6 of the coolest bookstores in Germany

Reading the latest bestseller or even an old classic on a tablet is convenient if you're travelling, but for some people there's no greater joy than a physical book. These are some of our favourite bookstores to visit in Germany, for wandering avid readers and bookworms.

The best places to buy books in Germany 

Some of the most beautiful, interesting and idiosyncratic bookshops exist in the thriving cities of Germany, so here are some of our top picks.

1. Ocelot, Berlin

With its iconic slogan, “Not just another bookstore”, this enticing shop in Berlin is a stunning place to explore literature in an unmatchable ambience. The shelves of this book haven are packed with thousands of titles, including options from everything related to history and biography through to manga and thrillers. You can even order freshly brewed coffee while you peruse the shelves at Ocelot. Keep an eye out for one of the many interesting events the store has to offer, like book signings or literary discussions.

2. Buchhandlung Buchstabe, Neustadt in Holstein

The Buchhandlung Buchstabe in Neustadt in Holstein in the state of Schleswig-Holstein was one of the winners at the German Bookstore Awards in 2020, and rightfully so! The shop has everything from new bestsellers to old classics for visitors to browse on the many shelves. It also has a very impressive international section with books in English, Greek, Italian and French, along with books of German language lessons for all ages. The bookshop also holds events like readings by renowned and new authors. 

3. Taschen, Cologne

Ever since the 1980s, Taschen has been well-known in the realm of eclectic publishing. They specialise in one-of-a-kind books with stunning depictions of art. From affordable art series that look magnificent on any coffee table to their limited collectables, these books come in all sizes and prices. The original bookstore in Cologne feels like an incredible sensory museum combined with a bookstore, creating a unique experience that every bookworm must experience.

Video: YouTube / TASCHEN

4. Hugendubel, Frankfurt

This massive collection in Frankfurt feels like a department store for books. Hugendubel has a plethora of books covering all kinds of genres and languages, including German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Turkish, Greek, Dutch, Polish and more. If you need a break from exploring books, there is a lovely cafe where you can relax with some food and drink before continuing your hunt. There are also sections with movies, audiobooks, gifts, music, stationery, and much more. Find a new book or an old favourite in this gigantic bookstore.

5. Dussmann, Berlin

Dussmann: where culture comes to life. This store in Berlin is more than a bookshop, although the immense selection of books might suggest otherwise. Alongside the books, there are music, TV, films, audiobooks, gifts, stationery, and much more. There is an entire floor dedicated to books in English, and collections of music from famous composers like Bach, Mozart, Chopin, and many more! Come here for a late-night book find, as this store stays open until 10pm.

6. Words’ Worth, Munich

In the heart of the university district in Munich, Words’ Worth provides a unique shopping experience for all bookworms. An interesting aspect of this store is that it only stocks books written in English, while the decor is reminiscent of an English bookshop. Words' Worth offers a huge selection of books, both fiction and non-fiction. You can also buy DVDs, CDs, academic texts for those who are studying, and an assortment of gifts 

Stock up your bookshelves

While there are many bookshops to explore in Germany, these are some of the best that every bookworm should visit. If you've got any other favourites, let us know in the comments below!

Thumb image credit: Christian Mueller / Shutterstock.com