【Fever Travel】The 5 Most Beautiful Bookstores in the World That Will Captivate You

By: Xiao Lühai

The advancement of the digital world has facilitated the flow of information, but it has also posed a threat to traditional print media. As you walk past the dwindling number of newsstands, you’ll find fewer and fewer choices of books and magazines. Still, there are undoubtedly many who love physical books. Below are seven bookstores hailed as the most beautiful in the world, which may just rekindle your interest in reading.

1. Polare , Maastricht

Visiting Polare bookstore, you might briefly wonder if you've walked into a church by mistake. In fact, this bookstore inthe Netherlands is housed in an 8th-century Dominican church in the town of Maastricht, transformed by architect Merkx + Girod in 2006. Its preservation was made possible thanks to employees who launched a fundraising campaign when Polare declared bankruptcy. The solemn church combined with a treasure trove of knowledge creates an unforgettable reading atmosphere.

2. El Ateneo, Buenos Aires

This is a world-renowned bookstore located inArgentinaBuenos Aires. With its stage, lighting effects, and overall ambiance, it's clear that the site was originally the Teatro Gran Splendid grand theater, opened in 1919. It later became a cinema before being transformed into a bookstore. This bookstore has now expanded into a chain brand, with branches in other Argentine cities such as Rosario and San Miguel de Tucumán.ArgentinaOther cities such as Rosario and San Miguel de Tucumán.

3. Libreria Acqua Alta , Venice

Could this be the world’s only underwater bookstore? In the water city ofVenice, every time it rains, the shop owner busily puts on rain boots to move the books to higher ground. The store is filled with stacks of both new and old books, and the unique staircase leading to the backyard is actually built from piles of old books — a truly creative touch. Despite Venice’s rising water levels in recent years, the owner remains committed, keeping the store open every day.Venice, the owner remains committed, keeping the store open every day.

4. Librairie Avant-Garde , Nanjing

Located inNanjing, Pioneer Bookstore was formerly a government parking lot and wartime air-raid shelter. Inside, the space feels sealed with no windows, yet it doesn’t feel cramped. Visitors can walk along the double yellow lines where books line both sides of the path, and at the end, you’ll find a glowing cross — creating a serene atmosphere and a wonderful reading environment.

5.?ivraria Lello , Porto

With its classic design, the space makes readers feel as though they’ve stepped into the magical world of Harry Potter. This old library atrium inPortugalfeatures a red staircase and stained-glass ceilings, adding an artistic touch.

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