Conrad and Waldorf Astoria brands to come to Athens, Greece in a single compound

The Ilisian (Source)

Greece has always been a beloved tourist destination, but its allure continues to increase, attracting more visitors each year. This growing popularity has spurred significant investments in new hotels and resorts. Here’s a recent example.

Conrad & Waldorf Astoria Brands Come to Athens

As the Greek City Times reports, plans have been unveiled for The Ilisian, a new luxury lifestyle destination in Athens featuring a hotel, residences, restaurants, a members' club, and more. Scheduled to open in 2025, the project has been under construction for a couple of years, with the full concept recently revealed.

The Ilisian will occupy the space of the former Hilton Athens, which closed in early 2022 for extensive renovations. This iconic property, originally opened in 1963, operated for nearly 60 years.

The Ilisian Athens Development

The Ilisian will include the Conrad Athens Hotel (278 guest rooms), the Conrad Athens Residences (18 hotel residences), and the Waldorf Astoria Athens Residences (37 private residences on the upper floors).

In addition, The Ilisian will offer a lifestyle members’ club, various culinary and entertainment venues, shopping, leisure, and wellness experiences.

The Ilisian (Source)

Economic Impact

This development represents an investment of around €340 million. It's projected to have an economic impact exceeding €1.25 billion in its first five years and will create up to 800 direct jobs.

Design Inspiration

The design of The Ilisian is inspired by the historic Ilisos River and the surrounding Ilisia neighborhood, aiming to reflect the timeless connection with the city and its residents. The development seeks to blend contemporary international trends with Athens' cultural heritage, creating a meeting place for both locals and visitors.

The Ilisian (Source)

A Unique Addition to the Athens Hotel Scene

Athens is often a stopover for tourists heading to other parts of Greece. Whether visitors are there to see the Acropolis, start a cruise from Piraeus, or rest before traveling to an island, The Ilisian adds a valuable option to the city's hotel scene.

Currently, the best points hotels in Athens are the Hotel Grande Bretagne and King George, both part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection. Additionally, boutique hotels like The Dolli at Acropolis have emerged. For resort experiences, the Four Seasons Athens Astir Palace and the One&Only Aesthesis Athens on the Athenian Riviera are top choices.

Given this landscape, the new Conrad Athens will offer a fresh, luxurious alternative. While it won’t be a boutique property, it promises to be a destination in itself, with modern, opulent rooms and numerous dining and shopping options just steps away.

Bottom Line

After closing in early 2022, the Hilton Athens will reopen in 2025 as The Ilisian Athens, featuring a Conrad Hotel, Conrad Residences, and Waldorf Astoria Residences. Additionally, the development will include extensive dining, shopping, and a members' club, enhancing the luxury landscape of Athens.