If you’re a book lover and visiting local libraries or bookstores is always on your to-do list, just like me, then this post is for you.

Helsinki is a city that loves books. In the city center alone, you’ll find countless bookstores, some tucked into main streets, others spanning multiple floors of a single building. Then there’s the city’s impressive public libraries, seemingly on every corner, offering not just books but inviting spaces to read and unwind. Add to that the independent bookstores, cozy secondhand shops, and well-loved chain stores, and you’ve got yourself a literary paradise.

Let’s start the list!

Oodi Library, More Than Just Books

If you love books, Oodi Library belongs at the top of your must-visit list in Helsinki. This stunning library in the heart of Helsinki is impossible to miss. It just steps away from the central station. No matter how packed your itinerary is, squeezing in a visit is worth it.

Oodi is a library and a vibrant cultural hub with spaces designed for everyone. With a library card, you can rent a gaming room packed with consoles, or get hands-on in the urban workshop, where you can print on different materials, sew, or borrow handy tools, everything from a hot glue gun to a phone repair kit and even a wardrobe maintenance set.

Visiting with kids? No worries about them being too loud. Oodi has a dedicated children’s area, where little ones can play, explore, and enjoy stories without disturbing other visitors. Every time I visit, there’s always a cluster of parked strollers. The children’s section is packed with books, magazines, and films, plus a cozy storytelling room for events. You can even bring your own packed lunch and enjoy a relaxed break. For more details on visiting with kids, check out the official guidelines here.

Mooooore City Libraries, Hidden Gems Beyond the City Center

Not staying in the city center but still want to experience Helsinki’s incredible libraries? No worries, Helsinki is a book lover’s dream, with 38 libraries spread across different neighborhoods. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll never be too far from a cozy reading spot.

And if you’re wondering whether these libraries can match Oodi’s breathtaking design, trust me, each one has its own charm. Every library in Helsinki has a unique character, blending modern architecture with warm, inviting spaces. No matter which one you visit, you’ll find a quiet corner to read, work, or simply soak in the city’s bookish atmosphere.

Akateminen Kirjakauppa, a Bookstore with a Touch of Finnish Design

Akateminen Kirjakauppa is a bookstore chain you’ll find in multiple cities across Finland, but the Helsinki location is special. Housed in a building designed by the legendary Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, it’s a bookstore that gives you a special experience.

Here, you’ll find books in Finnish, Swedish, France, and English, with an ever-changing selection that keeps things fresh. I visit almost every weekend (and sometimes even on weekdays), and I’ve always found books that I had not seen before. Their nonfiction curation is exceptional, filled with fascinating, lesser-known titles that deserve far more attention than they get.

And if you need a break, head upstairs to Café Aalto, nestled within the bookstore. Enjoy a cup of coffee, a delicious dessert, or a light bite, all while surrounded by books. It’s the perfect spot to pause and recharge in the middle of the city, a little slice of heaven for book and coffee lovers alike.

Rosebud Sivullinen, a Hidden Gem for Book Lovers

Tucked near the Helsinki University Metro Station, Rosebud Sivullinen is a bookstore you won’t want to miss. If you visit on a weekday or during working hours, you’ll find it right downstairs from Unicafe, inside the Helsinki Uni Main Library, which means you can explore both a stunning library and a fantastic bookstore in one stop.

Rosebud has multiple locations across the city, but Sivullinen stands out with its impressive selection, including a wide range of English books. Just past the entrance, you’ll be greeted by towering shelves packed with books published by Penguin, neatly arranged in a way that made me stop in my tracks the first time I saw them. It’s a sight that any book lover will appreciate.

In one corner of the store, there’s a small stage with seating, where authors occasionally hold talks and book events. I once visited during an event, and to my surprise, the discussions didn’t disrupt the general atmosphere, proving that this space is thoughtfully designed for both browsing and literary gatherings.

Mustan Kanin Kolo, a Bookstore for the Unconventional Reader

If you’re looking for something beyond the mainstream, Mustan Kanin Kolo is a bookstore worth visiting. Specializing in anarchist, political, and working-class literature, it offers books you won’t typically find in ordinary bookstores. Their collection spans multiple languages, including English, Finnish, Swedish, and more, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in alternative perspectives.

Beyond politics, the store also carries a selection of fiction, from comics and sci-fi to humor and fantasy, catering to readers with diverse tastes. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of anarchism or simply discover unique reads, this bookstore provides a refreshing alternative at reasonable prices.

If you’re in Helsinki and eager to explore thought-provoking literature, Mustan Kanin Kolo is definitely a place to check out.

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No matter where you go, you’ll find a welcoming space to browse, read, or even grab a cup of coffee while soaking in the literary atmosphere. So, if you love books as much as I do, Helsinki might just be your kind of paradise.

Just a note: these are based on my personal experiences and preferences, and I’ll continue updating this list over time. I’m always open to suggestions! If you know of any libraries or bookstores that deserve more recognition, feel free to share.

Happy exploring and enjoy Helsinki!