The Ace Hotel & Swim Club Athens has officially opened, and it’s already turning heads. It’s the Ace’s first location in Greece (and Europe, for that matter), bringing a whole new vibe to the Athenian Riviera. The hotel took over the iconic Fenix Hotel in the Glyfada district, a Brutalist structure from the ’70s, where the design team at Ciguë worked their magic to blend the building’s bold, geometric bones with modern Greek style and the laid-back charm of a classic seaside resort. The result is a hotel that feels decidedly Ace-coded – fresh, fun, and effortlessly stylish.
The property spans 120 rooms, each filled with light, local art, and Ace’s signature furnishings—think cozy, embroidered duvets, vintage touches, turntables, and acoustic guitars to make you feel right at home. There’s even a touch of playful luxury, with cantilevered balconies that let the sunshine pour in and connect you to the vibrant city outside.
But it’s really in the common spaces Atelier Ace really shines – when it comes to design, no detail has been spared. The sizeable ground floor flows from the spacious lobby that simply oozes effortless cool, into the sprawling pool and lounge area—perfect for spending lazy afternoons lounging poolside, cocktail in hand. For those seeking a more elevated experience, a sleek rooftop pool set to open in late 2025 offers jaw-dropping seaside views, a restaurant and a cocktail bar.
Foodies are in for a treat with Sebastian, their all-day French-American bistro led by local chef Elvi Dimitris Zyba, serving seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Located on the lobby level through the elegant Jean Prouvé doors, it’s the perfect spot for a casual bite or a long leisurely dinner. The menu of generous sharing plates pairs perfectly with the hotel’s curated wine list, highlighting some of Athens’s best natural wines. There’s also a range of other more casual dining options throughout the hotel, including an intimate Lobby Bar, a casual Poolside Bar, and Good Chemistry, an all-day coffee bar serving local coffee, pastries and light grab-and-go bites.
The hotel’s design is a tribute to Athens’ vibrant art scene. The Atelier Ace team worked alongside various local artists to create a collection that spans sculpture, photography, painting, and tapestry, adding another layer of culture and creativity to the space. Every corner of the Ace Hotel & Swim Club feels like a celebration of Greek modernism elevated effortlessly with vintage furniture and bespoke pieces that shine extra bright when the dappled afternoon light hits.
The swim club isn’t just for hotel guests—it’s open to the public and is an excellent place for locals and travellers to spend the day enjoying the Ace hospitality and soak up the relaxed, stylish atmosphere. Conversely, with the hotel located just a 25-minute drive from the city, guests wanting to venture off property can easily explore the Athenian Riviera, the city’s beach clubs, vibrant nightlife, restaurants and cultural landmarks.
View this post on Instagram
In short, The Ace Hotel & Swim Club Athens is a modern sanctuary tucked away close to Athens where design, food, art, and the laid-back spirit of the Athenian coast all come together. Whether you’re travelling for a romantic getaway, a weekend with friends, or a day before heading to explore the Greek islands, The Ace will leave you feeling inspired, relaxed, and ready for your next adventure.