You can now book stays at Conrad Athens The Ilisian, with first check-ins planned for early June 2026 in Athens. The announcement marks the much-awaited return of the landmark on Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, four and a half years after the historic Hilton Athens closed in January 2022.
The reservation launch, confirmed yesterday morning, arrives as Athens builds its status as a year-round destination. Shops and services along the stretch from the city center to Ilisia expect more foot traffic as the landmark returns under the luxury Conrad name.
How will the investment impact the city?
The relaunch should strengthen Athens’ high-end hotel scene, adding a flagship that can host international visitors, business travelers, and culture-focused guests near major institutions and museums. Exact numbers aren’t out yet, but partners expect a lift in jobs and orders for local suppliers once operations begin.
What do residents and visitors gain?
- Revived landmark: The return of a well-known meeting point on Vasilissis Sofias brings back a piece of the city’s modern heritage.
- Sustainability focus: Upgrades aim for LEED Gold, promising better energy performance and a smaller environmental footprint.
- Wider ecosystem benefits: Nearby retail and services are likely to see increased activity as the hotel resumes events and hospitality functions.
When will guests arrive, and why was the timeline shifted?
The original target of November 2025 has moved to early 2026 because of the scale and complexity of the renovation. According to the owner company Ioniki Xenodocheion (TEMES S.A., with participation from the Konstantakopoulos and Olayan groups), the new timeline is needed to meet quality and sustainability goals.
How did the works progress?
Work centered on preserving signature architectural elements while adding modern systems to boost energy efficiency. The push to secure LEED Gold guided choices on materials, insulation, and mechanical upgrades.
Which heritage elements are being preserved?
A focal point of the redesign is conserving and spotlighting the building’s signature facades by Yiannis Moralis. These elements, central to the property’s identity, have been restored to keep continuity with Athens’ cultural environment while matching current hospitality standards.
What changed since the Hilton era?
Beyond the new brand and guest experience envisioned under Conrad, the project aims to balance heritage and innovation: recognizable exterior art and lines outside, refreshed interiors and operational efficiencies inside. Plans for restaurants, events, and wellness are expected to reflect this dual approach.
What details are still pending?
Room counts, rate guidance, and the full lineup of venues were not officially released at the time of publication and may need confirmation as opening draws near. With reservations already open for dates from early June 2026 in Athens, more announcements are expected in the coming months.
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