If you’re looking for your next book to read, and like to go into a shop and browse books on shelves, we’ve featured 10 of the best bookstores in Dublin, Ireland below.
1. Chapters Bookstore
Established in 1982, Chapters Bookstore is Ireland’s largest independent bookshop. They sell new and second-hand books, in an assortment of genres, including a number of titles by Irish authors.
Whether you are looking for fiction, non-fiction, or poetry, Chapters have you covered. If you are unsure what to pick, they offer a range of mystery boxes in various genres where you can get 6 random books for €25!
To learn more, get in touch.
2. Hodges Figgis
Hodges Figgis was founded in 1768, making it a part of Dublin’s history for over 250 years. Now a part of the Waterstones group of book stores, you can find them on Dawson Street. They host regular events and author meet-and-greets for you to attend.
They have the largest selection of books relating to Ireland and its culture anywhere in the world, no matter what genre. They also have an academic department, helping students from all subjects and courses in order to excel.
Reach out if you have any other questions for Hodges Figgis.
3. The Gutter Bookshop
The Gutter Bookshop is on Cow’s Lane in Temple Bar and has been since 2009. This independent bookshop also has a second location in South Dublin, which they opened in 2013. They aim to provide something a little bit different, perfect if you are finding it difficult to find something specific or are bored of the usual choices.
The store is always full of activity, with lots of regular events and book clubs that meet regularly. If you still can’t find what you are looking for, they are more than happy to hunt it down and order it for you, even if it is a book that is out of print.
Contact The Gutter Bookshop to see what is on their shelves.
4. Books Upstairs
The oldest independent bookshop in Dublin, Books Upstairs was founded in 1978 above an old furrier by two friends that were passionate about books. They have relocated a good few times over their 40-plus years of operation, but now you can find them in a Georgian building on D’Olier Street.
The shop has now expanded, and now instead of books upstairs, they have a café instead! This is a place to meet like-minded people over a good book, you won’t find any wi-fi or electronic devices here! Not to worry if you are wondering where all the books are though; they are on the ground floor with an assortment of genres to choose from.
Why not pay Books Upstairs a visit?
5. The Winding Stair Bookshop
The Winding Stair Bookshop is in Ormond Quay and is one of the oldest independent bookshops in the city. Alongside their brick-and-mortar location, they also sell an assortment of their wares online too.
You can find all sorts of books here, including ones to do with Irish heritage. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff also curate their own book lists if you are unsure of what to read next. Also on offer is a range of Winding Stair Bookshop merchandise, such as notebooks and tote bags.
If you have a query, send them a message.
6. The Company of Books
The Company of Books first opened its doors in 2009. Run by Gwen Allman, they have won all sorts of awards and been shortlisted for many others. These include a shortlist of the top 3 independent book shops in Ireland in both 2021 and 2022 and winning the An Post’s Bookshop of the Year in 2021 in the Dublin category!
Whether you are looking for fiction, non-fiction, or children’s books, their expansive selection has you covered. If you are looking to get involved in the local book community, they also have a monthly book club you can join. For any books that are not in stock, they are more than happy to order for you on request.
Start a conversation with The Company of Books.
7. Alan Hanna’s Bookshop
On Rathmines Road, Alan Hanna’s Bookshop is an independent bookshop that specializes in Irish literature and history. If you feel yourself getting thirsty while you are browsing the shelves, they also sell and serve a selection of tea and coffee.
Although their main focus is on Irish authors, that doesn’t mean you can’t find the latest bestsellers here. With a combination of new and second-hand books, you are sure to find something that catches your interest.
Connect with Alan Hanna’s Bookshop today.
8. Ulysses Rare Books
Founded originally by Enda Cunningham in 1969, this family-owned book shop is now located on Duke Street and run by Enda’s children Aisling and David. They’re both members of the Antiquarian Booksellers Association, and have plenty of knowledge on the rare and vintage books on sale.
Their main specialism is in 20th-century Irish Literature. You can find all sorts of rare copies from authors such as James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and many more on their shelves. If you are looking for something of a non-fiction variety, they also have books on Irish history and topography.
Make an inquiry with Ulysses Rare Books.
9. The Secret Bookstore
The Secret Bookstore on Wicklow Street is probably one of Dublin’s worst-kept secrets! This independent bookshop is open seven days a week and has been selling new and second-hand books for many years.
They carefully curate all of the thousands of books they have on sale, and they aim to provide good, proper literature. You won’t find any celebrity tell-all books here, that’s for sure! They have a book of the week every week, and it’s a great way to pick up a good book at an even better price.
Say hello to The Secret Bookstore.
10. International Books
Situated on South Frederick Street, International Books sells a range of books in many different languages, such as French, Irish, and more. You can find fiction and non-fiction books, including ones for children too.
They also have a range of books for you to be able to learn a new language, with multiple study guides and resources, including for those looking to learn English as an additional language.
Head on over to International Books.