Sydney knows how to do rooftop bars with sunshine, skyline views and cocktails on repeat.
With summer around the corner, it’s the perfect time to round up the city’s best spots. Here is our ultimate guide to Sydney’s rooftop bars, with more than 20 venues to tick off. How many can you manage?
CIRQ, Barangaroo
CIRQ is one of Sydney’s top rooftop destinations, combining luxury with sweeping harbour views. Sitting high on the 26th floor of Crown Sydney, it is an award-winning bar where bespoke cocktails infused with native botanicals meet a curated wine list and a fresh tapas-style menu. With its expansive terrace, lush décor and skyline backdrop, CIRQ truly feels like one of the finest places to experience Sydney at its best.
Cabana Bar, CBD
Cabana Bar earns its spot as one of Sydney’s best rooftop bars with its resort-style vibe in the heart of the CBD. Perched at 25 Martin Place, it delivers sweeping city views, premium cocktails (the Piña Coladas are a must), and the kind of vacay energy that makes you forget the 9–5. With Sydney’s largest outdoor terrace, two bars, and a menu that balances pub favourites with poolside flair, Cabana Bar is equal parts laid-back lunch spot and premium function destination.
The Rooftop at Jacksons on George, CBD
The Rooftop at Jacksons on George is a sleek addition to Sydney’s skyline, bringing a touch of international rooftop glamour to the heart of the CBD. Open daily from midday, it’s the perfect spot to soak up sweeping city views over cocktails and elevated pub classics with a European twist. Expect a buzzing atmosphere with resident DJs spinning every Thursday to Saturday night, a generous happy hour from 4–6pm, and plenty of reasons to linger, whether it’s a casual catch-up, a private event, or cheering on the big game on the big screen.
Find out more here.
Henry Deane at Hotel Palisade, Millers Point
Henry Deane is the kind of rooftop bar that feels like a gift to Sydney. Perched atop Hotel Palisade across two stunning floors, it’s a modern cocktail lounge with uninterrupted harbour views in every direction. The share-style menu by Head Chef Cian Mulholland makes dining as memorable as the setting, but it’s those sweeping views that make Henry Deane such an incredible place to have in the city.
Aster, InterContinental Double Bay
The most recent addition to the rooftop bar scene is Aster at the InterContinental Double Bay. Opened in September 2022, Aster allows you to experience lavish living yourself without the price tag of staying the night. Enjoy elevated dining and drinks while taking in the stunning views of the sparkling harbour.
Untied, Barangaroo
Untied Rooftop brings a burst of colour and energy to Barangaroo, offering a lush urban escape high above the city. With its bright décor, greenery and sweeping harbour views, it perfectly balances laid-back vibes with a touch of elegance. The menu features tropical cocktails, share plates, and plenty of plant-based options, making it ideal for long afternoons and sunset sessions in the sunshine.
The Light Brigade, Woollahra
The Light Brigade is a historic Art Deco pub in Woollahra that has been welcoming locals for more than 140 years. Spread across four levels, it offers something for every mood, from casual drinks at the Brigade Bar to relaxed dining at the Bistro, cocktails in the Lounge and open-air views from the leafy Brigade Rooftop. It is a nice place to unwind and enjoy Sydney’s pub culture.
Zephyr Sky Bar, CBD
Zephyr on Level 12 of the Hyatt Regency Sydney offers panoramic views over Darling Harbour and a luxury sky bar experience. With signature cocktails, an extensive spirit list and a nautical-inspired décor, it is an award-winning rooftop favourite for sunset drinks and skyline views.
East Village Sydney, Darlinghurst
East Village is a beloved local pub that also happens to be one of the prettiest spots to spend an afternoon. With its welcoming rooftop, city views and plenty of charm, it’s the kind of place where casual drinks with friends feel a little more special.
Old Mates Place, CBD
Old Mate’s Place is smack bang in the heart of the city, snapping up prized real estate. This space is enticingly light and breezy, decked out with plenty of vibrant plants and a scattering of bookshelves for some solo time. Offering anything from vodka to beer, any drinker will be pleased. For snacking, be surprised by the roaring menu that includes a delicious selection of Philly cheesesteaks.
The Rook, CBD
Perched above the buzz of York Street, The Rook is one of Sydney’s best rooftop bars, blending a relaxed vibe with inventive flair. Known for its creative cocktails, top-notch bar bites, and even quirky events like life drawing, this hidden gem delivers more than just great views. Whether you are sipping a bespoke liquor, celebrating a milestone, or simply escaping the city streets below, The Rook offers an elevated experience that feels both fun and effortlessly stylish.
Smoke Bar, Barangaroo
Smoke easily claims its place among Sydney’s best rooftop bars, blending skyline views with a cocktail program that’s as refined as it is playful. Perched high above Barangaroo, it’s where golden hour turns into starlit nights, with curated drinks, dim-lit romance and a vibe that’s equal parts chic and cheeky. From sun to moon, Smoke is all about unforgettable rooftop moments.
Taphouse Sydney, Darlinghurst
This local pub in the heart of Darlinghurst is self-described as “driven by a love of 3 things: Taps, Tunes & Chinese food”. Head upstairs to the rooftop and relax under the umbrellas. Order beers, cocktails and dumplings, and watch the afternoon roll by with friends on a sunny afternoon.
Coogee Pavilion, Coogee
It’s safe to say that Merivale has the rooftop bar scene down pat. Heading into more suburban locations, Coogee Pavilion is a favourite neighbourhood hangout in the Eastern Suburbs. Located on the shore of Coogee Beach, the open skies, ocean views, lush greenery and modern bars make this large space another must-go rooftop bar.
SoCal, Neutral Bay
SoCal Neutral Bay is a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of the Golden State right here in Sydney. Inspired by the laid-back Californian surf culture, this rooftop gem delivers fresh and modern Southern Californian share-style street food with a punch of Latin American spices. Think low’n’slow smoked meats, Mexican-inspired flavours, and house-made sauces paired with indulgent sides.
Ivanhoe Rooftop, Manly
Venture to the idyllic Northern Beaches and find the Ivanhoe Hotel oasis located in the heart of The Corso in Manly. It’s a popular destination amongst locals with multiple levels and sophisticated seating areas. The rooftop balcony is a great spot to perch for a few drinks after a swim in summer. Grab a casual bite while you’re there or reserve an area for a catch-up with friends and make a day of it.
White Horse, Surry Hills
Nestled in the heart of Surry Hills, the newly revamped White Horse on Crown Street has a stunningrooftop bar. Offering a laid-back yet stylish atmosphere, the rooftop boasts stunning views of the city skyline, making it the perfect spot to sip on craft cocktails or enjoy a crisp local beer. With a refreshed menu featuring elevated pub classics and a focus on share plates, the White Horse is a hotspot for everything from after-work drinks to weekend gatherings. Its vibrant ambiance, paired with impeccable service, ensures it’s a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.
The New Brighton Hotel, Manly
Another beachside Manly pub that is perhaps one of the lesser known but popular Sydney rooftop bars is The New Brighton Hotel. This northern shore pub does dining, drinking, dancing and the intimate rooftop bar is the cherry on top. Look down onto the lively Manly Corso and people watch or stare straight ahead at the beautiful ocean.
Bristol Arms Rooftop Bar, CBD
As far as Sydney rooftop bars go the Bristol Arms rooftop has one of the most relaxed, homely vibes in the heart of Sydney’s CBD concrete jungle. White picket fencing, timber panelling and casual décor bring a friendly and comforting element to Sydney’s skyline. You can also book this space for functions- hello rooftop birthday!
Royal Hotel, Paddington
The Royal Hotel Paddington is more than just a pub, it is a true Eastern Suburbs institution. Since 1888, it has been serving locals with cold drinks, elevated pub classics, and some of the best rooftop views in Sydney. From the buzzing sports bar with one of the biggest multi-screen walls in the east to the Veranda Bar and Balcony dishing up refined pub fare by Executive Chef Scott Greve, there is something here for every mood. Add in the stylish Elephant Room for private events, and The Royal becomes a must-visit for any occasion.
The Rooftop, The Quarryman’s Hotel
Situated at the top of the Quarryman’s Hotel in Pyrmont, The Rooftop emits uber cool Palm Springs vibes. Contrasting the craft beer institutions in the bar below, The Rooftop is all about the Californian cool with the chic venue providing a relaxed atmosphere of a pool-side lounge. The signature cocktail menu offers a selection of funky twists on shaken and stirred classics.
Find out more here.
Frequently asked questions:
What are the best rooftop bars with a view in Sydney?
For cocktails with a view, visit Aster, Untied or CIRQ in Barangaroo, Henry Deane in Millers Point, The Light Brigade in Woollahra, Coogee Pavillion in Coogee or Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel.
What are the best rooftop bars that do bottomless brunch in Sydney?
For the best bottomless brunch rooftop venues, visit SoCal in Neutral Bay, Babylon in the CBD, or Slims Rooftop in the CBD.
What are the best rooftop bars in Sydney CBD?
The best rooftop bars in the CBD include Cabana Bar in Martin Place, Babylon Rooftop, Henry Deane in Millers Point, and so many more.
