Best Rooftop Bars in Australia for Views and Vibes

Australia’s cities are alive with stylish rooftop bars that pair panoramic cityscapes and harbour views with inventive cocktails, curated playlists and vibrant atmospheres. Whether you’re after a sunset gin and tonic overlooking glittering skylines, a chic urban lounge for late-night drinks, or a breezy open-air terrace to unwind with friends, the country’s best rooftop bars deliver unforgettable vistas and great vibes.

Here’s a guide to the top rooftop bars across Australia where the drinks are as compelling as the views.

1. Coogee Pavilion – Sydney, NSW

Perched above the Pacific Ocean, Coogee Pavilion’s rooftop is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. With direct views of Coogee Beach, wedding cake architecture and the deep blue horizon, this multi-level bar and restaurant blends relaxed beach culture with stylish design.

Highlights include:

• Sunset sessions with live DJs

• A laid-back summer atmosphere

• Cocktail pitchers and share plates perfect for groups

Its breezy, coastal vibe makes it a go-to for warm afternoons and balmy evenings alike.

2. ZIP Rooftop Bar – Sydney, NSW

Situated atop the The Old Clare Hotel in Chippendale, ZIP Rooftop Bar is a sleek urban favourite that offers stunning views across the Sydney skyline. With a contemporary design and smart lighting, the space feels cosmopolitan yet unpretentious.

Best for:

• Sunset cocktails

• City-scape photography

• Intimate gatherings and casual nights out

Expect creative seasonal drinks, sharing plates and an effortlessly cool crowd as the backdrop shifts from golden hour into night.

3. Eau de Vie – Melbourne, VIC

Often featured in lists of Australia’s best cocktail bars, Eau de Vie elevates the rooftop experience with deep focus on mixology and classic lounge ambience. Hidden above Flinders Lane in Melbourne’s CBD, its dim lights, lush velvet furnishings and jazz-tinged soundtracks create an intimate escape from the bustling streets below.

Standout features include:

• Classic and creative cocktails crafted by expert bartenders

• Intimate indoor/outdoor vibe overlooking the city

• A speakeasy feel that enhances the atmosphere

Eau de Vie is less about sweeping panoramas and more about vibes, craftsmanship and style — perfect for date night or special occasions.

4. The Rooftop at QT – Brisbane, QLD

The Rooftop at QT sits above the QT Hotel in Brisbane’s CBD, offering 360-degree city views that stretch across the skyline and river. With bright neon accents and a lively atmosphere, it’s a standout destination in Queensland’s capital.

What draws crowds:

• Spacious outdoor terrace

• Signature cocktails and DJ sets

• Panoramic views of the Brisbane River and story bridge

Come for the views, stay for the vibe — especially on warm summer nights when the city hums below.

5. Madame Wu – Sydney, NSW

Located on the edge of Woolloomooloo’s Finger Wharf, Madame Wu pairs Harbour Bridge views with stylish dining and a sophisticated drinks offering. The semi-outdoor rooftop terrace is perfect for those who want scenic water vistas with a luxurious flavour.

Highlights:

• Asian-fusion share plates

• Rooftop lounge with cocktails and wine

• Elegant yet relaxed setting

Sunset and evening service here capture Sydney’s spectacular harbour glow in full effect.

6. Henry Summer – Melbourne, VIC

Henry Summer crowns one of Melbourne’s most celebrated rooftop destinations, perched above Flinder’s Lane with views of the city grid and skyline. Known for its relaxed vibe by day and energetic atmosphere by night, it’s a versatile choice for drinks with friends.

What makes it special:

• Bright, leafy terrace

• Summery drinks and small plates

• Views stretching over Melbourne rooftops

The vibe here suits sundowners, long brunch-style lunches or casual after-work meets.

7. Aloft Rooftop Bar – Adelaide, SA

In the heart of Adelaide’s cultural precinct, Aloft Rooftop Bar offers laid-back sophistication with panoramic views over the city’s skyline and parklands. Its elevated terrace space is perfect for sunset drinks or late-night celebrations.

Notable features:

• Cocktails, local wines and craft beers

• Outdoor bar and dining space

• Seasonal entertainment and DJs

This spot is particularly beloved for balmy Adelaide evenings and relaxed weekend vibes.

8. Coast Restaurant & Bar – Perth, WA

Overlooking Elizabeth Quay and the Swan River, Coast combines scenic water views with refined coastal cuisine and a stylish drinks list. Its location at the Hyatt Regency makes it an ideal stop for travellers and locals looking to unwind with a view.

Highlights:

• Scenic river and city skyline panoramas

• Seasonal seafood and shared plates

• Elevated cocktails and wine list

This is one for sophisticated sunset sessions and relaxed nights in WA’s capital.

9. The Terrace Bar – Canberra, ACT

A hidden gem in Australia’s capital, The Terrace Bar offers a leafy outdoor space with views across Lake Burley Griffin and the city skyline beyond. It’s a refreshing departure from typical rooftop bars, pairing nature with elegant drinks.

What you’ll find:

• Lake views and relaxed garden-style setting

• Signature spritzes and coolers for sunny days

• Casual eats and sharers

Perfect for drinks with a view that’s serene rather than skyscraper-dominated.

10. The Standard Rooftop – Brisbane, QLD

Also in Brisbane, The Standard Rooftop presents a vibrant party vibe with city panoramas and a lineup of DJ sets, cocktails and crowd-pleasing menus.

Great for:

• Daytime rooftop lounging

• Evening parties and social events

• Signature drinks and social energy

It’s one of Brisbane’s more energetic rooftop experiences — ideal if views come with a lively soundtrack.

Tips for Rooftop Bar Hopping Across Australia

Timing is everything:

• Sunset to magic hour is the best time to enjoy skyline views.

• Early entry helps secure outdoor tables, especially in summer and on weekends.

Weather matters:

• Outdoor rooftops depend on favourable conditions — always check forecasts ahead of time.

• Many venues have covered terraces, but unobstructed panoramas are best on clear evenings.

Bookings are smart:

• Popular rooftops fill up fast for NYE, weekends and special events — reservations are strongly recommended.

Dress codes vary:

• Some urban rooftop bars have smart-casual dress codes, especially in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.

• Always check venue guidelines before heading out.

Final Sip

Australia’s rooftop bar scene is as vibrant and wide-ranging as its coastline — offering ocean breezes, city light spectacles and unforgettable social settings. From beachside Sydney views to riverfront Brisbane vistas and iconic Melbourne cityscapes, these venues deliver both views and vibes worth raising a glass to.