Book Shopping
Indie Bookshops
Booktique
@emmaeichhorn
I popped into this bookshop on a whim, and it instantly became one of my favorite bookstores when I'm looking for current or non-previously owned books.
The selection is varied, carefully curated, and includes English and Greek options. The shop keeper was so kind and clearly new her stuff!
The location is also in a great area, so you can easy pair your visit to this shop with a coffee or dinner.
Details
Lexikopoleio
@emmaeichhorn
This is an excellent browsing shop because it features a wide of variety and has alot of turnover. Every time I go in, I see plenty of interesting books I've never heard of!
The English selection at this shop is not as large as some other places, but the shopkeeper curates it well and the options are always pleasing. There is also a small selection of used and rare books that offers unique titles.
Details
Flâneur Souvenirs & Supplies
@emmaeichhorn
When I take visitors and friends shopping, I always prefer places with unique items that still reflect the essence of Greece, but also bring the joy of supporting local artists and small businesses.
That is why this shop is always top of my list when looking for souvenirs, gifts, or even little treats for myself!
With a wonderful collection of travel books, children's books, postcards, prints, jewelry, bags, travel gear, and novelty gifts, you will certainly find something that speaks to you here!
Details
Anavasi Maps - Travel Bookstore
@emmaeichhorn
This shop is a Travel Lover's delight!
Very conveniently located in the city center, nothing is stopping you from popping in to browse through the destination reads and travels guides or admire the massive stock of maps.
There is also a great selection of travel related books and gifts for kids, plenty of resources for learning and adventuring!
Details
Solaris
@emmaeichhorn
If you are a Manga, Graphic Novel, or Comic Book fan then this place is for you! The shop has a great selection of Greek and English books for all ages!
Details
Details
Details
Details
Details
Details
Used Bookshops
Book Garden
@emmaeichhorn
This is one of my ultimate Happy Places
and certainly my favorite place in Athens to look for books!
The selection has great variety, plenty of English and Greek books, as well as other languages, covering all genres.
The ladies who run the shop are truly wonderful people and all sales proceeds go to a reputable and meaningful organization supporting at risk women!
Details
Ανέστιος Παλαιοβιβλιοπωλείο των Αστέγων
@emmaeichhorn
This is a great shop if you don’t mind doing a little digging! While the inventory is largely Greece, I definitely think it’s worth every book lover’s time because the shop’s mission is to support the unhoused community in Athens!
Details
Details
Details
Details
Chain Bookstores
Chain Bookstores are not my first choice with buying books, but sometimes it's nice to have a browse and see what's popular or catch up on the new releases. Then, sometime's there the only place with that specific book that you've just gotta have!
Public is my first choice for just looking around or killing some time. There are tons of locations all over Athens (some of them even include some pretty sweet clearance shelves) and they usually have a large English selection and comfy seats.
This are the two locations I frequent the most, but they are everywhere, particularly in malls, which is great for when you're shopping with a group and need a little break.
Details
Details
The Evripidis Bookstores are a excellent choice when selecting among chain-store options. The store locations are all with in Athens and the business is still very localized. In addition to both English and Greek books, the store also offers a variety of gifts, stationery, and newspapers.
Details
Details
If you're visiting The National Library of Greece or The Academy of Athens, then you might as well head across the street and make a quick stop inside Books+
Their selection has great variety, and although their English section is small, the titles available are usually well chosen. There is also a nice coffee shop next door, where I love to grab a fresh orange juice.
Details
This chain may appeal more to you if you're a local because the in-store English options are often quite limited (They do have a large on-line selection and offer in-store pick up with very low wait time.), but they also stock lots of activities for kids, bookish gifts (the puzzles being my favorite) and other "as seen on tiktok" items.
Details
Details
Details
Book Reading
Libraries
We Need Books Multilingual Library / Multicultural Centre
@emmaeichhorn
Details
Cafés
Details
Details
Details
Details
Details
Book Appreciating
Iconic Landmarks
Details
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
@emmaeichhorn
This place is so unique and an excellent non-touristy option to add to your itinerary!
The park itself has so many cool features and the SNF is always changing up the attractions offered to those visiting the grounds. The outdoor space consists of all native plant species, giving it an authentic look, different from other parks in Athens. The cultural center included on the grounds offers a variety of activities and houses the National Library and National Opera House.
After you've had a nice walk, you can pop in to the cafe for a drink and enjoy it beside the canal or walk up the green roof for views of the city and the port!
Details
Details
Details
Details
Picturesque Reading Spots
Details
Details
Garden Byzantine Museum
@emmaeichhorn
This is a wonderful place to relax on a fair weather day! The outdoor space of the mountains is open to the public and provides a bit of escape from the city. Also there is a lovely cafe on the grounds!
Details
Museum Café
@emmaeichhorn
The Archiological Museum provides plenty of public spaces to sit and enjoy a book!
The entrance grounds are well kept and supply several shaded benches. There is also an outdoor cafe in front, as well as a beautiful and selcluded garden cafe in the downstairs level of the museum! (Note: an entry ticket is NOT required for the museum cafe.)
Details
* * *
