Conrad Athens The Ilisian Opens

Athens has a new luxury hotel – and, at the same time, has reclaimed a piece of its urban history. With the recent opening of Conrad Athens The Ilisian, one of Europe’s most exciting hospitality projects has come to life. On the site where the legendary Hilton Athens stood for decades, a landmark of the Greek capital has been comprehensively reimagined. The debut of the Conrad brand in Greece combines international hotel design with Athens’ cultural identity, transforming an iconic building into a modern urban resort.

Located in the heart of the Ilisia district, the new property features 278 rooms and suites, including some of the most spacious accommodations in the city. Many offer balconies with views of the Acropolis or the Saronic Gulf. Particularly spectacular is the Omega Penthouse, set to open later this year, featuring a private pool and panoramic views over the city and the sea.

Architecturally, the hotel remains closely connected to its history. The striking marble façade created by Greek artist Yannis Moralis, a familiar feature of the cityscape for decades, has been carefully preserved and is now reinterpreted at night through a lighting installation by Emmy Award-winning designer Eleftheria Deko. Inside, the New York-based studio AvroKO has reimagined Athens’ modernist golden age with a contemporary approach, incorporating mid-century influences, curated artworks and bespoke furniture crafted by local ateliers.

The culinary offering also aims to set new standards. Several restaurants and bars define the property, including Byzantino, Athens’ first grande brasserie, which brings together French and Greek classics. Other highlights include the Japanese restaurant Onuki, the Athenian Lounge, and later this year the return of the legendary Galaxy Bar, already known to many Athenians as one of the city’s most iconic rooftop destinations.

The experience is complemented by an extensive wellness concept featuring Athens’ largest outdoor pool complex, a spa, fitness facilities and a private members’ club. Most remarkable, however, is the vision behind the project: Conrad Athens The Ilisian sees itself less as a traditional hotel and more as a new urban meeting place – open to visitors and Athenians alike. A property that respects the history of its location while demonstrating what modern city travel can look like today.

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