With spring finally making its presence felt, we can’t wait to make our way to a rooftop bar. If you’re like us and have anxiously awaited and alfresco tipple, you’re in the right place. Here’s your guide to the 10 sexiest city rooftop bars in the world, where you can unwind with refreshing cocktails and spectacular vistas. From upscale, high-energy bars to relaxed lounges, these city rooftop bars are where locals and visitors gather to celebrate special occasions, enjoy a night out, or bask in the stunning scenery.

1. AER, Four Seasons Hotel, Mumbai, India 

This glamorous rooftop bar was recently refurbished to reveal a nautical design aesthetic, a retractable glass roof, and Art Deco design elements. The space conceptualized by design firm Atelier Pond is chic and pays homage to the Arabian Sea that it overlooks. The maritime influences also extend to the cocktail menu, which consists of 12 creations inspired by the shifting moods of the sky that decide the direction of a boat. The food menu includes multi-cuisine small bites and shareable plates that complement the beverages. Highlights include the Caribbean pork sliders, seafood tempura platter, and tandoori chicken tikka flatbread. These dishes are packed with flavor and always hit the spot.

2. SUD Lisboa Pool Lounge, Lisbon, Portugal  

When in Lisbon, make your way to SUD Lisboa Pool Lounge for live musical performances and breathtaking vistas of the picturesque Tagus River and the iconic ​​25th of April Bridge. Guests can unwind in the infinity pool or snack on delectable Mediterranean dishes. Designed by the well-known architect Antoine Pinto, this vibrant rooftop showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary design styles. From the extensive food offerings, the garlic black tiger shrimp, braised meat in a garlic-wine sauce, Mediterranean salad, and tagliolini al ragú are crowd favorites. These vibrant dishes are crafted using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Furthermore, local and international DJs play global music from 6 pm to 2 am every day and bands perform every Thursday evening.

3. The Coco Club, Santa Monica, Los Angeles (also pictured top)

Situated in the heart of Santa Monica, the Coco Club at the Beacon By Sonder Hotel is a trendy rooftop bar offering unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. This spot has two sections — a colorful interior area and a charming al fresco section. Its interiors feature birds-of-paradise wallpapers, saffron-hued feathered chandeliers, and Art Deco accents reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour. The rooftop bar also offers an enclosure space, perfect for intimate events such as birthdays and anniversaries. From the cocktail menu, order the Sage Against the Machine (gin, fresh sage, Bartlett pear, honey, and lemon), Cupid Cosmo (vodka, spiced cranberry syrup, and lime juice), or the Coco Killer (rum, coconut, green apple, agave, and citrus), and you will not be disappointed. This is one of our favorite city rooftop bars.

4. Skybar, CÉ LA VI, Dubai

Situated on the 54th floor, this celebrity-favorite rooftop eatery and lounge offers a bird’s eye view of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain, and Dubai’s awe-inspiring skyline. The crowd features a mix of tourists, business professionals, and Dubai locals celebrating occasions. At CÉ LA VI, the chefs led by Howard Ko craft delicious pan-Asian and European dishes using local and exotic ingredients. Signature dishes are the ​shrimp croquettes, vegetable fried rice, and dark chocolate fondant. These plates are indulgent and greatly satisfying. This spot is the place to be seen in Dubai!

5. Sky Bar by Lebua, Bangkok, Thailand

Lebua at State Tower, located in downtown Bangkok, houses the award-winning Sky Bar and Sirocco restaurant that offer one-of-a-kind vistas of Bangkok’s glittering skyline. One of the most Insta-worthy city rooftop bars in the world, the bar and restaurant are situated on the 63rd floor, overlooking River Chao Phraya and the city. The highlights of this space are the eye-catching dome and circular island bar that are brightly lit at night. I suggest ordering the bar’s signature Hangovertini named after its appearance in the Hollywood movie Hangover 2. Moreover, for special events, this rooftop bar hosts live musical and dance performances.

6. Westlight, The William Vale, Brooklyn, New York City 

Westlight is a 22nd-floor rooftop bar boasting 360-degree views of New York City atop The William Vale Hotel. This rooftop features an indoor and outdoor space conceptualized by leading design firm — Studio Munge. The scenic bar’s mixologists serve a range of original and classic signature cocktails alongside rare spirits, craft beer, and wine. Additionally, the culinary team led by chef Andrew Carmellini whips up lip-smacking small plates inspired by global street food. The Moroccan spiced lamb tacos, curried cauliflower fondue, spicy tuna, and charred eggplant dumplings are must-haves. They boast unique flavor combinations that pack a punch. During the summer months, don’t miss the seasonal pop-up Turf Club on the bar’s 23rd-floor rooftop.

7. Ginkgo Restaurante & Sky Bar, Madrid, Spain

Perched atop Plaza de España, this high-end spot offers not just gorgeous vistas, but a sophisticated ambiance perfect for celebratory occasions. Ginkgo’s menu features innovative Asian fusion cuisine, including one-of-a-kind sushi creations paired with signature cocktails and their well-loved gyozas. In addition to its mouth-watering food and beverage offerings, Ginkgo also hosts performances by renowned DJs, musicians, and singers. The best time to check out Ginkgo is during sunset. Grab some Asian appetizers and cocktails and savor the Madrid cityscape! 

8. The Roof, Public Hotel, Manhattan, New York City 

This glitzy rooftop is the best spot for people-watching in NYC. Guests can sit indoors, outdoors, and even in their private igloo during the winter. The indoor space boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, which open into an expansive outdoor terrace overlooking the Manhattan skyline, perfect as summer approaches. The terrace offers a relaxed lounge setting, while the indoor section features a sleek and contemporary aesthetic.

9. Ozone, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Ozone’s location on the 118th floor of the International Commerce Centre (ICC) affords magnificent vistas of Hong Kong’s skyline and the Victoria Harbour. The menu includes inventive Asian-inspired tapas, perfect for those seeking a light bite. The black truffle tacos, Korean fried chicken wings, and katsu sando are very popular. These expertly crafted dishes showcase delicious Asian flavors with a contemporary twist. Furthermore, the Secret Garden signature cocktail always hits the spot.

10. Savage Garden, London, United Kingdom

This establishment is my go-to spot for its distinctive views of London’s prominent landmarks and charming ambiance. This expansive rooftop features several different sections, including a terrace, which houses private igloos. Every Saturday, Savage Garden offers a Bottomless Brunch menu, which consists of hearty brunch dishes paired with Prosecco, Bellinis, or their signature Bloody Mary.