Talk about curation - this bookstore offers the greatest selection of magazines / design books / art theory and many more categories for those lovers of aesthetics. Whether you are starting your graphic design digital nomad career or building your folio of coffee book collectables to flex on friends, Perimeter has something for everyone. Their depth of offering is unparalleled and feels like you have taken a trip to a bespoke storefront in Amsterdam and you want to pick up a collectable on your travels.

Location - 734 High St, Thornbury VIC 3071

Cult classic in the heart of the CBD. Not too far from Hill of Content featuring next. Beyond its offering in a vast range of genres, my greatest appreciation for this bookstore is their uniquely Notting Hill vibe and their reading recommendations from their staff. Their dedication and love for the written arts make this bookstore as iconic as it has always been.

Location - 60 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opened in 1922, Hill of Content is Melbourne’s oldest bookstore…uhh, iconic is what most would say, but I tell people this place is an institution. I remember picking up a Fish Doesn’t Know It’s Wet by Pharrell Williams from this store as my introduction to this store.

There is something particularly unique about a business that has lasted over 100 years, and that character and patina is shown through its facade and golden glow as you walk through the front door.

Location - Unit 1 / 32 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Looking for a bookstore with a clear message, look no further than Amplify. The name itself highlights the amazing message shared by Marina & Xuan, representing communities around the world through the muse of books. The owners look to create a curated space that is dedicated to connecting readers with BIPOC authors, sharing the communion through relatable stories.

Beyond simply stocking these incredible novels, Xuan and Marina have set up a page on their website where they conduct interviews guests and authors to create greater reach and touch more people’s hearts.

Location - 55 Peel Street

Website - https://amplifybookstore.com

This is one cosy space. While not as curated or unique as some of the other bookstores on the list, Readings has etched a special place in Melbourne’s reading scene. They are the largest independent retailer of books in Australia.

Fitting Curated Melbourne’s vibe, Reading’s offers the experience of being styled in a secluded private library of novels, magazines, manga, editorials, etc…all under the one roof, allowing you to sit down in a cosy nook before picking up that one book you wouldn't dare leave without. Their mood lighting, natural oak finishes and floor to ceiling shelving system creates the sensory experience of wanting to come in to your favourite coffee shop as if you’re known by name, ready to pick out your next adventure.

Location - Unit 16 / 287 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000.