The Francophile’s library: books to buy in France and bring home tax-free

For many travelers, France isn’t just a destination, it’s a story, a state of mind, a literary obsession. Whether you’re a devoted bibliophile, a student of French culture, or simply in love with the charm of Parisian bookstores, bringing home books from France is more than a souvenir: it’s an experience. Even better? If you live outside the European Union, you can claim a VAT refund on your eligible book purchases. Here’s how to make the most of your literary haul, and save money doing it.

Where to buy books in France

France is famous for its independent bookshops, historic institutions, and beautiful displays that often spill onto the streets. Here are a few must-visits for your next trip:

Shakespeare and Company (Paris)

Perhaps the most iconic English-language bookshop in France, this Left Bank gem is a dream for literature lovers. With its labyrinthine shelves, vintage charm, and ties to the Beat Generation, it’s a destination in itself.

Librairie Mollat (Bordeaux)

France’s largest independent bookstore, Mollat is a literary institution with over 300,000 titles. Their recommendations and themed tables are a great way to discover contemporary French literature.

Le Bal des Ardents (Lyon)

A poetic bookstore with a theatrical spirit, Le Bal des Ardents is known for its avant-garde ambiance and creative displays. A great place to browse French graphic novels, philosophy, and local authors.

What to bring home: top book picks

Whether you’re curating a stylish bookshelf or picking gifts for fellow Francophiles, these categories are especially popular:

• Literary classics: Balzac, Proust, Camus, Duras—reading them in the original language or with a bilingual edition is a collector’s joy.
  
• Children’s books: Gorgeous illustrations, poetic language, and a sense of whimsy make French children’s books unique keepsakes.
  
• Contemporary French literature: Discover voices shaping the literary scene today, such as Leïla Slimani, Annie Ernaux, or Hervé Le Tellier.
  

How to shop tax-free: what is détaxe?

In France, the Value Added Tax (VAT or “TVA”) is included in the price of most consumer goods, including books. For travelers who reside outside the EU, the EU regulation offers a tax refund program known as détaxe, allowing you to reclaim this VAT on eligible purchases made during your trip. It’s not only for books, it counts for every other purchases as long as it is not a service 😉.

Make it easy with Zapptax

Zapptax simplifies tax-free shopping for travelers. Instead of requesting tax-free paperwork at each bookshop, you can centralize everything in one app.

Here’s how it works:

1. Ask for an invoice at the bookshop made out to Zapptax and upload it to the Zapptax app by simply taking a photo.
   
2. Generate your tax-free form on your phone and validate it at customs before leaving the EU.
   
3. Get your VAT refund directly on your bank account, via PayPal or credit card.

It’s that easy, and yes, books are eligible for tax refunds in France and all your other purchases also!

Final tip for book lovers

Keep your books safe by wrapping them well for travel, especially large-format editions or signed copies. And don’t forget to validate your Zapptax form at the airport before you fly home, so your new library can arrive with a refund on the side. 

Don’t wait any longer and download the Zapptax app now on AppStore or Google Play.