Shakespeare and Company

Description

Ah, Shakespeare and Company – a literary paradise that’s charmed book lovers for generations. Located across from Notre-Dame Cathedral, this enchanting bookstore feels more like stepping into a novel than a retail space. I remember my first visit back in 2019, getting completely lost among the towering shelves of well-loved books and barely noticing three hours had slipped by.

This isn’t just any old bookstore. Since 1951, it’s been a sanctuary for English-language literature in the heart of Paris, carrying on the legacy of Sylvia Beach’s original 1919 establishment that hosted literary giants like Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce. Today, the shop maintains that same magical spirit – with books crammed into every possible nook and cranny, worn wooden floors that creak with stories of their own, and reading nooks where you could spend an entire afternoon.

Key Features

• The famous “Tumbleweed” program that allows aspiring writers to stay at the bookstore in exchange for helping out
• A secret poetry reading room upstairs with a cozy piano corner
• First editions and rare books section for serious collectors
• Typewriter station where visitors can type out their own stories
• Regular author readings and literary events
• The famous “wishing well” where visitors leave handwritten notes
• A charming children’s literature corner called the “Old Codger’s Children’s Book Room”
• The iconic storefront with its green-and-yellow facade and vintage signage

Best Time to Visit

Early mornings, right when they open, offer the most peaceful browsing experience. I’d suggest arriving around 10 AM on weekdays if you want to actually explore without bumping elbows with other visitors. The shop tends to get pretty packed between 2 PM and 5 PM, especially on weekends and during summer months.

Winter afternoons have a special charm – there’s nothing quite like browsing dusty shelves while rain patters against the windows. Plus, you’ll find significantly fewer tourists during the off-season months of November through February.

If you’re hoping to attend one of their famous evening readings or events, keep an eye on their schedule – these typically happen mid-week and can make your visit extra special.

How to Get There

Getting to Shakespeare and Company is a breeze using Paris public transport. The nearest Metro stations are Saint-Michel Notre-Dame (Line 4 and RER B and C) and Cluny-La Sorbonne (Line 10). From either station, it’s just a short walk through charming Latin Quarter streets.

I actually prefer taking the scenic route – walking along the Seine from either direction gives you gorgeous views of Notre-Dame Cathedral and street artists along the way. The riverside location makes it impossible to miss – just look for the green storefront and the crowd of book-loving visitors usually gathered outside.

Tips for Visiting

Look, I’ve learned a few things from my repeated visits that’ll make your experience even better. First off, bring cash – while they do accept cards now, there’s something wonderfully old-school about paying for a book with actual money here.

Don’t rush through. This isn’t your typical bookstore where you grab and go. Take time to explore the upper floor – that’s where the real magic happens. The reading room up there has comfy chairs and the best views of Notre-Dame.

Want a special souvenir? Get your book stamped with the store’s iconic stamp at checkout. It’s free and turns your purchase into a cherished memento. And yes, photos are allowed inside, but be mindful of other browsers and maybe wait for quieter moments to snap that perfect shot.

If you’re serious about book hunting, bring a small bag – the aisles are narrow and navigating with large backpacks can be tricky. Oh, and the WiFi password? Just ask at the counter – they’re happy to share it if you want to settle in with your laptop for a bit.

One last thing – take a moment to chat with the staff. These folks aren’t just sellers; they’re passionate readers with amazing recommendations. I once spent 20 minutes talking to a staff member about obscure French poetry translations, and it ended up being the highlight of my visit.

Remember the shop’s rather compact size means it can get pretty cozy (aka crowded) during peak hours. But honestly? That’s part of its charm. You might bump into fellow book lovers from all corners of the world, each drawn to this literary landmark for their own reasons.

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