Baba Nest, Phuket
With panoramic views of the surrounding islands, Andaman Sea and Phuket’s southeastern peninsula, Baba Nest is a breathtaking rooftop bar that serves up some of the best sunsets in Phuket. It certainly isn’t one of the tallest bars on this list, but an expansive infinity pool that wraps almost entirely around the bar makes it feel like you’re sipping mixed drinks on a puffy pillow that’s floating in the ocean.
Vertigo and Moon Bar, Bangkok
Of all of the rooftop bars in Bangkok, of which there are many, Vertigo & Moon Bar stands out as a hotspot to really soak in views of the entire city. A sleek address located on level 61 of the Banyan Tree Bangkok, diners can feast on premium seafood and steaks from the grill at Vertigo, and enjoy a pre-dinner tipple or nightcap coupled with panoramic city vistas at Moon Bar.
Sir Elly’s Terrace, Shangahi
While the Michelin-starred modern European dishes at Sir Elly’s may draw in diners, those looking for unrivalled views of Shanghai coupled with master mixology flock to Sir Elly’s Terrace. The views extend to the Huangpu River, Suzhou Creek and Pudong skyline and are best enjoyed at sunset – although this place comes alive after hours too.
The Press Lounge, New York
On the 16th floor rooftop of the Ink48 Hotel, The Press Lounge has all the necessary ingredients for a world-class rooftop bar: 360 degree views of the city, attractive interiors, seasonally changing mixed drinks and attentive service.
AER, Mumbai
A chic open-air rooftop at the Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, this 34th floor hotspot serves up some of the most scenic views of the city. This rooftop bar comes alive on weekends – popular as both a sundowner spot and go-to for drinks and dancing thanks to live DJ sets.
High Note Sky Bar, Budapest
While High Note might not win any altitude awards, sitting on the 9th floor rooftop of the sleek Aria Hotel, its central location next to the famous St. Stephen’s Basilica and year-round opening hours make it one of the best rooftop bars not just in Budapest, but Europe. A creative beverage list served up in innovate glassware is a bonus.
Ozone, Hong Kong
A city that’s not short of rooftop bars, Hong Kong’s Ozone is one of the world’s tallest restaurants and bars, found on the 118th floor of the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong. Here, the outdoor terrace is popular for sundowners, late night parties and a lavish Sunday brunch.
CÉ LA VI, Singapore
One of the most famous rooftop bars in the world, CÉ LA VI Singapore is located atop the iconic Marina Bay Sands. Here, sweeping city vistas are served up alongside sultry sounds from live DJ sets and colourful craft mixed drinks. The brand has become famed across Asia for its breathtaking rooftop locations, and opened its first Middle Eastern outpost in Dubai on New Year’s Eve 2019.
Level 43 Sky Lounge, Dubai
While newer openings including The Penthouse at FIVE Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai outpost of CE LA VI have made Dubai’s rooftop bar scene ever more competitive, for al fresco views of the city’s dramatic skyscrapers, Level 43 Sky Lounge is a top offering. Located 155 metres above ground at the Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road, secure a table by the glass-walled edge for the best city skyline views.
CRU Champagne Bar, Bangkok
One of the neweset rooftop bars in Bangkok, CRU Champagne Bar at Red Sky unsurprisingly specialises in bubbles, but its inventive mixed drinks and gourmet delights aren’t to be missed. Located three floors above Red Sky Bar, which occupies the 55th floor of Centralworld shopping mall, its central positioning makes its views across Bangkok some of the best on offer.
Source: Conde Nast Traveller