Here Are The Best Rooftop Bars In Europe

Best rooftop bars in Europe 2023, How do these rankings work?

50. Terraza Tamarán – Las Palmas, Gran Canaria

We think of Las Palmas as a bit of an underrated gem, and Terraza Tamarán is a case in point. The trendy spot sits atop the Hotel Aloe Canteras, with panoramic views of the city and the beach. Check out the live music sessions on sunny weekend afternoons and stay for a glorious sunset. Of course, tapas is a given.

Don’t miss: Watching the uninterrupted sunset from the corner table.

Must-try drink: A fresh jug of sangria.

49. Level 27 – Warsaw, Poland

As the name suggests, this popular club is on the 27th floor. The unique view of the city skyline makes the sunrises and sunsets remain in your memory for a long time. Their slogan is “Higher level of clubbing”, which guarantees weekly events and DJs for an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss: Thumping weekend parties.

Must-try drink: Anything with vodka is only right in Poland.

48. LIFT – Tirana, Albania

Not only does LIFT have one of the best rooftop bars in Europe, but it’s also a seriously good steakhouse. Set on top of the most iconic commercial building in Tirana, the terrace offers some of the best views of the city and surrounding mountains, as well as the nearby Air Albania stadium. There’s an impressive drinks menu featuring excellent local and international wines, beers, spritzes and cocktails. Polish off a juicy, perfectly cooked ribeye before dancing the night away to a live DJ under the starry sky.

Don’t miss: Picking out the juiciest steak cut for an unforgettable meal.

Must-try drink: Their unique take on a Mezcal Negroni.

47. Skybar – Vilnius, Lithuania

This classy sky bar on the 22nd floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva has unbeatable views of the entire city. There are more than 70 cocktails to choose from, with a few funky twists too.

Don’t miss: Watching the city go by from the highest vantage point in Vilnius.

Must-try drink: Purple Rain cocktail.

46. Aloha Bar – Rotterdam, Netherlands

Aloha is a bar, restaurant, coffee roaster and terrace on the Maas River that focuses on sustainability and reducing waste. For example, they use the fruity berry from the coffee bean as the base for their iced tea. There are regular events and an all-around great vibe.

Don’t miss: Their cheesy monthly events – literally. Turn up to Cheesy Wednesday for Dutch cheese fondue.

Must-try drink: Their no-waste iced tea.

45. Illum Rooftop – Copenhagen, Denmark

At the top of the ILLUM centre, you will find Copenhagen's coolest rooftops, with a mix of bars and restaurants and the best views of the city. The rooftop restaurants serve everything from steaks to lobster, to cocktails and champagne.

Don’t miss: Tucking into fresh fish at Skagen Fiskerestaurant.

Must-try drink: A cappuccino from the Original Coffee.

44. Floor17 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

This hotel rooftop bar can boast that it's the highest roof terrace in Amsterdam, with views of the city from 85 metres up high. It becomes a hot spot with locals and visitors alike each evening, with top bartenders slinging cocktails and good tunes. Be sure to keep an eye out for Floor17’s Rooftop Movie Nights programme in the summer months.

Don’t miss: Rooftop Movie Nights under the Stars.

Must-try drink: The Irish Truffle for the perfect dessert drink. There are plenty of mocktails, too.

43. High Note Sky Bar – Budapest, Hungary

A luxury hotel in the city, head straight to the rooftop bar for panoramic views of the city guaranteed to spice up your Instagram feed. Views of St Stephen’s Basilica go perfectly with a glass of vino too.

Don’t miss: Mouth-watering desserts freshly prepared by the pastry chef.

Must-try drink: Citadelle – a cocktail of whiskey, saffron, black pepper, smoke, and bitters.

42. Hugo’s Terrace – St. Julian's, Malta

Looking for a swanky bar in Malta? Hugo's Terrace is the classiest spot for a sunset cocktail that will convince you to stay on after dark. With views of the clear blue waters and golden sands of St. Georges Bay, it's clear why it's one of the best rooftop bars in Europe.

Don’t miss: Staying after sunset – this is when the dancefloor gets going!

Must-try drink: Any of their in-house cocktails – Nick the Greek is particularly refreshing with its mix of gin, cucumber, basil, and mint.

41. Matou – Liverpool, England

Feast your eyes on Liverpool’s iconic waterfront and the Liver Building from the suntrap terrace. Not only does Matou have one of the best views in Liverpool, but it also serves up excellent Pan Asian food.

Don’t miss: Sharing the Matou platter of crispy spring rolls, chicken satay skewers, and more.

Must-try drink: Frozen strawberry daiquiri (sunshine not promised)

40. Kranen Bar at the Munch Rooftop Bar – Oslo, Norway

The new Munch Museum, which opened in late 2021, is a huge improvement on the original premises for several reasons, not least for its swish new rooftop bar. Sitting on the 13th floor, 60 metres above ground level, the bar boasts brilliant views over the city and Oslo fjord. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the golden hour after an afternoon perusing some of Norway’s finest artworks.

Don’t miss: Admiring the sunset views over the Oslo fjord.

Must-try drink: Mulled wine.

39. Cold Town House – Edinburgh, Scotland

Set in one of the most unusual locations on our list, this three-storey brewery is housed in the former Robertson Memorial Church. The days of serving sermons are long gone though, these days it’s all about the craft beer brewed on-site, award-winning pizzas and one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle in the city.

Don’t miss: Tucking into Neapolitan pizzas while enjoying views of Edinburgh Castle.

Must-try drink: One of their creative handcraft beers – pineapple lager float, anyone?

38. Liebling – Hidden Rooftop Bar – Budapest, Hungary

Liebling is known as Budapest’s ‘hidden’ rooftop bar, which might mean there's not much of a view, but the funky courtyard makes up for it.

There's live music every night, a vast selection of quality local wines, classic cocktails, spirits and the best of Hungarian and Italian cuisine - what more could you want?

Don’t miss: Atmospheric live music evenings.

Must-try drink: Locally brewed pint.

37. Fishing the Roof – Florence, Italy

Perfect for a romantic rendezvous, whisk your loved one away to Fishing the Roof. The views of Florence Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio are second-to-none, stretching out to the rolling Tuscan hills. As the name suggests, this spot is one for seafood lovers. Fresh fish dinner, cocktails, and gorgeous Florentine views – what’s not to love?

Don’t miss: Candyfloss skies over the Florence Duomo at dusk.

Must-try drink: Negroni Spritz.

36. Aurora – Vienna, Austria

Chic, stylish, and sleek – Aurora is one of Vienna’s coolest hot spots. Throw in panoramic views of the rooftops and city buildings, and we’re onto a winner. The name ‘Aurora’ comes from the Northern Lights, and the Scandinavian vibe continues with the menu – even the signature cocktails have a Scandi touch.

Don’t miss: Tucking into excellent Scandinavian-inspired bar snacks while taking in the panoramic scenery.

Must-try drink: A crisp bottle of local white wine on a warm day.

35. Sky Bar at Hotel Almudaina – Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca

Sitting atop the Hotel Almudaina, this rooftop bar is both laid-back and glamorous. It has an understated vibe, with chilled-out music and stripped-black furniture. The views do the talking here – take in the landscape of the Mediterranean Sea and the Palma rooftops. The food menu is great too, with a mix of sharing bits and local dishes.

Don’t miss: Trying out the chef’s newest creations while taking in the cathedral views.

Must-try drink: The signature Rosat Sprit cocktail – a mix of vermouth, pomelo, and cava.

34. Mikla – Istanbul, Turkey

This sleek and stylish rooftop bar is the ideal spot to cool down, with a spectacular rooftop pool bar and jasmine-scented breeze. Head here for creative cocktails, DJ tunes and sweeping views over the city. If you’re hungry, the restaurant regularly ranks as one of the top 50 restaurants in the world too.

Don’t miss: Tucking into some of the best food in the world, what Mikla called New Anatolian Kitchen, on the open-air terrace.

Must-try drink: When in Rome, do as the Romans do – you must try rakı topped off with water.

33. Stockholm Under Stjärnorna – Stockholm, Sweden

You'll find one of the coolest yet laid-back rooftop bars in Stockholm. Commonly called SUS, this is a fantastic hang out-spot during warm summer evenings, with a killer view.

Whether it’s the DJs that play music, the movies on the screen or the cocktails in your hand, life is just better up here.

Don’t miss: High energy DJ nights on balmy summer nights.

Must-try drink: Frozen Patron Margarita Slushie. There’s plenty for those who don’t drink, too, including non-alcoholic wine.

32. Das Loft Bar & Lounge – Vienna, Austria

Get ready for fine cocktails and jaw-dropping views from this bar on the 18th floor of the Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom.

But just take note: for a guaranteed place at the window, with the best view over the rooftops of Vienna, you need to book the 4-course LOFT menu and pay in advance. Worth it?

Don’t miss: Tucking into fine dining fare while taking in views of the Vienna rooftops.

Must-try drink: One of the local wines – the 2017 Blaufrankisch from Southern Burgenland is a particularly good choice.

31. Terraza Hotel Doña María – Seville, Spain

Seville is notoriously hot, and what better way to cool down than in a rooftop pool? With plenty of shady spots and even a nice breeze, it’s popular for a reason. It also has a great view of La Giralda and serves up a zingy cocktail to match the surroundings. It’s not the most flashy spot, but it has its own charm to it that we love. You’ll come to cool down, but you’ll end up staying for late nights of jazz, blues, and of course, flamenco.

Don’t miss: Escaping the Seville heat by taking dips in the pool.

Must-try drink: A refreshing passionfruit mojito.

30. Park Bar – Lisbon, Portugal

There’s something inexplicably cool about a rooftop bar on top of a car park, especially ones with such dazzling views of Lisbon. The city is somewhat known for its viewpoints, or miradouro, excellent rooftop bars are a given. But we love the laid-back vibe of this one as much as their signature sangria. By night, the DJ cranks up the music and the place becomes one big dancefloor.

Don’t miss: Sunset drinks morphing into a night fuelled by music. Line your stomach with their signature burgers.

Must-try drink: Sangria.

29. MH5 – Munich, Germany

While some rooftop bars in Munich might have better views of the Old Town, none will beat the vibe of MH5. It’s more of an event venue, spreading across multiple floors with several open-air terraces. The ridiculously cool spot puts on monthly hip-hop nights, regular live DJ events, and exhibitions. There’s even a rooftop pool for summertime dips.

Don’t miss: Dancing under their stars at the monthly DJ events.

Must-try drink: Craft beer.

28. La Muña – Zurich, Switzerland

Channel old European Glamour from this elegant rooftop bar on the shores of Zurich Lake. Switch between taking in views of the city’s historic centre, the lake, and the Alps in the distance. There are comfy sofas for relaxed coffees, as well as vintage dining furniture. The menu is a bit of a wild card – a mix of Peruvian and Japanese – but it’s done extremely well.

Don’t miss: Stepping back in time with a visit to the Eden Cigar Lounge next door.

Must-try drink: Sake by the glass – the Kobe Classic is a nice mix of fruity and umami flavours.

27. Forza Wine – London, England

The hugely popular spin-off bar from the team behind Peckham’s favourite pizza restaurant is a wine-centric spotting serving up snacks, drinks and atmosphere in spades. The buzzing bench-filled terrace offers views as far as The Shard too. You can still enjoy views in the rain too, thanks to its large glass windows.

Don’t miss: Tucking into bar snacks while the sun sets over the city.

Must-try drink: Blood Orange Gin & Tonic. A quintessentially English drink with a twist.

26. Terrazza Borromini – Rome, Italy

This slick hotel bar has a panoramic terrace with views of Piazza Navona, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Pantheon that makes it a foolproof place for an Aperitivo for sunset. Reservations are pretty much essential, so plan ahead.

Don’t miss: The opportunity to sip wine with gorgeous views by not making reservations. This place is popular, particularly with couples, so book early.

Must-try drink: A crisp glass of wine to toast with a loved one.

25. Klunkerkranich Rooftop – Berlin, Germany

This quirky rooftop in Neukölln is many things: bar, club and beach. It's also one of the latest hotspots of the Berlin clubbing scene. Head up on top of Neukölln Arcaden shopping centre to listen to the DJ’s tunes and watch the sun setting over the rooftops of Berlin.

Don’t miss: Their weekly live DJ events.

Must-try drink: A locally brewed pint.

24. Sophie's – Dublin, Ireland

When the sunshine hits in Dublin, this is the place to make a beeline for. Sophie's is a pretty rooftop bar and terrace in the Dean Hotel, with zesty cocktails (try the Mad Ting, which is served in a soda can). Once the sun goes down, things get toasty with blankets and heaters.

Don’t miss: Sharing wood-fired flatbreads with friends while looking over the mix of city and countryside views.

Must-try drink: Guinness, of course.

23. Terrazza Danieli – Venice, Italy

The perfect spot for a romantic evening, Hotel Danieli’s rooftop terrace is undoubtedly one of the best rooftop bars in Europe. The views across the city and the lagoon are nothing sort of magical, and the menu is leaning towards fine dining territory. The price tag comes with it, but it’s worth every penny.

Don’t miss: Their famous Sunday buffet brunches.

Must-try drink: Ferrari sparkling wine.

22. The Culpeper – London, England

Still one of Europe's favourite rooftop bars, this perennially popular pub boasts slick views of the city from its greenhouse-esque exterior. Want a bite to eat? Take a look at what's growing next to you, it'll probably end up on your plate. There are two draft beers on tap now, plus a dazzling array of delicious cocktails. They also host events on the rooftop too, such as astronomy on the roof or sunset yoga classes.

Don’t miss: Their regular events, including sunset yoga classes.

Must-try drink: A crisp pint of lager.

21. 20 Stories – Manchester, England

One of the most iconic bars in Manchester, 20 Stories is the place to be. With incredible views across Manchester from (you guessed it) twenty stories up, it’s a garden oasis in the heart of the city. The Asian-fusion menu is the perfect bar food, and their regular events add something special. Catch painting evenings, live DJ sets, and even cooking classes for the kids.

Don’t miss: Their painting evenings, accompanied by cocktails.

Must-try drink: Any of their Grey Goose cocktails. The Lioness stands out to us with its flavours of lychee, coconut, and strawberry.

20. Sercotel Rosellón – Barcelona, Spain

Sip sangria and settle into front-row seats at the Sagrada Familia from the rooftop terrace of Sercotel Rosellón. Despite arguably having the best views of Gaudi’s architectural works in the city, we’re talking close enough to see every intricate detail, this spot is still somewhat of a hidden gem.

Don’t miss: Nibbling on olives and nuts while taking in the crystal clear views of the Sagrada Familia.

Must-try drink: An Estrella, of course.

19. Herbārijs – Riga, Latvia

Herbārijs is a concept bar + café on the rooftop terrace of Galleria Riga. The concept? It's all things inspired by the plant kingdom, with the bar itself somewhat of a lush ecosystem. You will find excellent cocktails that are strongly rooted in the world of aromatics and herbs, and great views.

Don’t miss: Sundown cocktails to round off a day of exploring Riga’s sights.

Must-try drink: Cocktails inspired by and using fresh plants.

18. Restaurant Silo – Copenhagen, Denmark

Boasting 360-degree views from a futuristic tower block in Nordhavn, Silo is the best place to make the most of the long summer evenings in Copenhagen. The 17th-floor bar serves up a wide selection of cocktails, snacks and spirits, with views as far as the eye can see.

Head here on Snakt Hans Evening for the best bonfire views of the city.

Don’t miss: Trying out the mix of Scandinavian and French menus from the panoramic rooftop terrace.

Must-try drink: Crafted house cocktails.

17. Seven Restaurant – Palermo, Sicily

This chic spot is set on the rooftop garden of the Hotel Ambasciatori, in the heart of Palermo. Browse their menu of exciting cocktails, designed by a local expert bartender, and a fine selection of wines. The vibe is elegant yet relaxed, with an excellent seafood-heavy food menu. Like most rooftop bars, the best time to visit is sunset – be sure to book in advance.

Don’t miss: Pointing out the historic buildings from this excellent vantage point of the Palermo skyline.

Must-try drink: Limoncello Spritz.

16. TakeT – Gothenburg, Sweden

When Spring hits Gothenburg, the place to be is TakeT. With views of the Göta Älv and across the dockyards, it’s a stunner. But people don’t only come for the views. They come for the laid-back vibe and events, including live DJs, brewery takeovers, yoga classes, art exhibitions, and more. And while rooftop bars are always better in the sunshine, the retractable roof makes this a great spot come rain or shine.

Don’t miss: Their famously good parties, from DJ sessions to day-to-day fun.

Must-try drink: Their refreshing minty cocktails.

15. Más Rooftop Bar – Helsinki, Finland

Smart, sustainable Helsinki is fast becoming one of 2022’s hottest travel destinations and Mas Rooftop Bar is the best way to see all of it in one go. Perched on the eighth floor of the Scandic Simonkenttä hotel, the Spanish-inspired bar offers up sangria, tapas and excellent cocktails. It even has a telescope and binoculars, so you can take a closer look at the city.

Don’t miss: Take a closer look at the city through the telescope.

Must-try drink: Fruity sangria.

14. Play Label Rooftop – Brussels, Belgium

The motto here is ‘music – sun – drinks’ – and that’s exactly what to expect at Play Label Rooftop. This spot is only during the summer months and for just two days a week, but that only adds to its magic. It’s never just another evening at Play Label Rooftop, it’s always an exciting prospect. The views across the city are great, but it’s all about the vibes here – picture balmy evenings sipping drinks and dancing along to the live DJ under the changing sky.

Don’t miss: Your opportunity to try out one of the world’s hottest rooftop parties – it’s only open two days a week!

Must-try drink: Fruity cocktails to match the playful vibe.

13. A for Athens – Athens, Greece

Come face-to-face with the Acropolis from this beautiful rooftop bar. The cocktail bar lets the views do the talking with its sleek and minimalist design, with a food menu that invites you to delve into the aromas of delicious Greek fare. Nothing beats sunsets and saganaki. In keeping with the theme, the cocktail menu is even Odyssey-themed.

Don’t miss: The sun setting over the Acropolis.

Must-try drink: Anything from the Odyssey-themed cocktail menu.

12. Salling ROOFTOP and the Roof Garden – Aarhus, Denmark

Copenhagen gets all the attention when it comes to sparkling city views, but this spectacular rooftop bar in Aarhus is giving it a run for its money. Part rooftop bar, part conservatory, this breathtaking rooftop space is the perfect place to kick back with a cocktail (or a few). Time your visit right and you can enjoy the live DJ set every Friday night too.

There's also a glass sky platform 25 metres above the high street and a network of walkways, platforms, art and installations and the Salling Roofgarden. Plus, all that vegetation is contributing to Aarhus' green transition.

Don’t miss: Their live DJ sets on a Friday night. You can also try out the Salling SKYWALK – a glass walkway 27 metres above Strøget.

Must-try drink: Italicus Sour – a blend of Italicus, lemon, sugar, and egg white.

11. Hotel Croce di Malta – Florence, Italy

This isn’t the flashiest rooftop bar in Europe, but there’s something in its simplicity that we love. Terracotta tiles and cream-wrought iron bistro chairs make this a quintessential summery spot in Florence. There’s the feeling of being in a family garden rather than a rooftop bar – the perfect setting for enjoying good company, aperitivos, and the beautiful Florence skyline.

Don’t miss: Quiet morning espressos in the beautiful morning glow.

Must-try drink: A glass of Chianti.

10. Mama Shelter – Bordeaux, France

This blockbuster rooftop bar has made our top 25 for the third year in a row. If you're looking to grab a drink at one of the most beautifully designed rooftop bars in Europe, Mama Shelter is the place to be. There are slouchy bean bags, table football tables and magnificent views of the city below. Stop by on Sundays for their weekly burger parties.

Don’t miss: Their Sunday burger parties.

Must-try drink: A local wine is only right in Bordeaux.

9. Skyline Bar 20up – Hamburg, Germany

This is the place to come at sunset in Hamburg to get a great view of the city and enjoy quality drinks. Come early to ensure you get one of the seats around the window with your friends for the perfect view. One of the essential rooftop bars in Europe.

Don’t miss: Come early to grab a window-front seat for the sunset.

Must-try drink: A cocktail from the impressive selection. The Dancing Chilli and its mix of lip-tingling spice and passionfruit foam is a great choice.

8. Patchwork at Sa Punta – Ibiza, Spain

This super-chic bar proves that you don't always need extreme heights to be considered one of the best rooftop bars in Europe. Patchwork is a Lebanese bar and restaurant in a colourful setting beside the sea. Vibrant handmade decor, sunset views and delicious cocktails add up to make this spot special.

Don’t miss: An unforgettable sunset morphing into a festive night fuelled by the DJ.

Must-try drink: Lychee Martini.

7. Sky Bar by SEEN– Lisbon, Portugal

Perched on the ninth floor of the 1930s Tivoli Hotel, Sky Bar is a stylish and sophisticated spot with showstopping city views. It’s set over different levels, with pouffes and floor cushions aplenty. The illuminated bar (yes, it literally glows green) serves up an impressive selection of cocktails, as well as beers on tap, bubbles and posh bar bites. There’s usually live music or a DJ set too.

Don’t miss: Enjoying the resident DJ’s smooth mix while soaking in views of St. Jorge’s Castle, the River Tagus, and the Arrábida Mountains.

Must-try drink: The quintessential Portuguese liqueur - Beirão d'Honra.

6. 16ROOF – Istanbul, Turkey

There aren’t many places in the world from which you can look at both Europe and Asia, let alone with a cocktail in hand. 16ROOF is a multi-level bar, with the rooftop sitting high on the 16th floor. Take in the marvellous views of the Bosphorus and the two continents. There’s always a good vibe here, and it’s a very much bustling place on the weekends with live DJs and plenty of dancing.

Don’t miss: The live DJ events and weekend parties.

Must-try drink: Locally grown wine – Turkish wine might be lesser known, but it’s excellent.

5. Oroya – Madrid, Spain

Madrid’s hottest new hotel boasts both the city’s first pisco sour bar and its biggest rooftop pool. The terrace has a cosy fireplace, a vine-covered pergola and a sleek teak bar, with sparkling city views. With food from Peruvian chef Diego Munoz, it’s the perfect place to sample some Latin American flavours in Spain’s colourful capital city.

Don’t miss: Escaping the city hustle and bustle and taking a dip in the rooftop pool.

Must-try drink: Fruity sangria to complement the vibe.

4. Schweizerhof Flims – Flims, Switzerland

For Wes Anderson-style views over the Swiss Mountains, you can’t beat Schweizerhof Flims at the Romantik Hotel. Set atop Flim’s iconic belle epoch hotel, this tiny terrace offers dazzling views of the mountainscape.

Don’t miss: Rooftop cinema nights under the starry sky.

Must-try drink: A crisp glass of champagne.

3. The ROOF at the Reykjavik Edition – Reykjavik, Iceland

Possibly one of the most hotly anticipated hotel rooftop bars in history (or at least Iceland), The ROOF is billed as the best place in the capital to enjoy those long summer nights, as well as the magical northern lights. Offering 360-degree views over mountains and the ocean, floor-to-ceiling glass windows open up to reveal an eye-popping wrap-around terrace with slick decor. The carefully curated menu supports sustainable farming too.

Don’t miss: Coordinating your visit to line up with the northern lights – they usually show up in the colder months.

Must-try drink: Sake Spritz to match the refreshing surroundings.

2. Azotea del Circulo – Madrid, Spain

A cornerstone of Madrid’s bar scene, Azotea del Circulo is up there as one of the best rooftop bars in Europe. Think 360° views across the famously beautiful city, mouth-watering Mediterranean fare, and fun nights accompanied by a live DJ. There’s so much space to spread out but try and find a table close to the edge for optimum viewing. A portion of the space has a retractable roof, so you don’t have to wait for the warmer months to make the most of this fantastic spot.

Don’t miss: The best views in Madrid. It’s so good they even put on photography workshops – accompanied by cocktails, of course.

Must-try drink: A glass of local red wine to match the sophisticated setting.

1. Frank’s Café – London, England

Take in 360 views of Peckham and beyond from Frank's Cafe – a relaxed rooftop bar on a multi-storey car park. The power is in its simplicity, as well as its excellent, seasonal food. Their rooftop brunch is a local favourite, too. As well as great food, you’ll also find a wide range of drinks at decent prices – music to everyone’s ears in London. It's only open during the summer months, so make sure you get all the use you can out of this gorgeous spot.

Don’t miss: Weekend brunches on the roof.

Must-try drink: Jug of Pimm’s.