A great rooftop bar adds a destination to the city. Travellers go to the city to visit the bar; locals go to the bar without going to the city otherwise. The eight below earn that distinction.
The eight
1. CÉ LA VI Singapore (Marina Bay Sands)
Top of the Marina Bay Sands. The Singapore skyline view at sunset is one of the most-photographed in the world. Guest access is preferred but public access exists.
2. The Roof at Public (Hong Kong)
Top of the Public Hotel. The Hong Kong harbour view is the photograph. Strong cocktail programme.
3. Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills
The top of the Andaz Tokyo. Tokyo skyline view, including Tokyo Tower and the Imperial Palace. The strongest rooftop in Tokyo.
4. Sirocco Sky Bar (Bangkok)
Top of the Lebua State Tower. Among the highest open-air bars in the world. The Bangkok skyline view is dramatic.
5. The Top of the World Bar (Las Vegas)
Top of the Stratosphere. 800 feet above the Strip. Revolves once per hour.
6. The Roof at the Standard, High Line (New York)
The Standard's Hudson River view. Strong programming for non-guests.
7. Sky Bar at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak
Beach-and-volcano view. Less famous than the Asian alternatives but exceptional.
8. Romeo Hotel Naples (Italy)
Top of the Romeo Hotel. Mediterranean view of Capri and Vesuvius.
What makes a great rooftop bar
Five specific criteria:
View
The view is the experience. Cities, oceans, mountains, deserts — each produces a different rooftop bar experience.
Hours
Real rooftop bars open at sunset and close at 1am. Earlier or later hours signal a different kind of bar.
Drinks programme
Real rooftop bars have serious cocktail programmes. The bartenders should be named and credentialed.
Programming
Music, DJs, weather contingencies. Real rooftop bars have programming that adjusts to the conditions.
Reservation requirements
Top rooftop bars require reservations. The walk-in option signals lower-tier rooftops.
Five rules for rooftop bar visits
- Visit at sunset for the strongest visual experience
- Book reservations 1-2 weeks ahead at peak season
- Verify the dress code (most luxury rooftops require smart casual)
- Order signature cocktails over standard menu items
- Stay for the city-lights phase after sunset (8-10pm) for the strongest experience
For more, see the hotel amenities pillar.
