Libreria Acqua Alta — Attraction in Venice

I have never been treated so horribly in any store nor should anyone be treated like that period. The store is very busy because it's a big tourist attraction. There is a line to get in and you patiently wait as the store is very small and there is little room. The hyper Italian man who obviously works there, is standing waving people through as if we are getting onto a bus and we are already late. Shuffling along as there is no room to move, I look over I see the cat and then a little mini key chain book caught my eye and I took one step to peer over and look and the man yells at me "Ma'am! Please keep going!" I responded in shock "Okay I was just looking over to look at the little book..." He interrupts me with "No, I know you are just looking at the cat". For 1 it's a cat not a big deal they are all over Venice and 2. You can't even see the cat anyways because it has a sign in front of it that says "don't touch the cat please!" I'm obviously not going to hold up a line of people and start arguing with this crazy man. There are 3 other people waving people through. There is an area to the right and I asked the other man what is back in there? He snickers at me and says “they are books, people who read Italian books”. I’m like okay great thank you for the unnecessary attitude. I’m thinking what is with these people?! There is NO time to look at anything as you continue to shuffle along. You get to the books that you can walk up and you cannot stop. It's a walk by picture if you're lucky. You come down and follow the line and there is a spot to the right where you can Exit as there is another man standing there waving people through. It's a little outside area where you can take a quick pic with a tower of books. My friend asked can we come back into the store to buy something near the register and the man said yes. We take a few pics and my friend went back in to make a purchase. I was debating on going back with her because I didn't know if I wanted to buy anything from this rude book store. I decided to go back in and AGAIN another man puts his hand up and rudely says "No exit that way" mind you there are two exits and I'm fully aware of the language barriers, it would have been rude even if I was Italian. I went off "OMG you just said we could walk back in I’m trying to get to my friend. What is with you people?!!! Do you want me to buy something or NOT?!!!!!" At this point I am furious and shocked that this is even happening. These people working at this place unbelievable! My friend got a couple things and I ended up giving in and buying a patch. Ruined my entire experience and first part of my...

Libreria Acqua Alta** in Venice is one of the most unique and charming bookstores in the world, beloved by both tourists and locals. The name "Acqua Alta" translates to "high water," a nod to Venice’s frequent flooding, which the bookstore is creatively designed to withstand. Here’s a breakdown of typical experiences:

Pros: Unique Atmosphere**: The bookstore is a visual and sensory delight, with books stored in bathtubs, gondolas, and other waterproof containers to protect them from the flooding. The interior is a quirky, maze-like setup, with stacks of books in every nook and cranny.

Scenic Views**: The back of the store opens up to a small canal, offering a peaceful view. There’s even a staircase made of old, unsellable books that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the canal, a popular spot for photos.

Charming Décor**: The store’s atmosphere is full of personality, with cats lounging among the books, vintage posters on the walls, and Venetian-themed décor throughout. It feels like a literary treasure hunt.

Selection of Books**: While the store specializes in Italian books, there is also a decent selection of English and other foreign-language books. The collection includes everything from new titles to secondhand books and even maps and prints of Venice.

Cat Companions**: The store is home to several friendly cats, adding to its cozy and welcoming vibe. Many visitors enjoy their presence, as they lazily lounge around the shop.

Cons: Overcrowding**: Due to its popularity, the bookstore can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. The narrow aisles and limited space mean it can sometimes feel cramped.

Organization**: The store’s chaotic, haphazard organization adds to its charm, but it can also make it difficult to find specific books. It’s more a place to browse and stumble upon hidden gems than to search for something specific.

Tourist-centric**: While it’s a wonderful spot to visit, some travelers feel that it has become more of a tourist attraction than a traditional bookstore, with crowds sometimes overshadowing the experience.

Prices**: Some visitors note that prices, especially for souvenirs or unique items, can be on the higher side, as is common in Venice.

Overall Experience: Libreria Acqua Alta** is more than just a bookstore—it’s a one-of-a-kind cultural and artistic experience. If you’re a book lover or someone who appreciates quirky, offbeat spots, this store is a must-visit. While the crowds and lack of organization can be frustrating for some, the atmosphere and uniqueness make it a magical stop for...

Libreria Acqua Alta – A Book Lover’s Dream Come True

If you find yourself wandering the magical streets of Venice, do yourself a favor and head to Libreria Acqua Alta – a bookstore like no other. It's a hidden gem that feels like stepping into an alternate world where books aren't just stacked on shelves—they're part of the adventure.

The first thing that grabs you is the vibe. Imagine a quirky little space with books piled high in the most charming, organized chaos you could ever dream of. Picture stacks of novels, art books, and ancient tomes tucked away in bathtubs, gondolas, and even old boats. Yup, boats. It’s like the store itself is part of Venice’s canals—part library, part art installation.

The atmosphere? Pure magic. You’ll find yourself losing track of time while browsing through endless nooks and crannies. You can easily spend hours just discovering hidden corners, each offering a new book, postcard, or unexpected surprise. And let’s be real, there’s something so chill about flipping through pages in this cozy, laid-back space, surrounded by the calming hum of Venice.

The owners are as warm and welcoming as the store itself. You’re not just a customer here—you’re a fellow traveler, part of the Libreria Acqua Alta family. They’re always ready with a recommendation, and they’ve got that perfect vibe of being laid-back but passionate about books. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve just made a new friend.

Plus, there's a lovely little courtyard out back with a stunning view of the canals. It's the perfect spot to sit and let the magic of Venice wash over you while you read.

In short, Libreria Acqua Alta isn’t just a bookstore—it’s an experience. If you’re a book lover or just someone looking for a cool, chill place to escape the crowds of Venice, this place is a must. Go get lost in a good book, grab a little memento, and soak up all the charm of this one-of-a-kind spot. You...