For cocktails and spectacular views, head to Lisbon’s coolest rooftop hangoutsFor cocktails and spectacular views, head to Lisbon’s coolest rooftop hangouts
18 of the best rooftop bars in Lisbon
There’s probably no city with quite as many rooftop bars as Lisbon – and it’s no surprise, given how many stunning views the notoriously hilly city has. Views out across the River Tagus, sweeping towards the Atlantic; views across the city itself, labyrinthine neighbourhoods of narrow streets roofed in terracotta tile, grand neoclassical buildings painted bright colours, architectural landmarks from the Moorish castle to the iconic bridges… and so much sunshine. Natural, then, that one of the best things to do in Lisbon is to soak up the city from on high at one of the many rooftop bars. They’re a diverse bunch, from chic and clean-lined hotel bars to bright little places in revived bairros, made for big nights out with friends or a chilled glass of vinho verde as the sun sets.
If seeing the city from above is top of your travel plans (and it should be), our advice is to allow plenty of time to enjoy the moment. Some of the more popular bars, such as Park or Lumi, can get busy during peak months, so you may have to wait (but it’s always worth checking to see if you can book in advance). And remember your sunglasses and sunscreen – not all rooftops have shade, and the Lisbon sun is notoriously bright. And don’t rush off to your dinner reservation – it’s normal to eat late in Portugal, so allow yourself plenty of time to just be.
Also not to be missed are the city’s many miradouros, or viewpoints. Not technically rooftop bars, and therefore not listed below, these are often open spaces placed in prime viewing positions. Many have kiosks selling drinks, and they can become the busiest spots in Lisbon at prime sunset time. Some of my personal favourites include Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara and Miradouro da Graça.
Whether you want to be living it up with locals or finding the fanciest spots in the city, these are the rooftop bars in Lisbon you should be bookmarking for your next trip.
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Manuel Manso BAHR Terrace at Bairro Alto Hotel
A chic escape from the madness of Bairro Alto, this classy establishment is home to one of the best cocktail lists in Lisbon. In the heart of the city, it ticks all boxes, whether you’re after a long lunch in the sunshine, a break from shopping the lively cobbled streets below, or a sundowner to get the party started – all while enjoying the panoramic view. It’s small and cosy, with wicker chairs and heaps of cushions, and its size helps lend it an exclusive sophistication that’s a hit with well-to-do locals and travellers alike. Arrive early if you’re sunset-seeking – it can be hard to get a table otherwise – and be sure to visit the restaurant BAHR for dinner once the sun goes down; it’s one of our favourite restaurants in Lisbon.
Address: Bairro Alto Hotel, Praça Luís de Camões 2, Lisbon, Portugal
Website: bairroaltohotel.com -
Seen Sky Bar LisbonSprawl out over cushions or take prime position around the illuminated bar, then pick a cocktail and enjoy the afternoon sun from this summertime hotspot. Set on the ninth floor of the 1930s five-star Hotel Tivoli on the glamorous Avenida da Liberdade, this terrace bar is only open from April to September, making it a don’t-miss during the warmer months.From here you have a picture-perfect view of Castelo de São Jorge and the surrounding Alfama neighbourhood, but if the breathtaking views over downtown and towards the river weren’t enough of a draw (they will be), DJs, live music and regular themed parties provide extra enticement to aim for the Sky.Address: Seen Sky Bar at Tivoli Lisboa, 185 Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon, Portugal
Website: tivolihotels.combook now
Website: memmohotels.comBook now
Website: thelumiares.comBook now
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Luís Ferraz The V Rooftop Bar
A sixties-LA vibe meets you at the V rooftop bar, found above The Vintage Hotel in Principe Real, one of the best hotels in Lisbon. Expect a panelled wood bar, squishy sofas and reclining chairs to take in views over the old town and castle, making this a chilled-out option designed for late afternoon sipping.
The cocktail menu is one of the best around – albeit slightly pricier than average – with a focus on local spirits including white port, Madeira wine and Portuguese vermouth, paired with fresh fruit flavours. We loved the Pineapple Pal cocktail for a taste of the tropics.
Address: The V Rooftop Bar, R. Rodrigo da Fonseca 2, 1250-191 Lisboa
Website: thevintagelisbon.com
Topo
Topo has a seductiveness that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon something secret. Partly, that’s because it is quite hard to find. Six floors up on the top of an unassuming shopping centre in Martim Moniz, you could easily walk past it. But persevere and you’ll be rewarded with cocktails and mouth-watering petiscos (tapas). The real prize, however, is the view. It overlooks the old town of Mouraria, with the São Jorge Castle standing proudly insight. Head there for sunset, where DJs gently lure you into the night and the party is one that’s too good to miss. Be warned: you’ll almost certainly end your visit here in the early hours of the morning.
Address: Topo, 6th floor, Centro Comercial Martim Moniz, Praça Martim Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal
Website: facebook.com/topolisboa
Park
Situated on the sixth floor of a car park in the Bairro Alto district, this is an urban twist on the rooftop classic – and almost certainly one of the most popular rooftop bars in the city. Head here for casual cool with a slice of hipster, and enjoy cocktails, sangria and burgers from a terrace decked out with vibrant foliage. The scene is anything but pedestrian, with 180-degree views including the Santa Catarina church, so close you can almost touch it, to the visual punch of the majestic 25 de Abril suspension bridge stretching across the Tagus. Perfect for lazing away an afternoon before DJs pick up the tempo with beats that’ll keep you going till the small hours.
Address: Park, Calçada do Combro 58, Lisbon, Portugal
Website: facebook.com/parklisboaofficial
Website: mamashelter.com/lisboaBook now
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LX Hostel rooftopDon’t be quick to dismiss this bar because it’s part of a hostel; LX Factory is one of the trendiest places to hang out in Lisbon, and the hostel’s rooftop feels wonderfully bohemian with colourful cushions and a small bar offering a limited menu at an affordable price. The view is mostly of the bridge and the river, as opposed to most city-centre bars which pride themselves on their placement overlooking the streets of Lisbon.You can’t book in advance, and you may have to queue to enter – particularly on a sunny day when locals flock to enjoy the sunshine. Be warned: bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as there’s little shade to be found here.Address: LX Hostel rooftop, Rua Rodrigues de Faria, 103, 1300-501 Lisbon
Website: lxhostel.ptBook now
Chapitô à Mesa
To reach Chapitô à Mesa you must walk through a cute handmade-jewellery shop, up some stairs, then some more stairs, then, to make it to the terrace – reportedly one of the seven best in the world – you need to go up one more skinny spiral staircase. But it’s worth it. Friendly service, a simple Portuguese menu and, most importantly, idyllic sundowner vistas all greet you on arrival. Be sure to go in the early afternoon to secure a table outside with the best, unobstructed views: there aren’t so many and they’re likely to go early. Then sit back with a white port and tonic and marvel as the sun slowly sinks over the rooftops, the sparkling water and the striking 25th April Bridge beyond. Also, enjoy the fact you are contributing to Chapitô, a non-profit organisation that promotes the development of young people through the performing arts. Bravo.
Address: Chapitô à Mesa – Panorâmico, Costa do Castelo 1, 1149-079, Lisbon
Website: heritagemadridhotel.com
Website: hotelh10duquedeloule.comBook now
Lost in Esplanada Bar
Here’s something bright and different after all the usual cool, minimalist rooftop bars: a hilltop terrace above the hip Príncipe Real district, decked out with bright pink umbrellas and colourful furniture, creating an invigorating rainbow blast against the cool blue sky. Large overhanging trees bring welcome shade in the courtyard, styling out the space into a tranquil retreat that’s alluring any time of day. Stop by for Indian-inspired dining and decor with an exceptional view over downtown.
Address: Lost in Esplanada Bar, Rua D.Pedro V 56, Príncipe Real, Lisbon, Portugal
Website: facebook.com/lostin.esplanada
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Memmo Alfama TerraceMemmo Alfama Terrace is not a rooftop bar you stumble across – unless you’re staying at the boutique hotel it’s part of. Through a small tunnel and down a cobbled backstreet, retain faith in your Google Maps app and you’ll find it at the end of the road. Do persist – if only for the only red pool you may ever see in your lifetime, and certainly for the exclusive views over the terracotta roofs of the city and out to sea, in a sleepy but smart setting. During the day fellow rooftoppers are likely to be couples staying at the hotel who’ve briefly escaped their busy schedules elsewhere and just want to quietly sit and read and eat and drink all afternoon long. Tip: there are sun loungers on the level below. Becky LucasAddress: Memmo Alfama, 27 Travessa Das Mercieeras, Alfama, Lisbon
Website: memmohotels.com/alfamaBook now
Silk Club
When you want your food, and the people, to be as beautiful as the view, head here. Silk is a super-exclusive restaurant, bar and club on top of a listed building in the fashionable shopping district of Chiado. Dress appropriately and make a reservation, or you could risk not making it past the bouncer; but once in, you’ll see what all the fuss is about – from the fresh and deliciously prepared Japanese cuisine to the minimalist design in moody, opulent hues to the 270-degree views over the city.
Address: Silk Club, Rua da Misericórdia 14, Lisbon, Portugal
Website: silk-club.com
SUD Lisboa Terrazza
Located directly on the riverfront, a five-minute taxi ride from Cais do Sodre train station, SUD’s rooftop is a gorgeous space to spend a warm summer day, thanks to the pool, which overlooks the river and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
As the sun starts to set (and guests flock to get the perfect picture of the pink-tinged sky), you’ll likely be treated to a live DJ. This is when the place really shines, and it’s hard not to get caught up in the romanticism of the moment with such a stunning view. Indulge in a cocktail or a cold glass of local wine as you party into the night.
Address:
Website: sudlisboa.com
Website: vascodagamatower.com
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Sky Bar OrienteLocated on the 16th floor of the Tivoli hotel in Oriente – a short taxi ride from the centre of Lisbon – is the Sky Bar, which wows guests with an unobstructed view of the river and Vasco da Gama bridge. The vibe here is less party and more luxury; expect sushi plates, unique cocktail menus and plenty of comfortable seating to help you relax as you enjoy the sunset. On weekends, there’s often a DJ playing mellow tunes, and you can expect to see guests celebrating birthdays and special occasions as they dine here.Address: Av. Dom João II, 1990-083 Lisboa
Website: skybarrooftop.comBook now
