American Book Centre Amsterdam

Three-storey book heaven

Ana from Amsterdam

"The "American Book Centre" in Amsterdam is a trustworthy bookstore to call home, with plenty of English books, a spiraling staircase and even a cozy cafe!"

Anywhere I go, I need to find a trustworthy bookstore to feel at home. In Amsterdam it was easy. You might think that Amsterdam, as the capital of The Netherlands, is not the ideal place for English language books. There is, however, a place that will defy your expectations. The American Book Centre, right on bustling Spui square, has it all; all the books in English that you're looking for, distributed over three storeys. I can't tell you how many hours I've spent there, reading and daydreaming.

The ABC also has the charm: the staircase bookshelves spiraling upwards, the knowledgeable employees, the seats scattered across the place, the book presentations and events. And, of course, the cosy cafe where you can quench your thirst -- which, by the way, also has a great view over the Spui. This is a good address for those looking to buy postcards, a souvenir, or magazines as well. The offer is never-ending. Unsurprisingly, once you enter the place, it's difficult to leave.

Here's the pitfall: you're most probably ending up buying more books than you had promised yourself to. But then again, who can resist a three-storey book heaven?

Art & culture

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Amsterdam Spotter Ana

About me I am Ana, an actress turned content and social media wizard. I am passionate about Amsterdam, that's why I've created a blog where the city plays the main role: amsterdive.com. My roots are Portuguese but I'm an Amsterdammer at heart. When I'm not writing, you'll find me at the yoga studio - I'm a yoga teacher as well. I'm all about conscious life, (inner and outer) exploration, and coffee. Take me out to dance at an African / Tropical party and you'll have my heart. Why Amsterdam Amsterdam has the best of all worlds: it feels like a metropolis the size of a v...

About this spot

Spui 12

Book:

€

Website

+31

206255537

Social

Sep 10, 2025

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