The Only Bookstore I Loved in Palermo

As you probably know, I’m a huge fan of bookstores — especially when exploring new countries. So, naturally, I was excited to discover the bookstores in Palermo. I made a list on Google Maps and planned to visit them all in one day. However, I started my day a bit late and, honestly, felt a bit disappointed thinking I wouldn’t get to see them all. But in the end, I realized I didn’t need a whole day to explore — at least not for the reasons I expected.

Most of the bookstores I visited didn’t have books in English. Now, I know I shouldn’t expect every bookstore in a foreign country to cater to English speakers, but I’d hoped that some of the larger chain stores in tourist areas might offer a bit more variety. Sadly, many didn’t have books in any other language.

But there was one exception — Feltrinelli Librerie, the main bookstore chain in Italy, which quickly became my go-to spot in Palermo.

I ended up visiting Feltrinelli not once, not twice, but three times. Why? It was conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from my Airbnb. It quickly became my favorite place to browse while I was in the city.

The store itself is spacious, and on the second floor (don’t worry — there’s an elevator if you’re not up for the stairs), you’ll find a section dedicated to books in various languages. They had a solid selection of books in English, as well as a good mix of books in French and Spanish.

The store also has a familiar vibe — like a Barnes & Noble — with toys, calendars, journals, pens, puzzles, and more on the first floor. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a couple of hours browsing.

What’s even better? Feltrinelli Librerie is open all day, without the typical afternoon siesta break, making it super convenient if you’re looking for a place to relax and browse. It’s located near the Teatro Massimo, so you can grab a book and then head over to the theater steps to enjoy a quiet moment with your new read.

So, if you find yourself in Palermo and can’t read Italian, Feltrinelli Librerie is your best bet for a satisfying literary experience. Trust me, it’s well worth a visit.