Conrad Athens The llisian makes its iconic debut
- Kait Nicholas
- Apr 29
- 2 min read
Conrad Hotels & Resorts has opened Conrad Athens The Ilisian, marking the brand’s debut in Greece and the transformation of the former Hilton Athens into a new mixed-use destination in the city center.
First opened in 1963, the building was designed by architects Emmanuel Vourekas, Prokopis Vassiliadis, Antonis Georgiades, and Spyros Staikos, and remains one of the country’s most significant examples of post-war modernist architecture. It now sits at the center of The Ilisian, a mixed-use destination bringing together a line-up of restaurants and bars, resort-style wellness offerings, private residences, and the House of NYNN private members’ club.
The hotel introduces 278 guest rooms and suites, among the most spacious in Athens, with many accommodations featuring private balconies and views toward the Acropolis and the Aegean Sea. The suite offering includes three Presidential Suites, a Royal Suite, and the Omega Penthouse, scheduled to open later this year with a private pool and panoramic views.
Inside, interiors by AvroKO revive Athens’ modernist golden era, pairing preserved mid-century elements with newly commissioned artworks and bespoke pieces by Athenian atelier Saridis and ceramicist Eleni Vernadaki. Mare Studio curated the property's art program and shaped the lobby alongside AvroKO.
Dining is anchored by Byzantino, reintroduced as Athens’ first Grande Brasserie under the direction of executive chef Angelos Lantos, the first Greek chef to earn two Michelin stars in the city. Additional venues include Japanese restaurant Onuki, designed by Yabu Pushelberg, and Athenian Lounge, while the Galaxy rooftop is set to return later this year as Galaxy Dispensary and Galaxy Supper Club alongside two additional dining concepts.
Wellness is centered around the Oasis, the city’s largest outdoor pool, alongside indoor facilities including a specialist gym, dedicated studios for yoga, Pilates, Gyrotonic, and spinning, as well as a heated pool. A 7,500-square-foot Green Roof is scheduled to open later this year, introducing a rooftop running track, outdoor gym, and pickleball court, while the Odei Wellness Residence will launch in phases beginning with treatments inspired by ancient Greek rituals, followed by longevity-focused therapies led by Dr. Costas Papageorgiou.
A 1960s-inspired kids club is also set to open later this year, while the broader Ilisian development will expand with the addition of Waldorf Astoria Residences Athens The Ilisian, located within the upper levels of the tower and offering a private entrance, club lounge, and dedicated fitness facility.
The property also incorporates a retail component, including The Store, a curated concept showcasing emerging local and international designers, alongside a jewelry boutique, florist, hair salon, tailoring services, and a chocolatier connected to Byzantino. Meeting and event facilities include two ballrooms, while Conrad’s 1/3/5 experiences provide guided access to the city’s cultural and culinary landscape.
