Liam TrudeauExperience shelf indulgence at the best bookshops in Montreal
Montreal has two things we absolutely can’t resist: croissants and bookshops. While we’ve had our fair share of pastry indulgences, today we’re highlighting the city’s charming bookshops.
Montreal has plenty to offer, whether you’re after a new bestseller or a vintage treasure.
We’ve explored some of the city’s finest spots, and let’s just say our bookshelves—and our hearts—are fuller because of it.
So grab a tote bag, maybe a coffee, and let’s dive into Montreal’s best bookshops.
Librairie Le Port de tête
Media credit: leportdetete
Location: 269, 222 Avenue du Mont-Royal E et
Contact: +1 514-678-9566
Operating hours:
- Saturday to Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Nestled on Avenue du Mont-Royal, Le Port de tête has been a bookworm’s paradise since May 2007.
Their shelves are brimming with everything, from thought-provoking philosophy to enchanting children’s albums.
They’ve got new releases and used gems. Every single book is hand-picked by their passionate team of booksellers. Basically, it’s like a curated museum of literary awesomeness.
It’s no wonder the readers of the Best of MTL poll 2024 crowned them one of the best-used bookstores in the city!
| Pro Tip: Follow their Instagram to stay updated on their latest literary treasures. |
Argo Bookshop
Media credit: ArgoBookshop
Location: 1841-A Saint-Catherine St W
Contact: +1 514-931-3442
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
This place is a haven for anyone who believes that the best stories are found on the shelves of an independent bookstore. Argo is that cherished spot where the staff probably knows your name—and your favourite genres.
Their shelves are overflowing with carefully chosen fiction and non-fiction gems. We’re talking literature, poetry, and fantasy—a buffet of bookish delights. It’s all presented in this quaint atmosphere that just begs you to lose yourself in the stacks for hours.
They’re also all about building a community. They host book launches and book clubs that make you feel like you’ve found your literary tribe.
| Pro Tip: Hit up their events page before you go. Their calendar is packed with author meet-and-greets and discussions that’ll make your book-loving heart sing. |
Indigo
Media credit: indigo
Location: 1500 McGill College Ave
Contact: +1 514-281-5549
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Indigo is the Disneyland of bookstores. Yes, they offer an impressive selection of books spanning every genre you could possibly want.
But that’s not all—they also have gifts, stunning stationery, and enough home décor to make your Pinterest board come to life.
This two-level location is a shopper’s paradise. There’s a café (because book browsing is hard work) and a grand piano upstairs, often graced by musically inclined customers.
| Pro Tip: To make the most of your visit, obtain a Plum Rewards card. This loyalty program offers savings both in-store and online. |
Westcott Books
Media credit: inayali
Location: 6792 Rue St-Hubert
Contact: +1 514-846-4037
Operating hours:
- Monday, Tuesday & Thursday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Westcott Books, the brainchild of Terry Westcott, is run by a man who’s practically a legend in the city’s used book scene.
This spot is a sanctuary for those who believe a book’s history adds to its charm. With a diverse collection of second-hand treasures, Westcott Books truly has something for everyone.
They stand out not just for their exceptional collection but also for their welcoming atmosphere. The shop feels more like a cosy living room than a traditional bookstore.
| Pro Tip: Call ahead before visiting. It’s a good idea to check if they’ve received new stock. |
The Word
Media credit: wordbookstore
Location: 469 Rue Milton
Contact: +1 514-845-5640
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The Word specialises in quality literature, philosophy, and poetry. Aside from that, they also offer an impressive selection of drama, Eastern religion, and art.
A special section dedicated to local poets pays tribute to Montreal’s poet laureate. It’s crowned by a photo of the legendary Leonard Cohen.
The Word is more than just a bookstore—it’s a literary sanctuary. With overflowing shelves and an antique armchair, it invites you to curl up with a good book and stay awhile.
A cornerstone of Montreal’s literary scene, this bookstore has a rich history of hosting impromptu readings and salons. These gatherings make it a vibrant hub for writers and readers alike.
| Pro Tip: Use their personalised book request service. If you’re hunting for a specific title or author, hit them up through their website or in person. |
Verdun Bookstore
Media credit: librairiedeverdun
Location: 4750 Wellington St
Contact: +1 514-769-2321
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Verdun Bookstore is a paradise for francophone readers. It has an impressive selection of French-language books across every genre imaginable, from literary fiction to charming children’s books to educational resources.
The atmosphere is both chic and inviting, making it perfect for hours of browsing.
Plus, the staff are incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and always happy to offer recommendations. They are the reason why so many of their customers remain loyal fans.
| Pro Tip: Want to stay in the loop? Subscribe to their newsletter or follow them on social media. |
L’Euguélionne
Media credit: librairieleuguelionne
Location: 1426 Rue Beaudry
Contact: +1 514-522-4949
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday & Friday to Saturday – 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM
- Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Founded in 2016 and named after Louky Bersianik’s groundbreaking 1976 novel, L’Euguélionne is all about amplifying marginalised voices. With over 4,000 titles, they offer a mix of new and used books, zines, and even art prints.
Their collection focuses on women’s literature, LGBTQIA+, Indigenous, and anti-colonial works. It’s also a hub for Montreal’s feminist and queer communities.
But L’Euguélionne is also an event space. They host book launches, reading circles, workshops, and discussions. They create a dynamic space for dialogue and learning around feminism and social justice.
| Pro Tip: Become a member here and enjoy perks! Get a loyalty card that earns you a $20 discount for every $200 spent on books. Plus, you’ll receive their newsletter and access to special events. |
Phoenix Books
Media credit: phoenixbooks
Location: 5928 Sherbrooke St W
Contact: +1 514-482-7323
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
This bookstore is where you hunt for the perfect pre-loved paperback and discover a rising star in Montreal’s literary scene. You can even find a gorgeous piece of art to hang above your reading chair here.
Founded by Melanie, whose talent for curating the best shines through, the selection is exceptional. Plus, the welcoming ambience and personalised service make you feel like a regular from day one.
But this place is also a community gathering place. They host artisan pop–ups, poetry readings, and all sorts of events that showcase local creatives.
| Pro Tip: Make sure you check out their staff picks here. These bookish geniuses make finding your next literary obsession effortless with their spot-on recommendations. |
