The Best Bookshops Found In Ireland

Ireland is known worldwide for its treasured literature and creative works. The capital city of Dublin itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site for literature. Naturally, Ireland is home to some of the finest bookstores in Northern Europe. Culture Trip London explores Ireland’s best bookshops.

Charlie Byrne’s

Located directly in Galway’s city centre, Charlie Byrne’s is a book-lover’s paradise. Charlie Byrne’s has an impressive collection of both adult and children’s books, so there is something to find for the whole family. Perhaps the most notable aspect of Charlie Byrne’s is the inexpensive fiction collection located outside of the store, with most paperbacks €3 or less. Charlie Byrne’s is an absolute must for anyone visiting Galway City.

Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop Cornstore Mall, Middle Street Galway, Ireland, +353 91 561 766

Just outside Trinity College and near the beautiful St. Stephen’s Green, Hodges Figgis has the most impressive collection of Irish literature in Dublin. While the bookshop has three floors of new editions – the most impressive being the selection of Irish literature on the first floor. The oldest bookshop in the city, Hodges Figgis was even featured in James Joyce’s Ulysses. If it’s not on the bookshelves of Hodges Figgis, one of the staff members will gladly order it for you and have it set for arrival within two weeks.

Hodges Figgis, 56-58 Dawson Street, Dublin 2, Ireland, +353 1 677 4754

1. The Winding Stair

Restaurant, Irish, Seafood, European, Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free

Right in Dublin’s city centre is the Winding Stair bookshop, a charming independent shop full of used and new editions. While the front section of the store is full of entirely new books, The Winding Stair also holds a diverse collection of used fiction and non-fiction. Not far from O’Connell Street, the Winding Stair also has a delicious restaurant attached. The Winding Stair makes for a great shopping experience, as well as a wonderful family meal.

Chapters

Perhaps the most famous of all Dublin bookstores, Chapters on Parnell Street’s gargantuan collection has something for avid readers of all ages. The first floor is made up of reasonably priced new editions, while the second floor is all discounted used books. Chapters also buys used books for cash or store credit. Chapters further sells agendas, coffee mugs, and other organizational necessities for all reading and writing needs.

Chapter’s Bookstore, Ivy Exchange, Parnell St, Dublin 1, Ireland, +353 1 872 3297

2. The Book Centre

The Book Centre

With an impressive collection of fiction, biographies, and an adorable children’s section, the Book Centre of Waterford is home to an impressive collection of best sellers and classics alike. Found directly in Waterford’s city centre, the Book Centre is also home to a quaint café serving all types of coffee and food. The Book Centre is exceptionally organized with friendly, helpful staff who are more then happy to assist you in any book-finding endeavors.

The Book Centre, 25 John Robert Square, Waterford, Ireland, +353 51 873 823

The Book Centre | © Mary Sheehan

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