The Best Bookshops in Hobart for Every Kind of Reader

There’s something special about discovering a great bookshop while wandering through Hobart. Between heritage streets, cosy cafés, waterfront views and creative local culture, Tasmania’s capital has quietly become one of Australia’s best cities for book lovers. Whether you’re hunting for rare second-hand treasures, beautifully curated literary fiction, travel guides, children’s books or local Tasmanian stories, Hobart’s independent bookstores deliver charm and personality in equal measure.

Here’s your guide to the best bookshops in Hobart, from iconic institutions to hidden gems locals love.

FULLER’S BOOKSHOP

If you only visit one bookstore in Hobart, make it this one. Established in 1920, Fullers is a cornerstone of Tasmania’s literary scene and one of Australia’s most beloved independent bookstores. The shelves are packed with contemporary fiction, politics, art, history, travel writing and Tasmanian authors, while the knowledgeable staff are famous for their recommendations.

What makes Fullers especially memorable is the attached café, making it easy to settle in with a coffee and your latest purchase. The store also regularly hosts author talks, launches and reading events, giving it a strong community feel.

THE HOBART BOOKSHOP

Tucked into Salamanca Square, this proudly independent bookstore is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Specialising in literary fiction, Tasmanian books and thoughtfully selected reads, it feels intimate without being overwhelming.

Families particularly love its impressive children’s book collection, while travellers appreciate the strong focus on Tasmanian history, culture and nature writing.

CRACKED AND SPINELESS

For readers who love the thrill of discovery, Cracked and Spineless is essential. Hidden inside Hobart’s Imperial Arcade, this quirky second-hand bookstore has built a cult following for its huge range and welcoming vibe. Reddit users consistently describe it as Hobart’s best second-hand bookstore, praising both the atmosphere and the staff knowledge.

Expect floor-to-ceiling shelves packed with fantasy, sci-fi, classics, philosophy, horror, history and rare editions. It’s the kind of place where you walk in for one book and leave with five. Or, in my case, a first edition Joan Didion.

FIVE LEAVES LEFT

Part wine bar, part bookstore, part cultural space, Five Leaves Left brings a modern twist to Hobart’s reading scene. The focus here is literary fiction, essays, poetry and beautifully designed books that feel curated rather than mass-market.

It’s ideal for readers who enjoy slow browsing, niche titles and a sophisticated atmosphere. The combination of wine and books also makes it one of the most unique bookstore experiences in Tasmania.

DEJA VU BOOKS

Located near Salamanca Place, Deja Vu Books offers a charming collection of second-hand and collectible titles. It’s smaller than some of Hobart’s larger bookstores, but that’s part of the appeal. The shelves reward patient browsing, especially if you love older editions, vintage paperbacks or out-of-print discoveries.

WILD ISLAND TASMANIA

Wild Island Tasmania is a specialty bookstore and gallery focused on the environment, wilderness, indigenous culture and Tasmanian landscapes. Located in Salamanca, it combines books, art and ethical retail in one beautifully presented space.

Nature lovers, hikers and conservation-minded readers will especially appreciate the carefully chosen titles.

STATE BOOKSTORE

Situated in the vibrant North Hobart precinct, State Bookstore has become a favourite among younger readers and creative locals. The shop mixes contemporary fiction, pop culture, art books and independent publications with a relaxed neighbourhood feel. It’s an excellent stop before grabbing coffee or dinner nearby.

Whether you’re exploring Salamanca Market, wandering through the CBD or discovering North Hobart’s creative corners, the city’s bookstores are worth making part of your itinerary. From historic charm to hidden shelves, Hobart proves that independent bookstores are thriving in Tasmania.

For travellers, readers and collectors alike, these bookshops offer far more than books — they offer a glimpse into Hobart’s creative soul.