The 10 Best Bookshops In Australia - Australian Traveller

On the lookout for your next great read? Do it in style at these adorable Aussie bookshops.

The only thing more delightful than curling up for the weekend, uninterrupted, with a good book in hand, is hunting through a well-stocked bookshop to find yet another new gem to add to your ever-growing stack of unread novels (closely followed by exploring the country’s must-visit record stores).

If there happens to be a comfy couch – brown leather preferred – and, jackpot of all jackpots, a coffee shop? Well, that might just be Nirvana. For this reason, we’ve rounded up the cutest and best bookshops in Australia, that are a destination unto themselves.

1. Sappho Books & Cafe, Sydney

Two types of bookstores get my heart racing: clean-cut and usually centred around a large reading lounge, or whimsical and cosy – not in the way that none of the books are organised and unalphabetised piles lay everywhere, but in the way that inspires imagination and encourages exploration. Sappho Books & Cafe in Sydney‘s Glebe is absolutely the latter.

With a second-hand, humanities-focused collection of tomes shelved over six rooms and an adorable courtyard cafe, this inclusive bookshop is one you can easily spend hours wandering through. They even hold poetry nights and other events. Oh, and there’s a resident cat, so I’m sold.

Sappho Books & Cafe, Sydney, best bookshops in Australia — Sit in the courtyard cafe to enjoy your new book.

2. National Library of Australia Bookshop, Canberra

For those who believe there’s no such thing as too many books, what better place to load up your collection than the bookshop inside Canberra‘s stunning National Library of Australia, itself?

As you might expect, it’s also the best place to find Australian authors: from old favourites to the new and upcoming. Find a range of fiction, non-fiction and children’s literature titles by local and interstate writers and artists.

National Library of Australia Bookshop, Canberra — Find one of the best bookstores inside the National Library of Australia.

3. The Book Cellar, Campbell Town, Tasmania

I’m not sure why things in cellars are cuter, but The Book Cellar in Campbell Town certainly proves the theory. Although today it’s a quaint bookstore, the heritage building has a fascinating past: in the 1830s it was used as convict cellars to house prisoners who built the Red Bridge over the Elizabeth River.

The bookshop and cafe feature exposed brick walls and classic sandstone decor, while an eclectic range of new and used books housed within the walls focus on Australian heritage, nostalgia and Tasmania in particular.

The Book Cellar, Tasmania — Wander through history in The Book Cellar. (Image: Chris Crerar)

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4. Kay Craddock Antiquarian Booksellers, Melbourne

Red carpet, neo-Gothic chandeliers and large archways make stepping into Kay Craddock Antiquarian Booksellers feel like a grand affair.

The shelves here cater for everyone from serious book collectors to casual book lovers, with a carefully curated selection of rare and old books.

Kay Craddock Antiquarian Booksellers, Melbourne — Enjoy the neo-Gothic decor at Kay Craddock Antiquarian Booksellers.

5. Hill of Content, Melbourne

Melbourne‘s oldest bookstore is also one of its cutest. Easily spotted thanks to its deep red paint job, the earthy colours continue inside.

Opened in 1922, Hill of Content has used that time to compile a broad range of quality stories from local and overseas authors. Staff here know a huge amount about their stock, so be sure to ask for their expertise.

6. Crow Books, Perth

The whitewashed brick walls of Crow Books in Perth serve to make the colourful books filling its wooden shelves really pop.

The real pièce de résistance? A classic brown leather couch that the bookshop centres around, inviting browsers to take their time to check out their book choices. Whether you’re looking for something hard-to-find or popular TikTok reads, you’ll find it here.

Crow Books perth — Spend time on brown leather couch to peruse your choices. (Image: Peter Dancewicz)

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7. Orchard Bookshop, Adelaide

Nestled into Adelaide Arcade, this adorable gem is a must for bibliophiles. The pared-back shop floor of Orchard Bookshop brings on an almost beachy feel with cool whites and light wood furnishings.

None of this is by accident. In fact, the store is self-described as “an immersive, interactive art installation for lovers of literature". The owners hand-picked each title on the shelves: from new to vintage to collectible.

Orchard Bookshop, Adelaide — Discovering this gem is a must for bibliophiles. (Images: Aise Dillon Photography)

8. Page & Turner, Adelaide

This little bookstore has more allure than any store inside a shopping centre has the right to. Yet, Page & Turner makes itself a worthy stop inside Myer Centre in Adelaide. Wallpapered with book pages, fun statues strewn around and vintage-look wooden bookshelves: it’s a decor made in heaven.

9. Archives Fine Books, Brisbane

Archives Fine Books looks like the kind of bookstore Belle would swing through on a rolling ladder before she went off to meet her beast. In this Brisbane bookshop, discover rows and rows of shelves stacked floor-to-ceiling with over a million fine, used books from all genres and eras.

10. Red Kangaroo Books, Alice Springs

There are many charms to Red Kangaroo Books. It’s the only brick-and-mortar independent bookshop left standing between Port Augusta, Darwin, Broome, and Broken Hill. The iconic red door. The comfy couches invite you to stay a while. It’s an easy bookstore to love.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery. Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda, and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines.

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk, one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines, where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala. Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie, right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk, an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park. Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast, a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery, where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm. Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal, which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores, between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch. Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong. A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery, which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen. It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach, right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

The 10 cutest bookshops in Australia

On the lookout for your next great read? Do it in style at these adorable Aussie bookshops.

1. Sappho Books & Cafe, Sydney

2. National Library of Australia Bookshop, Canberra

3. The Book Cellar, Campbell Town, Tasmania

4. Kay Craddock Antiquarian Booksellers, Melbourne

5. Hill of Content, Melbourne

6. Crow Books, Perth

7. Orchard Bookshop, Adelaide

8. Page & Turner, Adelaide

9. Archives Fine Books, Brisbane

10. Red Kangaroo Books, Alice Springs

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Why winter is the best time to be on the New South Wales coast

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong

On the lookout for your next great read? Do it in style at these adorable Aussie bookshops.

1. Sappho Books & Cafe, Sydney

2. National Library of Australia Bookshop, Canberra

3. The Book Cellar, Campbell Town, Tasmania

AI Prompt

4. Kay Craddock Antiquarian Booksellers, Melbourne

5. Hill of Content, Melbourne

6. Crow Books, Perth

7. Orchard Bookshop, Adelaide

8. Page & Turner, Adelaide

9. Archives Fine Books, Brisbane

10. Red Kangaroo Books, Alice Springs

Something in the future.

Australia’s best coffee revealed – and it isn’t where you think it is

This off-grid Blue Mountains cabin was just crowned Airbnb’s best nature escape

What’s on around Australia in October 2025

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong