Bangkok’s best book cafes for literature lovers and coffee connoisseurs

Inspired by the world of art, this bookstore is a sanctuary for book lovers and creative souls. It’s not just a place to buy books – here, you can sip freshly brewed coffee, indulge in homemade desserts, and take part in events that happen nearly every other week. Cat lovers are in for a delight too, with the resident furry bookshop keeper ready to p(o)ur its heart out and add a touch of charm to your visit.

721/723 Samsen Soi 17, Nakhon Chai Si Rd. 080-238-4284. Tue-Fri midday-7pm, Sat-Sun midday-10.30pm 

This newly opened cafe is the result of a collaboration with Rim Khob Fah bookstore and it’s for history buffs and bookworms alike. Head upstairs to browse their selection of historical books, then pop back down to the cafe for a coffee break with your latest find. Located just 300 metres from MRT Sirindhorn Station, it’s a convenient spot for those in Thonburi looking for a bookstore hangout.

This inviting spot encourages you to settle in and lose yourself in a good book. With its affordable selection of second-hand English books upstairs, it’s a treasure trove for book lovers on a budget. Specialising in children’s stories and textbooks, this Khlong Kum location is a fantastic place to introduce your kids to the joy of reading, making it an ideal spot for a fun family outing. After browsing, treat yourself to a drink or croissant starting at just B65, and recharge both your mind and stomach in the café downstairs.

4/648 Seri Thai Soi 57, Khlong Kum. 092-319-8484. Open Tue-Thu 8am-4.30pm, Fri-Sun 8am-5pm. Closed Mon

This second-hand bookshop doubles as a community hub where you can swap your old books with fellow book lovers. Renowned for its collection of classic works in English and various European languages, you might even discover new favourites in French, Italian, or German. Plus, their unique return policy allows you to trade in your old books for credits towards discounts on future purchases. If you need a little pick-me-up while you browse, grab a drink starting from B50 at the counter on the ground floor.

714/4 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan. 02-661-2993. Open Daily 10am-8pm.

When a cafe merges with a literary oasis, you know you’re in for something special. As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by an enticing selection of novels, insightful books on society and politics, and stunning photography collections spread across three floors. Feel free to settle in wherever you like with a drink in hand – whether it’s a coffee drip (starting at B85) or a crafted chocolate from Rayong (B125). Plus, members enjoy the added perk of borrowing books from the second floor.

572/3 Sathorn Soi 3, Thung Maha Mek. 096-935-3642. Open Mon 10.30am-7pm, Fri-Sun 10.30am-7pm. Closed Tue-Thu

This unique bookshop nestled inside a furniture store is a hidden gem for design enthusiasts and bibliophiles. You will discover a fantastic selection of international woodwork-related books and journals, along with a plethora of design books that delve into the artistry behind furniture production. The bookstore also features a coffee shop by Livid Coffee Roaster, where you can savour a variety of single-origin coffees and seasonal blends that are sure to impress espresso lovers.

Flobookstore, Sukhumvit Soi 36. 080-324-9265. Open Daily 10am-7pm.

When coffee meets novels at this creative hub near MRT Hua Lamphong Station, it’s not merely a stop for buying new books. You can also swap or browse second-hand English titles on the ground floor, giving it a community feel. If your reading session stirs up an appetite, the cafe bar serves all-day breakfast and drinks starting at just B60, so you can refuel without leaving your literary escape.

This Japanese bookstore chain is the perfect spot to sip coffee while exploring a vast selection of your favourite reads. With a strong focus on international titles, they’ve quickly become a go-to for English language books in Bangkok. But it’s not just about Western literature; Asian enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of genres, including manga (Japanese comics) and inspirational titles in both Japanese and Chinese. And don’t miss out on the delicious coffee and baked goods from K Coffee, making this a one-stop destination for all your reading and snacking needs.

6/F Central World, Ratchadamri Rd, Pathum Wan. 02-056-4700. Open Daily 10am-10pm

This book cafe puts a fresh spin on the traditional library by letting you grab a bite while you browse. With six branches across Bangkok, head to their Sukhumvit Soi 24 location for the most space and the largest selection of free-to-read books. Kick-start your day with a hot coffee (starting from B100) and choose a classic book from the shelves, allowing yourself some time to relax and let your thoughts wander.

Recently relocated to the Samran Rat area, this independent bookstore invites you on a reading journey that lives up to its name. Set in a quaint green and white building, it stirs a nostalgic sense of childhood as you browse through a thoughtfully curated collection of Thai and English titles. While you're there, don’t miss the chance to connect with fellow book lovers at the coffee bar inside. 

Samranrat Soi 28, Phra Nakhon. 02-261-6330. Open Tue-Sun 11.30am-10pm. Closed Mon