When exploring a new place, relaxing at a rooftop bar is a great way to get a feel for the city you’re visiting. You can try local cuisine, sip speciality cocktails and see the city’s most well-known landmarks from above. Before you plan your city break, check out the very best rooftop bars in Europe that you just can’t miss!

1. Barcelona – Sky Bar

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Located on the roof of the 5* Grand Hotel Central, Sky Bar is among Barcelona’s most elegant rooftop bars. Not only does it boast stunning views of the sea and cityscape, but it also features a pool, a rare luxury. However, it’s important to note that the pool is always exclusive to guests, while the bar opens to the general public after 8pm. Stay at the Grand Hotel Central for full access, or simply stop by for the delicious tapas and craft cocktails on your trip to Barcelona!

2. Paris – Café de l’Homme

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This is no ordinary restaurant – it features one of the most iconic views in the world. Café de l’Homme showcases the one of a kind Eiffel Tower in all its glory, while also serving a scrumptious combination of traditional French cuisine and exotic specialities. This bar is unique not only because of its excellent location but also because it isn’t extremely high up, yet still manages to craft that exclusive high-rise rooftop feel. This stylish restaurant includes both indoor and outdoor seating and a creative selection of cocktails.

3. Rome – Aroma Restaurant

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This Michelin restaurant is located at the top of the exclusive Hotel Palazzo Manfredi. The classy rooftop terrace overlooks some of Rome’s most famous landmarks, like the Colosseum. The restaurant is open to hotel guests and the public alike, though, with only 28 seats available, it’s a good idea to make reservations far in advance! The menu features gourmet delicacies from Roman-born Chef Giuseppe Di Lorio, and the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For something more low key, sit at the bar and grab a drink while taking in the views.

4. Athens – Galaxy Restaurant & Bar

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The Galaxy Restaurant & Bar on top of the upscale Hilton Athens overlooks the ancient Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill. Here you can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine as well as sushi and small bites at the bar while taking in the views of Athens’ cityscape. After dinner, the bar transforms into a vibrant nightlife scene, which even includes themed parties on the weekends. Whether you stop by for a relaxing cocktail as the sun goes down or plan to dance the night away, the Galaxy Restaurant & Bar is not to be missed.

5. Porto – 17º Restaurante & Bar

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This modern, high-end restaurant is located within the renovated Hotel Dom Henrique Downtown. Not only does the 17º Restaurante & Bar feature sweeping views over Porto, but it’s a unique space suitable for any time of the year. Though it has a fantastic outdoor terrace, the main restaurant still has large glass windows so you can enjoy the views even on a chillier day. Open for both lunch and dinner, you can try some of the finest Mediterranean cuisine to be found in the city as well as classic and craft cocktails. The bar even has its very own exclusive tea menu worth checking out!

6. Budapest – 360 Bar

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As its name suggests, the 360 Bar in central Pest offers incredible views of the city. This large rooftop terrace is decorated with lush plants and modern furnishings. In the winter, fun domes encase the tables so you can still enjoy the surroundings while keeping warm. The menu features classic bar snacks, an expansive wine list and excellent affordable cocktails. The bar also hosts a lot of exciting events like DJs and dance parties in the evenings or rooftop yoga during the day!

Would you go on a European tour just to hit all these fantastic rooftop spots?