Looking for the best spots in Athens to find your next read or a calm corner to unwind? Athens may be known for its sunlit, busy streets, but it also hums with the quieter magic of books. From French paperbacks in Kolonaki to multilingual collections in Kypseli, this guide maps out the most charming bookstores and libraries, whether you’re hunting for foreign fiction, Greek poetry, or a friendly place to work. Each location offers its own unique character and
a quiet invitation to slow down.

Lexikopoleio
With its floor-to-ceiling shelves and eclectic mix of books –from contemporary French fiction to beloved Penguin classics– Lexikopoleio is well worth a visit. The friendly staff is always happy to help you track down a specific title, but it’s also the kind of place where you’ll enjoy getting lost among intriguing, often unfamiliar reads. 
13 Stasinou Str., Athens

Little Tree Coffee & Books
Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, Little Tree is a beloved bookstore and café with vintage charm. Its wooden shelves and antique furnishings evoke the spirit of old Athens, while the curated collection spans from children’s books and Greek poetry to philosophy, politics and acclaimed English translations of Greek literature. You’ll also find a solid selection of notable French and Italian titles.
2 Kavalloti Str., Athens

Le Livre Ouvert
A cozy haven for local Francophones and French-speaking visitors, Le Livre Ouvert offers a wonderful mix of new releases and timeless classics. In this tidy, tranquil space, you’ll find international works in translation, along with an excellent selection of livres de poche to satisfy any literary craving.
77 Solonos Str., Athens

Polyglot
Polyglot is known for its ever-evolving international collection – and if you don’t find what you’re looking for, the staff is happy to order it for you. With over 20,000 titles in German, Turkish, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and English, it’s a true multilingual treasure trove. The store also hosts engaging literary events for those eager to dive deeper into global literature.
84 Akadimias Str., Athens

Anavasi
Discover Greece’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage at Anavasi, a two-story bookstore renowned for its exceptional travel collection. Wall-to-wall shelves hold an impressive array of travel guides and maps –both of Greece and beyond– including special trail editions created by Anavasi’s expert team. It’s a must-visit for adventurers, hikers and armchair travelers alike.
32 Voulis Str., Athens

Politeia
One of the most extensive –and easy-to-navigate– bookstores in Athens, Politeia spans multiple sections, each accessible from different entrances along Asklipiou Street. With thousands of titles available, many at discounted prices, it’s a favorite destination for book lovers seeking
variety and value.
1-3 Asklipiou Str., Athens

The Book Loft
Tucked away in upscale Kolonaki, The Book Loft may be compact, but it boasts a thoughtfully curated selection spanning a wide range of genres. Beyond books, it’s also a delightful spot to pick up unique stationery, literary-themed gifts, and charming trinkets for fellow book lovers.
44 Patriarchou Ioakim Str., Athens

Evripidis
Spread across four floors, Evripidis is a book lover’s paradise with shelves full of titles in multiple languages. After browsing, relax at one of the two in-store cafés, where locals sip on freddo espressos and flip through their latest literary treasures.
310 Kifissias Ave., Kifissia

Lemoni Bookstore
Named after the lemon trees that grace its charming backyard, Lemoni Bookstore offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle. Inside, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of books –including international art magazines, Japanese poetry and timeless Greek classics– that makes every visit feel like a quiet discovery.
22 Iraklidon Str., Thissio

Multilingual Libraries

Athens is home to some wonderful multilingual public libraries – welcoming, well-equipped spaces perfect for reading, studying, or simply escaping the noise. Whether you’re settling in long enough to get a library card or just looking for a cozy place to work, these libraries are worth exploring.

National Library of Greece
Housed within the stunning Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, the National Library of Greece is a historic institution with a modern soul. Its vast collection spans over a million titles, including dedicated sections for children’s literature and art books. With plenty of nearby restaurants and open spaces, it’s the perfect place to read, wander, or simply take in the architecture. 
364 Andrea Siggrou Ave., Kallithea

Goethe-Institut Library
Tucked in the heart of Athens, the Goethe-Institut Library offers a peaceful haven for those interested in German culture and language. While it specializes in German literature and media, the library also boasts a diverse collection in both Greek and English. With its modern ambiance and regular cultural events, it’s a wonderful spot for language learners, art lovers, or anyone eager to explore new perspectives.
14-16 Omirou Str., Athens

Hellenic American Union Library
Just a short stroll from Kolonaki Square, the Hellenic American Union Library offers a peaceful setting for readers in search of English-language material. Its well-organized collection includes fiction, academic texts and periodicals, as well as resources for English learners. With its calm atmosphere and helpful staff, it’s an ideal stop for students, expats and curious minds alike.
22 Massalias Str., Athens

Library of the French Institute of Greece
A quiet refuge in the center of Athens, the French Institute’s library is a must for lovers of French language and culture. Here you’ll find a carefully selected collection of French literature, children’s books, philosophy and cinema. Frequent cultural events and exhibitions add to its charm, making it a place where literature and the arts naturally meet.
31 Sina Str., Athens

Gennadius Library
Housed in a beautiful neoclassical building, the Gennadius Library is a treasure trove of Greek heritage. Its vast collection focuses on Greek history, art and culture from antiquity to modern times. Though primarily used for research, the library welcomes visitors seeking a quiet, contemplative space steeped in scholarship and timeless elegance. 
61 Souidias Str., Kolonaki

We Need Books
At the heart of Kypseli, We Need Books is a trailblazing multilingual library and cultural hub founded in 2019. Home to 14,000 books in over 30 languages, it offers a cozy workspace, a welcoming garden and an inspiring commitment to community. Off the tourist track, this nonprofit also supports a range of social initiatives, making it as meaningful as it is memorable.
7 Evias Str., Kypseli