, including books printed up to the 19th century.
2. La Cuesta de Moyano
Address: Paseo del Prado, 1, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Located between the Reina Sofía Museum and El Retiro Park, La Cuesta de Moyano has been a beloved Madrid institution since 1925. Here, you can explore a row of charming bookstalls, now run by the descendants of its founders. From affordable second-hand volumes to new editions, rare and out-of-print titles, and vintage comics, you’ll find it all.
3. Librería Pérez Galdós
Address: Calle de Echegaray, 4, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Founded in 1942 by the grandson of the renowned Spanish writer Benito Pérez Galdós, Librería Pérez Galdós is a small and historic gem in Madrid. It’s a place where you can lose yourself among books, discovering peculiar editions that hold years of history within their pages.
4. Librería San Ginés
Address: Calle del Arenal, 13, 28013 Madrid, Spain
Nestled on Calle del Arenal, between a parish and a chocolatier sharing its name, you’ll find Librería San Ginés. This charming little second-hand bookshop has a history dating back to 1650. Inside, you can discover antique and second-hand volumes, unique specimens, and illustrated guides and prints of Madrid.
5. Librería Miguel Miranda
Address: Calle Lope de Vega, 19, 28014 Madrid, Spain
In the Barrio de Las Letras, specifically on Calle Lope de Vega 19, you’ll encounter Librería Miguel Miranda, specializing in antique books. Founded in 1949 by Miguel Miranda, it was originally located near the Ateneo de Madrid, becoming a hub for literary discussions. Since 1997, it has occupied a two-story space connected by a sculptural spiral staircase. The Miranda family chose this location because it was directly opposite the commemorative plaque of Cervantes.
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6. Librería Grant
Address: Calle de la Comadre, 1, 28012 Madrid, Spain
La Librería Grant opened its doors in May 2014, creating a space for independent culture in the Lavapiés neighborhood, next to La Tabacalera. This bookstore specializes in comics, graphic novels, fiction, children’s books, and art books. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of books that will captivate your imagination. The store also features an exhibition space on the lower floor.
7. La Mistral
Address: Travesía del Arenal, 2, 28013 Madrid, Spain
La Mistral may be a newcomer, but its owner, Andrea Stefanoni, brings decades of experience. After nearly twenty years at the helm of one of the world’s most famous bookstores, Buenos Aires’ Ateneo Grand Splendid, she embarked on this literary adventure just a stone’s throw from Puerta del Sol. The space was previously the hall of the now-defunct Teatro Arenal, and the lower floor hosts literary events.
8. Crazy Mary
Address: Calle de Echegaray, 32, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Crazy Mary, located on Calle Echegaray, 32, has created a cozy meeting place for literature and printed books enthusiasts. Its founders, María and Alfredo, offer a curated selection of books from small publishers, carefully crafted editions, illustrated books, botanical works, reprints of acclaimed authors and classics, as well as new talents and literary novelties.
9. Librería La Buena Vida
Address: Plaza de Ópera, 3, 28013 Madrid, Spain
Situated in the heart of Madrid, at Plaza de Ópera, Librería La Buena Vida boasts an impressive selection of books that you can read on the spot, accompanied by a cup of coffee. In addition to their extensive collection, they also host literary conferences and occasionally screen movies.
10. La Central de Callao
Address: Postigo de San Martín, 8, 28013 Madrid, Spain
A short walk from Madrid’s famous Callao Square, La Central de Callao awaits. This inviting and comfortable space houses more than 70,000 titles and features a delightful café in its courtyard. You can also discover exclusive magazines on cinema and literature here.
11. Libros para un Mundo Mejor
Address: Calle de Espíritu Santo, 13, 28004 Madrid, Spain
Libros para un Mundo Mejor, located in the lively neighborhood of Malasaña, welcomes you with a charming entrance adorned with a bicycle covered in flowers and books. Inside, white shelves extend to the upper floor, where narrative books take the spotlight. The bookstore also hosts talks and workshops.
12. Tipos Infames
Address: Calle de San Joaquín, 3, 28004 Madrid, Spain
Tipos Infames, nestled in Madrid’s Malasaña district, specializes in independent literary fiction. Here, you can enjoy a good read along with a glass of wine, thanks to their café. It’s the perfect place to savor the works of both established and emerging writers.
13. Librería Arrebato Libros
Address: Calle de la Palma, 21, 28004 Madrid, Spain
Located in Malasaña, Librería Arrebato Libros offers a diverse range of second-hand books and independent literary works. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself for hours, flipping through the pages of intriguing books.
14. Panta Rhei
Address: Calle del Pez, 27, 28004 Madrid, Spain
In the lively neighborhood of Chueca, you’ll discover Panta Rhei, a bookstore specializing in art, photography, graphic design, illustration, fashion, and creativity. Whether you’re an artist or simply an art enthusiast, this bookstore will inspire your creative spirit.
15. Ocho y 1/2
Address: Calle Martín de los Heros, 11, 28008 Madrid, Spain
For cinephiles, Calle Martín de los Heros is a paradise. Among its independent cinemas and Madrid’s “Walk of Fame,” you’ll find Ocho y 1/2, a bookstore-café that caters to all things related to cinema. Browse through a wide range of books, enjoy a coffee, and admire autographs from directors and actors, movie props, and posters adorning the walls.
16. Desnivel
Address: Calle de los Reyes, 15, 28015 Madrid, Spain
Desnivel is a specialized bookstore in mountaineering, travel, and nature. Located in the Barrio de las Letras, this immense bookstore has been a fixture since 1898. They preserve antique machines from a paper factory that once stood in the back.
17. Molar
Address: Calle de la Ruda, 19, 28005 Madrid, Spain
Molar, a small but charming bookstore located in La Latina’s Ruda Street, offers an eclectic selection of comics, records, books, and fanzines. It may be small, but it’s packed with character.
18. Los Pequeños Seres
Address: Calle de Ribera de Curtidores, 19, 28005 Madrid, Spain
In the heart of El Rastro, on Ribera de Curtidores Street, you’ll stumble upon Los Pequeños Seres. This unique space offers not only new books but also second-hand items, furniture, and objects with a touch of soul. Keep an eye on their cultural agenda for exciting events.
19. Taschen
Address: Calle de Barquillo, 30, 28004 Madrid, Spain
Taschen, the renowned publisher, opened its first store in Madrid in a former haberdashery on Calle de Barquillo. Now, the shelves that once held threads, zippers, and buttons display the latest editions of their carefully crafted books.
20. La Casquería
Address: Mercado de San Fernando, Calle de Embajadores, 41, 28012 Madrid, Spain
At the San Fernando Market in Lavapiés, you’ll discover La Casquería. While the signs may read “liver” and “gizzards,” this isn’t a place for meat but rather a second-hand bookstore that sells books by weight. You can grab a book for just €10 per kilo, with a maximum price of €8 per book.
21. Traficantes de Sueños
Address: Calle Duque de Alba, 13, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Traficantes de Sueños is more than just a bookstore. It’s a cooperative bookstore, publisher, distributor, and design workshop, all rolled into one. Located on Calle Duque de Alba in La Latina, their specialty is books on feminism, history, and social and political movements.
22. Berkana
Address: Calle de Hortaleza, 62, 28004 Madrid, Spain
A classic in Chueca and a cornerstone of Spain’s LGBTQ+ culture, Berkana occupies a central spot on Calle de Hortaleza. As one of the oldest establishments in Spain dedicated to LGBTQ+ topics, it’s a must-visit in the neighborhood and a hub for LGBTQ+ literature.
23. Nakama Librería
Address: Calle de Augusto Figueroa, 24, 28004 Madrid, Spain
Another new classic in Chueca, Nakama Librería, opened its doors in 2016. Apart from an impressive selection of books, keep an eye on their calendar for various activities and book presentations.
24. La Cultural
Address: Calle de Sagasta, 12, 28004 Madrid, Spain
With two locations at Ferrer del Río 22 and Sagasta 12, La Cultural celebrates classic bookstores and antique books. The exterior signage alone is a declaration of their commitment to preserving literary traditions.
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Explore Madrid’s enchanting literary world through the 24 Most Beautiful Bookshops in Madrid, where every page tells a story of beauty and culture. As you embark on your journey through Madrid’s most beautiful bookshops, you’ll not only discover literary treasures but also experience the rich culture and history that make this city a true haven for book lovers. Enjoy your exploration of these unique and enchanting spaces that hold countless stories waiting to be discovered.
