If you ever find yourself wandering through the magical streets of Venice, and you happen to be a book lover — especially the kind who dreams of cozy, quirky, and utterly charming bookstores like Shakespeare and Company in Paris — then you absolutely must visit Libreria Acqua Alta.
Often referred to as one of the most beautiful and unique bookstores in the world, Libreria Acqua Alta is a hidden treasure that will steal your heart the moment you step inside. It’s not just a place to buy books; it’s a full Venetian experience.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about this enchanting spot, from how to find it to why it captures the hearts of thousands of visitors every year. Plus, if you’re interested, we even offer tours that include a stop here — more details below!
Where Is Libreria Acqua Alta?
Address:
Calle Lunga Santa Maria Formosa, 5174B, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
Finding Libreria Acqua Alta is part of the adventure. The bookstore is located in the Castello district, not far from the beautiful Church of Santa Maria Formosa. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the famous Piazza San Marco, though in Venice, distances can be a little misleading!
Remember, Venice is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, charming canals, and tiny bridges. Getting lost is not only normal — it’s encouraged. Think of it as part of the Venetian experience. After all, some of the most unforgettable moments happen when you’re just slightly off track.
Here’s a pro tip: if you use Google Maps, it will guide you pretty close, but don’t be afraid to ask locals for directions. Venetians are used to helping travelers find this little slice of paradise.
What Makes Libreria Acqua Alta So Special?
From the moment you walk through the door, you’ll realize that Libreria Acqua Alta is unlike any bookstore you’ve ever seen.
Here’s why it’s so magical:
1. Gondolas and Bathtubs Full of Books
Yes, you read that right. Inside Libreria Acqua Alta, you’ll find a real gondola right in the middle of the store — filled with books!
There are also bathtubs, barrels, and even boats strategically placed around the store, all used as creative storage for their overflowing collection of books.
Why? It’s not just for aesthetics — it’s practical too! Venice, famously, is prone to flooding (hence the name “Acqua Alta,” which means “high water” in Italian). By keeping the books in gondolas and bathtubs, the owners protect them from the frequent rising tides.
2. The Famous Staircase of Books
Another iconic feature is the staircase made entirely of old books.
Located in a small courtyard at the back of the bookstore, this whimsical staircase invites visitors to climb up and enjoy a gorgeous view over one of Venice’s quiet canals.
The staircase is made of damaged or unsellable books that have been lovingly stacked together. It’s one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city and a perfect metaphor for Venice itself: fragile, artistic, and timeless.
3. Cats, Cats, and More Cats
If you’re a cat lover, Libreria Acqua Alta will feel like a dream.
Several cats live at the bookstore, lazily lounging on piles of books, cozying up in sunny corners, or greeting visitors with slow blinks and soft purrs.
The cats are very much part of the store’s identity, adding to its cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Many visitors come back just to see their favorite feline friends.
4. A Fire Exit into a Canal
Another quirky feature of Libreria Acqua Alta is its “fire exit” — which leads directly into a canal!
Open the door and you’ll find yourself face-to-face with the glittering Venetian waters. It’s yet another reminder that in Venice, water is always just a few steps away.
What Kind of Books Will You Find?
The collection at Libreria Acqua Alta is as eclectic as the store itself. You’ll find:
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New and second-hand books (mostly in Italian, but also a good selection in English, French, German, and other languages)
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Rare and antique editions perfect for collectors
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Art books, especially on Venetian history and architecture
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Children’s books with beautiful illustrations
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Travel books about Venice and Italy
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Comic books and graphic novels
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Postcards, prints, and quirky souvenirs
If you love second-hand books, this will truly feel like paradise. However, fair warning: if you have a serious allergy to dust, you might want to bring some tissues — the charm of the place comes with a little bit of that old-book smell.
Tips for Visiting Libreria Acqua Alta
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Be respectful: It’s a working bookstore, not a museum. Try not to block narrow pathways, especially when it’s crowded.
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Buy a book: Even if it’s something small! It helps support the store and keeps its magic alive for future visitors.
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Take your time: There’s so much to see. Don’t rush through it.
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Bring a camera: But be mindful — flash photography is discouraged.
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Say hi to the cats: They are used to visitors but always appreciate a gentle scratch behind the ears.
A Little More About Venice’s Love Affair with Books
Venice has a long and proud literary tradition.
During the Renaissance, Venice was a major center for printing and publishing — at one point, the city produced over half of all printed books in Europe!
The city’s connection to the written word runs deep, and visiting Libreria Acqua Alta is like stepping into a living piece of that literary history.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital screens, places like Libreria Acqua Alta remind us of the beauty of real books — their textures, their smells, their ability to transport us to other worlds.
How to Include Libreria Acqua Alta in Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Venice, we highly recommend including a stop at Libreria Acqua Alta on your itinerary.
Even better, we offer a special tour that includes a visit to this bookstore along with a guided exploration of the hidden corners of Venice.
👉 Interested? Click here to book a tour or email us for more information!
We would love to show you the magic of Venice through the eyes of a local — and introduce you to the city’s most enchanting bookstore.
What Libreria Acqua Alta Looks Like: A Sneak Peek
Here’s a little taste of what you’ll find when you step inside:
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Narrow passages filled with towering stacks of books
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Sunlight filtering through old wooden shutters
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Cats napping on well-worn armchairs
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Visitors softly whispering in awe
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The quiet lapping of water just outside the windows
It’s a place where time seems to slow down, where every corner hides a new surprise, and where the love for books fills the air.
Final Thoughts: Why Libreria Acqua Alta Is a Must-Visit in Venice
Libreria Acqua Alta isn’t just the most beautiful bookstore in Venice — it’s one of the most magical bookstores in the world.
It’s a celebration of books, imagination, and resilience in the face of rising tides. It’s a place where every object, every shelf, and every cat tells a story.
If you love books, adventure, and hidden gems, you simply cannot miss it.
Lose yourself among the gondolas full of novels, climb the staircase of worn-out encyclopedias, and let the magic of Venice wrap around you like a warm, familiar story.
And remember: in Venice, getting a little lost is half the fun — especially when it leads you somewhere as unforgettable as Libreria Acqua Alta.
