As both a book and travel lover, I often seek out bookshops to visit during my travels. An absolute tour-de-force in the literature world, Ireland is a must-visit spot for readers and writers alike. Across the country, they have a magnificent selection of shops that don’t stray away from complex political and literary topics. Keep reading below to discover my three favourite Irish bookshops I visited.
The theme for this selection of Irish bookshops is cozy. All three of the shops, along with the others I visited, were packed jam full of books just waiting to be read. I loved the chaotic organization of all of them and spent more than a few hours in each one. They all featured both new and used books, which made it fun when looking for new books to pick up.
Vibes & Scribes Bookshop – Cork
This bookshop is small but mighty. Bright and well organized, Vibes & Scribes is a fantastic place to check out in Cork. I picked up some serious bargains on my books here and really did enjoy the ~vibe~. They have a great selection of new and used books, alongside a great collection of Irish literature.
Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop – Galway
Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop is where I randomly picked up my favourite book I read in 2023, Migrations by Charlotte McConaghy. Nestled on the corner of a small street, the shop looks quaint from the outside, yet is phenomenally expansive when you enter. The labyrinth of interconnected rooms is filled to the brim with both new and used books, really having something for everyone.
Books Upstairs – Dublin
Books Upstairs is both a wonderful bookshop and a fantastic cafe. Set just up the street from Trinity College, the shop features a wide selection of literary works and journals. It’s the perfect stop after visiting the Trinity College Library and Book of Kells.
