Germany
Baden-Baden
Buchhandlung Eulennest
Gernsbacher Str. 2, Baden-Baden
Tucked away in the heart of elegant, meticulously maintained Baden-Baden, this bookshop radiates charm. The city’s closeness to France can be felt everywhere, in its flair and its atmosphere.
The shop itself was born from the union of two long-established local institutions, Straß and Mäx+Moritz, and now inhabits the stunning former city pharmacy. Its interior, with its high ceilings and historic details, is nothing short of breathtaking, a place where the love of books is matched by architectural beauty.
The selection is wide-ranging and thoughtfully curated, offering treasures for every reader. During my visit, the owner himself took the time to advise me, with remarkable attentiveness and genuine passion for literature. His responsiveness to customers makes the experience deeply personal.
This is a haven for book lovers, even the most discerning, and a delightful alternative to the nearby Thalia branch. An absolute gem!
Book i bought:
Sorj Chalandon: Am Tag zuvor (Le jour d'avant)
Bremen
Buchhandlung Storm (closed)
Langenstrasse 11, Bremen
Storm is a bookstore with a proud history spanning more than 125 years.
Like many traditional bookshops, its interior is marked by dark tones, giving it at first glance a resemblance to an Orell Füssli branch. Yet it carries its own distinct character—something between cosy and industrial, cleanly designed yet inviting.
Though not overwhelming in size, the shop offers a well-curated selection that makes browsing a genuine pleasure. The staff are exceptionally welcoming, and the bookseller’s recommendation I discovered there was chosen with real care and beauty.
Tragically, on 28 May 2024, the Weser Kurier reported that this venerable bookshop, after 127 years, has filed for insolvency and will close its doors. News like this is heartbreaking. Books are not just goods to be sold, they are cultural treasures, vital to the soul of a city. If there is one kind of business that deserves protection and support, perhaps through measures like reduced rent, it is surely bookshops.
The harsh reality, however, lies in dwindling readership and the convenience of ordering from online giants, leaving stores like Storm struggling for survival. It is a painful reflection of our times, an age in which we seem to expect less and less from society, and yet lose something irreplaceable in the process.
Book i bought:
Heinz Strunk: Ein Sommer in Niendorf
Press & Books
Bahnhofplatz 15, Bremen
For travellers, stumbling upon a bookstore in a train station is always a small delight. P&B sits somewhere between a kiosk and a bookshop, tailored to the needs of those on the move. Unfortunately, its location in the railway underpass leaves the shop rather dark and not especially inviting for leisurely browsing. Still, it serves its purpose well: offering travellers just the right mix of reading material and entertainment to accompany their journey.
Book i bought:
Linus Geschke: Die Verborgenen
Erfurt
buchbar
Hefengasse 2, Erfurt
This unique bookshop, part café, part travel agency, lies in the heart of Erfurt, just steps away from the picturesque Krämerbrücke.
The name itself is a clever play on words, alluding both to booking travel and to the wide range of books on offer, a detail I found especially charming. Bright, airy, and meticulously arranged, the space reminds me of the stylish homeware shops in Copenhagen.
At first, one might expect the selection to focus solely on travel literature, but that assumption would be wrong. The shelves hold an impressive array of fiction, and there is even a beautifully designed corner dedicated to children’s books: stylish yet warm.
What struck me most was how carefully curated everything felt: each title seemed to be given its own stage, with most displayed front-facing. While this lends the shop a gallery-like elegance, I personally would have welcomed a little more variety in presentation. Still, browsing was a pleasure, and I loved that the assortment included not only new releases but also many timeless classics.
Book i bought:
Erich Maria Remarque: The Night in Lisbon
Buchhandlung kleingedrucktes
Mainzerhofplatz 2, Erfurt
This charming bookshop is tucked away near Theaterplatz in Erfurt, and for me, kleingedrucktes is the most beautiful of them all. Cosy yet elegantly designed, it feels both stylish and welcoming. The bookseller’s advice was wonderfully personal, thoughtful in a way that made my visit all the more memorable.
The shop was created with the idea of evoking a living room, and it succeeds: stepping inside feels intimate and warm, as if you’ve entered a friend’s home filled with books. The carefully curated selection is diverse and inviting, encouraging you to linger and explore.
Outside, a poster captures the spirit of the place perfectly: “I followed my heart and it led me to this bookshop.”
Book i bought:
Takis Würger: Für Polina
Buchhandlung Peterknecht
Anger 51, Erfurt
The Peterknecht bookstore has been around since 1935, founded by Karl Peterknecht, and today it’s still in family hands, now run by the third generation, Peter Peterknecht himself. I love places with that kind of history; you can really feel the continuity.
Since 2022, the shop has been at its current address, and you notice right away that it’s new. It’s stylish and thoughtfully designed, with lots of small details that make it stand out. I especially liked the shelves set aside for non-book items and the beautiful glass roof that lets in so much light.
Compared to the smaller bookshops in Erfurt, this one feels much bigger and offers a correspondingly wider range—fiction, children’s books, and plenty of non-fiction. The only thing I found a little disappointing was the English section, which was quite small and seemed to focus mainly on young adult titles.
One detail that really caught my eye: right in the middle of the front room was a big display of Angela Merkel’s book Freiheit (Freedom) and every copy was signed! That felt special.
If I’m honest, I would have wished for the staff to be a little more welcoming, but overall, it was still a lovely visit. For me, Peterknecht manages to combine its long tradition with an inviting atmosphere and that’s something I always appreciate in a bookstore.
Book i bought:
Charles Lewinski: Täuschend echt
Tintenherz
Krämerbrücke 29, Erfurt
This colourful children’s bookshop sits right on the idyllic Krämerbrücke and is hard to miss, thanks to its playful decorations outside the entrance. It immediately catches the eye and draws you in.
Inside, however, the shop shows its age. The furnishings could use a little refresh, and the space is quite dark, though if you let your imagination wander, you might also see it as stepping into a little witch’s cottage from a fairytale.
The heart of the store is, of course, children’s books, but right by the entrance there’s also a small fiction section with handpicked recommendations. Beyond books, the shop is brimming with things for children: games, stuffed animals, and other playful treasures.
The bookseller herself is wonderfully friendly and seems to fit the shop perfectly, adding to its charm. The only thing that struck me oddly was the smell. It reminded me a little of a pet store. Perhaps it came from the sheer abundance of stuffed animals scattered around?
Book i bought:
Francesca Segal: Willkommen auf Tuga
Frankfurt am Main
Autorenbuchhandlung Marx & Co
Grüneburgweg 76, Frankfurt a. Main
There are three author-run bookshops in Germany, all founded in the late 1970s: one in Munich, one in Berlin, and this one here in Frankfurt.
The idea behind these bookshops has never been to chase the latest bestseller or the trend of the moment. Instead, they are places for the discerning reader, for those who seek something deeper, more lasting.
Just a short five-minute walk from Rothschildpark and the Alte Oper, the Frankfurt shop appears, at first glance, almost ordinary. You step inside and see tall shelves and tables displaying the newest publications, much like in any other bookshop. But then, as you wander to the quiet rear on the left, the atmosphere changes. A different spirit seems to linger there, one of calm and discovery.
The selection is refined, clearly curated for a sophisticated audience, and it has a quiet power to inspire. I left feeling grateful, even to Deutsche Bahn, that a delay had left me stranded long enough to stumble upon this place.
If I could change one thing, it would only be this: to trade the cold metal ladders for warm wooden ones, to match the soul of the shop.
Book i bought:
Torborg Nedreaas: Nichts wächst im Mondschein
Freiburg (im Breisgau)
Buchhandlung zum Wetzstein
Salzstrasse 31, Freiburg (im Breisgau)
This bookshop is housed in a building that dates back to the year 1100, just a two-minute walk from the Freiburg Minster. Founded in 1978, it received a complete renovation in 2020, and today it greets visitors with a surprisingly modern, elegant atmosphere.
The selection here is clearly curated with great care, reflecting the character of a mature and thoughtful establishment. Alongside contemporary fiction, the shop offers its own Wetzstein Edition, calendars and handwritten poems, together with signed works, antiquarian treasures, and original artworks.
It is a place that invites lingering. The art is arranged with striking style, blending seamlessly with the books to create a sense of harmony. At the back of the shop, a piano stands ready, hinting at the musical performances that occasionally animate the space.
If there is one wish I would have, it would be for a slightly broader range of titles. Yet even as it stands, this bookshop feels like a meeting point of literature, art, and music, a space where culture is not only preserved but actively celebrated.
Book i bought:
Mohamed Mbougar Sarr: Die geheimste Erinnerung der Menschen
Jos Fritz Buchhandlung
Wilhelmstrasse 15, Freiburg (im Breisgau)
This bookshop is tucked away on the quiet Wilhelmstrasse, just a five-minute walk from the train station.
From the moment you step inside and begin to browse, its character is unmistakable: the selection reflects a distinctly left-leaning, political orientation. The shop takes its name from a peasant revolt, and it is admirable that this spirit of origin has been preserved across the decades. It certainly sets the place apart from more conventional competitors.
That said, I found it a little challenging to discover something suited to my own taste. For me, a bookshop, like a newspaper, benefits from a certain balance of perspectives, allowing readers to encounter different viewpoints and form their own.
As for the interior, the rooms (three in total, with children’s books in the back) have a warm and inviting feel. Yet a few details could enhance the charm even further: sanding the wooden floors, for instance, would bring out their character, and the well-worn shelves could use a little refreshing.
Still, the atmosphere of the shop remains committed and authentic.
Book i bought:
Jérôme Ferrari: Nord Sentinelle
Rombach
Bertoldstrasse 10, Freiburg (im Breisgau)
The abundance of card racks already hints at it: Rombach is no small bookshop. Right in the heart of the city, it extends across four floors, offering a wide-ranging selection. Alongside a vast collection of fiction, you’ll find an equally strong focus on non-fiction, with textbooks and even a university shop located on the lower floor.
The ground floor is dedicated to novels, cards, and various gift items, while the first floor houses an extensive children’s section, complete with toys. At the very top, a cosy café corner invites you to linger. Here, shelves are lined with books on art and architecture, as well as travel, gardening, and cooking.
One detail I particularly enjoyed is the way the booksellers share their recommendations on the website. Unfortunately, I didn’t find much that suited my personal taste, but the effort and individuality behind it are wonderful.
This is the kind of place where you’ll want to bring plenty of time. I was struck by the many customers who simply settled into a chair to leaf through their finds. The only drawback, for me, is the interior design: the combination of shelves and carpet feels somewhat dated. Still, in spite of that, Rombach is undeniably a bookshop worth visiting, spacious, lively, and full of discovery.
Book i bought:
David Finck: Der Schwindel
Friedrichshafen
Buchhandlung Fiederer
Wilhelmstrasse 19, Friedrichshafen
The Fiederer bookshop lies just a few steps away from the much larger RavensBuch, yet stepping inside, you enter an entirely different world. The atmosphere here is hushed and calm, with only a trace of music drifting gently in the background.
The selection is small but thoughtfully chosen, with a strong emphasis on the region. Many of the recommended titles under Reading are connected to Lake Constance, reflecting a deep sense of place.
To me, the shop carried a distinctly masculine character, yet it felt welcoming and comfortable all the same. It is exactly the kind of bookstore that deserves support, so that this diversity of character and spirit continues to exist.
Book i bought:
Pirkko Saisio: Gegenlicht
RavensBuch
Karlstrasse 42, Friedrichshafen
One of the two entrances to this bookshop opens directly onto the waterfront promenade, right by the Zeppelin Museum, where the car ferry from Romanshorn docks and ships depart for Konstanz.
The shop itself feels almost like a bridge. From the lake side, you step straight into the children’s section; from the city side, you enter among the novels. A raised floor, the “bridge”, hosts themed displays that change the mood as you move through.
The selection is broad and inviting, making it a genuine pleasure to browse. Among the highlights are the playful recommendations of Walli, the resident “dachshund girl” and official employee motivator. Her tastes may lean a little toward canine adventures, titles like In 80 Dogs Around the World or Wow!, but that only adds to the charm.
The interior is sleek and modern, though for my taste the abundance of red and orange tones felt a touch overwhelming. Still, it is a delightful bookshop, well worth a visit if you are at Lake Constance. RavensBuch, as it happens, is part of the Osiander group.
Book i bought:
Isabelle Autissier: Acqua Alta
Hamburg
Buchhandlung Christiansen
Bahrenfelderstrasse 79, Hamburg
Just a short walk from Hamburg-Altona railway station lies the Christiansen bookshop, a family-owned institution that has endured for more than 130 years. It is remarkable and heartening that through all this time, the shop has remained in the hands of the same family.
Even today, the team more than lives up to the name: committed, attentive, and eager to reward loyal customers with thoughtful special offers. The interior is beautifully arranged, with space cleverly divided, promotions greet you at the entrance, followed by a generous landscape of shelves and tables spanning a wide variety of subjects.
A highlight for me was the staff picks section, where each bookseller presents personal recommendations, adding a distinct and human touch to the browsing experience.
What also struck me, across Hamburg’s bookshops, was the sheer number of titles dealing with war and anti-Semitism, subjects that remain, sadly, as relevant today as ever.
May the wonderful Christiansen bookshop continue to thrive for another 130 years and beyond.
Book i bought:
Herbert Clyde Lewis: Gentleman über Bord
Thalia Hamburg Mercado
Ottenser Hauptstrasse 10, Hamburg
This bookshop is tucked inside the Mercado shopping centre, and at first glance you wouldn’t expect the breadth of selection that opens up beyond the entrance.
It’s a pleasant place to browse, offering not only books but also a wide array of non-book items. Thanks to the generous space, the shop can provide both range and depth in its selection. As part of the Thalia chain, it reflects the scale of a large bookstore group.
What the building itself lacks, however, is natural light. The architecture makes this impossible to remedy, and the result is an atmosphere that feels somewhat impersonal. I paid for my book at the self-checkout, a fittingly practical, if not particularly charming, conclusion to the visit.
Book i bought:
Klaus Pohl: Sein oder nicht sein
ZweiEinsDrei
Grosse Bergstrasse 213, Hamburg
It took me a moment to understand the name of the shop. Most likely, it comes from the house number.
213 is a small, welcoming bookshop near Ikea in Hamburg-Altona, and it feels like a refreshing alternative to the larger chains. The atmosphere is warm and personal, with a carefully curated selection that seems chosen with real affection for books and readers alike.
Orders can be placed here just as quickly as in Switzerland, arriving in record time, proof that a small, independent shop can keep pace with the big players.
A truly likeable place.
Book i bought:
Jane Campbell: Kleine Kratzer
Hinterzarten
Buchhandlung Bäuchle
Adlerweg 3, Hinterzarten
Bäuchle is the oldest bookshop in the Upper Black Forest, located in Hinterzarten, the village known for having the highest railway station on the Höllentalbahn. Winter sports fans will recognize the name from ski jumping, and the shop itself lies directly on the Adlerweg, the path leading to the ski jumps.
The bookshop is more than just a bookstore: it doubles as a kiosk with newspapers and magazines, and as a stationery shop. Its book selection is modest, focusing mainly on new releases and regional titles, yet it remains a worthwhile stop for anyone visiting this charming town.
What struck me most, however, was Hinterzarten itself: a village free of graffiti. It is sad that this has to be mentioned as a positive point today, but perhaps that makes it all the more remarkable.
Book i bought:
Nicholas Drayson: Kleine Vogelkunde Ost-Afrikas
Köln / Cologne
Buchhandlung Klaus Bittner
Albertusstrasse 6, Köln
This bookshop is just a short walk from the extraordinary Walther König art bookshop on Ehrenstrasse 4, a place I couldn’t include here, as it stocks no fiction.
The “replacement” I found on Albertusstrasse, however, was more than satisfactory. The bookseller was exceptionally friendly, taking the time to explain how the subjects were arranged throughout the shop. In the window, new releases and staff picks caught the eye, while inside I discovered an impressive selection of country-specific novels, ranging from Africa to South America. The breadth and quality of the collection in every section left a strong impression.
I had originally set out in search of a book by a male author. Instead, I left with a signed novel, its writer, as the bookseller told me with clear admiration, had won her over not only through her work but also as a person.
Book i bought:
Sasha Marianna Salzmann: Im Menschen muss alles herrlich sein
manulit
Limburger-Strasse 37, Köln
Stepping into this small bookshop and café in Cologne’s Belgian Quarter is a real delight. The design is thoughtful and cohesive, with its aesthetic carried seamlessly throughout the entire space.
At the entrance, two tall tables invite you to pause for a coffee. Just beyond, the front area is lined with the latest releases alongside a generous coffee counter. The shelves are arranged under poetic headings Reality, Pearls, New Horizons and I was especially drawn to the corner dedicated to Besondere Bücher (special books). Throughout the shop, comfortable seating with warm lamps creates inviting nooks to linger.
The concept is consistent, stylish, and altogether charming. Soft easy listening and jazz play in the background, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
Beyond books and coffee, the shop also offers imaginative extras. Groups of eight to fifteen can book the entire space after closing time without staff present. For €15 per person, the evening includes two bottles of wine for the group. It’s a playful and original idea, perfect for anyone who wants to spend an evening in a beautiful setting or simply “play bookshop” for a night.
Book i bought:
Walter Tevis: Das Damengambit (The Queen's Gambit)
Siebter Himmel
Brüsseler Strasse 67, Köln
Outside, a cheerful smiley face greets you on the façade and you’re almost certain to leave Siebter Himmel with a smile of your own. This is both a bookshop and a design store, conceived with care from the entrance to the very last corner. Its guiding idea is “seven worlds under one roof,” and indeed, they blend together in perfect harmony.
Alongside books, you’ll find crockery, stationery, and Marimekko products, all arranged in a bright, Scandinavian-inspired interior. It’s the kind of place where you’re bound to discover a thoughtful gift.
There’s a cosy children’s corner and a large communal table where customers can sit and linger. At the entrance, staff picks and recommendations invite you in, but books are woven throughout the shop, ranging from novels to cookery and baking titles. I was especially tempted by a book offering forty different cinnamon bun recipes, which I can’t wait to try.
The shop is located in Cologne’s Belgian Quarter, so perhaps, in keeping with the theme, I should have chosen a book with forty waffle recipes instead.
Book i bought:
Hari Kunzru: Blue Ruin
Konstanz / Constance
BuchKultur Opitz
Ste. Stephans-Platz 45, Konstanz
A somewhat unusual shop, though I quite like the concept of combining an antiquarian bookshop with new titles. Perhaps my first impression coloured things: I mistook two customers for staff, and their rather odd conversation set a slightly peculiar tone.
Beyond that, the range is appealing. Alongside current releases, the shop also carries out-of-print editions and timeless classics, with its own dedicated children’s section as well. Another highlight is the extensive collection of art cards, beautifully displayed in wooden boxes reminiscent of record crates, an open invitation to linger and browse.
What strikes me most, however, is the untapped potential of the space itself. With some thoughtful attention to interior design, this bookshop could become truly extraordinary.
Book i bought:
Maurizio De Giovanni: Zu kalt für Neapel
Homburger & Hepp
Münsterplatz 7, Konstanz
This charming bookshop in the old town of Constance sits right beside the Minster, perfectly placed for a leisurely visit.
Inside, the space unfolds across several rooms, carrying the unmistakable character of an old building. The shop features many promotions that invite you to linger and browse. Its focus lies on fiction and regional literature about Lake Constance, while some niche non-fiction, such as esotericism, has been pared back, though these titles can still be ordered on request.
The staff are wonderfully dedicated, offering advice with genuine enthusiasm. One of the most remarkable figures is their oldest employee, Ms. Brigitte Homburger, who at over ninety years of age still occasionally works in the shop.
I was also delighted by the Lesefutter-Team (“Reading Food Team”) on their website, a group of children who test and review books with fresh, honest eyes. It’s a thoughtful and endearing idea, adding to the bookshop’s unique appeal.
Book i bought:
IanMcEwan: Atonement
Hugendubel
Bodanstrasse 1, Konstanz
This Hugendubel branch is located in the Lago shopping mall in Konstanz. It doesn’t offer anything out of the ordinary, but it is still worth a visit.
I enjoy stopping by, not least because the shop is so spacious and impeccably tidy. More than once I’ve slipped in just before catching a train, only to lose track of time while browsing, and inevitably miss my connection.
Book i bought:
John Ironmonger: Der Eisbär
Osiander
Kanzleistrasse 5, Konstanz
If you walk up Marktstätte from either the railway station or the lake, you’ll come across this bookshop, housed in a historic old townhouse in a prime location.
Osiander offers a vast selection spread across several floors, not only wide-ranging, but also with surprising depth in many specialist areas. Alongside the books, you’ll find a café and even a children’s play area. At first glance, this might give the impression of a department store, but at its heart it remains very much a bookshop.
Just inside the entrance, several shelves display the staff’s personal recommendations, which I always appreciate. With such a diverse and tempting range, however, choosing just one book proved surprisingly difficult.
The interior design, on the other hand, is less convincing. Metal passerelles span the space, giving it the feel of piers or jetties, perhaps an intentional nod to nearby Lake Constance, though to my eye not especially successful.
Book i bought:
Anthony McCartén: Going Zero
Laufenburg
Buch & Café am Andelsbach
Andelsbachstrasse 4, Laufenburg
This bookshop lies on the German side of the Rhine, in the well-kept yet almost deserted village of Laufenburg. The entrance can be a little deceptive at first glance, it looks more like the doorway to a residential house than to a shop.
Just five minutes from the customs bridge, the place is half café, half bookshop. The selection is relatively small, but so thoughtfully chosen that I still lingered far longer than expected. The range is exciting, lovingly curated, and full of discoveries.
There were no staff recommendations on display, so I simply picked up the first book presented at the entrance. The bookseller, wonderfully engaging, confided with a smile that it wouldn’t have been her personal choice, though she admitted it was fitting, as the story was about the region and even signed.
As soon as I left, I regretted not taking better advantage of our conversation and asking her for one of her own recommendations.
Book i bought:
Petra Gabriel: Madame Codman und die traurige Gräfin
Leipzig
Connewitzer Verlagsbuchhandlung Peter Hinke
Schuhmachergässchen 04, Leipzig
The bookstore takes its name from the publisher and bookseller Peter Hinke, who was born in Leipzig in 1966. In its early days, before a physical shop existed, books were sold directly on the street, mainly titles that had been unavailable in the GDR prior to reunification.
It wasn’t until the 1990s that the publishing bookshop officially opened, with the first branch located in Leipzig-Connewitz. Since 1995, however, it has been based at its current address.
This uniquely atmospheric bookstore has two entrances: one on Schuhmachergässchen and another through the passage opposite the Nikolaikirche. Spread across two floors (though the upper floor was closed during my visit due to Leipzig Book Fair events), the shop is narrow, almost ship-like in its layout. Clever lighting enhances the sense of space, giving the impression of a total artwork in itself. While beautifully arranged, it can feel a little crowded when many visitors are inside.
The selection is distinctive: alongside a carefully curated range of fiction and regional literature, the store offers numerous signed editions from its own publishing house, making it a real treasure for collectors and book lovers alike.
Book i bought:
Maylis De Kerangal: Weiter nach Osten
Ludwig
Leipzig Mainstation, Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, Leipzig
Leipzig’s main railway station feels at first like a vast shopping mall, one snack bar and boutique after another lined up along the mezzanine floor. But the true treasure lies one level up, right where the tracks begin.
Open 365 days a year, the Ludwig bookshop is nothing short of spectacular. Housed in the former Prussian waiting room, it took my breath away the moment I stepped inside. I don’t often get that instant wow effect, but here, it happened. I adore train stations, and when their historic spaces are reimagined with such grace, my heart beats faster.
The main sales floor unfolds with fiction, history, foreign-language titles, comics, magazines, and even a wide selection of non-books. Follow the red carpet and you’re led upward to a mezzanine level, where the children’s section spills out beside a cosy café.
It’s an extraordinary experience: part travel, part literature, part history. For me, absolutely unforgettable.
Book i bought:
Jakob Hein: Wie Grischa mit einer verwegenen Idee beinahe den Weltfrieden auslöste
Lindau am Bodensee
Altmöller’sche Buchhandlung No1
Bindergasse 4, Lindau
Altmöller’s bookshops include Café Augustin and the Gutenberg store (see separate entries), as well as the Club der Idealisten. Another branch is this shop on Bindergasse.
Each of the stores has its own focus, and here the theme is health, ranging from cookbooks and guides to well-being, to titles on keeping body and soul in balance. Alongside these you’ll also find children’s books and a selection of hobby-related titles.
The shop itself, however, feels rather disjointed. A large sofa takes up space without inviting much use, empty wooden tables sit awkwardly, and mismatched carpets only add to the sense of clutter. The fabric store across the street has a similarly cramped atmosphere and seems best suited for browsing alone.
Overall, I didn’t find the atmosphere in this bookshop particularly welcoming.
Book i bought:
Monica Gutiérrez: Der fabelhafte Buchladen des Mr. Livingstone
Buchcafé Augustin
Fischergasse 33, Lindau
The Buchcafé Augustin feels more like a café than a bookshop, perhaps even more like a cake counter than anything else.
If you come purely for the books, be prepared for some limitations: many shelves are hidden behind occupied tables, and browsing at the back means squeezing past guests on their way to the restroom.
That said, the café itself is delightful. It smells irresistibly of fresh cake, and the décor is warm and lovingly arranged, though admittedly a little too crowded for comfort.
Still, it’s well worth stopping by, if only for a coffee and a slice of cake. A charming addition to Lindau’s beautiful town centre.
Book i bought:
Jochen Gutsch/Maxim Leo: Frankie
Gutenberg-Laden
Hofstattgasse 1, Lindau
This bookshop has plenty of flair. It feels like a second-hand store spread across a two-storey apartment, charming, a little chaotic, and absolutely made for browsing.
Upstairs, several small rooms open up, furnished with what looks suspiciously like leftovers from the Bindergasse shop. Best not to study the décor too closely; focus instead on the books, which are far more rewarding. I enjoyed this branch much more than the other Altmöller stores, perhaps because the Gutenberg shop leans toward literary works.
Normally, I’d happily give this place four stars, but the friendliness of the bookseller leaves much to be desired. The fact that he even acknowledged me felt like a small miracle.
Across the street you’ll find the Club der Idealisten (Club of Idealists), a cosy, living-room–style space that can be rented for events. The concept is wonderful, though when I tried to visit, no one turned up. In that sense, at least, the name couldn’t have been more accurate.
Book i bought:
Benjamin Myers: Offene See
Buchhandlung Papillon (closed)
Cramergasse 16, Lindau
The name Papillon evokes the butterfly as a symbol of inner growth and transformation, moving from darkness to light, from confinement to unfolding. Books, after all, can be companions and catalysts on this journey.
Tucked between the Altmöller shops and the Osiander chain, the bookshop faced a challenging location. Yet I found it surprisingly appealing, not least because of its unusual interior: cobblestones underfoot, wooden beams above—like stepping into a covered alleyway. Unfortunately, the harsh neon lighting diminished some of that charm; a warmer glow would have suited the space beautifully.
The selection was small, with a distinctly feminine touch. All the more reason I was delighted to see an Erich Kästner title displayed so prominently. The bookseller, too, was exceptionally friendly, adding to the shop’s welcoming feel.
Papillon first opened its doors in 2004, but sadly had to close on 17 June 2025.
Book i bought:
Erich Kästner: Als ich ein kleiner Junge war
Buch-Insel
Krummgasse 3, Lindau
This bookshop sits right in the heart of Lindau’s charming old town. True to its name, it really is a little book island, a place you can retreat to even in the height of summer. Remarkably, it manages to stay pleasantly cool despite being housed in an old building.
The shop itself is generously sized, complete with a garden and run by a very dedicated bookseller. A lovely touch can be found on the door: “Monday is closed because that's our reading day.”
Perhaps because I’ve visited tightly packed shops like the Altmöller bookstores, the use of space here felt a little underwhelming. The range is solid, but I found myself wishing for a more distinctive, adventurous selection.
Book i bought:
David James Poissant: Sommerhaus am See
Lörrach
Osiander Lörrach
Basler Str. 170, Lörrach
With more than 60 branches across southern Germany, Osiander is always worth a browse, there are endless offers and plenty to discover. The Lörrach store, however, feels as though it’s missing a bit of its own DNA. There’s lots on display, but little that truly stands out.
The shop is spread over two floors. Downstairs you’ll find bestsellers, non-fiction, children’s titles, and the kinds of books that particularly appeal to younger readers. Upstairs, the focus shifts to novels, crime, travel, and some additional non-fiction. There’s also a café with a terrace.
While the terrace itself is pleasantly cosy, the café inside lacks atmosphere. The corner location doesn’t help, nor do the glaringly modern, bright green transparent chairs which feel completely out of place.
On a positive note, the bookseller I spoke with was exceptionally friendly, a welcome surprise, given the steady stream of Swiss customers who cross the border daily in search of cheaper books.
Book i bought:
Samuel Burr: Das grösste Rätsel aller Zeiten
München / Munich
Autorenbuchhandlung
Wilhelmstrasse 41, München
This bookshop lies a little off the beaten path. Founded in 1973, it has long stood as a counterbalance to the dominance of large chains, choosing instead to offer a carefully curated selection in a warm, personal atmosphere. It’s a philosophy I deeply appreciate and one well worth supporting.
The shop itself is small and cosy, though the décor could do more to highlight its charm. Space is tight, making browsing a little tricky, yet there’s clear potential here for the store to evolve into something truly special.
What struck me most, however, was the bookseller. She was attentive, friendly, and deeply committed, exactly the kind of presence that makes a bookshop memorable.
Book i bought:
Nele Pollatschek: Kleine Probleme
Bücher Lentner
Marienplatz 8, München
Founded in 1698, this is Munich’s oldest surviving bookshop—today known as the Lentner bookshop. The original founder was Johann Hibler; since 1794 it has carried the Lentner name, which remains to this day.
Since 1945 the store has stood on the beautiful Rathausplatz, right in the heart of Munich. From the outside, you might expect something grander. Inside, however, it feels simply old, not charmingly so, though the wooden floor does creak rather wonderfully beneath your feet. The upstairs salesroom, oddly enough, seems to offer even fewer titles than the staircase area leading up to it.
The space is cramped, with little room to move, and there are no staff recommendations on display. When I asked the bookseller for a suggestion, she declined, so I picked something quickly from the counter to avoid blocking other customers. We were all constantly in one another’s way.
Somehow the whole shop feels bizarre. A bookshop with such a remarkable history should radiate character and potential, but here, it all feels sadly odd.
Book i bought:
Rešoketšwe Manenzhe: Wir Zerrissenen (Scatterlings)
Buchhandlung Lehmkuhl
Leopoldstrasse 45, München
Founded in 1903 by Georg Steinicke, the bookshop changed hands just ten years later when Fritz Lehmkuhl took over. Since then, ownership has passed through several others, but one tradition has endured: literary events, which began in the 1930s and remain a defining feature of the shop today, attracting renowned authors and readers alike.
Located on the bustling Leopoldstrasse, the bookshop spans several floors and exudes a cosy yet slightly eccentric atmosphere. The shelves are painted green, with a cheerful red reserved for the children’s section. The maze of staircases adds to the quirky charm, though it can feel a little unusual at first. Visitors are greeted with well-curated staff picks, both at the entrance and on the shop’s website, making browsing a pleasure.
For younger readers, the store runs LehmCOOL, a lively reading club that introduces children and teens to literature in playful, creative ways.
Equally memorable are the booksellers themselves, warm, dedicated, and delightfully engaging. Watching the lively teamwork at the checkout is entertaining, even if not the height of efficiency.
Book i bought:
Olivia Ford: Der später Ruhm der Mrs. Quinn (Mrs. Quinn's Rise to Fame)
Karl Rau (closed)
Theresienstrasse 100, München
The specialist bookshop stands directly opposite the Technical University in Munich. I had expected shelves filled almost exclusively with academic literature, but to my surprise, the selection is remarkably broad and diverse.
The interior, however, leaves a mixed impression, somewhere between pleasant and a little outdated. Brighter lighting and new flooring would certainly enhance the atmosphere, though the overall size feels just right for a bookshop of this kind.
The staff are extremely friendly, even if the wait at the till was rather long.
Sadly, on 29 February 2024, Börsenblatt reported that the shop would be closing after more than a century. A decline in regular customers, partly due to the relocation of parts of the university, was among the reasons. Only the online branch will continue.
The news feels bittersweet, almost like the slow disappearance of species in the natural world: one more unique place fading away.
Book i bought:
Sylvie Schenk: Maman
Texxxt Buchhandlung
Sendlingerstrasse 24, München
When I walked in, my first thought was whether this very young staff was even legally allowed to work.
The shop itself is wonderfully absurd. The ground floor is so tiny it feels like a dollhouse, perhaps that’s why the staff are so small, too. Then, suddenly, the building turns into an adventure game: you descend deeper and deeper into the catacombs. By the fourth staircase, creaking dramatically beneath me, I thought: ah, perhaps this is a subtle nudge to reconsider my dessert habits.
And this on Sendlingerstrasse, of all places! You expect glossy boutiques, and instead you find glorious chaos. Children’s books are stacked on the staircase, but almost all shelved so high that no child on earth could ever reach them. Downstairs, under the steps, I discovered a gigantic box of “deficiency copies” at knock-down prices. The shelves themselves are labelled with scraps of cardboard that could have been torn from someone’s moving boxes. And yet, every genre imaginable is hiding here, like a secret library designed by a trickster god.
Behind the counter? An explosion of clutter. Absolutely magnificent.
No staff picks? No problem. I went diving straight into the mega-box. Meanwhile, wonderful jazz music floated through the air, giving the mess a strangely perfect soundtrack.
If bookshops had personalities, this one would definitely be a nerd, slightly chaotic, socially awkward, but utterly lovable.
Book i bought:
Shaun Bythell: Neue Bekenntnisse eines Buchhändlers (Confessions of a bookseller)
Radolfzell
Buchhandlung am Obertor
Obertorstrasse 7, Radolfzell
The bookshop is housed in a beautiful old building in the charming centre of Radolfzell, right by Lake Constance. Inside, it feels almost labyrinthine, with winding passages and plenty of cosy seating areas that invite you to linger over a coffee or hot chocolate.
At last, a bookshop with white shelves! With brighter lighting and parquet floors instead of the green carpet, it could easily be transformed into a truly stunning space.
For me, it’s the perfect size: not overwhelming, yet spacious enough to explore at leisure. The selection is extensive, clearly curated with care and affection. Alongside a wealth of children’s books, you’ll also find beautiful Italian wrapping paper and elegant notebooks. Small details that make the place feel especially thoughtful.
Book i bought:
Maria Borrély: Mistral (Sous le vent)
Jona Christliche Buchhandlung
Seestrasse 48, Radolfzell
Among the many curious corners of the book world, Christian bookshops appear quite often. The one in Radolfzell is hard to miss, with postcard stands right at the entrance catching the eyes of passers-by.
Inside, the selection is rather limited, and as expected, focused mainly on Christian titles. Anyone who knows me knows that religion and I don’t really cross paths. And yet, I felt surprisingly comfortable here. The bookseller was exceptionally warm and welcoming, which gave the place a pleasant atmosphere despite the narrow focus.
Looking ahead, I’ve decided only to include Christian bookshops that also carry a broader fiction section. I’ll admit I’m biased: in my view, religion often manipulates people. History and current events provide too many examples of crimes committed under its banner. That’s not something I want to encourage or support.
Book i bought:
Regina Neufeld: Die Kraft deiner Geschichte
Rheinfelden
Merkel Buchhandlung
Karlstrasse 10, Rheinfelden
If you stroll across the old Rhine bridge from Rheinfelden in Switzerland, you’ll land in its German twin. The buildings on this side aren’t quite as showy as their Swiss cousins, but the bookshop, founded in 1978, more than makes up for it. Compared to its counterpart on Marktgasse, it’s friendlier. Much friendlier. Hugely friendlier!
The shop has an unusual name, and fittingly it also sells books by the ex-chancellor with the same surname as well as a biography of Angela Merkel.
Admittedly, the shop doesn’t ooze charm, but it scores highly in size and friendliness. The booksellers are wonderfully relaxed, the kind who let you browse in peace instead of watching you like undercover security guards.
Staff recommendations lean heavily toward crime fiction, but otherwise the selection covers a bit of everything. I even felt there was room for a few more books, never a bad thing in a bookshop.
Book i bought:
Rob Hart: Assassins Anonymous
Singen
Buchhandlung Rupprecht
Hegaustrasse 17, Singen
Rupprecht has several branches across Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, and the one in Singen is really wonderful. Spread over two floors, it offers a wonderful selection of books in a bright, inviting space. The interior is especially charming, with country-house parquet flooring, light-filled rooms, and airy white shelves. There’s also plenty of room to wander, browse, and even sit down for a while.
On the downside, Saturdays can be tricky if there’s only one person at the till. Some customers looked a little impatient as the queue grew longer, but I, admittedly, found the whole scene rather entertaining.
Book i bought:
Sosuke Natsukawa: Die Katze, die von Büchern träumte
Spiekeroog
Inselzauber
Noorderloog 3, Spiekeroog
An enchanting little house sits in the heart of the car-free island of Spiekeroog, home to its bookshop. Yet one can’t help but feel it has much more potential, both in its selection and in the way the interior is arranged. The range of books is clearly tailored to holidaymakers, but to me it felt a touch clichéd, and not in the most charming way.
The counter, for instance, is planted right in the middle of the shop, taking up valuable space that could be put to far better use. And the bookseller didn’t seem like a local, or someone with a real connection to the island, which made the atmosphere feel a little less rooted.
Book i bought:
Lina Behrens: Das Stranddistelhaus
Stuttgart
Buchhaus Wittwer-Thalia
Am Schlossplatz, Königstrasse 30, Stuttgart
Spread over 3,000 square metres and five floors, the shop is a true paradise for browsing. The selection is not only broad but also impressively deep across many subject areas. A large children’s section and plenty of seating invite visitors to linger and leaf through their finds.
That said, the experience depends a little on the weather. When I visited in May, the heat made parts of the store feel more like a sauna than a bookshop, on the very day of the Nik Kershaw concert, no less. A renovation of the interior (and, ideally, the ventilation) would do wonders.
Book i bought:
Tanguy Viel: Paris-Brest
Sylt
Bücherdeele im Kaamp-Hüs
Hauptstrasse 12, Kampen
Sylt is the perfect place for a fasting retreat and for reading a good book. Naturally, I also explored some of the island’s bookshops.
Kampen, in particular, is famous for its proximity to one of Sylt’s best-known landmarks: the Uwe Dune, the island’s highest point, rising in the southwest of the village. The area has long attracted literary figures too; publisher Peter Suhrkamp and newspaper magnate Axel Springer both kept houses here.
Bücherdeele itself is tucked away on Wattweg, with its entrance in the basement. A word of advice: if it’s raining, don’t close your umbrella too early,, you’ll need it to dodge the steady drips from above as you go in.
Once inside, however, you’re warmly welcomed. The bookseller is extremely competent and genuinely eager to help visitors find the right book. The shop may be as modest in size as it is in selection, but it still offers a cosy little corner worth browsing.
Book i bought:
Iris Wolff: Lichtungen
Büchertruhe
Am Tipkerhoog, 3, Keitum
My first impression of the bookshop wasn’t exactly glowing. It smelled faintly of dog and old paper, and no one greeted me at the door. Then, in true Loriot fashion, a conversation unfolded—apparently with her successor—about a cheese sandwich she was planning to eat.
Do you know the German comedian and ventriloquist Sascha Grammel? One of his puppets is Josie the tortoise. Well, I’m convinced Josie has taken up a second career as a bookseller in Keitum. Same voice, same appearance.
After quite a while (she was busy reading a book), “Josie” finally looked up, spoke to me, and helped me find the perfect novel. And what can I say? A bookseller couldn’t be more likeable. I left the shop beaming, clutching her recommendation.
She has been running the shop for 45 years and is now over 90 years old. If that isn’t passion, what is?
A visit to this bookshop is not just recommended, it’s essential for anyone coming to Keitum.
Book i bought:
Cho Nam-Joo: Wo ich wohne, ist der Mond ganz nah
Badebuchhandlung Rolf F. Klaumann
Friedrichstrasse 7, Westerland
The bookshop sits in a prime spot, right in the heart of Westerland’s bustling shopping mile on Sylt. At first glance, the building itself is far from charming, its façade leaves little to admire. The interior, too, isn’t exactly to my taste. And yet, there is a clear concept behind it: the colours echo the Sylt flag, and the décor carries the unmistakable character of a coastal town. The wooden floor is beautiful, though the lighting, like in so many other bookshops, desperately needs attention. A thoughtful investment here would pay off, not least for the atmosphere and even for environmental reasons.
Once inside, it’s an enjoyable place to browse, even if the space between shelves and tables can feel a little tight. The range on offer is wide and varied—you can circle the shop again and again, and there will always be a book, a card, or some small treasure that catches your eye.
What truly makes the shop, though, is the bookseller. He seems perfectly at home here, embodying the spirit of the place. His presence alone suggests that this isn’t just a stop for tourists passing through, but a valued spot for locals as well.
Book i bought:
Stefanie vor Schulte: Junge mit schwarzem Hahn
Bücherwurm
Strandstrasse 13, Westerland
When I first saw the house, my expectations were high. Unfortunately, they were not met. It is the kind of building you encounter only in the north. Inside, the shelves were indeed beautiful, but the red stone floor struck me as harsh and out of place. Overall, the shop lacks charm; it feels like another missed opportunity, a space with potential left untapped. The selection of books is serviceable, but nothing beyond average.
The bookseller, though friendly and approachable, recommended only crime novels, a rather narrow focus compared to the other two bookshops in Westerland. In moments like this, I can’t help but think of the Eulennest bookshop in Baden-Baden, where, in my view, Germany’s finest bookseller presides with a true sense of literary breadth.
Book i bought:
Tess Gerritsen: Good Night, Peggy Sue
Buchhandlung an der Wilhelmine
Wilhelmstrasse 3, Westerland
At first, I was quite taken with the bookshop near the station, not far from the famous Wilhelmine fountain. The interior is charming: a warm wooden floor paired with turquoise accents that feel perfectly suited to the sea so close by.
But it didn’t take long to notice what unsettled me, the soundscape. Not music, but the endless loop of waves crashing in the background. It was meant, I assume, to create atmosphere, yet it struck me as oddly artificial and distracting.
The range of books also seems tailored more to visitors than to locals. Alongside titles, many with a focus on Sylt, you’ll find souvenirs and shell lamps, which I couldn’t help but find a touch kitschy.
On the positive side, the bookseller was genuinely helpful in guiding me to a good read. The selection may be limited, but the personal attention makes it worth a stop nonetheless.
Book i bought:
Stephanie Holden: Queen of Fashion
Titisee-Neustadt
Buchladen in der Alten Post
Am Postplatz 4, Titisee-Neustadt
Right beside the train station, in the old post office building, you’ll find a bookshop that immediately feels different. The history of the place lingers in the walls, and stepping inside is like entering a space where past and present overlap. I felt at home the moment I crossed the threshold.
Through the vestibule, the entrance lies to the left, flanked by card racks that catch the eye before you even step in. From there, the shop reveals itself: a sofa placed invitingly within sight, shelves lining the walls with the quiet sturdiness of old postal counters. The traces of the post office are everywhere, the yellow preserved at the entrance, the particular look of the shelving, yet the room glows with light. Pale floors and generous windows let daylight flood in, giving the whole interior a modern air that doesn’t erase the past, but rather lets it live on.
It’s a small irony that the place is called the bookshop in the red house, when its spirit still shines in shades of post-office yellow.
The selection is wider than one might expect in such a setting. Fiction leads the way, but regional titles, crime novels, and children’s books all have their space, thoughtfully arranged on tables and shelves. And then there is the bookseller, kind, attentive, and very much part of the charm, anchoring the shop in the rhythm of daily life.
This isn’t just a place to buy a book. It is a space that carries memory, light, and the quiet pleasure of discovery, a stop well worth making, even if you weren’t planning to.
Book i bought:
Jean-Paul Dubois: Jeder von uns bewohnt die Welt auf seine Weise (Tous les hommes n'habitent pas le monde de la même façon)
Weimar
Eckermann-Buchhandlung
Marktstrasse 2, Weimar
The moment you see the beautiful half-timbered house, you know: this bookshop is worth stepping into. It carries the name of Johann Peter Eckermann, the German poet and confidant of Goethe, and fittingly so, for this was once his home.
Inside, the selection is outstanding. Fiction, non-fiction, poetry, all are represented with care. Alongside the books you’ll also find non-book items, but here they are chosen with taste, stylish rather than kitsch, complementing rather than crowding the shelves.
At the heart of the shop stands the sales counter, positioned at the center with shelves and tables arranged around it. In a place like this, it feels entirely natural, as though the design grew organically from the house itself.
One practical note: if you plan to pay, be aware that foreign debit cards are not accepted. Cash is the safer option, and in truth, perhaps even the better one, since it spares small bookshops the burden of extra fees.
This is a place where history, literature, and good taste meet, well worth a visit, and a reminder of why bookshops still matter.
Book i bought:
Stein Torleif Bjella: Das Fischerhaus
Die Eule, Knabes Verlagsbuchhandlung Weimar
Frauentorstrasse 9-11, Weimar
Die Eule (The Owl) marked its 20th anniversary in 2023. Since 2015 it has been run under the wing of Knabes publishing house, though wisely the original name was preserved—allowing the shop’s identity to live on.
The location is charming, and the salesroom itself has real appeal with its varied and carefully curated assortment. Particularly striking was the display table right at the entrance: new releases arranged not in neat rows, but stacked in colour blocks, forming a kind of sculptural table of books. Original, eye-catching, and surprisingly inviting.
There is something special, too, in the fact that the shop sells titles from its own publishing house. It lends the place a personal note, a sense of authenticity and literary pride.
The bookseller, warm and attentive, added to the atmosphere, as did the soft French music drifting in the background. Together, they gave the shop a gentle charm, an individuality that made it linger in my memory.
Book i bought:
Édouard Louis: Anleitung ein anderer zu werden
Hoffmann’s Buchhandlung
Schillerstrasse 9, Weimar
This bookshop, founded in 1710, is steeped in history and counts among Germany’s oldest. Schiller and Goethe themselves once browsed its shelves, lending the place a literary aura that still lingers today.
From 1742 the shop was housed in the Cranachhaus, where an arch remains inscribed with the words Habent sua fata libelli “Books have their own destiny.” Until 1900, it also served as a publishing house. Since 1898, however, its home has been at Schillerstraße 9, a fitting address, considering its range.
One side of the store is devoted to the classics, with an entire corner dedicated to Weimar’s most celebrated residents, Schiller and Goethe. That such space is reserved for them feels both timely and timeless, a reminder of their enduring relevance. The non-fiction section, prominently placed near the entrance, adds to the sense of seriousness that pervades the shop.
The bookstore has a mature, almost solemn character, you can feel its soul in the quiet dignity of the space. Yet the atmosphere is somewhat marred by harsh lighting and an unremarkable floor, both of which detract from what could be a more evocative setting. The staff, too, struck me as rather reserved, though in an odd way this seemed in keeping with the gravity of the place.
There were no staff recommendations on display, but perhaps that is appropriate here, where the shelves themselves speak loudly enough. Naturally, I could not leave without purchasing a classic, there could be no better souvenir from such a storied shop.
Book i bought:
Friedrich Schiller: Die Räuber