The Best Independent Bookstores In Geneva

Scattered across Geneva are several unique, independent bookstores waiting to be discovered. Many of them double up as a café or bar, so you can indulge in a nice, hot coffee or a freshly pulled beer while reading a good book. Discover our guide to some of the best independent bookstores in Geneva to check out.

Librairie du Boulevard

On the road to Carouge you’ll find the Librairie du Boulevard, a self-managed cooperative that offers books at a lower price than most, following their philosophy that a book is not quite like any other product that is for sale. They’ve a great range of books on offer, mostly in French, that you can browse through on their website too.

Les Recyclables

Part bookshop, part café, Les Recyclables is a haunt on the road to Carouge. There a several shelves of books, the majority in French or German, with a small English section and a smattering of other languages. The food is good but overpriced, but nevertheless Les Recyclables is a good place to pick out a new novel and chill with a coffee in a very relaxed atmosphere.

La Librairie Ancienne

Opening the door of La Librairie Ancienne, tucked away in Geneva’s Old Town, is like walking back in time and the first thing you’ll notice is that musty smell; the familiar scent of old books. The shelves are packed with books that span the ages, covering almost every topic you can imagine: travel, science, literature, history and fiction. A rake through here is well worth your time and you may well discover a hidden gem. Before diving in, you can browse some of the rare books on their website.

Payot Libraire

Payot is a renowned Swiss bookstore chain, and their flagship store in Geneva is a must-visit for book lovers. Located in the heart of the city, near the Geneva train station, Payot Libraire offers an extensive selection of books in various languages, including French, English, German, and Italian. The store features a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent place to browse and discover new titles.

Le Rameau d’Or

Le Rameau d’Or is a quaint bookstore nestled in the Carouge district of Geneva. This charming independent bookstore specializes in second-hand and antique books. The cozy ambiance, coupled with the distinctive smell of old books, creates a nostalgic atmosphere that draws book lovers in search of unique and rare editions.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.