Books have the power to transport us to other dimensions and places, immerse us in alternative realities and deepen our knowledge. A source of leisure and wisdom, a reading break, accompanied by a hot drink, increasingly serves as an escape from the frenetic pace of everyday life. In this context, the traditional concept of buying and selling books has reinvented itself, opening the door to the emergence of bookshops-cafés… and there are several in Lisbon!
Surrounded by a cozy atmosphere, many places have more to offer than just new and used books. On the one hand, some include a menu with pastries and wines. On the other hand, there are bookshop-cafés that open their doors to promote a healthy lifestyle, as well as to their customers’ best four-legged friends. So, without being a definitive guide, in this article you’ll find more than just good reading.
Reading slowly
Considered by the international platform “1000 Libraries” to be one of the ten most beautiful spaces of its kind, Livraria Ler Devagar stands out in the LX Factory as a cultural meeting point in Lisbon.
This former printing warehouse retains its industrialdesign , with shelves that rise to the ceiling, an old printing press and the iconic flying cyclist installation. More than a bookshop-café, it is a true cultural center where debates, literary meetings and exhibitions are held .
Address: Rua Rodrigues de Faria 103 – G 0.3, Lisbon
Good Company Books
This former Portuguese furniture store has been given a new lease of life with Good Company Books, a bookshop-café specializing in English titles, but with a focus on Portuguese-speaking authors.
More than literary works, there you can find specialty coffees, sweets and even wines, with an offer that includes new generation and traditional Portuguese products.
It’s a good place for those looking to rest and/or even work away from home. It also hosts literary events, such as book launches and book club meetings.
Address: Avenida Visconde de Valmor 2
Fable Bookshop + Brunch Café
Located in the Príncipe Real area , Fable is a true urban refuge for those who love reading, healthy cooking and taking their dog everywhere. The atmosphere is welcoming and the space is spread over two floors and a patio.
As far as literature is concerned, the shelves are dominated by English-language titles on personal development and business, as well as contemporary fiction. As for the food, there are vegan and vegetarian dishes.
This bookshop-café positions itself as a pet-friendly space, a scenario visible in the many photos shared on its Instagram. It also organizes workshops and other literary events.
Address: Rua dos Prazeres, 1o A
Inquieta Bookshop
Inquieta is another bookshop-café worth visiting in Lisbon, based on two essential pillars: tranquillity and well-being. There, as well as a cozy atmosphere, you’ll find a pet-friendly space .
Spread over two floors, Inquieta is a bookshop on the lower floor and a café on the upper floor. The shelves are filled with titles by independent publishers and authors outside the commercial circle.
Address: Rua de Campolide, 94 B
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