Stoa tou Vivliou Athens
Culture in the heart of Athens
In 1900 in the center of Athens between the avenues Stadiou and Panepistimiou, the "Stoa Arsakeiou" was built. It has a characteristic glass roof that allows the daylight to diffuse in the area and for sure it's riveting when you entering. Later, in 1996 when trying to create a center of culture as an offering to the world of literature, "Stoa tou Vivliou" by the "Filekpaideftiki etaireia" (Educational company) was created in the same place.
In Stoa Vivliou you can find and visit many important publishing houses with Greek and foreign publications especially if you are looking for something more specific. On the roof you can find the "Polis Art Cafe" which is a meeting point for the artists. There, except to enjoy your coffee, you can also at times enjoy many different artistic events and book presentations. It's also important to mention that in the basement of the complex is the historic art theater "Karolos Koun" where you can attend remarkable theatrical plays.
This place is the center of culture and intellect. Its historic meaning and prototype conceptual design and manufacturing always bring to mind the moments I have spent there drinking my coffee, reading my book and enjoying a pleasant break during my walk around the center of Athens.
By the end of 2021 we expect a food-hall inside Stoa Arsakeiou that will offer locals and international visitors a taste of Greece’s finest foods and flavors as they are taken on a gastronomical tour of the entire country.
Find your way with 263 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Athens
Statues of Ζappeion Garden
Beauty made of marble
The Statues of Ζappeion Garden depict national heroes, benefactors of Greece and also mythological characters. But I love two of the statues the most...
by
Marilena
Salamanou
Coast to Coast
Walk next to the sea
Athens has the big advantage that it's built by the sea. If you feel like you want to relax, walking along the kilometers of unbroken coastline is one...
by
Marilena
Salamanou
By the Glass
The perfect place to be local
"By the Glass" in the center of Athens is in one of the most 'secret' urban arcades and offers you more than 200 different wines... Central & 100% local!
by
Javier
Muñoz
Krikos
The combination of almost everything
"Krikos" Athens was my go-to when I use to live in the neighbourhood, given their cosy atmosphere and delicious coffee. Nice place to go on a sunny day...
by
Margarita
Kalogeropoulou
A Hidden Village
Just for curious walkers
There is A Hidden Village in Ano Petralona in Athens. Here's a bit of the deepest Greek villages right in the centre. What a beautiful, quiet gem!
by
Javier
Muñoz
Rafiki
New Age kafeneio
"Rafiki" in Athens offers the experience of a new age kafeneio: few but very well cooked dishes of mezedes with local ingredients. Check their music nights
by
Sofia
Skioti
Organic Market
Saturday morning shopping
This "Organic Market" in Athens is not just any organic market: it's in an old squat with a beautiful garden and people are just so friendly there!
by
Margarita
Kalogeropoulou
Fouar
An oasis in the heart of Athens
"Fouar" is an oasis located in the heart of Athens. This restaurant is where the aesthetic of the '60s meets Asian cuisine and contemporary art. Love it!
by
Andreas
Papadopoulos
Leloudas
The (almost) century-old tavern
"Leloudas" (est. 1928) in Athens is a taverna/restaurant for locals and truck drivers! The atmosphere is very friendly and homey - check out their wine...
by
Andreas
Papadopoulos
Anafiotika
The island inside Athens!
"Anafiotika" is so close to Athens' most famous sight, the Acropolis, but it is still a secret. I love losing myself in its narrow streets...
by
Marilena
Salamanou
Ormos Afroditis
My dearest fish restaurant
"Ormos Afroditis" in Piraeus, Athens, is great if you like shrimp & seafood. I really love the '80s decoration, the raki is good and the beer is cold!
by
Marilena
Salamanou
Varvakeios Market
The main market of the city
"Varvakeios Market" is the most important market in Athens. It's full of colours, tastes and smells where you can also find something ethnic restaurants...
by
Marilena
Salamanou
Heading to Athens?
263 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Athens?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 263 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Athens
Our team loves Athens
Get to know our other Spotters from Athens
As featured on:
