Vilnius isn’t short on character — and neither are its bookstores. From vast modern book emporiums to indie gems where a cat might greet you at the door, Lithuania’s capital is a paradise for book lovers. Whether you’re after English novels, design magazines, rare sheet music, or just a quiet corner to escape the city buzz, here’s your ultimate guide to the best bookstores in Vilnius.
For a full guide to the city’s most stylish boutiques, check out our article Shopping in Vilnius: Cool Places You’ll Actually Want to Visit.
Pegasas – The Giant of Lithuanian Bookstores
Location: Akropolis, Ozo g. 25 | pegasas.lt
Pegasas is Lithuania’s largest bookstore chain — a place where you’ll find everything from bestsellers and children’s books to stationery, gifts, and vinyl. The Akropolis branch is massive and a perfect stop for a browsing session after coffee or shopping. There’s also a cozy café corner where you can flip through your new reads.
Vaga – A Classic Choice in the Heart of Vilnius
Location: Gedimino pr. 2 | vaga.lt
One of the most established bookstore brands in Lithuania, Vaga combines literary classics with new releases, school materials, and creative journals. You’ll also find a selection of English-language books and local Lithuanian literature. Located right on Gediminas Avenue, it’s ideal for a midday literary detour between museums or lunch spots.
Humanitas – Academic and Art Books for Curious Minds
Location: Universiteto g. 4 | humanitas.lt
A treasure trove for academics and curious minds, Humanitas is a paradise of professional literature, art, philosophy, and design books. You’ll also find foreign-language titles, particularly in English. For anyone who loves architecture, art history, or photography, this is your spot.
Mint Vinetu – The Iconic Bohemian Book Café
Location: Šv. Ignoto g. 16 | mintvinetu.com
This legendary concept bookstore is where Vilnius’ creative community meets. Mint Vinetu is both a second-hand bookstore and a café — cozy, bohemian, and full of charm. Shelves are stacked with Lithuanian and English titles, philosophy, and world literature. It’s also home to readings, acoustic gigs, and a friendly resident vibe that’s hard to leave.
Rūdninkų knygynas – Books, Art, and Vinyl Under One Roof
Location: Rūdninkų g. 20 | rudninkuknygynas.lt
A beautifully curated bookstore where you’ll want to buy at least half the inventory. Expect literary fiction, art albums, vinyl, CDs, DVDs, and magazines on fashion and design. Rūdninkų knygynas also doubles as a mini cultural hub with regular concerts, performances, and exhibitions. It’s the kind of place where literature and creativity genuinely meet.
Menų knygynas Humanitas – Where Art Meets Literature
Location: Dominikonų g. 5 | humanitas.lt
A sister branch to the academic Humanitas, this art-focused bookstore is filled with English-language academic books, fiction, travel guides, cookbooks, and calendars. Think of it as a boutique bookstore for cultured readers — a perfect stop between art galleries and historic courtyards.
Natų knygynas – A Haven for Musicians and Composers
Location: Totorių g. 20 | natos.lt
The only specialised music bookstore in Lithuania, Natų knygynas is a must-visit for musicians and composers. It represents the world’s leading sheet music publishers and stocks thousands of scores, from classical to contemporary. A real gem for anyone passionate about music.
Keistoteka – The Quirky Bookstore of Užupis
Location: Paupio g. 2 | keistoteka.lt
Hidden in Užupis, the city’s artistic heart, Keistoteka is as quirky as its name suggests. The store sells new and second-hand books, offers rentals, and even has its own online shop. You’ll also find gifts, records, art prints, and occasional events. And yes, there’s a ginger cat named Ponulis who might just steal your attention before the books do.
Juodas Šuo – The Pop-Up Literary Salon
Location: Pylimo g. 20–24 | juodassuo.lt
This “migrating” pop-up bookstore operates in an atmospheric seven-room apartment in the Old Town. Inside, around 8,000 books cover everything from quality fiction and children’s literature to science and art. Juodas Šuo also hosts Studium P — a creative gallery space for emerging artists. The atmosphere feels more like visiting a friend’s literary salon than a store.
Knygynas eureka! – Smart Reads for Thoughtful Minds
Location: Daukanto a. 2 / 10 | knygynas.biz
Eureka! is for those who like their books smart, soulful, and slightly unconventional. The shop specialises in poetry, philosophy, comics, and fine fiction — both in Lithuanian and English. Expect to find something unexpected and leave with a book you didn’t know you needed.
Prancūziškas knygynėlis – A Touch of Paris in Old Town
Location: Didžioji g. 1 | librairie.lt
For lovers of French language and culture, this charming corner bookstore offers a wide selection of French literature, children’s books, and classics. Perfect for practising your français over a croissant at a nearby café.
Discover the Soul of the City Through Bookstores in Vilnius
From grand multi-floor bookstores to hidden indie gems, Vilnius proves that the written word still matters. Whether you’re an expat looking for English literature, an artist seeking inspiration, or a flâneur chasing the next cozy corner — you’ll find your page here.
So next time you’re wandering through the Old Town or the creative streets of Užupis, step into one of these book sanctuaries. In Vilnius, books aren’t just sold — they’re shared, performed, and lived.
