Amsterdam stands out as one of Europe’s top cities for book lovers. The city’s rich literary history, scenic canal-side streets, and residents who speak excellent English make it a haven for readers.
Bookstores here cater to all kinds of tastes. Whether you’re after rare secondhand paperbacks, the latest bestsellers, or just a cozy reading nook with coffee, Amsterdam’s got you covered.
Many of the best bookshops in Amsterdam cluster in the central canal district. You can easily visit several in one afternoon, which is pretty convenient.
From massive multi-floor stores to tiny specialist shops, every bookstore here has its own character. Here are seven standout bookstores to check out, plus a bonus spot for poetry fans.
1) Scheltema
Scheltema is huge—one of the Netherlands’ largest bookstores. Stepping inside feels a bit like wandering into a personal library.
It’s right on Rokin, just a few minutes from Dam Square. The multi-story building has a massive selection in both Dutch and English.
You’ll find everything: fiction, history, business, philosophy, and tons of kids’ books. The English section is big, well-organized, and honestly, it’s easy to lose track of time browsing.
Each floor is labeled by genre, so you can find what you want or just roam and see what jumps out. The calm, open atmosphere makes it feel less hectic than some smaller shops.
If you like taking your time in a spacious, well-curated store, start here. Scheltema is part of the same group as Athenaeum Boekhandel, which is pretty cool—they’re a duo of indie book powerhouses.
2) Athenaeum Boekhandel
Athenaeum Boekhandel sits right on the Spui, one of Amsterdam’s most beloved literary squares. The building’s curved glass windows are hard to miss.
Inside, the space is quirky and full of character. Staircases lead to different mezzanines and levels, all connected in a way that makes you want to explore.
The English-language section is tucked toward the back, with a thoughtful range of new releases and classics. If you’re into French literature, check upstairs.
On the ground floor, there’s a fantastic collection of international magazines and periodicals—architecture, fashion, you name it. What’s Hot Blog points out that they even carry back issues, so you might find that one magazine you missed.
Athenaeum feels curated with care. Every shelf seems intentional, which makes browsing here genuinely satisfying.
3) The American Book Center
The American Book Center, or ABC, is legendary among English-language bookstores in Amsterdam. It’s right on the Spui, across from Athenaeum, and it’s been family-owned since 1972.
Despite its polished look, it’s not a chain. The rounded staircase, lined with books, leads you up to upper floors absolutely packed with every genre you can imagine.
Look for “ABC Favourite” stickers if you want quick recommendations. Armchairs and sofas are scattered around, and there’s a little café for coffee breaks.
One quirky highlight? Betty the Bookmaking Machine—a self-publishing station where you can print your own book on the spot. The shop also offers English magazines, bookish gifts, and fun tote bags.
It’s dog-friendly, and every purchase comes with a free literary magazine. You’ll probably end up staying longer than you planned.
4) Waterstones Amsterdam
Waterstones Amsterdam is the local branch of the famous British bookstore chain. You’ll find it on Kalverstraat, one of the city’s busiest shopping streets.
The shop focuses almost entirely on English-language books, which is a lifesaver for American and British travelers. The selection leans toward popular fiction, nonfiction bestsellers, and travel guides.
The layout is straightforward, and the staff is usually happy to help if you’re after something specific. It doesn’t have the indie charm of some Amsterdam shops, but it’s reliable and familiar.
If you’re in a rush and just want to grab a new English release, this is your spot. The gift editions and hardcovers also make great souvenirs.
5) The Book Exchange Amsterdam
The Book Exchange is a dream for secondhand book fans. You’ll find it on Kloveniersburgwal, and it’s been running since 1978.
It claims to be the largest used English bookstore on the European continent. Three floors are absolutely packed with pre-owned paperbacks and hardcovers.
The cellar is a treat if you love science fiction and fantasy—think George R.R. Martin and Brandon Sanderson. Upstairs, you’ll find thousands of general fiction and classics, all alphabetically organized.
Prices are fair, and the stock changes often. The owner is usually in the window, watching the canal, which is kind of charming.
If you’re on a budget or just love hunting for hidden gems, don’t miss this place.
6) Bookstore Het Martyrium
Het Martyrium is quieter and a bit off the tourist radar. It’s tucked away in the Jordaan on Vondelstraat.
The shop leans toward literature, philosophy, religion, and the humanities. Locals have loved it for decades.
There’s a warm, inviting vibe here, and the staff truly care about books. They’re happy to chat and recommend something special.
Dutch books dominate the shelves, but you’ll find some English titles, too. Het Martyrium also hosts readings, book discussions, and literary events that draw a loyal local crowd.
If you’re after something deeper than mainstream bestsellers, give it a try. It’s a place for slow, curious browsing.
7) Pantheon Boekhandel
Pantheon Boekhandel is right in the heart of Amsterdam, near the Rembrandt House Museum on Sint Antoniesbreestraat. The shop stocks a wide range of Dutch and English books, focusing on literature, art, history, and social sciences.
There’s a warm, slightly academic feel that serious readers will appreciate. The staff pick titles with care, and you’ll see handwritten notes explaining why a book matters.
Art and photography sections are especially strong, which fits given the shop’s location near top museums. I Amsterdam’s book lovers guide highlights Pantheon as a perfect example of the city’s deep literary culture.
If you’re into intellectual or artistic reads, this one’s for you.
8) Perdu
Perdu isn’t your typical bookstore, but it belongs here for its unique role in the city’s literary world. This tiny venue on Kloveniersburgwal is a poetry theater and literary stage.
They host regular readings, spoken word performances, and intimate literary events all year. If you love language and want to experience Amsterdam’s writing scene beyond just printed books, Perdu is special.
The space is small—only a few dozen seats—which makes every event feel personal. Performances feature both Dutch and international poets, and many readings are in English or bilingual.
Check the schedule before you go, since events aren’t daily. It’s a great stop to pair with The Book Exchange, which is right on the same canal.
How To Choose The Right Bookstore In Amsterdam
English-Language Vs Dutch-Focused Shelves
Your language preference matters. The American Book Center and Waterstones Amsterdam focus almost entirely on English titles, so they’re perfect if you don’t read Dutch.
Scheltema and Athenaeum Boekhandel have strong selections in both languages. Het Martyrium and Pantheon Boekhandel lean more Dutch but still carry English books.
Most Amsterdam staff speak English well, so you’ll get help no matter where you go.
New Books, Used Books, And Rare Finds
If you want the latest releases and crisp new books, try The American Book Center, Scheltema, or Waterstones. For secondhand English books at bargain prices, The Book Exchange is unbeatable.
New English paperbacks in Amsterdam usually cost between 11 and 13 euros, so used shops really help if you’re watching your budget. ABC also has a small section of discounted or used titles mixed in.
Events, Cafes, And Browsing Atmosphere
Some bookstores offer way more than just books. The American Book Center has a tiny café and comfy chairs. Perdu hosts live poetry and literary events.
Het Martyrium and Pantheon Boekhandel run author talks and discussions. If you want to linger, look for shops with armchairs, coffee, and a laid-back vibe.
ABC and Scheltema are especially good for long, lazy browsing sessions.
Where To Start If You Only Have One Afternoon
Best Central Route Around Spui And Rokin
Start at the Spui—The American Book Center and Athenaeum Boekhandel are right across from each other. Then walk north along Rokin to Scheltema.
These three stores are close together and cover the best of Amsterdam’s book scene. You can browse all three in two to three hours and not feel rushed.
Best Stops For English-Language Readers
If you’re after English books, focus on The American Book Center, Waterstones Amsterdam on Kalverstraat, and The Book Exchange on Kloveniersburgwal.
Between these three, you’ll find new bestsellers, popular fiction, nonfiction, and a mountain of used paperbacks. That’s tens of thousands of English titles in one afternoon—honestly, not a bad way to spend a day.
Best Picks For Literary And Specialist Browsing
If you’re after a more curated, intellectual vibe, head to Pantheon Boekhandel near the Rembrandt House Museum. Afterward, you can stroll over to Het Martyrium in the Jordaan.
Both shops cater to readers who crave depth, not just a wall of bestsellers. You’ll find thoughtful picks in literature, philosophy, and the arts.
If you happen to be around when Perdu hosts an event, maybe stick around for a poetry reading. It’s honestly one of those little Amsterdam moments you won’t forget.