1. 1
   
   Consider Phlebas(1987)
2. 2
   
   The Player of Games(1989)
3. 3
   
   Use of Weapons(1990)
4. 4
   
   Excession(1996)
5. 5
   
   Inversions(1998)
6. 6
   
   Look to Windward(2000)
7. 7
   
   Matter(2008)
8. 8
   
   Surface Detail(2010)
9. 9
   
   The Hydrogen Sonata(2012)

Most fans recommend starting with The Player of Games rather than Consider Phlebas, as it's a better introduction to the Culture.

1. 1
   
   The Player of Games(1989)
2. 2
   
   Consider Phlebas(1987)
3. 3
   
   Use of Weapons(1990)
4. 4
   
   Excession(1996)
5. 5
   
   Look to Windward(2000)
6. 6
   
   Inversions(1998)

   Optional. A subtle Culture novel set on a pre-spaceflight world.

7. 7
   
   Matter(2008)
8. 8
   
   Surface Detail(2010)
9. 9
   
   The Hydrogen Sonata(2012)