Best European Rooftop Bars

Travellers often struggle to find that breathtaking view of an inspiring cityscape and may not realise their very own hotel is home to one of the best European rooftop bars, and thus, some of the best views in town.

Top floor, open-air terraces await those eager view seekers without the hustle and bustle of the touristy spots. And our Gurus have gathered together some of the best European rooftop bars, and the corresponding hotels to inspire you.

Best European Rooftop Bars for something special

• Hotel Continentale's, Sky Lounge in Florence - escape the crowded streets below by visiting this vast deck lined with white cushions, which will make you feel as though you’re in the clouds. Down below you the River Arno flows quietly by as the Ponte Vecchio spans across it.

For Relaxing

• ME Madrid Reina Victoria, The Roof, Madrid - Madrid is laid out majestically before you while live music soothes the mind. Keep an eye out for any celebrities as they frequent this most luxurious pad.
• Hotel Duquesa de Cardona, Terrace, Barcelona. The terrace isn’t exactly a high rise but it is situated perfectly overlooking the Port of Barcelona. Cool off in the pool after a long day exploring the city and take in the very best views of the Moll de la Fusta. Open from 9 in the morning until 7 at night.

Best European Rooftop Bars for Foodies

• First Hotel Grims Grenka, Q Lounge, Oslo - Atop of the First Hotel Grims Grenka is a wooden work of art spotted with red cushions. The Q Lounge overlooks Norway’s capital and is the place to be in the summertime as the house chef has a very good reputation. The Q Lounge is open from May until September.

For Romance

• Adriana Hotel, The Top, Hvar - This award-winning hotel is equipped with a top of the line roof top bar, which looks out onto the harbour, filled with custom yachts. Enjoy a romantic evening as the lights from the houses bring the rolling hills of Hvar alive.
• Bairro Alto Hotel, The Terrace, Lisbon - Highly regarded by visitors and locals, this is the perfect place to grab a cold drink and soak in the rays overlooking the River Tagus. It is a smaller venue holding about 35 guests.

For an evening out

• Hotel Urban, La Terrazzo Del Urban, Madrid - The decor is slick and avant-garde, and views over Madrid’s skyline are a highlight, but after dark, in the candlelight, the sleek, young things arrive, ready to work through the impressive cocktail list and possibly even the plunge pool if things heat up enough…
• Clarion Sign Hotel, Champagne Bar, Stockholm - Very Nordic looking with its dramatic glass design and ultra-modern interiors, this hotel has a Michelin listed restaurant, and of course an excellent roof spa and heated pool. It’s also got a super stylish champagne bar on the eighth floor.
• Barcelo Raval, Barcelona - There’s a rooftop pool and a bar with panoramic city views, and you’re in the heart of Barcelona’s artistic and cultural quarter, near Las Ramblas, surrounded by avant-garde decor and fantastic, modern design.

Best European Rooftop Bars to Escape

• Hotel de Rome, Rooftop Terrace, Berlin - This rooftop terrace has a marvellous view of Berlin’s city centre. Before you lies the turquoise dome of St. Hedwigs Cathedral and colossal entrance into The State Opera House. Music plays from Wednesdays to Fridays.
• Mandarin Oriental Hotel, China Moon Roof Terrace, Munich - Surrounding you is a full view of the terracotta rooftops of Munich, but on the roof you will find a Chinese oasis. After taking a dip in the infinity pool, fill up on the chef’s variety of Asian and Mediterranean masterpieces. This roof is open May to October.

Just for the views

• The Glasshouse, Edinburgh - The Glasshouse doesn’t just have a roof terrace, it has a wonderfully scented roof garden, complete with a Japanese corner and the scent of lavender. And the view over Carlton Hill is wonderful.
• Penz Hotel, The American Bar, Innsbruck - The view here stretches to the snowcapped mountains, and there’s a retractable roof, so if you can enjoy an alfresco drink in the summertime, and a cosy one in winter.

Here's our full list of hotels where you can find the best European rooftop bars:

 

Written by HG Staff

posted Monday, 23rd September 2024