Books are one of writer Danielle Kate Wroe’s favourite things in the world, so when she visited what has been described as ‘the most beautiful bookstore in the world’ she was in her element…
There’s something about being around books that’s so calming, and I dream of having a personal library like Belle in Beauty and the Beast.
That’s why when my partner told me where we were going on holiday housed what’s been hailed as the “most beautiful bookstore in the world”, I couldn’t contain my excitement, especially when he promised me a bookish treat when we were there.
Carturesti Carusel is located in the heart of Bucharest city’s Old Town and, from the outside, is a rather unassuming building – I was shocked when Google Maps told us we’d arrived. But stepping in, it’s a whole different world – and is so much more beautiful than even social media can show.
I was blown away by how stark and clean the building was, as well as the pretty decorations. It was suitably festive already, despite the fact it’s only November, and unbearably cute trinkets adorn the shop as soon as you walk in. But of course, the main event – the books – can be seen throughout, thanks to the open balconies.
Of course, many of the books are written in Romanian, but there’s an ample-sized English books section with plenty of choice. I saw someone online saying you “pay a premium” for books in English, but I didn’t find this to be the case, as one book I purchased was almost £11, while the other was £20, despite the fact it had sprayed edges.
I could’ve spent hours there just browsing everything the store had on offer – from special edition books to Jellycat plushies (which, of course, I had to get a wintery aubergine with earmuffs) to tarot cards and Funkopops and so much more. The staff were super friendly, and we visited the store a couple of times – the first time, specifically to see it and buy things, while the second time was more because we were in the area and I wanted to marvel once more at how beautiful it is.
On Tripadvisor, someone said it was a “dream for book lovers”, and it really was. It’s hard to put your finger on what makes this specific shop so magical and different from your standard Waterstones, but there’s just something about it that you need to experience. The energy in the room is fantastic, as you’re with a bunch of other people who also love books as much as you do, and there’s something for everyone.
Some, however, believed it was “not worth the hype”, and another wrote: “Yes, it’s aesthetically pleasing with lovely architecture, but the selection is not really any different from most other major bookshops. We spent some time looking around at the books and admiring the interior. However, as the place is full of other tourists jostling to get the perfect social-media snaps, we didn’t hang around long.”
The point about tourists wanting social media snaps is definitely true, and there are specific signs telling you not to stop on the stairs. This is why I much preferred going in the evening, as barely anyone was in there – you could get the perfect snap and not queue on the stairs waiting for someone to get theirs.
Overall, you need to add this gorgeous location to your bucket list, especially if you’re in the area for Therme or just browsing Bucharest, as it’s breathtaking and has many floors for you to explore. You could even spend the whole afternoon here if you were so inclined, as on the top floor there’s a cafe.
