Best Bookstores & Libraries in Kraków, Poland
1. Książnica im. Barbakanu
A medieval-style bookstore and café located in the Old Town Market Square. Unique architecture blends with a vast collection of books.
- Unique Architecture: Built in a replica of Kraków's defensive walls, offering a unique atmosphere.
- Café Inside: Enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing through books.
- Vast Collection: One of the largest collections of contemporary literature in Kraków.
2. Bogusławski's Bookshop
An antiquarian bookstore filled with rare and out-of-print books. It has been operating since 1790, making it one of the oldest bookstores in Europe.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest continuously operated bookshops in the world.
- Rare Books Collection: Offers a vast collection of rare and out-of-print books.
- Expert Knowledge: Knowledgeable staff available to assist with book selection.
3. Mały Salon Książkowy
A cozy, independent bookstore offering a selection of English-language books. It is also a popular venue for literary events.
- English Language Books: One of the few places in Kraków to find English-language books.
- Literary Events: Hosts readings, book launches, and other literary events.
- Cozy Atmosphere: A comfortable space to sit, read, and browse books.
4. Księgarnia Akademicka
Located at the Jagiellonian University, this bookstore offers a wide range of academic books and stationery.
- Academic Books: A vast selection of academic books and resources.
- Jagiellonian University Location: Conveniently located near the Jagiellonian University campus.
- Stationery Supplies: A wide range of stationery supplies for students.
5. Bibljoteka Katedralna
The cathedral library of Wawel Castle houses a collection of over 40,000 books, manuscripts, and ancient documents.
- Historical Collection: One of the oldest libraries in Poland with a vast historical collection.
- Wawel Castle Location: Located within the historic Wawel Castle.
- Access by Appointment: Visits must be scheduled in advance due to its status as a research library.
6. Ognisko Krakowskie Library
A public library located near the main market square. It offers a wide range of books, magazines, and multimedia resources.
- Convenient Location: Near the main market square for easy access.
- Multimedia Resources: Offers a wide range of multimedia resources, including audiobooks and e-books.
- Free Access: Access to books, magazines, and multimedia resources is free with a library card.
7. Księgarnia Wielopole
A modern bookstore located in the Kazimierz district. It offers a wide selection of books, a café, and a cozy reading nook.
- Modern Architecture: A modern building designed by world-renowned architects.
- Café Inside: Enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing books.
- Cozy Reading Nook: A comfortable space to read and relax.
8. Księgarnia Dziembowski
An independent bookstore offering a wide range of books, including art, design, and architecture titles.
- Independent Bookstore: Offers a unique selection of books not found in larger chains.
- Art, Design, and Architecture Books: Specializes in art, design, and architecture titles.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff are well-informed about their books and offer recommendations.
9. Księgarnia Literacka
A bookstore focusing on literature, offering a wide selection of Polish and international titles.
- Literature Focus: Specializes in literature, including Polish and international titles.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff are well-informed about their books and offer recommendations.
- Reading Area: A comfortable space to read and relax.
10. Księgarnia Literacka Pod Baranem
An independent bookstore offering a wide selection of books in various genres, including fiction and non-fiction.
- Independent Bookstore: Offers a unique selection of books not found in larger chains.
- Wide Selection: A wide range of books across various genres.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff are well-informed about their books and offer recommendations.
11. Księgarnia Św. Benedykta
A monastery bookstore offering a wide selection of religious books, spiritual literature, and Christian art.
- Religious Books and Art: Specializes in religious books, spiritual literature, and Christian art.
- Monastery Setting: Located within a monastery, offering a peaceful setting.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff are well-informed about their books and offer recommendations.
12. Biblioteka Cyfrowa Krakowa
An online library offering digital access to e-books, audiobooks, and multimedia resources.
- Online Access: Offers digital access to e-books, audiobooks, and multimedia resources.
- Free Access: Access to e-books, audiobooks, and multimedia resources is free with a library card.
- Convenient for Digital Readers: Ideal for those who prefer digital formats over physical books.
13. Księgarnia Katedralna
Located within St. Mary's Basilica, this bookstore offers a selection of books and religious items.
- St. Mary's Basilica Location: Located within St. Mary's Basilica.
- Religious Books and Items: Offers a selection of books and religious items.
- Historic Location: A historic location with a rich history dating back to the 14th century.
14. Księgarnia Pod Złotym Orzełem
A bookstore offering a wide selection of books, including Polish and international titles. It also hosts literary events.
- Wide Selection: Offers a wide range of books across various genres.
- Literary Events: Hosts readings, book launches, and other literary events.
- Centrally Located: Conveniently located near the main market square.
15. Księgarnia Pod Kogutem
A bookstore offering a wide selection of books in various genres, including fiction and non-fiction. It also hosts literary events.
- Wide Selection: Offers a wide range of books across various genres.
- Literary Events: Hosts readings, book launches, and other literary events.
- Centrally Located: Conveniently located near the main market square.