Being the Irish “City of Literature” means that the best bookstores on the Emerald Isle are, of course, the bookstores in Dublin.
Indeed, the Irish have long been recognised as gifted storytellers. And with some of Dublin’s most famous sons like Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, Bram Stoker and WB Yeats continuing this long tradition, it’s not difficult to see why.
Long story short, there are many great bookstores in Dublin. But if we absolutely had to choose, the following places would be our top picks. Here is a list of where to head to procure the best printed masterpieces in the city.
But first, a little history…
Dublin – “City of Literature”
Back in 2010, UNESCO incorporated Ireland’s vibrant capital into its newly founded “Creative Cities Network”. This officially spotlighted Dublin as an important literary location, alongside other European wonderlands of wordsmithery like Milan, Barcelona, Manchester, Prague, Lillehammer, and Odessa. To gain this designation, cities must hit several strict criteria such as;
- “quality, quantity and diversity of publishing in the city,”
- “literature, drama and/or poetry playing an important role in the city,” and
- “existence of libraries, bookstores and public or private cultural centers which preserve, promote and disseminate domestic and foreign literature.”
All of which this naturally creative city excels in. So, without further ado, let’s get into the best bookstores in Dublin!
The Best Bookstores in Dublin
Hodges Figgis
Kicking off with an oldie but a goodie. And when we say old, we’re not just talking about the oldest bookstore in Dublin. We are talking about “the oldest bookshop in Ireland” and “third oldest operating bookshop in the world”.
Opening in 1768, Hodges Figgis has been name-checked by famous writers including James Joyce, Sally Rooney and Paul Durcan. It´s floors hold an absolute treasure trove of talented writers from Ireland and beyond, They also host a stellar selection of events throughout the year. The perfect place to start any literary journey in the city.
Traveler’s tip: There are few things more enjoyable than reading a good book over a nice cup of coffee. Once you’ve picked something new to read, why don’t you head to one of the best coffee shops in Dublin to really lose yourself for a few hours?
Chapters
From the oldest to the biggest bookshop in Ireland, Chapters doesn’t follow trends. Whilst it gives space to all sorts of published works, they don’t just sell the guaranteed chart toppers. This place is sustainably minded and creatively motivated.
In addition, there is a never-ending programme of writer’s groups and book clubs. The team at Chapters also put a focus on helping their customers to uncover the new, the fresh and the different with their “mystery box” collections.
Ulysses Rare Books
Where did they get the striking name from? Keep reading to find out, but you can probably guess what Ulysses Rare Books specialize in. Founded in Donegal in 1969, and Winners of the Irish Times “Best Bookshop in Ireland” award.
This bookstore in Dublin has been serving that comforting old book smell to the collectors of rare books for more than half a century. It is your go-to for lovely rare editions and prints, with a particular focus on local literature from the 19th and 20th centuries. Though excitingly, you’re just as likely to find a limited edition of Dr. Seuss or a signed copy of Terry Pratchett among the antiquarian Irish gems.
Insider’s tip: Dublin is filled with quirky sites like Ulysses Rare Books. If you’d like to check out some of the city’s strangest secrets, check out our list of Unique Things to do in Dublin.
The Gutter Bookshop
As Oscar Wilde´s character in Lady Windermere’s Fan utters “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.” Thus sparking one of the most oft-quoted one-liners in Irish literature.. Indeed, it’s gone on to be featured on t-shirts, mugs and motivational social media posts ever since.
But it also served as inspiration for The Gutter Bookshop. The original shop on Cow’s Lane opened in 2009 and the later, it was joined by it´s sister store in Dalkey. This bookstore is the quirky little independent choice for all ages with readings, book clubs and lovingly curated “Staff Picks” as standard.
The Winding Stair
They sure know how to celebrate their beloved writers in Dublin. And here’s another fantastic bookshop option which does just that – The Winding Stair.
Named for the iconic poem by WB Yeats, this bookshop boasts enviable views over both the River Liffey and Ha’Penny Bridge. It was a meeting place for all manner of creative minds through the 70s and 80s and has been ever since.
Nearly disappearing from Dublin’s streets forever in 2005, the very next year The Winding Stair was resurrected by a new restaurant sitting atop it. No fancy frills, just solid, comforting and seasonal Irish dishes with a choice of unusual books that prove why this independent shop is so important.
Secret Book & Record Store
It’s cozy, it’s loved by locals and it’s the place to come if you like culture in all its forms.
Dublin may have birthed some of Europe’s most famous writers, but it certainly hasn’t shirked when it comes to musical output either. It’s this legacy that The Secret Book & Record Store is dedicated to, both new and second-hand. So if you’re looking to grab a vinyl record of U2’s ‘The Joshua Tree’, while also picking up a well-thumbed copy of Wilde’s ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’, you now know exactly where to head.
Sweny’s Pharmacy
One name that is going to come up time and again on any literary deep dive here is James Joyce. Writer of ‘Ulysses’, the humorous yet weighty stream-of-consciousness novel. The book was loosely built on the foundations of Homer’s ‘Odyssey’ but set in early 20th century Dublin. It eventually got its first proper publishing in Paris in 1922 after being banned in the USA and Britain for being obscene and blasphemous.
But why are we talking specifically about this masterpiece on a list of bookstores in Dublin? Sweny’s Pharmacy was originally propelled to fame as a key landmark in the novel itself: a pharmacy where the lead character Leopold Bloom procures a lemon-scented soap which becomes his lucky talisman during an eventful day. “He waited by the counter, inhaling the keen reek of drugs, the dusty dry smell of sponges and loofahs. Lot of time taken up telling your aches and pains.”
And now, this beautiful building is frozen in time, complete with prescriptions still waiting patiently on shelves for customers who never came.
Sweny’s has new customers now, those seeking solace through words rather than pharmaceuticals. Since 2009, it has been given a new lease of life as a bookshop with a wide selection of works to purchase, alongside lemon-scented soap for a lucky day of your own. This is not your average Dublin bookshop, this is an absolute must-visit on any Joycean pilgrimage to the city.
Honorary Mention: Museum of Literature
We know it’s not a Dublin bookshop. However, no article about literature in the Irish capital would be complete without a spotlight on this excellent museum.
The MoLi on St. Stephen’s Green celebrates ‘the world’s greatest storytellers’ in a modern and accessible way. There is a particular focus on James Joyce and also great rotating exhibitions. Oh, and a top tip from us? Try the cafe, called Commons Cafe. It’s run by local food entrepreneurs sisters Domini and Peaches Kemp, who offer incredible Irish tastes and certainly know their way around a baked treat.
FAQs – Best Bookstores in Dublin
Are there any book-related events or festivals in Dublin?
Yes! Dublin hosts several literary events throughout the year, including the Dublin Book Festival in November and Bloomsday every June, which celebrates James Joyce’s Ulysses. Many of the city’s bookstores also hold regular readings, launches, and writing workshops.
Can I find second-hand or rare books easily in Dublin?
Absolutely. In addition to well-known spots like Ulysses Rare Books, there are several independent stores and market stalls that specialise in pre-loved or collectible editions. George’s Street Arcade and the Temple Bar Book Market (open weekends) are great for browsing rare finds.
Are bookstores in Dublin accessible to visitors with mobility needs?
Most of the larger shops like Hodges Figgis and Gutter are fully accessible, with lifts or ground-floor layouts. However, smaller independents housed in older buildings may have narrow staircases or limited access, so it’s best to call ahead before visiting.
What’s the best area in Dublin for book lovers to explore on foot?
Start around Dawson Street and Duke Street for a mix of modern and historic shops, then cross over to Ormond Quay for The Winding Stair. You’ll find plenty of literary landmarks, cosy cafés, and even Joyce-inspired plaques along the way — perfect for a self-guided literary stroll.
Feeling inspired? Then why not get up close and personal with Dublin’s most important book of all? Join our lovingly curated Dublin City Tour experience to discover the 9th-century Book of Kells as you enter the hallowed halls of Trinity College, hear the enthralling tales of this remarkable city during a walking tour with a local guide, and get a taste of the local libations at a top whiskey distillery and the Guinness Storehouse. Slàinte to that!
