Last year, I studied for a semester in Rome, Italy. While in Rome, I also had the chance to visit other countries during fall break and during our three day weekends. Here are some of the bookstores I visited in Italy, England, and France.
Italy
Gli Esploratori
Located in: Rome, Italy
My university’s librarian recommended Gli Esploratori. This is a restaurant and bookstore that serves food inspired by different parts of Italy. I had a pasta with a clam sauce and chocolate mousse, which were both delicious. The bookstore part contains a great variety of genres. We did not need a reservation.
Todo Modo Libri
Located in: Florence, Italy
My favorite bookstore in Italy was in Florence. Todo Modo Libri has kind of a tree house theme inside with wooden seats and plants hanging from the ceiling. I could have spent hours here.
England
Foyle’s
Located in: London, England
I wish I spent a longer time here, but the time I did was lovely. There were three floors of books and a beautiful skylight. There are many other bookstores in the area too, including used bookstores.
France
Shakespeare and Company
Located in: Paris, France
The librarian at my Rome campus is friends with someone who works here, and I knew I had to visit. Shakespeare and Company is a charming two story bookstore with an area for writers on the second floor. There was a line when I visited, but it was definitely worth it and I will be back.
Solace in Reading 