On January 11, 2024, Hard Rock International, in partnership with GEK TERNA Group, marked a significant milestone in the Athens Riviera with the groundbreaking of their luxury resort at the historic Hellinikon Airport. This event celebrated with a commemorative shovel ceremony, signals the beginning of a project that is set to transform the landscape of tourism and entertainment in Athens.
The Hard Rock Hotel Athens, slated to open in 2027, is poised to become the first integrated resort of its kind in continental Europe. This €1.5 billion construction project is not just an architectural marvel but also a major economic catalyst, projected to create 3,000 construction jobs and 3,000 permanent positions. This development is expected to have a substantial positive impact on both the local economy of Athens and the broader Greek economy.
Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, “Today is a very special day as we bring our world-class entertainment to Athens. We are thankful for the support from political leaders, our partners at GEK TERNA, and the people of Athens.”
The resort will offer a unique blend of luxury and entertainment, featuring 1,100 guest rooms, 15 dining options, a 3,000-seat Hard Rock Live theatre, a luxurious Rock Spa®, and a Body Rock Fitness center. The Hard Rock Hotel Athens aims to be more than just a hotel; it’s envisioned as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, and state-of-the-art entertainment.
Drawing inspiration from Athens’s rich cultural legacy and the stunning Mediterranean landscape, the resort is set to enhance Hard Rock’s growing presence in Europe. The project aligns with the shared vision of Hard Rock International, GEK TERNA Group, the Greek government, and Lamda Development to transform the historical Hellinikon Airport into a world-class redevelopment, boosting Greece’s tourism industry.
George Peristeris, Chairman and CEO of GEK TERNA Group, highlighted the significance of the project, “This investment, in collaboration with Hard Rock International, is more than its nominal value. It’s a development project that will be a reference point for Greece’s tourism internationally, offering employment to thousands and significant revenues to the national budget.”
The Hard Rock Hotel Athens is not just a construction project; it’s a symbol of growth, commitment, and the future of luxury tourism in Greece. As the project progresses, it promises to bring a new era of entertainment and economic prosperity to Athens and its surrounding areas.
