Melbourne is a city that wears its UNESCO City of Literature badge with pride. As the second city ever to be given this distinction, the honour confirms that Melbourne is internationally recognised for its literary heritage and culture. That means it is a paradise for book lovers with events like the Melbourne Writers Festival and, of course, some bookstores.
The city pulses with literary energy thanks to its vibrant book culture and selection of bookstores that house every genre imaginable. The scent of paper and ink is in the air in Melbourne!
Melbourne city bookshops are as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Here’s a guide to some of the best spots to find your next favourite read:
Found in St Kilda’s Victorian Pride Centre, Hares & Hyenas is more than a bookstore; Melbourne knows it as a vibrant community space. This queer-owned gem stands out for its diverse collection, including queer fiction, erotica, and international magazines. It also doubles as a bar and performance venue, making it a lively hub for culture and conversation. It’s the perfect spot to find unique reads while enjoying a drink and catching a show.
Since its opening in 1922, Hill of Content has been a beloved Melbourne bookstore. Its elegant two-level layout and a broad selection of contemporary and international titles make it a perfect spot for a relaxed browse. You’ll find everything from the latest fiction to a classic read, plus the knowledgeable staff and serene atmosphere offer a charming shopping experience right in the heart of the CBD.
Located in the historic Curtin House, Metropolis Bookshop is for those interested in pop culture, photography, and design. Its blue shelving and Japanese-style counter create a visually stunning space to explore its extensive collection. Fans of everything from architecture to fashion will find something in the Metropolis selection.
Head to Thornbury, and you’ll find Perimeter Books, a spot that offers a fresh take on Melbourne’s independent book scene. Known for its eclectic collection of contemporary art, photography, and design titles, Perimeter is a must-visit for those seeking unique and obscure reads. Its modern, artsy vibe and rotating display of contemporary art make it a cultural hotspot.
For fans of science fiction, fantasy, and true crime, Syber’s Books in Caulfield South is known for its vast collection of second-hand and rare reads. Syber’s has a quirky charm and knowledgeable staff, making it a go-to for those looking for something unique or out of print.
Melbourne’s secondhand bookshops are just as good as the options listed above. The thrill of finding rare editions and vintage gems can’t be beat; plus, it’s a great way to indulge your literary passions without breaking the bank:
If you’re wandering along Sydney Road and spot a table of books, head through the adjacent doorway and up the stairs to discover Brunswick Secondhand Books. This shop, which feels more like a large apartment filled with books, is organised by genre and offers a unique browsing experience. Relax on one of the sofas while you explore their vast selection.
In Coburg, Golden Bowl Books offers a delightful mix of genres, with a strong focus on classic fiction, cookbooks, and children’s literature. It’s the perfect spot to find that classic novel you’ve been searching for or to pick up some new recipes to experiment with in the kitchen. Just be aware this place isn’t exactly “organised”, but the search is part of the fun!
As the hotel group that just opened its first regional Punthill property, our Melbourne apartment hotels are the best spots to curl up with a good book after a big day of book-hunting in the city. Our locations like Punthill Manhattan, Veriu Collingwood and Punthill South Yarra make it easy to enjoy all the quintessential Melbourne experiences, with convenient access to all of the bookstores mentioned above and so much more.
The Melbourne Writers Festival brings around 100 writers to Melbourne every year across 50 events, and the program is ever-changing. You can expect to see a range of authors, publishers and other figures of note involved in the literary industry.
Dymocks, which first opened in 1879, has a retail network of approximately 65 stores across Australia, making it the largest book chain in the country.
Melbourne’s vibrant book club scene offers something for everyone. The Gloss Book Club hosts monthly meetups with in-depth discussions, wine, and exclusive events. Read My Blurb is another great option that provides a relaxed setting for book swaps and engaging conversations over nibbles and wine.
