By no means a complete list; a mere collection of tried and tested ideas…
Books
goo.gl/maps/VNLv7w52hoG2
Massive selection in Greek, small selection on other languages – worth a browse.
Booktique
goo.gl/maps/jiKhQgEr3r22
Small select selection of books in a variety of languages – as well as cards and other paraphernalia. Great service – and gift wrap.
Οίκος Ανοχής Σκέψης / Free Thinking Zone
goo.gl/maps/SnEyJfRqM632
Interesting selection of books and other publications, including the quirky.
Οίκος Ανοχής Σκέψης means ‘House of Thought Tolerance’. Worth a browse.
Cafés
goo.gl/maps/k6oDBxigcSz
Possibly the best place in Athens for a traditional Greek coffee. An absolute joy. And watch the world go by in the market quarter.
goo.gl/maps/dmQkAEeCCGT2
Nice little tri-part hideaway. Very close to Syntagma Sq. Try the homemade lemonade. Kick back, make some notes…
goo.gl/maps/BHyXW8PHpfG2
Café / bookshop in Monastiraki – get an coffee and sit out the back. Plot.
Art
Εθνικό Μουσείο Σύγχρονης Τέχνης – ΕΜΣΤ
goo.gl/maps/LoUv7ngzVRn
Beautiful space in an old brewery. Changing exhibitions – and an amazing view from the rooftop, including of Pnyka (look it up).
goo.gl/maps/oK8ciRfo6M72
Gallery / hip bar. Worth a brief stop. Maybe wear black.
Μουσείο Κυκλαδικής Τέχνης
goo.gl/maps/VNmC5iwYw6u
Blast form the 3000 bc past.
Shipping a range of activities – including some visual arts. Tasting-menu joint on the top floor (Hytra).
Enjoy – and what would you add?