The best bookshops Bucharest

An institution in Bucharest. This national brand has several stores in the city, but the Lipscani store is the most remarkable. It occupies a majestic ^19th-century building, with white columns, moldings, Art Nouveau curves and a large central glass roof. You'll find a wide range of books (some in English or French), as well as stationery, souvenirs, maps... The top floor houses a bistro, and the second floor a contemporary art gallery. Even if you don't have anything to buy, it's worth the detour.

A good choice of books next to the Church Church Kretzulescu, on the Piaţa Revoluţiei. A few tourist works and a large selection of pocket books in Romanian from local and international authors. Some books in French.

It's the only French bookshop in the capital, and indeed in Romania. Opened in 2012, it bears the name of a character invented by French-speaking Romanian writer Panait Istrati. You'll find a large section of French literature, as well as a fine selection of Romanian literature translated into French, all kinds of books about Romania, comics, newspapers and magazines, and a well-stocked children's section. It's a bright, modern and colorful place to linger.

Cărturești has a number of outlets, the most famous of which is in Bucharest's old center, but its little sister in the Piața Romană district is just as worth a visit. It has taken up residence in a tastefully restored early ^19th-century bourgeois mansion, revealing here and there the traces of the past, as evidenced by the exposed roof frame on the top floor. Much more than just a bookshop, you'll also find music, games and a selection of gifts featuring local artists and craftsmen.