Libros del Pasaje, located in a charming old house in the Palermo neighborhood, is more than just a bookstore with an extensive catalog and a lovely café for reading or studying. For many, it’s a literary space that transcends the simple act of buying books.
For the past 20 years, this bookstore has welcomed both tourists and locals who come to explore its shelves. Unlike traditional bookstores, Libros del Pasaje invites you to enjoy a coffee, a book, and a variety of activities all in one place.
Libros del Pasaje (Buenos Aires): Everything You Need to Know Before Your Visit
What is Libros del Pasaje?
Libros del Pasaje is one of the most renowned bookstores in the Palermo neighborhood and across Buenos Aires. Founded in 2004, it has always aimed to offer more than just book sales.
To begin with, it features a wide catalog of books for all ages and interests. You’ll find everything from well-known titles from major publishers to independent and international editions. The collection is constantly being updated, and many visitors appreciate finding unique and interesting titles.
But what sets Libros del Pasaje apart from a traditional bookstore is its additional offerings. For example, there’s a cozy café where visitors can read books from the store while enjoying a coffee in a quiet space. This area also welcomes those who wish to work or study, with several tables and comfortable seating available.
Additionally, Libros del Pasaje hosts a variety of activities, including book presentations, talks, art and photography exhibitions, cultural events, and children’s activities.
Book Catalog
Libros del Pasaje offers both in-store service and an online shop with categories for adult and children’s publications.
The adult section includes universal literature, Ibero-American literature, exact sciences, social sciences, philosophy, foreign languages, photography, history, anthropology, architecture, and much more.
Where is Libros del Pasaje?
Libros del Pasaje is located in the trendy Palermo Soho neighborhood. Nearby is the iconic Plaza Serrano, a key spot for nightlife and tourism in Buenos Aires. Other important places like Plaza Armenia, the Botanical Garden, Ecoparque Buenos Aires, and La Rural de Palermo are also close by.
Commercially, the area is bustling, with shopping centers such as Distrito Arcos and Alto Palermo nearby. The streets around Plaza Serrano and the avenues near Libros del Pasaje are filled with a variety of shops and businesses.
How to Get to Libros del Pasaje?
The D line of the subway is the most convenient option to reach Libros del Pasaje. However, from the nearest station (Plaza Italia), you’ll need to walk about 15 minutes along Thames Street to reach the bookstore.
You can combine different subway lines in Buenos Aires without exiting to the surface or paying extra fares. For instance, the D line can be combined with the H and C lines, which run north-south across the city.
Several bus lines also pass near Libros del Pasaje in Palermo, including lines 34, 39, 55, 109, 140, 151, 166, and 168. Additionally, Metrobus lines along Juan B Justo Avenue and Santa Fe Avenue provide fast travel options, though you’ll still need to walk a few blocks to the plaza.
If traveling by train, the Palermo station on the San Martín line is an option, though it requires a walk of more than 10 blocks to reach the bookstore.
Libros del Pasaje is open every day of the week: Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 7:30 PM, Saturdays from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Sundays from 2 PM to 8 PM.
Why Visit Libros del Pasaje?
Buying Books
The main activity at this Palermo bookstore is, of course, selling books. This is its primary source of income and one of the main reasons you should visit.
You’ll find an extensive catalog of books, ranging from novels and literature to history, languages, self-help, and more. You can browse on your own or ask the staff for a specific title.
Each genre is clearly separated, making it easy to find what you’re looking for without wasting time.
Enjoying Coffee and Reading
The bookstore has its own café, offering a quiet space to enjoy a peaceful read. If you wish, you can also work on your laptop here.
It’s important to respect the quiet atmosphere, as many people come to study, read, or work, seeking the tranquility needed for concentration.
You can read the bookstore’s books while enjoying your coffee. If you bring your own book and want to enter the café, you must inform the staff and show them the book to prevent theft.
Relaxing in the Patio
Adjacent to the café is a small internal patio. There are additional tables here, aside from those in the main café area, where you can read, study, or work.
Participating in Special Activities
Libros del Pasaje offers more than just books and coffee. One of its key features is its diverse range of activities. The bookstore regularly hosts events such as book presentations, talks, art and photography exhibitions, cultural events, and activities for children.
In short, Libros del Pasaje always has something interesting going on, making it much more than just a bookstore with a great selection of books.