Discover The Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney

Enjoy Sydney’s skyline from above! Discover the best rooftop bars in Sydney for stunning views and cocktails, all while enjoying the vibrant, affordable base of Big Hostel Sydney.

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Big Hostel Sydney offers top-notch facilities for a seamless stay! Enjoy 24-hour reception (call ahead for late check-ins: (02) 9281 6030 | Night Caretaker: 0435 995 085), unlimited free Wi-Fi throughout the building, and complimentary luggage storage before check-in (2 PM) and after checkout (overnight storage: $5 per bag). Soak up the sun on the rooftop terrace, perfect for relaxing and meeting fellow travellers. Stay fresh with 24/7 laundry facilities ($4 per wash/dry). Plus, make yourself at home with our fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge/dining area, and Netflix on a large flatscreen TV—all available 24/7!

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Sip with a View: Your Guide to the Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney

There’s something undeniably magical about Sydney. The glittering harbour, the architectural marvel of the Opera House, and the majestic sweep of the Harbour Bridge create a skyline that demands to be admired from above. And what better way to drink in the views than with a perfectly crafted cocktail in hand? For locals and visitors alike, seeking out the best rooftop bars in Sydney is a quintessential experience.

As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, these elevated escapes come to life. They are the city’s social sanctuaries, offering a respite from the bustling streets below. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, celebrating a special occasion, or just catching up with friends, our curated guide will lead you to the very best rooftop bars in Sydney.

The Iconic: Where the Views Steal the Show

Some bars are more about the breathtaking panorama than the drink itself. These are the spots you take out-of-town guests to leave them utterly speechless.

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1. The Glenmore Hotel – Rooftop

Nestled in The Rocks, The Glenmore Hotel offers a multi-level rooftop that boasts what many argue is the best view in the city. Gaze directly out at the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge while enjoying a chilled glass of Australian rosé or a classic pub beer. It’s a vibrant, energetic spot that gets busy for a reason—the vista is unparalleled. For that iconic Sydney snapshot for your Instagram, this is a top contender.

2. Cruise Bar Rooftop

Located at Circular Quay, Cruise Bar’s rooftop terrace puts you right in the heart of the action. With uninterrupted, front-row views of the Opera House, this is the place to feel the pulse of the city. The sophisticated, nautical-themed setting is perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a whole evening of watching the ferries glide across the harbour. It’s a prime location that consistently earns its place on the city’s best rooftop bar lists.

The Chic & Stylish: Where Design Meets the Sky

For those who appreciate a sleek interior, curated cocktail menu, and a fashionable crowd, these rooftops are your go-to.

3. The Rook

Tucked away in the CBD, The Rook is a hidden gem that feels like a secret you’ve just discovered. With its New York loft-style vibe, exposed brick, and lush greenery, it provides a calm and relaxed atmosphere. While the views are more of the city’s charming brick-and-mortar architecture than the harbour, the creative cocktails are the main attraction. Their innovative menu and buzzing ambience make it a firm favourite among Sydney’s chic crowd.

4. Zephyr Rooftop Bar

Perched atop the Hyatt Regency, Zephyr is a sky-high jewel box with a vibrant, modern aesthetic. The bar is wrapped in glass, offering 360-degree views of the city, Darling Harbour, and Barangaroo. Specialising in gin and cocktails, the drinks are as dazzling as the blue-hued decor. It’s a sophisticated, high-energy bar perfect for a special night out.

The Relaxed & Breezy: For a Casual Sunset Sesh

Not every rooftop experience needs to be a high-end affair. Sometimes, you want a great beer, good music, and a laid-back vibe.

5. The Newport

While not a city skyscraper, The Newport’s sprawling Merriwa (timber deck) and garden setting in the Northern Beaches offers a rooftop-bar-for-the-people experience. With picnic tables, multiple bars, and a buzzing, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the ultimate Sydney Sunday session destination. The view here is of Pittwater and palm trees—a quintessential, relaxed Australian vibe that’s hard to beat.

6. The Lord Dudley Hotel

Heading to Woollahra, you’ll find a charming piece of old England with a fantastic Aussie twist. The rooftop of The Lord Dudley is a cozy, enclosed space with a retractable roof, making it a perfect spot for year-round enjoyment. It feels like a classic British pub but with a sun-kissed Sydney sensibility. It’s intimate, friendly, and perfect for a quiet pint or a glass of wine away from the city frenzy.

The Hidden Gems: Sydney’s Best Kept Secrets

Part of the fun is discovering a bar that feels like it’s yours alone. These rooftops might be harder to find, but the reward is worth the search.

7. Henry Deane

Located at the top of the Hotel Palisade in Millers Point, Henry Deane is a chic, pink-hued lounge that offers stunning, panoramic harbour views. It’s an intimate and stylish space, popular for its share plates and sophisticated cocktails. Finding it feels like an adventure, and the breathtaking view from this historic building is a delightful surprise.

8. The Barber Shop

Don’t let the name fool you. Behind a functioning barbershop in the CBD lies one of Sydney’s most impressive gin bars. While not a traditional open-air rooftop, its first-floor location with large windows and a buzzing, industrial-chic atmosphere gives it an elevated, exclusive feel. With over 450 varieties of gin, it’s a must-visit for spirit connoisseurs looking for a unique “upstairs” experience.

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Your Next Sky-High Adventure Awaits

From the iconic to the intimate, Sydney’s best rooftop bars offer a diverse array of experiences, all united by incredible views and vibrant atmospheres. Each bar provides a unique perspective on this beautiful city, ensuring that no two nights are ever the same.

So, next time the sun is shining or the city lights begin to twinkle, head upwards. Your perfect perch, paired with the ideal drink, is waiting. Explore, discover, and toast to the spectacular Sydney skyline.

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