When it comes to choosing where to stay in Athens, a centrally located hotel is always the wisest choice for those who wish to explore the city. An international hotel chain is usually the most preferred option among travelers when it comes to certain standards and level of service. The Hilton Athens Hotel is one of the best addresses in the capital — with a history that spans for over 50 years. In fact in the late 1960s the legendary Conrad Hilton was here to celebrate the hotel’s opening and was quoted saying that it is “the most beautiful Hilton hotel in the world.” Today the Hilton Athens Hotel continues to hold an important place in the life of the Athenians — it has managed to solidify its existence and reputation as one of the best hotels in Athens.
View from the Executive Room on the 11th floor
During my college years, studying hotel management and later on in my life I recall visiting the Hilton Athens on numerous occasions — whether it was for a conference, event or celebration. The Hilton Athens is an established landmark in the heart of Athens.
Hilton Athens Hotel Review: Executive Floor
When the Hilton hotel brand debuted in the Athens hotel scene in the late 1960s, it set standards for world class hospitality in Greece. The hotel continues to strive for exceptional service until this day.
During my weekend city break in Athens I was invited to experience the services of the Executive Floor which spans across the 11th floor of the Hilton Hotel Athens.
Upon arrival I was given an elevator access card which took me to the private reception of the Executive Floor. This private check-in and check-out service is available to all the guests who book they Executive Floor accommodation.
We stayed in the Executive Room with Acropolis view which features a balcony with sweeping views of the Sacred Rock as well as the city of Athens.
The guest room was quite spacious (34 m²) furnished with a fantastic Hilton Serenity king size bed, separate sitting corner with a small couch and side table as well as a working desk with plenty of plugs.
The white marble bathroom features a separate walk-in shower and a bathtub. The bathroom is stocked with the Crabtree & Evelyn bath and body care amenities, bathrobes and slippers. There is also a good hairdryer.
The spacious wardrobe includes an ironing board which is an excellent amenity to have when traveling. There is also a complimentary tea and coffee making set in the room, and a fully stocked mini bar (upon extra charge).
During our stay we had complimentary access to the Executive Lounge where guests may enjoy daily continental breakfast from 06:30 to 10:30 on weekdays and until 11:00 am on the weekends.
Executive Lounge
An extensive buffet breakfast is served at the Byzantino Restaurant on the reception level. You can enjoy everything from healthy bites, freshly baked goods, yogurts, cereals, a generous selection of hot dishes and eggs made to order right in front of the guest.
There are also light snacks on offer throughout the day from 10:30 (or 11 on weekends) and a bar set up from 18:00-20:00. The Executive Lounge offers equally exceptional views of the Acropolis and a more relaxed setting.
Dining at the Hilton Athens Hotel
When it comes to satisfying your appetite, dining options are plentiful at the Hilton Athens Hotel.
Galaxy Bar
The acclaimed Galaxy Restaurant and Bar draws in both locals and visitors, its rooftop with staggering views of the Acropolis is what makes it truly shine. Before the rooftop dining scene of Athens became a hit — the Galaxy Restaurant and Bar was already winning awards for its unique location and delicious cocktails.
There are numerous events taking place at the Galaxy Bar throughout the year — during our stay we joined the Halloween Party, which was great fun. The Galaxy Restaurant serves an exceptional Mediterranean menu and fantastic sushi.
During my city break stay at the Hilton Athens Hotel we enjoyed the Mediterranean flavours of the Byzantino Restaurant which is an all day open plan restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
For starters we opted for a smoked salmon served with red quinoa and lightly charred avocado, and steamed mussels cooked with fennel and Greek ouzo.
For mains we tried the fantastic beef tagliata served with potato puree, asparagus and mushrooms, flavoured with truffle oil. The beef was cooked medium and the portion was very filling. My mother had the Shri drum fillet (Mylokopi in Greek) served with black rice, steamed baby vegetables topped with a lobster sauce.
We paired our dinner with a chilled Greek white wine produced by Gerovasileiou Estate — a mixture of Malagouzia and Assirtiko grape variety.
For a light snack, drinks or beverages guests may enjoy the beautiful interiors of the Aethrion Lounge located in the main lobby.
Just before our departure we enjoyed a perfectly prepared Bloody Mary.
Other dining options include the Milos Restaurant renowned for its exceptional Greek cuisine and seafood dishes as well as the Oasis Pool Bar & Grill set right by the pool (open from May – October).
Relax at the Hiltonia Spa
Enjoy all the comforts of a hotel spa in the heart of an urban oasis. The spacious Hiltonia Spa located on the lower level of the hotel is the perfect place to restore and regenerate your energies.
The heated indoor pool features hydrotherapy seating and jets as well as underwater pool bikes. There is also a very nice Jacuzzi where we spent a relaxing afternoon, as well as enjoying the Hammam and sauna. The spa also offers a fully-equipped fitness center and a selection of beauty treatments.
Access to the Hiltonia Spa is free for the Executive Floor guests as well as all Silver, Gold and Diamond Hilton Honors members.
The Spa is not limited only to the guests staying at the Hilton Athens, external visitors may book a massage or other treatments at the Hiltonia Spa. During the summer months guests may also enjoy the modern facilities of the 25 meter outdoor pool.
Location
Ideally located right in the heart of Athens, the hotel is set steps away from the Syntagma Square and all the city’s main attractions. The nearby Kolonaki area is the perfect place to enjoy boutique shopping as well as its numerous cafes, bars and restaurants.
Hotel Lobby
Hilton Athens Hotel is located next to the Evangelismos station (Blue line), just a few stops from the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. The hotel can be easily accessed by metro, bus or taxi.
Book Your Private Airport Transfer with Welcome Taxi
If you do like to travel in comfort then a taxi would be your best option. To avoid the hassle of waiting in line and to be sure that you are getting your own personal driver you can pre-book a car online prior to your arrival at the Athens International Airport. You will be met by the driver holding a name sign as soon as you come out at the arrivals with a bottle of water and city map.
The flat taxi rate is €38 from the airport to the city center. For arrivals from midnight until 5 am the cost is €54. Your trip will take approximately 35 minutes depending on the traffic. Book your Athens Airport Transfer
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Check out some of our posts on Things to Do and See in Athens:
4 Days in Athens: A Local’s Guide to Athens
*Passion for Hospitality was a guest of Hilton Athens, all opinions expressed are always my own.
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