- With its own in-house printing press, the bookstore creates beautiful books designed to be both collectible and travel-friendly.
- Many books feature pretty covers, gold-sprayed edges, colourful endpapers, and the famous Lello stamp, making each book feel like a special keepsake.
- Livraria Lello books come in a variety of languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Arabic, and Japanese.
- You’ll find timeless classics from authors like Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Edgar Allan Poe, Oscar Wilde, and Victor Hugo, many of which can be redeemed using your ticket.
- Whether you're browsing for fairytales, literary legends, or fan favorites like the Harry Potter series, there’s something here for every kind of reader.
- You might even stumble across editions of A Court of Thorns and Roses or a charming copy of Peter Pan, all created with Lello’s signature flair.
Did you know?
Livraria Lello charges an entrance fee, which can be used as a voucher toward book purchases.
The bookstore's grand staircase is often mistaken for a movie set due to its intricate and whimsical design.
The stained-glass skylight bears the Latin motto “Decus in Labore,” meaning “Dignity in Work.”
Right in the middle of Porto, Portugal, Livraria Lello is a place like no other. Known for inspiring J.K. Rowling’s Hogwarts Library, this stunning bookstore feels like stepping into a storybook. With its twisting wooden staircases, magical carvings, and colorful stained-glass ceiling, it’s easy to see why people from all over the world come here. From classic tales to modern bestsellers, the shelves are packed with books that spark joy and wonder.
Livraria Lello highlights
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The crimson staircase
This breathtaking staircase is the heart of Livraria Lello. With its deep red hue and dreamy curves, it looks like something out of a fairytale—or even Hogwarts. It’s made of reinforced concrete (not wood!) and was accidentally painted red during renovations in the '90s. But the color stuck and now it’s the most iconic feature of the bookstore, drawing visitors from all over the world.
Magical interiors
Step inside and feel like you’ve entered another world. Beautiful wooden-looking carvings (actually painted plaster), high vaulted ceilings, and intricate designs cover every corner. It’s like a cathedral of books. Don’t forget to look up—there’s beauty everywhere.
The stained glass skylight
At the top of the store, a stained-glass skylight fills the room with colorful light. Created by Dutch artist Samuel Van Krieken, it features the motto “Decus in Labore” (“Dignity in Work”). During recent restorations, a tiny smiley face was added—can you spot it?
The Little Prince Room
Fans of The Little Prince will love this dreamy corner dedicated to the beloved tale. It was created in collaboration with the Antoine de Saint-Exupéry Foundation and features special editions, themed items, and charming displays. A sweet tribute to a timeless story.
Hidden gems to spot
Train tracks: On the ground floor, you’ll find old book trolley tracks—once used to move books around the shop.
Lottery ticket mirrors: Peek at the mirrors near the floor to spot hidden lottery tickets, a nod to the founder, Ernesto Chardron’s lottery win.
Famous faces: Above the shelves, look for miniature busts of famous Portuguese writers.
Antique cash registers: On the top floor, you’ll find the original registers used when the store first opened.
The Gemma Room: This locked space holds the bookstore’s oldest treasures, including a law book from 1476!
Livraria Lello books
Livraria Lello photos
Livraria Lello history in a nutshell
Livraria Lello was founded in 1906 by brothers José and António Lello. To bring their dream bookstore to life, they hired architect Xavier Esteves, who delivered a masterpiece.
Esteves designed the building with a neo-Gothic façade and added touches of Art Nouveau and Art Deco throughout, creating a space that felt more like a storybook than a bookstore.
Over the years, Livraria Lello grew into a literary landmark, drawing in famous authors, artists, and curious travelers from around the globe. One of its most well-known fans? J.K. Rowling. During her time in Porto, she often visited the bookstore—many believe it helped inspire the magical staircases and libraries of Hogwarts.
Who built the Livraria Lello bookshop?
The Livraria Lello bookshop was brought to life by Portuguese engineer and architect Xavier Esteves, who transformed the dream of brothers José and António Lello into a stunning reality. Tasked with creating a space that embodied their love for literature and learning, Esteves designed the bookstore in the early 20th century with remarkable creativity.
He used neo-Gothic architecture with influences from the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements, resulting in an interior that continues to enchant visitors.
Livraria Lello architecture
Exterior
From the outside, Livraria Lello looks more like a fairytale chapel than a bookstore. Designed by architect Xavier Esteves in 1906, its neo-Gothic façade immediately draws attention with pointed arches, carvings, and stonework.
Influences from Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles can be seen in the decorative details and the flowing lines that frame the windows and arches. Livraria Lello has a magical quality that makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in Porto.
Interior
The centerpiece of the bookstore is the famous crimson staircase. It winds upward in graceful curves. It is rumored to have inspired the moving staircases of Hogwarts in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
Above, a stained-glass skylight floods the space with soft natural light. It’s inscribed with the Latin phrase “Decus in Labore” (Dignity in Work), a fitting tribute to learning. There are high wooden ceilings and bookshelves everywhere. Every inch of the interior is crafted to celebrate storytelling, inviting visitors to lose themselves in the world of books.
Frequently asked questions about Livraria Lello
Yes, visitors must purchase a ticket voucher, which can later be redeemed against the purchase of books inside the store.
Livraria Lello sells classic literature, modern fiction, Portuguese authors, and multi-language editions of global bestsellers. Many books are published by Lello itself with exclusive covers, gold-edged pages, and compact sizes for travelers.
Yes! Livraria Lello sells books in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Japanese, and Arabic. Their English collection includes classics, Harry Potter books, and special editions.
While not officially affiliated, Livraria Lello is widely believed to have inspired J.K. Rowling during her time in Porto, particularly the store’s iconic staircase and magical atmosphere.
To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays. The store can get very busy, especially during weekends and holidays.
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour exploring the architecture, browsing the books, and taking photos
Unfortunately, due to the historic structure and narrow layout, accessibility is limited, particularly on the upper level. It's best to contact the bookstore in advance for specific assistance.
Yes, kids are welcome, and there’s a selection of children’s books, including fairy tales and illustrated editions. The magical interior is often a hit with younger visitors.
