Are you a book lover looking for your next adventure? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit for book lovers. From quaint bookstores to literary festivals, these destinations will inspire your love for reading and ignite your sense of wanderlust.
1. Paris
Paris is a city of love, art, and literature. Home to famous writers such as Victor Hugo and Ernest Hemingway, the city boasts many historic bookstores, including the iconic Shakespeare and Company. This bookstore has been a hub for writers and readers since 1919 and is a must-visit for any book lover. Don’t forget to stroll along the Seine River and visit the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg with a good book in hand.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and culture, and it’s also the birthplace of many famous authors, including Sir Walter Scott and J.K. Rowling. The city is home to many literary landmarks, such as The Elephant House, where Rowling wrote the first Harry Potter book. Take a stroll through the beautiful Edinburgh Old Town and stop by the Scottish Storytelling Centre to learn more about the city’s literary heritage.
3. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a bustling metropolis with a thriving literary scene. The city is home to many bookstores that offer a wide range of books, from manga to literature. The Tsutaya bookstore in Daikanyama is a must-visit, with its impressive collection of books and beautiful architecture. Don’t miss out on the annual Tokyo International Book Fair, where you can discover new authors and immerse yourself in Japanese literature.
4. Oxford, England
Oxford is a city of scholars and literary greats, such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. The city boasts many historic bookshops, including Blackwell’s Bookshop, one of the largest academic bookshops in the world. Take a stroll through the city’s famous colleges, such as Christ Church College, which inspired many scenes in Lewis’s famous novel, Alice in Wonderland.
5. Portland, Oregon
Portland is a city known for its indie bookstores and literary events. Powell’s City of Books is the world’s largest independent bookstore, with over one million new and used books. The city also hosts the Portland Book Festival, a one-day event that brings together writers, readers, and publishers from around the world. Take a stroll through the city’s charming neighborhoods, such as Hawthorne or Alberta, and visit some of the many bookstores that dot the city.
6. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a city with a rich literary history and a vibrant cultural scene. The city’s bookstores are known for their impressive collections of Spanish-language books, as well as their charming architecture. Don’t miss out on El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a historic theater that has been converted into a beautiful bookstore. Buenos Aires is also home to the International Book Fair, one of the largest book fairs in the world.
7. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is a city steeped in literary history, with famous writers such as James Joyce and Samuel Beckett calling the city home. The city boasts many literary landmarks, such as the James Joyce Centre and the Dublin Writers Museum. Take a stroll through Trinity College’s beautiful campus, which inspired many scenes in Joyce’s novel, Ulysses, and visit the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript that dates back to the 9th century.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the best places to visit for book lovers. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the history of literature or discover new authors and cultures, these destinations are sure to inspire your love for reading. So, pack your bags and get ready for a literary adventure!
Read more stories and book reviews in our March 2023 Issue featuring Anuja Chandramouli
