Discover your next great read at Berlin’s 11 best bookstores—where English titles, indie charm, and a world of literary inspiration await at every turn.
Berlin has been through a lot, from turbulent times to brighter days, and its bookshelves are stacked with stories that document every step of the journey.
The German capital has some of the coolest bookstores you’ll ever come across. Here are the best ones that every bookworm should check out.
Saint George’s English Bookstore
In 2003, two brothers established Saint George’s English Bookstore on Wörther Str, and little did they know it would become one of the city’s most popular spots for new and used English-language books. The inside is beautifully put together, with bookshelves covering most of the walls and a ladder peeking out.
The sole focus at Saint George’s is English books, and next comes the style. They’ve got tons of options, from German history to philosophy. One of their bookcases is set aside for German works translated into English, so you can still dive into some local titles without needing to know the language.
Love Story of Berlin
Love Story of Berlin is another English bookstore situated on Kastanienallee. Founded on the owners’ love for both Berlin and reading, they felt the city needed a new English bookstore, and what they’ve created is truly special. Although the focus is mainly on English books, you’ll also find some in other languages, including Spanish, Greek, Italian, Russian, and more.
The ambiance is peaceful, with cozy reading corners scattered throughout. You’ll love the little notes they leave beside each book, giving you a glimpse of what to expect.
Curious Fox
A community favorite in the Kreuzberg area, the two Irish owners of Curious Fox moved to this part of Berlin from where it all began in Neukölln in 2013. Seeing how popular it was then, they recreated their success in this new location.
Curious Fox just gets everything right, whether it’s the cheap secondhand collection or the snug, compact, but well-stocked layout. Don’t say no to a cup of Irish Barry’s Tea, that’s always on offer as you explore the store’s mix of fiction and non-fiction books.
Ocelot, Not Just Another Bookstore
As you can tell by the name, Ocelot does things differently. With a strong emphasis on what the Germans like to call Belletristik (literary fiction and poetry), Ocelot is a place where people can come, swap thoughts on quirky reads, and discuss them in their onsite café.
Ocelot features many German books, but some English options are also available. About the aesthetics, it’s got that modern, polished look with a design that sets the mood for an extended reading session.
Ivallan’s Second-Hand & Exceptional Books
Nothing beats Ivallan’s for picking up a second-hand book. The gorgeous little bookstalls out front are enough to lure you in, but once you’re inside, that’s where it all comes to life. Floor-to-ceiling shelves are packed with books that have passed through many hands. The random texts hanging from the ceiling are a nice touch, too.
Ivallan is a one-stop shop for all your book needs. The volumes are mainly in English, catering to various preferences, including poetry and academic works. Visitors should also keep an eye on their website for upcoming events, like their Food and Thought Book Club.
Pequod Books – International Second-Hand
If you’re after your next international read, Pequod Books is a shop with a large catalog covering over 15 languages. The interior is well-organized, with all the books laid out nicely, making it easy to browse on your own.
Most of the books are fiction, with a few rare finds hidden away that make digging through the shelves even more fun. For anyone unsure where to start, the owner is known for his excellent recommendations, so he can point you in the right direction.
Marga Schoeller Bücherstube GmbH
One of the big names in Berlin’s literary world, Marga Schoeller Bücherstube GmbH, has over 80 years of history. Even though this one is quite old, it has kept up with the times with lots of new titles, fresh décor, and bright lighting that gives the shop an updated feel.
The bulk of the books at Marga Schoeller Bücherstube GmbH revolve around fiction, non-fiction, and English literature. No matter how old you are, there’s plenty to choose from. So, if you’ve got children, don’t hesitate to bring them along for a look.
Zabriskie Bookstore
Come inside and have a peek at the thoughtfully arranged Zabriskie Bookstore on Reichenberger Street. This shop is jam-packed with options focused on topics related to subcultural and natural phenomena, like psychedelics.
Zabriskie has titles printed in both German and English, and some audiobooks have been added as well. If you can, try to plan your visit around one of their workshops, which follow unique themes like feminism and urban nature.
She Said
Like the sound of a bookshop that sells books by female or queer authors? Well, She Said will be your type of spot. The bright white design, covered with splashes of color and pendant lighting, provides a safe reading space for people of all backgrounds.
Social topics like feminism, racism, and LGBTQ+ are at the heart of She Said’s inventory. They also have a coffee shop that serves a mighty cup of Arabica. But beware, digital nomads; laptops aren’t allowed, books only!
Hammett Krimibuchhandlung
Sometimes, we just want a book that tells a good story, and Hammett Krimibuchhandlung does just that. It’s a specialty shop at Friesenstraße devoted to crime fiction, thrillers, and detective novels from around the world.
Most people who drop by Hammett Krimibuchhandlung stay way longer than they planned. There are enough old-school German mysteries and gripping English crime novels that make it hard to walk out empty-handed.
Shakespeare & Sons
In place of an old bookstore at Warschauerstrasse 74, Shakespeare & Sons has revitalized Friedrichshain. Not only is it an English-language bookstore, but it also has a bagel bakery and café that serves lots of yummy baked goods.
There’s a real buzz in the air at Shakespeare & Sons. In one part of the shop, readers scour the shelves, flicking through music, art, and film stories, while in the other, hungry customers dig into the cream cheese bagels they’re known for.
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Adam Ryan
Adam is a distinguished content writer, bookworm, and full-time adventurer with a constant craving for coffee. When he's not working, he loves exploring remote corners of the world, immersing himself in different cultures, and writing about his experiences.
