In a daily life where we’re constantly staring at screens, it feels good to consciously seek out an analog pastime every once in a while. Reading is often the activity of choice—after all, what better way is there to forget the world around you than to immerse yourself in another? If you’re running out of reading material again or want to give someone a lovely gift, then you should head to Munich’s bookstores. In addition to the well-known chains, there are numerous small, independent stores where you can discover wonderful treasures.
Buch & Bohne
What could be better than enjoying a fresh cup of coffee with a good book in hand? Buch & Bohne offers exactly that, as the name suggests. Hidden behind the pretty blue facade on Häberlstraße is this charming bookstore, which looks a bit chaotic —especially in the back . Right in the middle of the store, you’ll find old-fashioned chairs, wooden tables, and benches where you can drink coffee and browse through books. Buch & Bohne also hosts many exciting events, some of which are even free to attend. Whether it’s readings, book clubs, or discussions, literature fans are sure to find something to their liking here.
Word’s Worth
When you think of English bookstores in Munich, the Munich Readery is probably the first thing that comes to mind. And even though we really love this secondhand bookstore, we’d like to recommend another spot here. Word’s Worth is located right next to the university on Schellingstraße, making it the perfect destination for students from all over the world. But even if you’re not a student, you’re of course welcome here to browse through the wide selection of English-language books. There’s also a selection of typical British gift items, such as teas, shortbread, and jam.
Buchhandlung am Gasteig
Even though the Alte Gasteig will soon close for renovation, a detour to this corner of Munich is still well worth it. Diagonally across from the cultural center, right on the street corner, the Buchhandlung am Gasteig awaits you. Here, there are books to discover not only on the ground floor but also upstairs in the gallery. A small spiral staircase leads you upstairs, where you can stroll along the rows of shelves and browse at your leisure. The low ceiling lends the space a certain intimacy that makes the store feel especially cozy.
texxt
If you’re looking for a well-stocked bookstore, texxt isn’t the place for you—and yet, in a way, it’s exactly the right one. The selection here is vast, but there’s no order to speak of—at least at first glance. In the basement, books are piled high on the tables, and you’ll need to set aside a little time to dig through them. But you’ll be rewarded with some real bargains, because texxt mainly sells books with minor imperfections. The books are brand-new, but they have small cosmetic flaws (which are barely noticeable on the shelf) and are therefore available at particularly low prices. So if you love to read but are on a tight budget, this is the perfect place for you.
Word Choice
Among Munich’s most beautiful bookstores, Wortwahl near Gärtnerplatz is, of course, a must-visit. Formerly a pharmacy, today you’ll find the finest in book culture here, with a lovingly curated selection. The old pharmacy shelves are still there, now lined with hardcovers and paperbacks to suit every taste. Alongside them are numerous beautiful decorative items and postcards for every occasion and every situation in life.
Lemkuhl
Lemkuhl has been in Munich for over a century and continues to delight bookworms of all ages. Thrillers, mysteries, novels, self-help books, children’s books, and more are spread out over two floors. In addition to German literature, you can also find books in other languages, such as English or Italian. The carpeted floor, warm lighting, and green shelves create a cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger. And once you’ve picked out your books, take a look around at the board games .
Lentner
Even older than Lemkuhl is Letner in the New City Hall: At over 320 years old, it’s the oldest bookstore in all of Bavaria that’s still in business. It was originally located on Kaufingerstraße and has called the City Hall home since 1945. A carpenter built the interior using wood from the Frauenkirche, which alone makes it worth a visit. But of course, there are also great books to buy here, covering topics such as art and Bavarian history.
glatteis – The Mystery Bookstore
The good old mystery novel is probably one of the most popular book genres. As early as the 19th century, the stories surrounding the master detective Sherlock Holmes sparked waves of enthusiasm, and not much has changed since then. For lovers of this type of reading, the bookstore Glatteis is therefore a true paradise. Ninety percent of the selection consists of mystery novels and thrillers in all their forms. You’ll find both classics and contemporary works here. In addition, there are regular book readings where authors personally present their latest books and offer you insights into their work.
