
Shakespeare and Company
A legendary Parisian literary haven, this iconic English-language bookstore is a sanctuary for book lovers, writers, and dreamers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time

Shakespeare and Company
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Parisian literary haven, this iconic English-language bookstore is a sanctuary for book lovers, writers, and dreamers.
"It's a must-visit spot for book lovers in Paris!!!"

📚 Get the Official Stamp
Make your book purchase extra special with the iconic Shakespeare and Company stamp!
☕️ Coffee with a View
Grab a coffee at the adjacent cafe for stunning views of Notre-Dame.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Reading Nooks
Throughout the bookstore
Cozy corners and hidden spots invite you to linger with a newfound treasure. Perfect for a quiet moment amidst the literary buzz.

Floor-to-Ceiling Bookshelves
Main rooms
An awe-inspiring sight of countless new and used books, a bibliophile's dream come true. Get lost in the stacks!

The 'Before Sunset' Connection
Exterior and interior
Relive iconic movie moments from 'Before Sunset' in this legendary Parisian bookshop. A must for film buffs!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Literary Charm
Navigating the Shelves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Get the Official Stamp
Make your book purchase extra special with the iconic Shakespeare and Company stamp!
☕️ Coffee with a View
Grab a coffee at the adjacent cafe for stunning views of Notre-Dame.
🤫 Respect the Quiet
It's a beloved literary sanctuary; keep noise levels down to respect fellow book lovers.
🚶♀️ Explore Every Corner
Don't miss the hidden staircases and cozy reading spots upstairs!
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Get the Official Stamp
Make your book purchase extra special with the iconic Shakespeare and Company stamp!
☕️ Coffee with a View
Grab a coffee at the adjacent cafe for stunning views of Notre-Dame.
🤫 Respect the Quiet
It's a beloved literary sanctuary; keep noise levels down to respect fellow book lovers.
🚶♀️ Explore Every Corner
Don't miss the hidden staircases and cozy reading spots upstairs!
📸 Capture the Magic
The aesthetic is perfect for photos, but be mindful of other visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Shakespeare and Company's atmospheric charm, the intoxicating scent of old books, and its vast selection of English titles. Many appreciate the cozy reading nooks and the iconic literary history. Some find the organization a bit confusing and note that it can get quite crowded, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Shakespeare and Synove is one of my top places to visit in Prague. I love the smell of Old Books the moment I walk in, feels cozy! They have a great mix of new and used books, with many interesting collections to explore.
One of my favorite parts is the view downstairs, where you can even see boats passing by the window.
A must-visit spot for book lovers in Prague!!!"
Nera Leiya Maisuri
"A really nice and atmospheric bookstore, there a lot of books in English and not only that - you can find postcards as well. Also the man behind the counter was nice ♥️
The two things that could be improved is books didn't have prices in czech koruna, at least the ones I've picked and sometimes I was a bit confused where some of them can be."
Róża
"I could have stayed here the whole (or half) day. There are lots of English books! The organization of the shelves could be improved (I had a hard time looking for self-help books) but all in all a great bookstore. I love the artsy interior."
BA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shakespeare and Company is conveniently located on the Left Bank of the Seine, near Notre-Dame Cathedral. The closest Metro stations are Saint-Michel Notre-Dame (Lines 4, RER B, C) and Cluny - La Sorbonne (Line 10). Many visitors also enjoy walking from other central Paris locations.
Yes, it's very accessible. The RER B and C lines at Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station offer excellent connections across Paris, making it easy to reach from various parts of the city.
Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from many major sights like Notre-Dame, the Latin Quarter, and the Louvre. Enjoy the Parisian streets as you make your way there.
Parking in this central Paris area can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or walk. If driving, look for public parking garages in the vicinity.
Approaching from the Seine offers a beautiful view. Many find it best to walk along the riverbanks and then cross over. The bookstore is a prominent landmark.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Shakespeare and Company. It's a free-to-enter bookstore, allowing everyone to browse its extensive collection.
Shakespeare and Company typically opens around 10 AM and closes around 8 PM daily. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
There is no admission fee to enter the bookstore. You are welcome to browse the shelves and soak in the atmosphere without any charge.
Reservations are not typically needed or accepted for general entry into the bookstore. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Yes, Shakespeare and Company frequently hosts author readings, literary events, and discussions. Check their website or social media for their event schedule.
🎫 📖 Onsite Experience
Expect a magical, multi-level labyrinth of books, cozy reading nooks, and a unique bohemian atmosphere. It's a place where literary history comes alive.
It can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday can help avoid the largest crowds.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of other visitors and the quiet atmosphere. Avoid flash photography and long photo sessions.
While English and French are the primary languages, Shakespeare and Company also carries books in other foreign languages.
Yes, there are several cozy nooks and seating areas scattered throughout the bookstore where you can sit and read for a while.
🍽️ ☕️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is the Shakespeare and Company Café located right next to the bookstore. It offers specialty coffee, pastries, and light meals with a view of Notre-Dame.
The cafe serves simple, seasonal food, including open-faced toasts, fresh pastries, and specialty coffee. It's a great spot for a light breakfast or lunch.
It's generally not permitted to eat your own food inside the bookstore itself. The cafe is the designated area for dining.
The surrounding Latin Quarter is brimming with cafes, bistros, and restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines. You'll find plenty of options nearby.
Prices at the cafe are typical for Parisian cafes in a prime tourist location. Expect to pay standard prices for coffee and light fare.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior with its iconic signage, the winding staircases inside, and the cozy reading nooks offer fantastic photo opportunities. The view from the cafe is also a winner.
For professional photoshoots, it's best to contact the bookstore in advance to inquire about their policy and any potential fees.
While generally permitted, avoid flash photography and be mindful of other visitors. Respect the quiet atmosphere and don't block aisles.
Its historic architecture, overflowing bookshelves, charming interiors, and literary ambiance create a uniquely photogenic setting.
Yes, taking photos of the books and shelves is fine, as long as you're not disrupting others or taking up too much space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific children's sections as in a dedicated kids' store, the general atmosphere of wonder and discovery is highly engaging. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to make the experience more comfortable for younger ones. The adjacent cafe is also a good spot for a family break.
📚 Budget Travelers
While new books can be priced as in any bookstore, the opportunity to simply immerse yourself in the atmosphere and discover new authors is priceless. The cafe offers reasonably priced coffee and light snacks, making it a good option for a budget-friendly bite.
🎬 Film Buffs & Romantics
Imagine yourselves finding a shared favorite book or enjoying a quiet moment together in one of the reading nooks. The cafe, with its view of Notre-Dame, provides an idyllic setting for conversation and reflection, adding to the romantic allure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Literary Legacy: The History of Shakespeare and Company
This unique bookstore has hosted countless writers, artists, and intellectuals over the decades, fostering a bohemian spirit that continues to this day. It's renowned for its curated selection of new and used books, its cozy reading nooks, and its role as a cultural gathering place. The bookstore's history is deeply intertwined with the expatriate literary scene in Paris, making it a pilgrimage site for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
The bookstore's iconic status was further cemented by its appearance in the film 'Before Sunset,' where characters Jesse and Celine revisit the shop, highlighting its enduring romantic and literary appeal. Today, Shakespeare and Company remains a vibrant testament to the power of literature and community, a place where stories are not just sold but lived.
The Shakespeare and Company Experience: More Than Just Books
Beyond the books, the atmosphere is palpable. You might find yourself sharing a quiet moment with a stranger engrossed in a novel, or overhearing conversations about literature and art. The bookstore has a unique ability to make you feel like you're part of something special, a continuation of a long literary tradition. Many visitors describe it as stepping into a dream or a literary sanctuary, a testament to its enduring charm.
Don't forget to check out the adjacent Shakespeare and Company Café, offering a delightful pause with excellent coffee and a picturesque view of Notre-Dame Cathedral across the Seine. This combination of a world-class bookstore and a charming cafe makes for a perfect Parisian literary outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit