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$8.99 (as of April 14, 2025 07:48 GMT +00:00 - More info)Are you a book lover planning a trip to Budapest, Hungary, and wondering where to find your next great read?
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Discovering the Literary Scene in Budapest
Budapest, with its rich history and cultural heritage, is a city that will delight literature enthusiasts. As you wander through its charming streets, you’ll stumble upon quaint bookstores, each with its unique character and offerings. Whether you’re looking for a new novel to get lost in or interested in exploring Hungarian literature in translation, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your tastes.
Where to Find English Books in Budapest
While Hungarian is the official language, many bookstores in Budapest cater to English readers. You’ll find a range of stores, from independent shops with a curated selection to larger bookstores with a wide array of titles. Here are some of the top picks for English readers:
Bookstore | Address |
---|---|
Atlantisz Könyvsziget | Váci utca 64, 1056 Budapest |
Massolit Bookstore and Café | Andrassy ut 22, 1061 Budapest |
Írók Boltja | Hercegprímás utca 8, 1051 Budapest |
Bestsellers Books | Andrássy út 22, 1061 Budapest |
Libra Bookstore | Váci utca 22, 1056 Budapest |
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Top Picks for English Readers
Atlantisz Könyvsziget (The Book Island)
Located in the heart of the city, Atlantisz Könyvsziget is a publishing house and bookstore that offers a great selection of Hungarian writers in translation. You’ll find novels, poetry, and essays by renowned Hungarian authors, as well as a curated selection of international titles. This store is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Hungarian literature beyond the usual tourist trails.
Massolit Bookstore and Café
Massolit Bookstore and Café is a cozy haven for book lovers. The combined bookstore and café offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for browsing the shelves or settling in with a cup of coffee and a good book. The selection of English books is impressive, with a range of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s titles. This store also hosts literary events and workshops, making it a great place to connect with fellow book enthusiasts.
Írók Boltja (The Writers’ Bookstore)
Írók Boltja is a unique bookstore dedicated to Hungarian literature. While the focus is on Hungarian authors, you’ll also find a selection of English books and translations. This store is more than just a place to buy books – it’s a creative space where writers and readers come together to share ideas and inspiration. Be sure to check out the store’s events calendar, which features book launches, readings, and workshops.
Bestsellers Books
Bestsellers Books is a popular bookstore with a balanced selection of new titles. You’ll find a range of fiction and non-fiction books, including popular bestsellers and Hungarian writers in translation. This store is a great place to discover new authors and titles, and the staff is always happy to offer recommendations.
Libra Bookstore
Libra Bookstore is one of the largest bookstores in Budapest, with a vast selection of new titles. You’ll find a range of English books, as well as titles in German and French. This store is a great place to find academic texts, classics, and contemporary bestsellers. Be prepared to spend some time browsing the shelves – with so many titles to choose from, you’re sure to find something that interests you.
Honorable Mention: Di-Plant Foreign Language Bookstore
While not as extensive as some of the other bookstores on this list, Di-Plant foreign language bookstore is worth a mention. This small shop specializes in academic texts and has a limited selection of English books. If you’re looking for something specific or hard to find, this store may be worth a visit.
Travel Resources and Tips
Budapest is a beautiful city to explore, and getting around is relatively easy. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. You can buy a single ticket or a Budapest Card, which includes free public transportation and discounts at many attractions.
- Budapest is a walkable city, and exploring on foot is a great way to discover its hidden gems.
- Many bookstores offer events and workshops – be sure to check their websites or social media for upcoming events.
Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Consider staying in the city center to be within walking distance of many bookstores and attractions. Some popular neighborhoods to stay in include:
Neighborhood | Description |
---|---|
Pest | The city center, with many amenities and attractions within walking distance |
Buda | A charming, historic neighborhood with narrow streets and picturesque views |
Óbuda | A quiet, residential neighborhood with easy access to the city center |
Conclusion
Budapest is a book lover’s paradise, with a range of unique bookstores and a thriving literary scene. Whether you’re interested in Hungarian literature, international bestsellers, or just want to explore a new city, you’ll find plenty to love in this beautiful city. Happy reading!