As a book lover, I am very fond of spending my Sunday afternoons book browsing in the Hague! As a native English speaker, these are my favorite bookstores for finding books in English in the Hague! Although my Dutch is actually decent, there’s nothing like curling up with a book in my native tongue.
american book center
I love the American Book Center. This mostly English bookstore in the center of the Hague has an amazing selection of books of all different genres with some discounted books upstairs. I always find a great non-fiction book although lovers of fiction will enjoy the careful selection of fiction books that line the many walls.
I always love browsing the mystery picks although I’m not yet brave enough to take the chance. They accept credit cards in addition to Maestro cards and give teacher/student discounts. This is definitely my favorite bookstores in the Hague as a foreigner hands-down.
Stanza Bookshop
In the place of one of the Hague’s oldest bookshops, you’ll find the Stanza Bookshop on Noordeinde. This bookshop caters to the expat population of the Hague with a good selection of books in English, Spanish, and French. Expect good and friendly service!
Bookstor
One of the beautiful bookstores in the Hague is the aptly named Bookstor. This cozy bookstore and cafe on Noordeinde has stunning windows and a cozy back garden, perfect for sitting with a secondhand or new book that you find here. They stock quite a few books about the history of the Hague in English, which makes for a nice read as you sip on a coffee and maybe nibble on a snack. (The shelves are not just for decoration!)
De Vries Van Stockum
I often end up stepping into De Vries van Stockum. Although it doesn’t look this way, it’s one of the oldest bookshops in the Hague. The selection of English books is adequate at best, however, I do always enjoy the selection on the history of the Dutch colonies and the cookbooks. At least browse for books after getting a coffee at the Bagels and Beans.
Stanley & Livingstone Reisboekhandel
For fans of travel or those traveling to obscure countries, Stanley & Livingstone is a dream come true. This cute travel-themed bookshop stocks mostly English travel books with a handful of Dutch maps and books.
I often come here when hunting for travel guides for new destinations and memoirs. The owner is very friendly and happy to chat about travels. It’s also a great place for travel-related gifts, including maps. They’ve now moved to Herengracht 60.
paagman
I know, Paagman. However, the Paagman in Centre near the Binnenhof has a surprisingly decent selection of English books, including secondhand English books. I particularly like their cafe drinks in the holiday season, making it the perfect place to curl up while trying to decide which book you’ll buy this time. Not every Paagman is this good, but most have a sprinkling of English books, typically bestsellers.
Aurelie says
For kids the little book shop in Wassenaar
N. says
Hi Karin,
Thank you for this insight into the bookshops.
Would you happen to know in which shops English is the language that is spoken by employees? I really would like to know.
Karen says
A shop can have a good selection even if the employees aren’t native English speakers. American Book Center is your best bet, but some staff is Dutch.