Books Upstairs
A charming Dublin bookshop with a cozy upstairs cafe, offering a well-curated selection and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter for browsing
Books Upstairs
Best Time
Quieter for browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Dublin bookshop with a cozy upstairs cafe, offering a well-curated selection and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
"A real gem in the heart of Dublin, it’s pure magic for book lovers."
☕ Cafe Window Seat
Arrive early to snag the coveted window ledge seat in the upstairs cafe for prime people-watching.
📚 Ask for Recommendations
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable, especially in poetry, and love to help you find your next read.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upstairs Cafe
Second floor
A cozy nook with a charming window ledge, perfect for sipping coffee and diving into a new book.
Curated Book Selection
Explore a diverse range of titles, from Irish literature to poetry, handpicked by passionate staff.
Independent Charm
Experience the authentic feel of a beloved Dublin institution with friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cozy Atmosphere
Discover Unique Finds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Cafe Window Seat
Arrive early to snag the coveted window ledge seat in the upstairs cafe for prime people-watching.
📚 Ask for Recommendations
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable, especially in poetry, and love to help you find your next read.
🕰️ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll likely get lost browsing the shelves longer than you planned!
📍 Location, Location!
Conveniently located in Dublin, making it an easy stop during your city exploration.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Cafe Window Seat
Arrive early to snag the coveted window ledge seat in the upstairs cafe for prime people-watching.
📚 Ask for Recommendations
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable, especially in poetry, and love to help you find your next read.
🕰️ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll likely get lost browsing the shelves longer than you planned!
📍 Location, Location!
Conveniently located in Dublin, making it an easy stop during your city exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Books Upstairs, calling it a charming, cozy, and authentic Dublin gem. The well-curated book selection and the friendly, knowledgeable staff are consistently praised, making it a highlight for book lovers. The upstairs cafe offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for enjoying coffee and a new read.
"A cozy little bookshop with a well-curated selection and friendly staff. The café upstairs is warm and inviting, serving great coffee. Don’t miss this spot if you love books!"
Felinda Leow
"A real gem in the heart of Dublin. I popped in to pick up a children’s book for my 12-year-old niece and ended up happily wandering the shelves far longer than planned. The staff are sound as anything and genuinely love what they do, and with multiple floors to explore and a snug café upstairs for a quiet coffee and a new read, it’s pure magic. If you love a proper bookshop, don’t miss this spot. I'll be back!"
Jack Hummel
"Simply the best bookshop in Dublin. A joyful, charming spot in the centre of town to grab a coffee in the cosy cafe and walk among a lovingly curated array of books.
The staff are friendly, helpful and clearly love being part of an authentic independent Dublin institution."
Joe O'C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Books Upstairs is centrally located in Dublin, making it easily accessible by public transport. Many bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from major city landmarks.
Yes, it's situated in a prime Dublin location, making it convenient to combine with visits to other nearby attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the bookshop is free. You only pay for any books or cafe items you purchase.
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Books Upstairs is a charming independent bookshop with a carefully curated selection of books, including a strong focus on poetry and Irish literature. The upstairs cafe offers a cozy spot to relax.
Yes, there's a lovely cafe on the second floor where you can enjoy coffee and pastries while browsing or reading.
They are known for their diverse range of titles, with a particular emphasis on poetry and Irish literature, alongside a general selection of fiction and non-fiction.
Absolutely! The unique selection of books and the charming atmosphere make it a perfect place to find a special gift for any book lover.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
The upstairs cafe serves great coffee and likely offers a selection of pastries and light snacks, perfect for a break while reading.
It's generally best to enjoy your food and drinks in the designated cafe area upstairs to keep the books pristine.
📸 📸 Photography
While generally permitted, it's always polite to be mindful of other patrons and staff. Focus on capturing the ambiance rather than intrusive shots.
The cafe's window ledge offers a picturesque view, and the cozy nooks filled with books provide excellent backdrops for atmospheric shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings to ensure a more peaceful experience for younger children. It's a great opportunity to introduce them to the joy of independent bookstores and perhaps find a special children's book to take home.
📚 Bookworms & Literary Enthusiasts
The atmosphere is paramount here. It's a place to linger, to get lost among the shelves, and to truly appreciate the tangible magic of a well-loved bookshop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of a Dublin Book Lover
The shop's layout, spread across multiple floors, invites exploration. The upstairs cafe is a particular draw, offering a cozy retreat with a window ledge that's perfect for people-watching or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a new read.
For those seeking unique literary finds, Books Upstairs excels. They boast a well-curated selection that goes beyond bestsellers, often featuring poetry, Irish literature, and other thoughtfully chosen titles.
A Haven for Coffee and Literature
Many visitors specifically mention the window ledge seating in the cafe as a highlight. This spot offers a delightful vantage point to observe the city or simply immerse yourself in your chosen book.
While the cafe's menu isn't extensively detailed in social media posts, the mention of great coffee suggests a quality offering that complements the literary experience. It's the perfect place to fuel your browsing or to savor your latest book purchase.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit