Conrad Athens The Ilisian

The entrance decor makes a beautiful first impression, and we had a lovely time at both Athineon and Byzantinon. The whole morning team, doormen included, made us feel welcome. A special mention to the woman on security at the entrance of the Ilisian Conrad: she was naturally polite, warm, and clearly eager to help, with none of that fake hospitality. We've been coming to this iconic place since it was still Hilton, and this morning was truly exceptional. We’ll definitely be back.

I’m usually someone who overthinks where to stay in a new city, but for future Athens trips my list now has one hotel on it. Go, you’ll have a fantastic stay. I’ve stayed in all sorts of hotels around the world, and Conrad Athens The Ilisian really stands out. It isn’t cheap, whether you pay with money or points, but the experience felt special from start to finish. The pool area was on another level, and the spa was first class. Staff walked you to your lounge chair or cabana and marked it reserved, and there were plenty of people around for food and drinks. They brought complimentary bottled water in a cooler when I arrived, and were easy to find if I needed anything. The hotel had only been open about two weeks, so everything felt brand new and beautifully done. Even the doorman opened my taxi door when I arrived. At check-in they mentioned some rooms hadn’t been used yet. Giota had noticed I had consecutive reservations, even though the second was under my wife’s account, and linked them so I wouldn’t have to switch rooms. That attention to detail stood out right away. I got there before 8:00 a.m. and only expected to leave my luggage, since I knew the room probably wouldn’t be ready. I said I was in Athens largely to experience the hotel, and they called Ariadni, the head of Guest Relations. She welcomed me and invited me to breakfast. Later, Maria from Guest Relations showed me to the room and walked me through its features. There was fresh fruit, a cheese plate, and champagne waiting. Giota and the Guest Relations team kept greeting me by name throughout my stay, and staff seemed to anticipate what guests needed, always with real smiles and warmth. At checkout I went back to Giota, and they said they had something for me. Danielle from Guest Services gave me a bag of Greek treats and gifts to remember the hotel by, as if I could forget it. My one small gripe was the airport ride at checkout, and I know it was my own decision. I asked for a taxi and was told it would cost €70 because it was arranged “through” the hotel, about twice the usual fare. It was late, and I confused Athens’ fixed taxi pricing with Rome’s, so I agreed, thinking the regular rate was around €55. The hotel is near the airport metro line and express airport bus, and taxis are often nearby or easy to book through apps like FreeNow. Next time I’d arrange the ride myself.

Spent two nights at the newly renovated Conrad Athens Hotel and had a great experience. It was even better than I expected. Congratulations!