The Irish capital is famous for its hearty traditional food, exquisite Georgian doors, and musical scene. However, every bookworm knows it as the literary capital of Europe, brimming with independent book shops, literary events, and book festivals. In this guide, we will explore the best mainstream and independent bookshops Dublin has to offer and provide a few tips for book shopping in the city.
Why Dublin Is a Paradise for Book Lovers
The Irish capital has been widely recognized as the literary capital of Europe, if not the world, due to its high concentration of Nobel Prize winners. From William Butler Yeats and George Bernard Shaw to Seamus Heaney and Samuel Beckett, Dublin is the epicenter of modern literature. Its reputation as the treasure trove of literary tradition takes its roots in the 18th century, when Jonathan Swift published his Gulliver's Travels. In the following decades and centuries, Dublin was home to Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, and numerous other authors who became staples in modern literature.
Trinity College's library remains one of the world's most essential and beautiful repositories of books and manuscripts. Back in the day, pubs like The Palace Bar served as a meeting point for playwrights and authors from all over the country. As a result of all these impressive accomplishments, UNESCO designated Dublin a city of literature in 2010. Additionally, the Dublin Literary Award is acknowledged as one of the most important prizes in the industry. For all these reasons and beyond, Dublin continues to draw myriads of literary buffs and writers to enjoy the city's literary heritage and to get inspired to write their own stories.
The Best Book Shops in Dublin City Center
Book browsing is among the best
things to do for free in every city, but especially in Dublin. From iconic Hodges Figgis to lesser-known spots like Secret Book & Record Store, the city center of the Irish capital brims with exceptional stores. In this part, we will take a look at the best book shops Dublin has to offer.
Hodges Figgis
You cannot travel to Dublin without spending at least a few hours at Hodges Figgis, the oldest and one of the best bookshops in Dublin and Ireland. Not only that, but Hodges Figgis is the third-oldest store in the entire world. Operating since 1768, this iconic store features an impressive collection of talented writers from Ireland and beyond, offering endless rows of books across genres. Spanning four floors, the bookstore sells literature about history, travelling, horror, science fiction, astronomy, rare first editions, and much, much more.
Address: 56-58 Dawson St, Dublin 2, D02 XE81, Ireland
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday and Friday from 9 am to 7 pm, Thursday from 9 am to 8 pm, weekends from 9 am to 6 pm.
The Library Project
Another popular bookstore in the Irish capital, The Library Project is located in the Temple Bar district. The store focuses on books about architecture, design, art, and photography. Here, you can also find some educational materials for children and adults, as well as famous Irish books. This unconventional bookshop is certainly worth your time, especially if you're searching for something creative and different.
Address: 4, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 YK53, Ireland
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 11 am to 6 pm, weekends from 12 pm to 6 pm.
Chapters
Among other iconic book shops Dublin, Chapters is a must-visit for anyone looking for something new and fresh. Although the store certainly offers currently popular books, its focus is on different and lesser-known literature. If you like to be surprised and are proud to have an open mind, consider their mystery box collection that will introduce you to a novelty. Known as the biggest bookshop in the country, Chapters bookstore is a cozy spot with a warm reading lamp, a plethora of Irish and international authors, and niche editions.
Address: Ivy Exchange, Parnell St, Rotunda, Dublin 1, D01 P8C2, Ireland
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday from 9 am to 6 pm, Thursday and Friday from 9 am to 7 pm, weekends from 9 pm to 6 pm.
The Winding Stair Bookshop
Dating back to 1982, The Winding Stair takes its name from William Butler Yeats' poem. Back in 2005, when the bookstore was slowly losing its customers, the owners decided to establish a restaurant with the same name, saving this historic place from shutting down. The quaint restaurant serving traditional Irish dishes pairs well with the independent store, combining the city's culinary and literary traditions. I'm very glad that the store continues to thrive, having been a meeting place for the top creative minds throughout the 80s and 90s.
Address: Ormond Quay Lower, Dublin 1, D01 R9Y5, Ireland
Opening Hours: Every day from 10:30 am to 6 pm.
Ulysses Rare Books
Those who are on the lookout for something truly special and rare cannot miss the Ulysses Rare Books store. The winner of the Best Bookshop in Ireland award from the Irish Times, Ulysses Rare Books boasts a grand collection of rare manuscripts, editions, and prints, primarily focusing on the 19th and 20th century literature. Although the store largely offers Irish literature, you will be surprised by what you can find in one of the best bookstores in Dublin.
Address: 10 Duke St, Dublin 2, D02 AD78, Ireland
Opening Hours: Every day from 10 am to 5:30 pm, Sunday closed.
The Gutter Bookshop
Among the bookshops Dublin inspired by an Irish author, The Gutter Bookshop takes its name from Oscar Wilde's Lady Windermere's Fan: "We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars". In fact, the store features one of the best collections of modern and classic titles across Irish literature. Here, you can also browse the carefully curated "staff picks", featuring literature across genres. As for the famous quote, you can discover t-shirts, mugs, and tote bags with this iconic citation, ringing true even over 100 years later.
Address: Cow's Ln, Temple Bar, Dublin 8, D08 DK27, Ireland
Opening Hours: Every day from 10 am to 6:30 pm, Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm.
Secret Book & Record Store
The Secret Book and Record Store is famous for boasting an impressive collection of second-hand books in Dublin, as well as CDs and records. In addition to being a literary capital, Dublin has historically been an important scene for musicians. This establishment manages to blend both literary and musical arts, delivering a perfect experience for many. Despite the store's focus on second-hand products, it's known for a diverse selection at very reasonable prices.
Address: 15A Wicklow St, Dublin 2, D02 Y765, Ireland
Opening Hours: Every day from 11 am to 6:30 pm.
Hidden Gems & Independent Corners Worth Finding
Now let’s focus on the independent book stores Dublin offers, from iconic Sweny’s Pharmacy to atmospheric Stokes Books.
The Company of Books
Located off the beaten path in the trendy village of Ranelagh, the Company of Books is among the small independent book stores Dublin, operating since 2009. If you aren't staying in the area, take a 30-minute bus or tram ride to reach this hidden gem. Boasting a large collection of literature, the store also hosts a monthly book club that you can spontaneously join when in town. Here, you can feel the passion that the staff has for their store and for the literary arts in general, inspiring every guest to discover new authors and genres.
Address: 96 Ranelagh, Dublin 6, D06 A4A9, Ireland
Opening Hours: Every day from 10 am to 6 pm, Sunday closed.
Sweny’s Pharmacy
Sweney's Pharmacy's claim to fame is a mention in James Joyce's Ulysses, the staple of contemporary Irish literature. These days, this establishment serves as a small museum of the famous novel, as well as an independent bookshop Ireland with second-hand literature. However, the store continues to sell lemon-scented soap as an homage to the original text. Sweney's Pharmacy is not just a bookstore but a testament to James Joyce, tempting to capture the time and place of the novel.
Address: 1 Lincoln Pl, Dublin 2, D02 VP65, Ireland
Opening Hours: Every day from 11 am to 7 pm
Stokes Books
Among the quaint book shops Dublin, is Stokes Books. Hidden in George's Street Arcade, the store is a treasure trove of literature dedicated to Irish culture and history. The owner, Stephen Stokes, will greet you at the door, help you find whatever you're looking for if you yourself have no idea, and converse about his favorite books. The store is beloved by the local community, emphasizing how friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic the staff is about the world of literature.
Address: 19 Market Arcade, South Great George's Street, Dublin 2, D02 P049, Ireland
Opening Hours: Every day from 10:30 am to 6 pm
Beyond Book Buying: Literary Cafés and Events
Outside the classical Dublin book shops, the city is home to several literary cafes, featuring bookshelves next to delicious coffee, refreshing tea, and sweet pastries.
Bestseller
Bestseller is a cozy gem in the vibrant Dublin city center, enticing bookworms with its inviting atmosphere and friendly staff. Here, you can indulge in a cup of delicious tea while browsing the seemingly countless rows of books. Order a big salad bowl or a delicious sandwich at one of the best
places for brunch to enjoy a quiet time with your favorite book on a rainy afternoon.
Address: 17 D'Olier Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
Opening Hours: Every day from 10 am to 6 pm, Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm.
Shoe Lane Coffee
Finally, Shoe Lane Coffee combines my two addictions: pastries and literature. An array of fresh and delicious baked goods is prepared every day, featuring croissants, cinnamon rolls, banana bread, and other sweet classics. Pair your snack with a cup of refreshing coffee, choose a book to read, relaxing afternoon in Dublin.
Address: 7 Tara St, Dublin 2, D02 Y662, Ireland
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, weekends from 8 am to 6:30 pm.
Practical Tips for Book Lovers Visiting Dublin
In this section, we’ll offer you a few tips that will make your shopping experience more enjoyable and manageable. Discover the guide to how to navigate the book stores Dublin.
Best Time to Visit Bookshops
The best time to visit bookshops in Dublin is certainly during the Dublin Book Festival that takes place in November. During this time, numerous stores across town host readings, literary events, and signings, inviting authors and bookworms from all over the country. If you're looking for a quiet morning to browse bookshelves in peace, come during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Accessibility and Walking Distance Between Stores
The majority of bookstores covered in the guide are located around the center of the city. Most independent stores are only 20 to 30 minutes away from each other on foot, allowing guests to marvel at the architectural beauty of the city while book shopping. The city is also safe and flat, accommodating slow walkers and travellers with mobility limitations. Additionally, most major bookshops are equipped with accessible entrances.
Supporting Local: Why Buy in Independent Bookshops
Additionally, we would like to highlight the importance of supporting your local and independent businesses. Independent bookstores capture the essence of Irish culture, honoring the country's literary heritage. They also are the ones that give a platform to emerging writers, preserving collections of rare finds, as well as offering second-hand books.
Join a Dublin Free Walking Tour to Explore the City
To learn more about the country's ties to literature, consider joining a free walking tour in Dublin. There, you can learn about how James Joyce has reshaped Irish literature, discover the incredible library of Trinity College and the Book of Kells, and explore some hidden gems that you will not find in any guide.
Find free tours in Dublin depending on your interests and timing, and be prepared for an afternoon full of history, culture, and literature.
Final Thoughts: Dublin’s Story Continues on Every Shelf
Rare finds in book stores Ireland also make for the perfect souvenir to bring home. Something you discover in the piles of used book stores Dublin or something recommended by a passionate bookseller will make perfect memorabilia for you or a thoughtful souvenir for your friends at home. These pieces will forever remind you of the amazing time that you spent in the Irish capital, enjoying stunning buildings, hearty cuisine, and priceless literary heritage.
