5 of the world's best bars with a view
No matter where you are in the world, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a good ol’ thirst quencher. Whether you fancy knocking back a pint of ice-cold beer or sipping on an expertly mixed martini, you won’t be able to resist our pick of the world’s best bars, all of which boast spectacular views. From the finest rooftop bars to underwater spectacles, there’s no shortage of places for you to enjoy a cheeky tipple.
Rock Bar, Bali
Overlooking the calm ocean, the Rock Bar in Bali is truly one of the world’s finest hidden gems. Suspended over the lapping waves, the bar is the epitome of modernity and opulence. Order a cocktail expertly mixed by one of the bartenders and grab a seat in time to watch the sun set gently over the horizon.
The bar’s drink menu is both expansive and exotic, boasting one of a kind cocktails including house favourites such as the Rockito, made up of Grand Marnier, mint, fresh orange and passion fruit. If you’re feeling hungry then chow down on some beef chorizo corn dogs or rock lobster spring rolls.
Radio, London
Boasting beautiful panoramic views of the city, the Radio rooftop bar in London is a fantastic place to enjoy a drink after work – assuming you make the list, of course.
Situated within the Melia London Hotel, the Radio Bar is the epitome of coolness, with sleek seating encompassing the bar, providing guests with a comfortable view of the cityscape. As you sip on your drink, you’ll be able to admire the very best of London; the Shard, Houses of Parliament and London Eye are all visible from this brilliant rooftop bar.
Aer, Mumbai
Consistently voted as one of the world’s greatest bars, the Aer bar in Mumbai is simply spectacular. Overlooking the bustling city, the bar enjoys a relaxed yet fun vibe and is furnished with sleek furniture and a cyclical bar, giving it a futuristic feel.
Situated within the Four Seasons Mumbai, Aer is open to the general public, so getting a table can often be a little tricky. However, once you’re there you won’t want to leave. Aer boasts a tantalising menu of nibbles, including mini brioche lamb sliders, gnocchi and slow roasted chicken wings, as well as a practically endless drinks menu.
Above 6, New York
There are countless rooftop bars in New York, but Above 6 tops them all. The bar is only open two months out of the year and can be accessed by the sushi restaurant below. Although it doesn’t serve food, complimentary wasabi peas are provided for patrons to keep them ticking over.
Above 6 is popular with locals and the after-work crowd, so it can get pretty hectic. But once you manage to get a seat then you’ll be able to order one of the bar’s Japanese beers, including Sapporo and Kirin.
Bonus: Imagine Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
This Caribbean bar certainly boasts a view, though it is not situated on a rooftop like the other bars on this list. No, the Imagine Punta Cana bar is in a cave.
Descend belowground and admire the cave’s walls which are all beautifully illuminated by spotlights, before ordering a refreshing drink and sinking into one of the loungers. The bar often hosts live acts, including DJs and dancers.
Matthew Coe is Online Marketing Manager for Wanderforth.
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Wow! These look absoloutely amazing! I’m a big fan of rooftop bars. I’m from Barcelona and here there are plenty of hotels that also have great terrace bars with incredible views. The only problem is… are you willing to pay for the price for drinks?
Fantastic locations for a refreshment! To add to Alice’s comment, last month I was at Eclipse (26th Floor of the W Hotel in Barcelona) – great views, even from the washroom! Agree that the prices can be high but there is a fun crowd to make the drinks last. Enjoy.
The Hyatt Regency Paris bar “La Vue” is the best bar in Paris to have a panoramic view over the city.
The Virtigo moon bar on the 63rd floor of the banyantree hotel in Bangkok was amasing!! that has to have one of the best city views in the world
These are amazing! There is something really special about rooftop bars. I can’t wait to go to Radio.
I definitely need to check some of these out! I was just in Kuala Lumpur and View Rooftop Bar is pretty cool too. But if you are looking for something a bit unique and maybe not quite so luxury, check out the Heli Lounge which is a makeshift bar on a helipad on top of a building. It doesn’t have any railings or anything, so maybe a bit of a challenge if you’re afraid of heights – but pretty spectacular nevertheless.
These seem great but need to get da conch shack, bugaloo’s on the infinity bar in Turks and Caicos on your next list
I agree Banyon Tree in Bangkok is impressive. If you can look past aircraft beacon on side of building. Off to Labua State Tower in Bangkok in October. Also looks great
The Cloud 9 in Shanghai is the best bar! Its located on the 87th floor of the Grand Hyatt hotel and offers a 360-degree view of Shanghai.
The rooftop bar on the 118 floor of the Carlton ritz in Hong Kong is stunning with 360degree views of Hong Kong on a clear day . Best during late afternoon transitioning to night , you get the full impact of the city as it lights up. It is also the the highest bar in the world that served alcohol. Food is great , service excellent ,prices are affordable , n the decor ,well u visit n chec if out . Bookings are advisable esp if you require a table n meals.
So proud to know that one of Bali’s finest bar “Rock Bar” at Ayana Resort & Spa(ex- Ritz Carlton) is topping the list.
This rock Bar @ Ayana Resort offers an amazing ocean view where we can enjoy the most splendid sunset.
The Axel Hotel in Barcelona Spain has one of the most happening and best rooftop bars I have ever been to. So fun with great music, a DJ, views of the city, gorgeous people and there is a jacuzzi and pool if you need a dip. They always have a fabulous party going on.
Okay,Bangkokwas the best, already years ago, but Santorini (Greece) has great bars with a view as well! Not the highest but definitely impressive! And even Benidorm (Spain) has! I didn’t expect to find a nice rooftopbar there, but I was suprised by the view.