Top 5 bookstores in Toronto

Here are five excellent independent bookstores in Toronto, each with a solid reason to visit:

1. Type Books – A beautifully curated literary space in Toronto’s arts district, renowned for its indie selections and robust event programming. 

2. Bakka‑Phoenix Books – Toronto’s long-standing specialist in science fiction & fantasy, beloved by genre enthusiasts and collectors. 

3. The Monkey’s Paw – A quirky used bookshop known for its wildly eclectic selection and the famed “Biblio-Mat” random book vending machine. 

4. A Different Booklist – A Black-owned bookstore honoring literature from the African diasporas and the Global South with community-driven events. 

5. BMV Books – A large used bookstore with a massive inventory, perfect for treasure-hunting through stacks of affordable books.