Barcelona is an open, cosmopolitan city full of nuances. This is evident in the streets, markets, restaurants... and also in the bookstores. Beyond the classic bookstores in Catalan and Spanish, the city hides small literary treasures where French, Italian, German, or Japanese take center stage. If you love to read and want to do so in other languages, Hola Barcelona takes you there!
Backstory – International Literature with Style
Located in the heart of Eixample, Backstory is much more than an English bookstore. This modern, bright space offers a carefully curated selection of contemporary works in various languages: English, French, Italian, and more. Additionally, they organize talks, reading clubs, and author meetups. It’s the ideal place to discover new voices and be surprised.
📍 C/ Rosselló, 186 – L5 Hospital Clínic
Abracadabra – Magic for the Little Ones (and Not So Little)
If you’re looking for children’s books in various languages, Abracadabra is a must-visit. This charming bookstore in the Gothic Quarter has stories, picture books, and educational books in English, German, French, Italian, and more. They also offer workshops and activities for families. A magical place that sparks the imagination of both young and old.
📍 C/ General Álvarez de Castro, 5 – L4 Jaume I
Come In – English as a Cultural Passport
Yes, we know the main focus is English, but Come In deserves a mention for its variety. In addition to a wide selection of books in English for all ages and levels, you can also find materials to learn other languages. It’s a great starting point if you want to jump into a new language. And the staff is always ready to recommend!
📍 C/ Balmes, 129 bis – L5 Diagonal
Jaimes – A Window to French Culture
The Jaimes bookstore is an institution in Barcelona. Founded in 1941, it is the city's main reference for French literature and culture. You’ll find everything from classics to the latest releases, as well as magazines, comics, and children’s books. And yes, they also have sections dedicated to Catalan and Spanish.
📍 Pg. de Gràcia, 64 – L3 Passeig de Gràcia
Haiku – The Japanese Essence on Every Page
In the Gràcia neighborhood, Haiku is a discreet gem for Japan lovers. Specializing in Japanese culture, here you'll find books in Japanese, translations in Spanish and Catalan, and a great manga collection. They also sell calligraphy materials, stationery, and Japanese cultural objects.
📍 C/ Montseny, 7 – L3 Fontana
On TikTok: Books by Metro Line!
Want to discover what to read while you’re on the metro? Keep an eye on our TikTok channel! We’ve posted a video where we recommend books based on the metro line you take. Because every journey can be a literary adventure!
Barcelona is a city that is read in many languages, and these bookstores are the perfect reflection of that. Whether you're looking to practice a language or simply want to discover stories from around the world, let yourself be carried away by these spaces filled with culture, passion, and diversity. Because, after all, reading is one of the best ways to travel without leaving your spot, Hola Barcelona takes you there!
