A book lover’s guide to Melbourne
It's officially 'curl up with a good book' weather. Browse these iconic shops to find your next great read.
Kay Craddock – Antiquarian Bookseller
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. Find it in a new space at 32 Bourke Street.
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 Bookshop
If you’re looking for creative inspiration, Metropolis Bookshop 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.
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.
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.
Rotary Charity Bookshop
Head to District Docklands and lose yourself in the stacks at this used bookstore. Fossick through piles of novels, children's books and DVDs, with knowledgeable volunteers to help you hunt down your next read. You'll feel good knowing your reading habit is helping the community.
Go on a citywide book crawl
Take part in a fun book crawl around Melbourne from 20 to 26 April. Pick up your book crawl passport from a participating store and collect stamps to win prizes!
Bookstores participating in the Global Book Crawl
Mary Martin Bookshop
Visit the String Bean Alley location of Melbourne's beloved independent bookshop.
Readings Books & Music
Readings offers an outstanding range of products, from cutting-edge music and DVDs to classic texts.
Readings Emporium
An outstanding range of products, from cutting-edge music and DVDs to classic texts.
Readings at State Library Victoria
Readings State Library Victoria is the first independent bookshop to be established at the Library.
Hill of Content Bookshop
Hill of Content offers a broad and discerning range of books in a pleasant browsing environment.
Royal Historical Society of Victoria Bookshop
Offers an excellent range of books on Melbourne and Victoria's history.
More must-visit spots for your next bookish adventure
Melbourne Book Market
Melbourne Book Market is a curated collection of more than 5,000 new and pre-loved titles.
Melbourne Art Library
Non-profit public library providing an accessible, specialised collection of art and design texts.
The best picnic spots in Melbourne
Try these beautiful parks and gardens for your next Melbourne picnic.
Parks and gardens
One of the most loved things about Melbourne is its picturesque parks, gardens and green spaces.
State Library Victoria
Australia's oldest public library and one of the first free public libraries in the world.
Last updated on Tue 14 Apr 2026
Only In The City
Metropolis Bookshop
Metropolis carries a specialist range of books focusing on art, design, popular culture and more.
Rare shops you can only find in Melbourne
Melbourne is full of unique shopping spots you can only find in the city.
Queen Victoria Market
This beloved Melbourne landmark is the largest open air market in the southern hemisphere.
Discover more
The Paperback Bookshop
An independent bookshop that has been at the top end of Bourke Street since the 1960s.
Kay Craddock – Antiquarian Bookseller
Antiquarian and second-hand books, dating from the 16th to the 21st centuries.
