The Best Independent Bookstores In Dusseldorf

For a literary lover, visiting a bookstore is no less rejuvenating than a vacation. Hours can melt away when you are surrounded by an eclectic collection of books. Dusseldorf has a number of well-stocked book shops, from simple to swanky, catering to all tastes.

Infinibu

Bookstore, Shop

Infinibu is extremely popular with locals who love rummaging through used books and bringing back a bagful of books at sensational prices. This little shop also buys used books and even offers pick-up services for those wishing to sell a large number of books.

Mayersche Droste Buchhandlung

Bookstore, Shop

Located in the heart of Konigsallee, Dusseldorf’s premier shopping district, Mayersche Droste Buchhandlung has long been one of the top choices for book lovers in the city. Spread over six levels, this glittering book shop boasts of a wide selection of titles in several languages. Magazines, souvenirs, calendars and other accessories are also on offer. The bookshop often organizes author meets and book signings, and little visitors love the twisting slide and toys in the kids’ section. The café is a great place to enjoy a coffee and cake, while looking out on the busy streets.

Grauert

Shop, Train Station

Family-run Grauert had a humble beginning as a small book shop in Duisburg train station back in 1896, but today, the premium 1,000m² (10,764-sq-ft) book shop in Dusseldorf is one of the most visited in the city. Almost 6,000 titles in varied genres ensure that there is something for every reader. Apart from books, visitors can also browse toys, newspapers, magazines and even buy lottery tickets.

Bookstore Nippon Japanische Buchhandlung

Bookstore

It’s not well-known that Dusseldorf has one of the biggest Japanese communities in the world, but it should come as no surprise that Bookstore Nippon is so popular. Even those not familiar with the language or culture keep coming back to this quaint little bookshop to browse its wonderful collection of cute stationery, origami paper, calligraphy material, Japanese learning material, manga, incense sticks and unique traditional Japanese gifts.

Buchhandlung Walther König

Shop

Repeat customers swear by the comprehensive collection at Buchhandlung König, which houses books across all genres (mostly in German, though English books can be ordered) and often sells slightly damaged books at throwaway prices. Apart from books, the shop has posters from past Dusseldorf events, trade journals, postcards and more.

Regenbogen Buchhandlung

Bookstore, Shop

Regenbogen Buchhandlung reinstates the saying ‘good things come in small packages’. Indeed, this small book shops takes pride in its impressive collection and repeat customers. The experienced and attentive staff members are always ready to provide suggestions or order hard-to-find books, and the shop houses books across several genres, especially children’s books. This cheerful little shop also often organises book readings and author visits, and it offers games, sheet music, picture postcards and Dusseldorf souvenirs.

Booxycle

Bookstore, Shop

More than a business, Booxycle aims to find new loving homes for unwanted books. The project started in a cellar room with just a few books but has steadily grown over the years to what it is today: a small shop beloved by bookworms, filled top to bottom with used books. Booxycle carries an exciting mix of genres and languages, and it is not uncommon to stumble onto a rare book while browsing. Most striking it that the shop operates on the a pay-what-you-want philosophy, wherein the buyers decide what a particular book is worth themselves.