8x charming bookshops in Amsterdam

January, 2nd 2023

Did you know that Amsterdam also has exceptional bookstores? We’ve rounded up an unique list

8x charming bookshops in Amsterdam

The creak of wooden floors. People browsing the shelves. The scent of new books. There’s honestly nothing like walking around in a charming bookstore before losing yourself in a great book. Amsterdam offers countless inspiring museums, art, restaurants, coffee shops and picturesque streets. But did you know that Amsterdam also has exceptional bookstores? We’ve rounded up a list of unique bookshops that will satisfy anyone with a love for the written word.

 

1. Van Pampus Bookstore

Are you a real bookworm? Take the ferry to Amsterdam-Noord and visit Van Pampus; a unique bookstore with a laid-back living room atmosphere. Ask an employee for his personal favourite or browse the books until you find yourself in a comfortable chair reading a great story. Want some time to ‘rewind’? This bookshop is your new fav place.

Address: KNSM-laan 303, Amsterdam

 

 2. Antiquariaat Brinkman

In the heart of Amsterdam – in a monumental building – you’ll find Antiquariaat Brinkman. It’s a
charming bookstore with a stunning range of rare, old books. The bookshelves are filled with valuable antique books, and there are discoloured maps on the wall. For the building alone, this bookstore is worth visiting.

Address: Singel 319, Amsterdam  

3. Mendo

Find your next thrilling read at this amazing spot. Mendo curates the finest books in fashion, food, graphic design & art, interior & architecture, lifestyle and photography. It’s an Amsterdam-based independent publishing house and retail store. Situated at Hotel De L’Europe, the owners dedicated this space to sharing their love for beautiful books. Looking for a beautiful coffee table book? Mendo is the place to be. A beautiful store with an even prettier Instagram account

Address: Nieuwe Doelenstraat 10, Amsterdam

 

4. Van Rossum

If you’re a book lover, make sure to squeeze in a visit to Van Rossum. This bookshop, in the heart of Amsterdam-Zuid, was established in 1929. It's known for its carefully curated collection of Dutch and English literature and poetry, history, and a large section of Dutch and English children's books. 

Address: Beethovenstraat 30-32, Amsterdam

 

5. The Book Exchange

Whether you're after novels, comics, history, fashion… The Book Exchange has it all. This enormous bookshop is the best place to shop for second-hand books. It has three floors of English second-hand books relating to every genre. Of course, there are other places in Amsterdam for your 'second-hand books' kick, but The Book Exchange definitely has the largest selection. Word is, you can find up to 50.000 books here. 

Address: Kloveniersburgwal 58, 1012 CX Amsterdam

 

>> Looking for the best spots in Amsterdam to read your book? These are the best terraces in summer. Or, crawl under a blanket at these heated terraces during winter.

6. Java Bookshop

Java Bookshop in Amsterdam-Oost is an independent bookshop with a wide selection of Dutch and English-language world literature. From classics to bestsellers: Java Bookshop has it all. You can sip on some hot coffee while reading your book. See you there?

Address: Javastraat 145, Amsterdam

 

7. American Book Centre

This may seem like a large bookstore chain, but the American Book Centre - also known as the ABC Bookstore - is an independent family-owned business. Founded in 1972, this large bookstore is filled with hundreds of English books. Chances are you'll walk by this store during your city trip; the building sits on the Spui. Thirsty? There’s a very small café for your caffeine kick.

Address: Spui 12, Amsterdam

 

8. Waterstones

In the heart of Amsterdam - in a stunning building - you’ll find Waterstones. The building is designed by the famous Dutch architect H.P. Berlage, and might be the prettiest bookstore in Amsterdam. If you’re from the UK, you might recognise it – Waterstones is the largest bookstore chain in the UK. And that’s why you can also find delicious British snacks in this bookshop. 

Address: Kalverstraat 152, Amsterdam


Looking for the perfect spot to curl up with a good book? Let’s sit on the couch around the fireplace in boutique hotel BOAT&CO.