Librería Bardón Madrid

The booklovers' place

Elena from Madrid

""Librería Bardón" in Madrid is for collectors of ancient and rare books. I always feel as I've traveled in time when I walk in this 'bibliophile bookshop.'"

Just 5 minutes away from the chaotic Plaza de Callao, there is a bookshop where you will feel like Belle the first time she got into Beast's library.

Librería Bardón is a must for collectors of ancient and rare books. Founded in 1947 by Luis Bardón López (1897- 1964) it's located at Plaza de San Martín, next to the "Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales", and since its beginnings it's been called "Library for bibliophiles".

Nowadays, it's the antiquarian bookshop of reference in Spain. And their purpose has remained unchanged throughout these 60 years: to find, keep and sell fine, rare, out-of-print books from XIV to XIX century.

Currently they have about fifty thousand copies. Half of them are distributed throughout the original shelves, covering every wall of the shop. Their specialty are early editions, from "incunabula" (books published since the invention of printing to the early XVI century) up to copies of the XVIII century.

So if you feel like traveling in time, and immersing yourself in this amazing library, don't hesitate to visit Librería Bardón. And if you are an antique book collector, Belén and Alicia Bardón, the founder's granddaughters, will help you with everything you need.

Art & culture

Shopping

This week 25% off

with the code fall25

*on our yearly membership

Madrid Spotter Elena

About me My name is Elena. I’ve studied journalism and cinema, and I’ve been travelling since I was a newborn. My parents instilled in me their passion for travel, and I’ve travelled around Europe and USA. I’m the one that always organized the family trips and that’s how I heard about Spotted by Locals, because it perfectly fits the way I like to travel. I love cinema, art, fashion, dancing, and eating! But above all, I enjoy myself the most when I’m discovering new fantastic places around me to go to with my friends. Why Madrid? What I love the most about...

About this spot

Plaza San Martín, 3

€

no-price

Website

915215514

Social

Oct 2, 2025

Our Madrid City Guide

Find your way with 266 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Madrid guide.

Loved it? Join us!

Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Madrid

Mauthausen Memorial

Republican Victims remembered

The largest piece represents the Liberty Gate; three large columns, inscribed with the names of all the deportees, are 'the trees of dreams.'

Art & culture

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 27, 2025

FMCMP

Spanish art in a brand new space

FMCMP in Madrid is a quiet, elegant space that still feels fresh. It is a fantastic museum and I can't think of a better place to spend an hour!

Art & culture

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 27, 2025

Slow Café

A standout coffee spot

It’s really cosy but airy at the same time - there’s room enough between the variety of seating arrangements for one not to feel boxed in.

Coffee & tea

Relaxing

Snacks

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 26, 2025

Monument to Victims of Terrorism

Lest we forget

The monument, named “Recuerdo Vivo” (living memory) honours all 1429 victims of terrorism in Madrid and was installed in 2023.

Art & culture

Andrea

Roberts

Nov 26, 2025

Caravan Serai

Where cocktails become works of art

This hidden gem, located in the Malasaña neighborhood, is a testament to the art of mixology and offers an experience that transcends the ordinary.

Bars

Álvaro

Martínez Ponce

Nov 26, 2025

Vino y Compañía

Wine a bit – why not!

This fantastic wine shop, Vino y Compañía is the place to discover the wonderful variety and quality of wine on offer in Spain. Come with an open mind!

Shopping