It's officially 'curl up with a good book' weather. Browse these iconic shops to find your next great read.

The Paperback Bookshop

The Paperback Bookshop has been a champion of the independent book scene since the 1960s. Browse their sprawling selection and lose yourself among the pages of literary greats. Can’t find what you want? They’re always happy to order in special titles for their lit head fans.

Hill of Content

Hill of Content is 100 years old and shows no signs of slowing down. Since opening in 1922, this cute book nook has offered Melburnians the best local and international page turners. From food to travel, romance, drama and more - there's a book to be found for all discerning readers here.

Three tall buildings on a city street that house small shops and restaurants
Hill of Content

Books for Cooks

What’s old is new again as foodie readers flock back to printed recipe books. And Books for Cooks has delicious reads in huge supply. Discover the likes of Ottolenghi or take a chance on one of the many antiquarian titles on wine, food and the culinary arts.

Metropolis Books

If you’re looking for creative inspiration, Metropolis Books is for you. Culture vultures will love the selection of specialist books on art, graphic design, music, film and architecture. Looking for a rare read? The crew has access to a huge database of books from across the globe.

A woman reading a book in a bookstore
Metropolis Bookshop

Kay Craddock – Antiquarian Bookseller

Shrouded in the gothic surrounds of Assembly Hall, Kay Craddock carries an array of antiquarian and second-hand books. That includes page turners dating back to the 15th century. Shop for books on Australiana, books about books, unique bookend accessories and more.

Readings Carlton

A favourite among word nerds across the city, Readings has been a Carlton icon for over 40 years. In the pre-internet era Melburnians would even cluster at the window to view ads for share houses. Young readers are well catered for at Readings Kids, located right next door on Lygon Street.

The outside of a kids bookstore
Readings Kids

City Basement Books

Prefer pre-loved books with a little character? Then City Basement Books is for you. This second-hand book haven will take you from out-of-print rarities to popular fiction – all for a fraction of the original price.

More must-visit spots for your next bookish adventure

Willows & Wine

Willows & Wine

A West Melbourne bar offering books, wine and cheese.

World Food Books

World Food Books

A bookshop specialising in art and design books.

Mary Martin Bookshop

Mary Martin Bookshop

A book-lover's delight, where the service makes the difference.

Melbourne Art Library

Melbourne Art Library

Non-profit public library providing an accessible, specialised collection of art and design texts.

The best picnic spots in Melbourne

The best picnic spots in Melbourne

Try these beautiful parks and gardens for your next Melbourne picnic.

Secret gardens and majestic parks

Secret gardens and majestic parks

Take a walk through Melbourne’s lush parks and gardens.

Parks and gardens

Parks and gardens

One of the most loved things about Melbourne is its picturesque parks, gardens and green spaces.

State Library Victoria

State Library Victoria

Australia's oldest public library and one of the first free public libraries in the world.

Last updated on Tue 12 Mar 2024

Only In The City

Santa Maria Novella Boutique

Santa Maria Novella Boutique

Experience the rich history and quality of revered Italian apothecary brand, Santa Maria Novella.

Where to buy the best jeans in Melbourne

Where to buy the best jeans in Melbourne

Shop vintage denim, mom jeans, wide leg pants and more.

Melbourne’s best local delis and general stores

Melbourne’s best local delis and general stores

Find artisan cheese, fresh produce and pantry essentials from these local Melbourne delis.

Discover more

The Paperback Bookshop

The Paperback Bookshop

An independent bookshop that has been at the top end of Bourke Street since the 1960s.

Readings Emporium

Readings Emporium

An outstanding range of products, from cutting-edge music and DVDs to classic texts.

Bookbinders Design

Bookbinders Design

Specialising in handcrafted Swedish stationery and paper products.

Dymocks

Dymocks

Large bookstore with a huge range in the basement of Collins234.