Conrad Athens The Ilisian: a new era begins for Athens’ iconic landmark

Exactly 63 years later, the Conrad Athens The Ilisian opens its doors as a contemporary urban resort in the heart of the city.

Its opening day, April 23, 2026, symbolically coincides with the date when the Hilton Athens welcomed its very first guest, on April 23, 1963.

The launch of Conrad Athens The Ilisian marks the rebirth of one of Athens’ most recognizable landmarks. This new beginning aligns with a symbolic anniversary, as the Hilton Athens—previously housed in the same building—received its first guest on April 23, 1963.

The new hotel is a blend of bold design, contemporary luxury, and an experiential connection to its surroundings, set in one of Europe’s most historic and culturally rich capitals. It features some of the most spacious accommodations in the city, with a total of 278 rooms and suites. It sits at the heart of The Ilisian, Athens’ new multifaceted destination, which brings together private residences under the award-winning Conrad and Waldorf Astoria brands by Hilton, along with dining, entertainment, and wellness spaces. At its center is the largest outdoor pool in Athens, as well as the modern members’ club House of Nynn.

The name, inspired by the ancient Ilissos River and the Ilisia district, reflects the destination’s timeless connection to Athens, its neighborhoods, and local residents. Its aim is to express the cosmopolitan character that defines the building’s identity, offering experiences of authentic, modern Athens. With deep respect for the city’s cultural identity, the destination bridges contemporary international trends with its heritage, creating a meeting place for both Athenians and visitors.

Athenian landmark redefined

Instantly recognizable to generations of Athenians, the building housing Conrad Athens The Ilisian is deeply intertwined with the city’s social and cultural memory.

The façades created by pioneering Greek artist Yannis Moralis have been carefully preserved and highlighted. The original marble reliefs, rich with mythological references, depict symbols such as the goddess Athena, a ship, an altar with offerings, flute players, and a horse. Rendered in a modern visual language through curves, spirals, and straight lines, they form a timeless symbol of journey, communication, and return to the city.

At night, the façade is brought to life through carefully designed lighting by Emmy Award–winning lighting designer Eleftheria Deko, adding a renewed sense of dynamism and brilliance to Vasilissis Sofias Avenue.

The architectural design was undertaken by Aeter Architects. Inside, spaces designed by AvroKO revive the optimism of Athens’ mid-century modern golden era, combining preserved elements with new artworks and custom-made pieces from the historic Athenian furniture maker Saridis and ceramic artist Eleni Vernadaki. The art program—and the lobby design in collaboration with AvroKO—has been curated by Mare Studio.

Most rooms and suites feature private balconies with privileged views of some of the city’s most beautiful landmarks, including the Acropolis of Athens. The hotel offers the largest collection of suites in Athens, including three Presidential Suites and one Royal Suite. Later this year, the Omega Penthouse will open, featuring a private pool and panoramic views stretching from the Acropolis to the Saronic Gulf.

All interventions have been carried out with respect for the original building, inaugurated in 1963 and considered one of the most important examples of modern postwar architecture in Greece. It combines international hotel design principles with strong references to Greek materials and artistic tradition. The original architects credited with the building’s design are Emmanuel Vourekas, Prokopis Vassiliadis, Antonis Georgiadis, and Spyros Staikos.

Simon Vincent, CBE, President, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Hilton, stated:
“Today, Greece is one of Hilton’s fastest-growing markets in Europe, driven by increasing visitor demand and a strategic shift toward high-quality, year-round tourism. With our portfolio in Greece growing from just a few hotels a few years ago to more than fifty today—and with even more in development—the opening of Conrad Athens The Ilisian underscores our long-term commitment to Athens and Greece as a leading global tourism destination.”

Dino Michael, Senior Vice President and Global Category Head of Hilton Luxury Brands, added:
“Athens is one of those rare cities where history, creativity, and modern life coexist in constant dialogue. This unique combination makes it especially attractive for Conrad. Our goal with Conrad Athens The Ilisian is to bring an iconic building back to life in a way that honors its past while fully aligning with the contemporary identity of Athens.”

Nasos Papazoglou, General Manager of Conrad Athens The Ilisian, noted:
“The Hilton Athens opened its doors on this exact day in 1963 and for decades played a defining role in the cultural and social life of Athens. Our vision is to honor this legacy while creating a hotel that is open, vibrant, and in constant dialogue with the modern city. From the way guests move through the spaces to how they dine, relax, and discover Athens, every detail has been designed to offer an authentic sense of familiarity and connection.”