We start with a rather recently opened independent book store. Ptyx opened its doors in 2012 and claims to dust off any book that deserves it. One cannot judge a book by its cover, but we should judge Ptyx a little by its magnificent façade that gives a preview of what is waiting for you inside. It might not be the biggest shop, but has a pertinent and attractive selection of literature, social sciences, children’s books, young adult literature and comics. While browsing, do not hesitate to ask for the owner’s advice, since every book is hand-selected. Here you will not find the best-sellers that everyone is reading, but instead, books with more depth and originality. Ptyx also organizes literary events dedicated to certain authors.
Ptyx, Rue Lesbroussard 39, 1050, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 648 03 10
If you are eager to travel or would like to spend a couple of days doing something out of the ordinary, head to the city center and its great travel bookshop, Anticyclone des Açores. Once you enter this wonderland you will find yourself in a whimsical no-man’s-land, and as soon as you leave, certainly not empty-handed, you will be checking the web for last-minute flights. This bookshop is exclusively dedicated to the traveling world, nature trails and outdoors activities. If you’re in need of inspiration for your dream vacation, or want to plan a cycling or hiking route, look no further – you will find all the information you need, from maps to travel guides and practical information.
Anticyclone des Açores, Rue du Fossé aux Loups 34, 1000 Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 217 52 46
In case the end of the month is near or you’re feeling the pinch and the bookworm inside you is having a craving, Pêle-Mêle is the solution. Without a doubt, this is the place to go fish for secondhand books. Their selection is wide, diverse and multilingual, making it the perfect spot to find your next book to read. It is advised to go there with time since you will easily get lost among all the good deals. The branch in Ixelles even has a small corner for you to sit down, relax and have a drink while you browse through bargains. The only snag is the absence of a computerized database, which means that you will have to be thorough in your search if you want a specific item.
Pêle-Mêle, Boulevard Maurice Lemonnier 55, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 548 78 00
Now is the time to bring out the big guns. If you happen to be both a foodie and a book lover, Cook & Book is the ultimate place for you. This huge eccentric bookshop is laid out in themed rooms, each with a dining area surrounded by bookshelves. With its impressive selection, you can easily stay there from breakfast until dinner and not even notice the day go by. From novels to comics, travel guides, art and design to an extensive English section, you will find it very pleasant to go inside for a stroll and, once you have made your purchases, take a seat on the sun kissed terrace while sipping a refreshing drink and digging deeper into your newest finds.
Cook & Book, Place du Temps Libre 1, 1200 Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 761 26 00
Another top-quality bookshop is Tropismes, not only because of its incredible assortment of books, but because of its charming setting, making it, to many, the most beautiful bookshop in Brussels. Ideally located in the elegant Galeries des Princes, this renowned place abounds with choice, covering categories such as social sciences, fine arts, literature, music, cinema and history. You would not guess from the outside, but it has a rather intricate configuration with its mezzanine, underground floors and half-levels, so make sure you see everything, from the books to the décor.
Tropismes, Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Galerie des Princes 11, 1000, Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 512 88 52
