Athens’ historic Hilton, which first opened its doors in 1963, as Greece’s first major international hotel is set to receive a 130 million euro redesign to become a new luxury hotel with premium private residences.
Hilton and Ionian Hotel Enterprises have announced an agreement for the new development, which marks the introduction of Hilton’s luxury brands — Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Residences, and Waldorf Astoria Residences to Greece.
Hilton Athens first opened its doors in 1963
As of 2024, the Hilton will be renamed Conrad and will include 280 modern rooms and suites, as well as about 50 private residences. In addition to the luxury hotel, the property will also include a members-only club, a range of eateries, bars, boutiques, entertainment venues, as well as leisure and wellness experiences.
“For more than half a century Hilton Athens has played a pivotal role in the city’s emergence as a global destination, welcoming international guests, royalty, and captains of industry. We’re incredibly proud to continue that legacy with the introduction of Conrad Hotels & Resorts alongside Waldorf Astoria and Conrad branded residences. With contemporary luxury interiors, seamless service, and stunning views overlooking the ancient citadel of the Acropolis, this is set to be an incredible addition to the portfolio,” said Simon Vincent, executive vice president and president, EMEA, Hilton.
According to Hilton, the new destination aims to introduce a well-curated blend of global and local brands that will inspire the capital’s residents, as well as a wide and inclusive audience, to experience the true spirit of modern Athens.
Dino Michael, senior vice president and global category head, of Hilton Luxury Brands said, “Athens is a city that perfectly responds to the needs of today’s luxury traveller. Steeped in history, with a thriving cultural and entertainment offering, it’s a fitting location in which to introduce our Conrad Hotels & Resorts brand. Increasingly, we’re also seeing significant demand for branded residences that offer our signature luxury hospitality, so we are particularly pleased to be expanding our partnership with IHE to introduce this exciting concept to Athens for the first time.”
With so many amazing rooftop bars and terraces around the city- serving elegant cocktails and offering splendid views of the Acropolis- we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite spots in town to unwind!
Galaxy, Hilton
This sophisticated and cool rooftop bar located on top of Hilton Athens is one of the most popular spots to grab a cocktail in the Greek capital. From the open-air terrace, you can enjoy stunning views of the ancient Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill along with (what feels like) the complete Athens skyline. Upscale in style and decor but laid back in vibe, here you can enjoy a bar menu along with delicious signature cocktails and a wide selection of wines.
A: Leof. Vasilissis Sofias 46, Athina
The Zillers Roof Garden
The Zillers Roof Garden Bar has been awarded as one of the best bars in Greece for 2020. Set at the top of the stunning hotel, it’s open from the morning where you can enjoy brunch through to midnight for after-dinner drinks.
A: Mitropoleos 54, Monastiraki
Bios
This part cultural centre/ part rooftop bar is ideal for creative and artsy types. Sit back on one of the lounge chairs and sip on a refreshing cocktail with interesting ingredients including ones that feature ice cream!
A: Pireos 84, Kerameikos
Hytra Roof Garden
A unique outdoor setting, with a panoramic view of the Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill, and the city skyline- it’s set on the seventh floor of the Onassis Cultural Center. The barmen here create unique cocktails, using freshly squeezed fruit juices and handmade syrups and liqueurs, based on old traditional recipes.
A: Onassis Cultural Center, Leof. Andrea Siggrou, Athens
City Zen
One of the newest rooftop spots in town, this gorgeous terrace in the heart of the historical centre of Athens has breathtaking Acropolis views. Housed in the top two floors of a renovated building of Athens, it’s the ideal spot to catch up with friends.
A: Aiolou 11, Athina
A for Athens
This is by far one of the local favourites in town where the talented mixologists prepare fabulous cocktails including a Spicy Margarita and a Passion Caramel Calypso.
A: Miaouli 2, Athina
Tudor Hall, King George II Palace Hotel
Located on the 7th floor of the famous King George II Palace Hotel, the rooftop offers a fantastic view of the historical sites of the capital. This rooftop bar offers well-made signature cocktails along with an impressive wine list. Tip: dress elegantly.
A: Vasileos Georgiou A 3, Athina
NEW Art Lounge
Head to the 7th floor of the hotel to sip on superb cocktails; accompanied by panoramic city views. Seating comes both on the al-fresco terrace, as well as inside the comfy lounge, where you are surrounded by over 2000 art books.
A: Navarcou Nikodimou, Syntagma 1, Athina
Anglais
Located in Monastiraki, this two-floor bar –the top one is an astonishing roof garden– offers not just drinks, food and coffees all day long but also breathtaking views.
A: Kirikiou 6, Athina
Air Lounge Roof Bar
A modern and stylish rooftop terrace with a stunning swimming pool, it’s perched on the 9th floor of a chic hotel. Here you’ll find a large selection of signature and vintage cocktails along with an impressive wine list.
A: Sofokleous 26, Athina
M Bar
On the 10th floor of the popular Electra Metropolis Hotel, you’ll find one of the very best rooftop terraces in Athens, which is usually buzzing with both local and foreign guests.
A: Mitropoleos 15, Athina
360 Cocktail Bar
The hotel’s cocktail bar in downtown Athens is set on the roof garden and invites guests to enjoy signature cocktails with memorable views of Acropolis- and breathtaking sunsets- sigh!
A: Ifestou 2, Athina
Penthouse 21
Perched on the 21st floor of the President Hotel Athens, this is not only the highest hotel rooftop bar in Athens but in all of Greece. Sophisticated and stylish in vibe, the rooftop bar has a large selection of cocktails and other drinks.
A: Leof. Kifisias 43, Athina
Thissio View Cocktail Bar
A short stroll from Monastiraki Square, this rooftop is extra special at sunset and a great spot to meet up with friends or that special someone for dinner and drinks.
A: Apostolou Pavlou 25, Athens
Point A
A favourite amongst locals, Point A is known for its fabulous ‘Tapas Cocktails’ as here you are always served a treat with your drink!
A: Rovertou Galli 4a, Athina
Retirè, Ergon House
Retirè is a new addition to the Athenian rooftop scene and the drinks menu has something for everyone. Known for their great cocktails, Retirè also has an impressive range of Greek wines and local beers.
A:23, Mitropoleos Street, Athina
Hotel Novotel
Located on the top floor of the Novotel, the rooftop bar offers majestic 360-degree views of the Lycabettus Hill, the Acropolis and the city skyline. Here you can sit back and enjoy the chill-out music and endless cocktails.
A:4, Michail Voda Street, Athina
Herodion Hotel
Set on the top of the Herodion Hotel, you can enjoy a wide range of inventive cocktails, plus Mediterranean and Greek gourmet dishes.
A: Rovertou Galli 4, Athina
Couleur Locale
An elevator will take you to the 3rd floor of this buzzing all-day bar-restaurant. It’s a go-to spot for locals who gather here for a drink- with a front view of the Acropolis.
A: Normanou 3, Monastiraki
The GB Roof Garden Restaurant and Bar
Located on the 8th floor of the famous Hotel Grande Bretagne, this is the perfect spot to sip on a glass of wine with a full view of the Acropolis and the Parthenon; as well as Lycabettus Hill and the Doric Greek Parliament at Syntagma Square. Tip: dress code is smart casual- no beachwear allowed.
