National Library of Greece Athens

"It's a nice looking building with a facade that conforms to the 21st century floor-to-ceiling glazing architectural ideal. It's nice, but it's not exceptional nor inspiring, which one might think it should be considering the historical attribution to Ancient Greece as a cultivator of knowledge, wisdom, and the love of both.

The inside is an open space, which does not inspire wonder, curiosity, thoughtfulness. Can one tell the difference between the National Library of Greece or the library at Southern Methodist University?

Although the library might be closed, the interior space is open for people to study, crack open a laptop, or for kids to run around...quietly. The Boston Public Library is much more beautiful, more accessible, more of a library -- and that's a city library. The canal outside is a very beautiful area, where you can sit, chat with friends, bicycle, or do a jog, and there are food shops outside if you want to grab a bite to eat."

MM

"The cafe here is enclosed in the incredible National Library. Sadly although the building is incredibly well designed with views if you go up the lift, I would consider it very tourist unfriendly.
We ordered some food, however were then asked to come up and pay, even though it was table service for others. We were confused and wanting to eat more, however thought they must be closing. We went outside to sit down in the shade (where only one other couple were among over 50 empty metal chairs and tables) and were told we couldn't eat there unless we ordered food (which we'd attempted to buy but told we couldn't!).
All staff minus one lovely security lady who kindly pointed us to the toilets and to the lift upstairs, were rude and clearly didn't take a liking to tourists.
I'm guessing this is a site designed and made for locals only. Reading other reviews here online, it would appear others had similar experiences. Suprisingly difficult.
OVERALL: Would not recommend tourists go here or do so prepared because either way the views upstairs are incredibly worthwhile."

Louise

"I visited the National Library of Athens during my trip, and it was a beautiful place to explore. While I didn’t go for academic purposes and can’t comment on the books or services, the building itself is impressive, and the atmosphere is nice.

The views from the top are also lovely, and there’s a small cafe where you can relax and take it all in. If you’re in Athens, it’s definitely worth a visit!"

Zyra Catherine