Conrad Athens The Ilisian opened its doors on April 23, 2026, as a modern urban resort in the heart of Athens, marking the rebirth of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This new beginning coincided with a symbolic anniversary, as the Hilton Athens—previously housed in the same building—welcomed its very first guest on April 23, 1963.
It represents the first presence of Conrad Hotels & Resorts in Greece, introducing a philosophy that blends bold design, contemporary luxury, and an immersive connection to the local environment.
The hotel is located at the heart of THE ILISIAN, Athens’ new multi-dimensional destination. Alongside the hotel, the development features private residences under the award-winning Conrad and Waldorf Astoria brands by Hilton, as well as curated spaces for gastronomy, entertainment, and wellness. At its center is the largest outdoor swimming pool in Athens, complemented by the modern members’ club House of NYNN.
All interventions have been carried out with respect for the design of the original building, which was inaugurated in 1963 and remains one of the most significant examples of post-war modernist architecture in Greece. It uniquely combines the principles of international hotel design with strong references to Greek materials and artistic tradition. The original architects credited with the design are Emmanuel (Manolis) Vourekas, Prokopis Vasileiadis, Antonis Georgiadis, and Spyros Staikos.
The artistic and architectural identity of THE ILISIAN preserves and highlights the building’s iconic features. A characteristic example is the façades by Yannis Moralis, where the original marble reliefs with mythological references have been carefully restored.
The building’s nighttime façade is further enhanced through a lighting design by Eleftheria Deko.
The architectural study and overall project coordination were undertaken by AETER Architects, with contributions from specialized collaborators.
Interior design, curated by AvroKO, revives the optimism of Athenian modernism, blending mid-century elements with new artworks and custom-made pieces by the historic Athenian furniture maker Saridis and ceramic artist Eleni Vernadaki.
The curation of the art program and the spatial experience, in collaboration with AvroKO, is led by Mare Studio.
A broad network of international and Greek studios also contributed to the design, including Tristan Auer and Yabu Pushelberg, among others. Additional specialized studies—covering lighting, landscape, dining, audiovisual systems, acoustics, and sustainability—were carried out by expert partners.
The Conrad Athens The Ilisian offers some of the most spacious and comfortable accommodation options in the city, with a total of 278 rooms and suites.
Most rooms and suites feature private balconies with privileged views over some of Athens’ most iconic landmarks, including the Acropolis. The hotel also boasts an extensive collection of suites, including Signature Suites such as three Presidential Suites and one Royal Suite. Later in the year, the impressive Omega Penthouse will open, offering 350 sq.m. of interior space, a 150 sq.m. terrace, a private pool, and panoramic views stretching from the Acropolis to the Saronic Gulf.
Wellness
Guests of the hotel, residents, and members of House of NYNN can enjoy one of the most comprehensive wellness experiences in Athens, spanning more than 2,000 sq.m. of facilities, including:
- The largest outdoor swimming pool in central Athens (25 meters long)
- Fully equipped fitness and performance areas
- Dedicated studios for yoga, pilates, spinning, and specialized training programs
- A heated indoor pool with natural light and direct access to the outdoor pool
- A Green Roof featuring a 770m private running track, pickleball court, and outdoor gym
Additionally, Odei Wellness offers a curated range of face and body treatments inspired by ancient Greek rituals, available to both residents and visitors. Later in the year, internationally recognized expert Dr. Kostas Papageorgiou will introduce his advanced longevity treatments to Athens for the first time.
Residential
The Conrad Residences and Waldorf Astoria Residences include apartments ranging from 60 to 500 sq.m.
Rental Options:
- Conrad Residences allow short-term rentals through the hotel, in accordance with local legislation.
- Waldorf Astoria Residences follow a different model, with rentals of at least three months, up to four times per year.
- In both cases, participation in rental programs is at the owner’s discretion.
Access & Privileges:
Residents enjoy full access to restaurants, wellness facilities, entertainment spaces, and the outdoor pool, as well as the destination’s retail and curated experiences. They also benefit from preferential membership at House of NYNN and high-level hotel services.
Additional privileges for Waldorf Astoria Residences:
- Exclusive lounge and lobby
- Private meeting room
- Dedicated gym
- Tailored, private services within the destination
Overall, the residential offering complements the hotel experience, combining private living with the full benefits of a luxury hospitality environment.
Gastronomy
THE ILISIAN is evolving into a multi-dimensional culinary hub, featuring nine restaurants and bars that will be gradually completed by the end of 2026.
The historic Byzantino returns as the Byzantino Grande Brasserie, designed by Tristan Auer and led by Executive Chef Angelos Lantos. It offers two distinct menus—Greek and French cuisine—complemented by a dedicated cheese master, curated wine pairings, and refined desserts through the Byzantino Chocolat & Patisserie.
Chef Angelos Lantos also curates the menu at the Athenian Lounge, a space that opened alongside the hotel and is set to become a vibrant meeting point, offering classic cocktails and all-day comfort dishes.
The iconic rooftop has been reintroduced as Galaxy Dispensary and Galaxy Supper Club, reviving one of Athens’ most historic dining and nightlife spots.
Since December 2025, the Japanese restaurant Onuki has been operating on-site, with interior design by Yabu Pushelberg.
In addition, a series of internationally acclaimed dining concepts are expected to debut at THE ILISIAN, further enhancing its gastronomic identity.
Retail Zone
The retail area of THE ILISIAN includes a curated selection of boutiques and services, opening progressively:
- The Store at The Ilisian
- Byzantino Chocolat & Patisserie
- Secret Garden flower shop
- KESSARIS jewelry boutique
- Vangelis Hatzis Hair Salon
- Zeus + Dione optical boutique (first of its kind)
- Barber Shop by Georgina
- Kourlas Athens
Workforce
The destination employs more than 800 people, with a significant number coming from the historic Hilton Athens, preserving valuable expertise and continuity in hospitality service.
Photography Anima Vision – Nikos Kontostavlakis
