If you're anything like me, one of the first things you check out when you visit a city is its bookstores. I'm sorry for all the bookworms who've passed through Athens over the years and weren't aware of the existence of this here gem.
"Platonos Politeia" is Greek for Plato's Republic. "Politeia" can also mean state (as in the United States) or land/country. Quite literally, Politeia is the land, the republic, of books.
I'm going to be perfectly clear with you: when it comes to size, selection and prices, this is hands-down the best bookshop in Athens. This is where I bought my José Saramago collection, my Hitch-hiker's Guide to the Galaxy Trilogy of Four, my first Discworld novel... I could go on, but the point is that you can find just about anything here. It's so big as to have four separate entrances divided by genre: literature, fiction and sci-fi, non-fiction and arts & misc.
One of the biggest reasons I feel so excited to be sharing this spot with you is that Politeia has a surprisingly large selection of books in English as well as Greek - as good if not better than the likes of big media chains like Public, but with stunningly better prices. The only reason I don't visit more often is because it's virtually impossible to leave without spending half the day browsing and then buying some random book I didn't even know existed.
Note: I took the picture during Christmas -- it's not always that busy!
Find your way with 263 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nothing can prepare you for the burst of colors when you enter the mezzanine studio: rich shades of blue and green, along with vintage furniture and paintings.
by
My walk usually ends up in Valitsa, a beautiful cafe and restaurant. Valitsa has a unique interior, with one wall covered by old, authentic suitcases.
by
A nice dessert is a perfect conclusion to a satisfying meal or an accompaniment to a delicious coffee. But in Koukouvaya, a cafe in the center of Athens, enjoying an excellent dessert becomes an end goal in itself.
by
"Kimolia" in Athens is a family-owned, all-day cafe hidden in the central narrow streets of Plaka. I love their orange-flavored chocolate...
by
Blame the Sun in Athens is the newest taproom in Koukaki! This bar emerged in the quarantine - maybe that's why it's called that way?
by
Amandine's Bagels on Nikis streets in Athens is where I get my breakfast from. My favorite bagel from there has avocado, salmon and a special sauce!
by
"Nolan" is one of the finest restaurants in Athens. It provides a Greek-Japanese gastro experience you shouldn't miss.
by
Visiting the "Hammam Baths" in Athens is a very pertinent experience, as the city is a mixture of Eastern and Western cultures. Relax with a massage...
by
The meticulous look and distinct flavour of Pâte et Crème's sweets are captivating. And the perfectly balanced sweet and sour lemon tart is unforgettable.
by
They run a busy schedule of publication-related talks, readings, performances, and exhibitions in their project space every year.
by
263 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 263 Insider Tips