The most beautiful bookstores in our country

Last updated: June 22, 2026.

What could be more delightful than spending hours browsing in a charming bookstore? The smell of paper and ink, and all those books surrounding you. By the way, did you know there are some really beautiful bookstores in the Netherlands? We’ve listed them for you so you, too, can enjoy the wonderful atmosphere that a bookstore offers.

Dominicanen Maastricht

Without a doubt, the most unique bookstore in the Netherlands. Dominicanen Bookstoreis located in the more than 700-year-old Dominican Church in the heart of Maastricht. The British newspaper The Guardian even hailed this bookstore as “The fairest bookshop in the world, a bookshop made in heaven.” And that’s no exaggeration: the Gothic arched ceilings, the black bookshelves that stretch all the way to the ceiling, and the imposing space make for an unforgettable experience.

In addition to the fantastic ambiance, they also have a huge collection of books. The former priest’s room now houses a coffee bar, perfect for a break during your book hunt. You can easily spend a few hours here!

Van der Velde in Zwolle

Van der Velde Booksin Zwolle is also located in a beautiful church: the 15th-century Broerenkerk. This “book church” was transformed into a true book paradise in 2013. What makes this location special is that the centuries-old organ is still there and is occasionally used for concerts.

The bookstore spans four floors and has something for everyone in its selection. In addition to countless books, you can also find magazines, office supplies, and stationery here. After shopping, you can relax in the cozy brasserie at the back of the church.

Waterstones Amsterdam

TheWaterstones Amsterdambookstore is located in a beautiful historic building on Kalverstraat. This chain from the United Kingdom offers a vast selection of English-language books. You’ll need to be a fan of English-language literature, though, as you won’t find any Dutch-language titles here.

American Book Center Amsterdam

TheAmerican Book Centeris an independent, family-run bookstore with locations in Amsterdam, The Hague, and Leidschendam. The Amsterdam store on Spui consists of three floors, connected by a large tree that runs through the center of the building—a real eye-catcher!

The ABC offers the largest selection of English-language books on the European mainland, ranging from literature to nonfiction, and from graphic novels to magazines. On the first floor, you’ll also find a Coffee Corner where you can enjoy a drink and your new purchase. The store regularly hosts events with authors and even has a “Betty the Book Machine” that lets you print and bind your own book.

Den Boer Bookstore in Baarn

Den Boer Bookstorein Baarn has been located in a beautiful, historic Art Nouveau building on Laanstraat since 1887. This isn’t just any bookstore—it’s an experience. In 2020, Den Boer was named the most beautiful bookstore in the Netherlands and is even featured in the book “150 Bookstores You Have to Visit Before You Die.”

The friendly and knowledgeable staff are known for their excellent reading recommendations. Book lovers travel from far and wide to Baarn to visit this unique bookstore.

De Vries Van Stockum Haarlem

In the heart of Haarlem on the Gedempte Oude Gracht, you’ll findDe Vries Van Stockum, housed in an old building that originally consisted of five separate storefronts. You can still see where one building ended and the next began.

A special eye-catcher is the fireplace, which enhances the already cozy and welcoming atmosphere even further. The spacious reading table invites you to take a seat and browse. Reading clubs and activities are regularly organized in the unique courtyard garden. Rumor has it that this bookstore is also home to Haarlem’s oldest wall.

Gianotten Mutsaerts Tilburg

In Tilburg, you’ll findthis beautiful bookstorein the Emmapassage. In 2020, the store underwent a complete makeover, making you feel even more at home there now. In addition to new books, they also sell used books here, which makes the collection even more diverse. Tired of browsing through all those books? Then treat yourself to a snack at the cozy lunch café that’s part of the bookstore. You can also find games and gift items here.

Riemer Bookstore, Groningen

For residents of Groningen,Riemer Bookstoreis a household name. With a rich history dating back to 1880, it’s a literary oasis in the heart of Groningen. Riemer offers a large and diverse selection of books, including many Christian titles, as well as thrillers, novels, Young Adult fiction, children’s books, classics, and the latest bestsellers. Don’t forget to check out the fun games the bookstore has for sale.

De Drvkkery Middelburg

Planning a weekend trip to Zeeland? Then a visit to theDrvkkeryin Middelburg at Markt 51 is definitely a must. This charming bookstore is one of the most beautiful and inviting in the Netherlands. What makes this location special is that it even has its own brasserie! In addition to its extensive selection of books, you can also find gifts, games, and music there. The store regularly hosts game nights, making it a true gathering place for the local community.

Paagman The Hague

Paagmanis The Hague’s largest bookstore and a true family business that has been a household name in the city for over 70 years. The store has several locations, including two in The Hague: on Frederik Hendriklaan (featuring Villa Paagman for children’s books and the Kicking Horse Café) and, since September 2024, a completely renovated location at Lange Poten 13–15.

The new location on Lange Poten spans four floors in a historic building. There’s even a hidden room behind a revolving book door! You’ll find a huge selection of books, magazines, music (CDs and vinyl), movies, and used books. The store regularly hosts events featuring authors and musicians.

Athenaeum Bookstore & News Center

Athenaeumon Spui in The Hague is one of the largest independent bookstores in the Netherlands. Founded in 1966, it has grown into a cultural icon in Amsterdam. The bookstore spans three floors with tall black bookcases that create an almost labyrinthine layout.

They carry approximately 25,000 titles in various languages, specializing in literature, classical languages, philosophy, history, and politics. You’ll also find an extensive collection of art books, design books, and cookbooks. The adjacent Nieuwscentrum has one of the largest magazine collections in the Netherlands, featuring beautifully designed international magazines you won’t find anywhere else.

Bonus tip: The Book Spectacle in Utrecht

If you love books, you really shouldn’t miss a visit to the Utrecht Library on the Neude. Here you’ll find the Book Spectacle, a unique collection of thousands of unpublished books. No bestsellers or famous authors—just stories by writers from all over the Netherlands that have never been published before. What makes it special? You don’t choose a book yourself. Through a special installation, you’re matched with a surprising story—as if you’re going on a blind date with a book. From novels and children’s books to poetry collections and memoirs. Each copy is unique and often includes a personal message from the author. The Book Spectacle is open to the public, and you can borrow a book even without a library membership.

The Best Bookstores for Kids

There are also specialty bookstores for children. After all, you can’t start reading early enough! Our guest blogger Louise previously wrote a blog post about the best bookstores for children.You can find the blog here.

Photo credits: www.canva.com