Paraíso do Livro is a second hand bookstore located in downtown Porto. It’s been open for 4 years now and it looks like it’s going to keep growing. Amélia Coelho is the owner and she’s been in the second hand books business for 25 years. This bookstore specializes in History, Art, Science Fiction, Literature and comic books. I first noticed it because of the toys on the window. It so happens that one of the stores partners is an experienced collector. Before selling some of his collection surplus at Paraíso dos Livros, he used to sell it in small street markets and other stores.
Most of this bookstore clients know what they’re looking for. And they all have one thing in common: they’re looking for rare books or collection objects. They don’t see them as second hand objects. They see them as little treasures and for them, these are investments. In fact, at this bookstore you can find such rarities as comic books by Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, a Portuguese artist from the 19th century. Paraíso do Livro buys and sells used books so if you have some books that you think are worth selling, email them and who knows if you don’t end up making some money. Or, on the other end, who knows you won’t find a rare book you’ve been looking for. Or just fall in love with some book or collectible you find in the store. Either way, it’s worth taking a look around.
Paraíso do Livro is located in Porto’s Entertainment District. It’s also an area where you’ll find plenty of bookstores, most of them specialized in second hand books. Around the corner you’ll find Café Candelabro and Ovelha Negra. You can either go for a drink or buy some yarn. Or both! You can also walk to Clérigos Tower or the Arts District.
