Conrad Athens The Ilisian Reopens, Marking a New Era for Historic Landmark
Athens, April 24, 2026 – The renowned Athens landmark, formerly known as the Athens Hilton, officially reopened its doors on April 23, 2026, as the Conrad Athens The Ilisian. This significant event occurred precisely 63 years after its initial debut on St. George’s Day in 1963, signaling a new chapter for a property deeply embedded in the Greek capital’s history and post-war development.
A Legacy Reimagined: From Hilton to Conrad
The transformation into the Conrad Athens The Ilisian represents a pivotal moment for the surrounding neighborhood, which famously took its name from the original Hilton. The property has consistently been a symbol of modern, cosmopolitan Athens, and its reimagining aims to continue this legacy with a focus on high-end tourism and real estate.
The soft opening ceremony witnessed the presence of leadership and executives from TEMES SA, the project’s developer and a prominent investor in luxury tourism and real estate in Greece. The Constantakopoulos family, owners of TEMES SA, were central to the event, which also included hotel staff.
Archbishop Ieronymos led a blessing ceremony, adding a traditional touch to the contemporary inauguration. Achilleas V. Constantakopoulos, chairman of the board of TEMES SA, expressed his gratitude and emotion, acknowledging the contributions of all involved in the renovation. He particularly highlighted his brothers and his wife, Constantza Sbokou Constantakopoulou, referring to her as “my support both in the family and in these projects.” Addressing the hotel employees, he emphasized, “Without you, these projects mean nothing.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony formally inaugurated the hotel’s new era. A more extensive, official opening celebration is anticipated once all renovation works are fully completed, promising a grander unveiling to the public.
Culinary Delights and Social Hubs Return
As part of its reopening, several key culinary and social venues within the hotel have been revitalized. Since Tuesday, the well-known restaurant Byzantino has resumed operations as Byzantino Grande Brasserie. Under the culinary direction of executive chef Angelos Lantos, this venue – recognized as Athens’ first grande brasserie – offers a sophisticated menu that seamlessly blends classic French and traditional Greek culinary traditions, promising a unique gastronomic experience for its patrons.
The opening also features the Athenian Lounge, an all-day establishment designed to become a popular meeting spot. It aims to attract both hotel guests and local residents with its offering of classic cocktails and familiar flavors in a refined setting. Further enhancements are planned for later this year, with the iconic Galaxy venue slated to make its return as the Galaxy Dispensary and Galaxy Supper Club, promising to bring back a beloved part of Athens’ nightlife and dining scene.
The reopening of Conrad Athens The Ilisian is poised to reinforce Athens’ position as a premier destination for luxury travel and hospitality, building upon the rich history of its predecessor while introducing contemporary elegance and services.
