Have you ever wondered where in Buenos Aires you could find a peaceful corner to enjoy literature and maybe even stumble upon some rare finds?
Explore our curated selection of “The 10 Best Bookshops in Buenos Aires,” featured on ExpatPathways, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich literary scene.
Ideal for digital nomads looking for a quiet place to work, travelers seeking cultural immersion, and expats eager to connect with the community, this guide promises to direct you to the most charming and inspiring bookstores across Buenos Aires.
Join us as we turn the page on your Argentine adventure, discovering each unique bookstore that makes Buenos Aires a true haven for book lovers.
The Best Bookshops in Buenos Aires
1. El Ateneo Grand Splendid
Location: Av. Santa Fe 1860, Barrio Norte.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is not just a bookstore; it’s a cultural landmark of Buenos Aires. Originally a theater opened in 1919, this architectural jewel in Barrio Norte was transformed into a bookstore in 2000 by Yenny, attracting over a million visitors annually.
It consistently ranks as one of the most beautiful bookshops globally, with its intricate frescoes, luxurious theater boxes for reading, and a cafe situated on the former stage.
This historical site, once graced by famous tango artists like Carlos Gardel, now hosts an array of books across genres, with a particularly lavish collection in Spanish.
Its English section might be smaller, but it serves as a charming challenge for expats to delve into the local language.
Regular cultural events and photography exhibitions add to its vibrant atmosphere, making El Ateneo a quintessential stop for anyone who cherishes the blend of literature, history, and architecture.
2. Librería del Ávila
Location: Adolfo Alsina 500, Monserrat.
On the other hand, Librería del Ávila, established in 1785, holds the title of the oldest bookstore in Buenos Aires.
Located near the historical Colegio Real de San Carlos, it has been a hub for Argentine intellectuals and revolutionaries, including figures like Domingo Sarmiento and Jorge Luis Borges.
This bookstore offers a tangible connection to the city’s rich history, with its walls lined with texts from the Americas’ pre and post-Hispanic periods and inspirations from the French Revolution.
Today, visitors can explore two floors brimming with new and used books, antique editions, and unique postcards.
The charm of Librería del Ávila lies in its ability to transport patrons back in time, providing a quiet refuge from modern life and an endless treasure trove for historians, collectors, and casual readers alike, all complemented by a warm and knowledgeable staff.
3. Walrus Books
Location: Estados Unidos 617, San Telmo.
Walrus Books in San Telmo stands as Buenos Aires’ quintessential English-language bookshop, likened to Paris’ Shakespeare & Co.
This cozy, wood-paneled bookstore is a literary haven where books in English cover every possible surface.
Walrus Books caters extensively to the city’s sizeable expat and traveler community, offering a vast selection of new and used books across all genres.
Unique services like online reservations through their Facebook page and book exchanges for discounts make it a top destination for avid readers.
Additionally, Walrus is known for its engaging community events, including some of the city’s best creative writing workshops, poetry readings, and discussion groups.
These gatherings not only foster literary enrichment but also provide a platform for connecting with fellow book lovers in a city far from many of their homelands.
4. KEL
Location: Marcelo Torcuato de Alvear 1369, Retiro.
Located in the Retiro district, just steps away from Avenida Santa Fe and the iconic Avenida 9 de Julio, KEL offers a different but equally enriching experience for English-speaking bibliophiles.
Known for its excellent customer service, KEL’s staff are well-informed about the latest literary releases and are always ready to offer personalized recommendations.
The bookstore specializes in a wide array of English literature, from academic texts to contemporary novels, ensuring that every reader finds something to suit their taste.
The environment is welcoming and friendly, encouraging visitors to return time and again. KEL also keeps its patrons informed about new arrivals of favorite authors, making it a trusted resource for those keen to stay updated on the latest in English literary offerings.
5. Libros del Pasaje
Location: Thames 1762, Palermo.
Libros del Pasaje, nestled in the trendy neighborhood of Palermo Soho, epitomizes the quintessential booklover’s paradise.
Established in 2004 with the vision of continuously refreshing its vast catalog, this bookstore attracts both casual readers and serious scholars.
Its floor-to-ceiling shelves, crammed with titles from major publishers and small independent labels alike, promise discovery—whether you’re searching for a known favorite or stumbling upon an unexpected treasure.
The real charm of Libros del Pasaje, however, lies in its delightful café, positioned in an enclosed patio that forms the heart of the bookstore.
Here, patrons can enjoy tasty sandwiches and excellent coffee while working or relaxing in a space that transforms weekly for book presentations by local authors.
The bookstore’s atmosphere, complemented by friendly and discreet service, makes it a cultural oasis in the bustling city, ideal for those who wish to lose themselves in a good book or engage in literary events.
6. Librería Kafka
Location: Av. Corrientes 1117, Centro.
On the bustling Avenida Corrientes, just steps from the iconic Obelisco, Librería Kafka offers a contrastingly serene retreat amid the avenue’s busy book commerce.
Known as one of the best shops for used books in the area, Kafka stands out for its meticulously organized shelves, categorized by country and theme, making it easy for bibliophiles to find exactly what they’re looking for.
The store is a haven for enthusiasts of specific genres, including an impressive collection of psychoanalytic texts. Regular visitors praise its affordability and the high level of customer service, noting that the staff is quick to locate any book, even fetching titles from storage if necessary.
With its tranquil atmosphere and an extensive range of well-priced books, Librería Kafka is celebrated not just as a place to purchase literature but as a destination where true book lovers can discover literary gems and revisit time and again for a warm and welcoming experience.
7. Dain Usina Cultural
Location: Nicaragua 4899, Palermo.
Dain Usina Cultural, more than just a bookstore, serves as a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Palermo Soho.
Situated in a converted colonial-style house, this “Cultural Factory” boasts an inviting atmosphere with high ceilings and bright interiors, perfect for exploring its extensive selection of over 20,000 books.
The art and design section is particularly noteworthy, providing a feast for the aesthetically inclined.
Dain isn’t just about books; it integrates culture into every corner, from its ground floor restaurant and exhibition spaces to the rooftop terrace where visitors can enjoy a cocktail under the trees.
Regular events like concerts, lectures, and book presentations make it a dynamic space for cultural engagement, celebrated for its comprehensive approach to blending literature, art, and music.
8. Falena
Location: Charlone 201, Chacarita.
Falena, located in the neighborhood of Chacarita near Avenida Córdoba, offers a picturesque retreat for literature enthusiasts.
This bookstore exudes a tranquil charm with its rustic, conservatively designed architecture that dates back to 1930 when it served as an artist’s workshop.
Books here are meticulously organized by country and genre, making it a paradise for those seeking diversity in their reading choices.
Falena is unique in its entry system, requiring visitors to ring a bell—a quaint touch that enhances its exclusive feel.
The internal cafe provides a cozy setting for reading or working, complemented by a selection of wines and filter coffee, creating an inviting atmosphere for those looking to spend a few peaceful hours immersed in books.
9. Eterna Cadencia
Location: Honduras 5582, Palermo.
Eterna Cadencia, nestled in the vibrant streets of Palermo Viejo, perfectly embodies the concept of a “shop/cafe” within a literary enclave.
Founded by Pablo Braun, a relative of prominent businessman Federico Braun, this bookshop has garnered attention for its inviting and stylish interior that features a plush restaurant and bar.
The layout includes comfortable armchairs and reading tables scattered among the books, and a living room area complete with cozy couches and Moorish light fittings, creating a homelike atmosphere.
This space is not only about selling books but is also a cultural venue where patrons can enjoy book presentations, readings, and classes, making it a hub for both casual readers and literary aficionados.
The commitment to maintaining a serene and beautiful environment, including exquisitely kept restrooms, is evident, and the customer service is consistently praised for its excellence.
10. Librosref
Location: Honduras 4191, Palermo.
Just a short walk away in Palermo, Librosref offers a similarly welcoming atmosphere with its own unique charm.
Located on Honduras Street near Gascón, Librosref is housed in a beautiful building that enhances the browsing experience with delightful background music and a meticulously curated selection of books.
The store boasts an extensive catalog that not only meets but anticipates the needs and desires of its visitors.
Customers are particularly impressed with the knowledgeable and friendly staff who are eager to recommend books that align with individual preferences and are always ready to answer questions.
This bookshop is celebrated for its personal touch in customer service, providing a space where book lovers can take their time to explore and enjoy the tranquility.
(Featured Image Source: A Dreaming Ogre/flickr.com)
