Galignani

A long, gleaming space lined with dark wood and crowned with a mezzanine overlooking an intimate reading area, Galignani on the Rue de Rivoli is as chic as its location. It claims to be the first English language bookshop on the continent, but that’s not really important – though pricey, Galignani probably has the best overall selection of fiction, non-fiction, fine arts books, guides and gift titles in English in the city. Browsing the broad tables and tall shelves lined with venerable names and exciting new writers is as inspiring as in some of the best independent bookshops in London, and has the same sense of intimacy and love of the written word. Just don’t expect to pick up a bargain – most paperbacks start around €20-€30, and the prices only spiral upwards from there. They also take special orders and arrange deliveries in Paris and worldwide.