Looking for the best rooftop bars in Melbourne!? Well, look no further because I’ve got ya covered! Melbourne is a vibrant and incredible concrete jungle, and one of the many benefits of the city having little real estate to spare is the sheer number of rooftop bars there is to explore.
If you’re someone who wants to soak in the panoramic views of the city while enjoying your drink, you’re in for a treat. With a rooftop bar, you can enjoy the perfect setting for drinks with friends.
From trendy bars to laidback pubs, my list of the best rooftop bars in Melbourne has something for everyone. No matter what you’re interested in; be it cheap rooftop bars in Melbourne with yummy bar bites or slick, trendy bars, you’ll find these to be some of the best cool spots in Melbourne.
And don’t worry about arriving a little hungry—these bars offer an impressive range of bar snacks and pub classics that’ll fill your tummy and won’t leave you broke.
My shortlist of the 20 best rooftop bars in Melbourne has it all. Besides great drinks, you’ll get stunning city views from the rooftops, awesome company, top-notch customer service, and a range of rooftop drinks that will keep you coming back until you’re a fully-fledged regular.
Get ready to party…
Which one will you be drinking tonight…?
The Best Rooftop Bars Melbourne Offers
Without further ado, here are the best rooftop bars in Melbourne that are sure to quench your thirst and delight you with sweeping city views.
1) NAKED IN THE SKY (NAKED FOR SATAN) | TOP MELBOURNE ROOFTOP BAR
Address | Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Hours | Mondays to Thursdays 12:00 P.M.–12:00 A.M.; Fridays to Saturdays 12:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; and Sundays 12:00 P.M.–04:00 P.M.
Reservation | Seeing that the bar can get busy quickly, it may help to make a reservation online through their website or by calling the bar directly.
With a cult following across this great city, Naked for Satan’s rooftop bar “Naked in the Sky” is a firm favorite for Melburnians and visitors alike. Located in the hipster inner-city suburb of Fitzroy, a warm afternoon or evening here is always spent in good company.
Recommended drink: Their signature drink, “Satan’s Infused Vodka,” which is made in-house with any of their huge range of unique mixers.
Dress code: Casual.
2) THE IMPERIAL HOTEL ROOFTOP BEER GARDEN
Address | Bourke St, Melbourne
Hours | Mondays to Sundays 12:00 P.M.–12:00 A.M.
Reservation | This is quite the popular bar, so it’s wise to make a reservation to secure your spot.
Being one of Melbourne’s oldest bars hasn’t slowed down the following The Imperial Hotel constantly accrues. Stylish, relaxed, and nestled in the “Paris End” of central Bourke Street, it offers epic views of Parliament House from its spacious rooftop bar.
Recommended drink: The Imperial Hotel boasts creative cocktails, one of which is their refreshing “True Love Potion” cocktail. It’s a delicious, sour mix of sparkling wine, pomegranate, gin, and lime.
Dress code: Casual.
3) ROOFTOP BAR MELBOURNE WITH SPACIOUS ROOFTOP TERRACE
Address | Swanston St, Melbourne
Hours | Mondays to Sundays 12:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.
Reservation | Not required.
A constant across lists of the best rooftop bars in Melbourne, the aptly named Rooftop Bar is located on the 7th floor and digs right in the heart of the CBD on Swanston Street. They have a colorful and varied drinks menu and even have a rooftop open-air cinema that runs from December through to April. It’s the ideal way to spend a summer night with a backdrop to beat all backdrops.
Recommended drink: The “Mango Matcha” cocktail or the “Shallow Jalapeno”
Dress code: Casual.
4) GOOD HEAVENS ROOFTOP BAR
Address | Bourke St, Melbourne
Hours | Sundays to Thursdays 12:00 P.M.–11:00 P.M; Fridays to Saturdays 12:00 P.M–01:00 A.M.
Reservation | While reservations aren’t required, this is one of Melbourne’s most popular rooftop bars. So a reservation may be in order.
Another CBD favorite, “Good Heavens,” is indeed what you’ll say when you see the setup at Good Heavens. The team here keeps things fun with a calendar of events like “Tiki Tuesday”, and the cocktail menu is 80’s inspired. A breath of fresh air for rooftop bars in Melbourne.
Recommended drink: A “Frozen Raspberry Poco Loco”, please. Make that three.
Dress code: Casual.
5) ROOFTOP AT QT
Address | Russell St, Melbourne
Hours | Wednesdays to Thursdays 04:00 P.M.–10:00 P.M.; Fridays to Saturdays 02:00 P.M.–12:00 A.M.; Sundays 02:00 P.M.–10:00 P.M., and closed Mondays to Tuesdays.
Reservation | This walk-in rooftop bar does not require bookings.
A glamorous cocktail destination above an exclusive hotel in central Melbourne, this is a rooftop bar where you have to dress a bit snazzier than others to make the cut. A classic drinks menu and great tunes offset the cozy lounge seating. The open-air bar is partly covered by an awning, so Rooftop at QT is a top choice for a winter warmer or two as well as a summer refreshment.
Recommended drink: The catchy “QT G&T”.
Dress code: Smart casual.
6) MADAME BRUSSELS COCKTAIL BAR
Address | Bourke St, Melbourne
Hours | Wednesdays to Thursdays 05:00 P.M.–11:00 P.M.; Fridays 04:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; Saturdays 2:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; Sundays 2:00 P.M.–11:00 P.M.; and closed Mondays to Tuesdays.
Reservation | Try to book a few days in advance (from at least 2 days earlier), as it’s a popular rooftop bar.
Every bar hopper in Melbourne knows Madame Brussels, and this kitschy, quirky, and elegant destination has built a strong following for a reason. Enjoy naughtily named drinks in a garden party-inspired rooftop setting. You may even forget you’re in the middle of Australia’s most vibrant city. Or it could just be that strong cocktail…
Recommended drink: Madame’s flagship “The Madame’s DD Cup” punch.
Dress code: Smart casual to chic.
7) THE CORNER HOTEL
Address | Swan St, Richmond
Hours | Tuesdays to Thursdays 12:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; Fridays to Sundays 12:00 P.M.–03:00 A.M.; and closed Mondays.
Reservation | While they accommodate walk-ins, you may not get your desired seat with preferred views. So it may be best to make a booking.
Famed for its always impressive live music calendar and enjoyable atmosphere, The Corner Hotel in the inner-city suburb of Richmond has a fantastic rooftop bar locals and visitors regularly flock to. Enjoy weekly gigs, drinks specials, and excellent eats here.
Recommended drink: The aptly named “Hopped Hipster” cocktail.
Dress code: Casual.
8) THE EMERALD PEACOCK ROOFTOP BAR
Address | Lonsdale St, Melbourne
Hours | Sundays to Thursdays 04:00 P.M.–11:00 P.M.; and Fridays to Saturdays 04:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.
Reservation | There’s no need to make a reservation, but it’s also a popular location for guests, so make a reservation just in case it gets packed.
Sophisticated and sleek, The Emerald Peacock rooftop is a beautiful, sprawling location to unwind with after-work drinks or to add to your Melbourne rooftop bars bucket list for your next trip to this incredible city. The interiors are just as luxe, so the required dress code isn’t optional.
Recommended drink: Take advantage of their 2-for-1 spritz’s Happy Hour offer.
Dress code: Casual.
9) THE LOCAL TAPHOUSE
Address | Carlisle St, St Kilda East
Hours | Mondays to Sundays 12:00 P.M.–Late.
Reservation | There’s no need to make a reservation, but it must be done online (no calls) if you wish to make a booking.
Head down to trendy St Kilda and make a mad dash to The Local Taphouse on cool Carlisle Street. Enjoy the varied range of ales, lagers, and ciders on offer, including a mix of local craft beers the team here likes to showcase. Their food menu is just as impressive.
Recommended drink: A visit to a top taphouse calls for a pint on tap. I recommend anything by Bridge Road Brewers.
Dress code: Casual.
10) SIGLO ROOFTOP BAR
Address | Spring St, Melbourne
Hours | Tuesdays to Saturdays 05:00 P.M.–03:00 A.M.; and closed Sundays to Mondays.
Reservation | It’s recommended you make a booking because this is a much-frequented rooftop bar.
Another rooftop bar located in the Spring Street “Paris End”, it’s no wonder Siglo takes a nod from the Parisians in both decor and service quality. You’ll feel more than a bit fancy drinking at white-clothed tables with waiter service included.
And if that isn’t enough, the views of Parliament and St Patrick’s Cathedral should be. But those adverse to smoking be warned. One of Siglo’s trademarks is their range of Cuban cigars on offer, adding to their traditional Parisian smoking lounge vibe.
Recommended drink: This is a classy place, so a classic Negroni is called for.
Dress code: Smart casual.
11) LOOP ROOF BAR WITH RETRACTABLE ROOF
Address | Meyers Place, Melbourne
Hours | Tuesdays to Thursdays 04:00 P.M.–11:00 P.M.; Fridays to Saturdays 12:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; Sundays 12:00 P.M.–08:00 P.M.; and closed Mondays.
Reservation | While not a must, it’s recommended you book to avoid missing out.
Open every day (and night) of the week, you must make time to visit Loop Roof. With an exotic jungle-inspired design and a skyline view you can’t beat, this rooftop bar is always pumping and filled with a fun and friendly crowd. In winter, you can still enjoy its views thanks to extensive outdoor heating. A must-visit!
Recommended drink: A lazy afternoon in the sun calls for a refreshing “Sunburnt Fizz” cocktail from Loop Roof.
Dress code: Casual
12) JOHNNY’S GREEN ROOM ROOFTOP BAR
Address | Lygon St, Carlton
Hours | Sundays to Thursdays 12:00 P.M.–11:00 P.M.; and Fridays to Saturdays 12:00 P.M.–12:00 A.M.
Reservation | Not a must, but recommended as Johnny’s Green Room is a hip and happening rooftop bar.
Synonymous with Melbourne’s local Italian community, Lygon Street is chock-full of unique and familiar Italian restaurants and bars. But Johnny’s Green Room is the place for the coolest open-air experience. In addition to impressive mixes like the Limoncello Highball from their cocktail bar, their venue boasts bar bites and pub fare with a more laidback, casual vibe.
Johnny’s Green Room also regularly has awesome tunes played by live DJs, as well as interesting events like performance art displays.
Recommended drink: Their Limoncello is an excellent choice if you love that bittersweet taste. You can also keep things simple with the classically Italian Aperol Spritz.
Dress code: Casual
13) PALMZ AT THE CARLTON ROOFTOP BAR (PALMZ ROOFTOP BAR)
Address | Bourke St, Melbourne
Hours | Tuesdays to Sundays 03:00 P.M.–02:00 A.M.; and Mondays 03:00 P.M.–12:30 A.M.
Reservation | This is not required, but you can contact them via their website or email.
Located at the iconic Carlton Club on Bourke Street, Palmz is their themed rooftop bar and is sure to transport you from the busy city streets to a tropical oasis. Bars with island-inspired thatched roofs and a ton of greenery make for a little slice of paradise tucked away from the hustle and bustle below. Can’t get away this summer? Palmz is a vacation in itself.
Recommended drink: The “Ginny from the Block” cocktail is as delicious as it is cleverly named.
Dress code: Casual
14) GOLDILOCKS ROOFTOP BAR
Address | Swanston St, Melbourne
Hours | Sundays to Thursdays 01:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; and Fridays to Saturdays 01:00 P.M.–03:00 P.M.
Reservation | You can make bookings for groups of 2 to 10 people, but other than that, it’s not a necessity.
Laid-back and perfect for a lazy afternoon (into the evening) drinking session, Goldilocks is popular not just for its food and drinks menu but its ethical stance. This rooftop bar is vegan-friendly and has strict recycling and sustainability practices. They have also joined the “no straws” revolution, offering paper straws and banning all plastics. I love it!
Recommended drink: The Napoleon Cloudy Cider is refreshing yet hearty.
Dress code: Casual
15) TRANSIT ROOFTOP BAR AT TRANSPORT HOTEL
Address | Federation Square, Cnr. Swanston & Flinders Streets, Melbourne
Hours | Mondays to Thursdays 03:00 P.M.–11:00 P.M.; Fridays 03:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; Saturdays 12:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; and Sundays 12:00 P.M.–09:00 P.M.
Reservation | While they welcome walk-ins, the rooftop bar recommends making a reservation.
Situated in Federation Square directly opposite iconic Flinders St Station, Transit Rooftop Bar boasts top-shelf food, drinks, stunning city skyline views, and live music every Thursday through Sunday. The genre of tunes is always different, so you’ll never be bored of the vibe at Transit.
Recommended drink: A “Chicago Sour” will ease you into the rooftop bar vibe.
Dress code: Casual
16) THE ALBION ROOFTOP
Address | York St, South Melbourne
Hours | Fridays 12:00 P.M.–03:00 A.M.; Saturdays 03:00 P.M.–03:00 A.M.; and closed Sundays to Thursdays.
Reservation | They accept walk-ins but recommend bookings to avoid missing out.
A relative newcomer to the ever-growing Melbourne nightlife scene, The Albion is located in classy South Melbourne, within walking distance of all that makes Melbourne great. This instant favorite is set over three floors, including a club, a bookable function level, and an epic rooftop bar. Be sure to make some memories at The Albion.
Recommended drink: “The Priscilla” is your new favorite summer cocktail, trust me.
Dress code: Smart casual (with more in-depth information here).
17) STATE OF GRACE
Address | King St, Melbourne
Hours | Mondays to Thursdays 12:00 P.M.–09:00 P.M.; Fridays to Saturdays 12:00 P.M.–10:00 P.M.; and closed Sundays.
Reservation | You may find a free table without making a reservation, but why risk it?
Situated in the Melbourne’s party precinct of King Street, State of Grace is stylish and surprising. They have a great rooftop bar, yes, but they also have a hidden cellar bar cleverly named Fall from Grace. If you find yourself over the Crown Casino and Southern Cross side of town, make a date with the State of Grace.
Recommended drink: You can’t go past a “Molly’s Curse” cocktail for a lemony kick.
Dress code: Smart casual.
18) FABLE MELBOURNE ROOFTOP BAR
Address | Lonsdale St, Melbourne
Hours | Fridays to Saturdays 03:00 P.M.–03:00 A.M.; Sundays, 03:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; Wednesdays–Thursdays 05:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; and closed Mondays.
Reservation | This stunning rooftop bar with enviable views gets all the play, so it’s worth making a booking to avoid disappointment.
Don’t let the expensive bar aesthetics of FABLE Melbourne fool you: this Melbourne CBD rooftop bar is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere. The lush green accents and premium décor, inspired by Mediterranean old-world charm, transport you to another world.
That said, one glance at the city skyline will remind you you’re right in Melbourne CBD. Being the highest rooftop bar in Melbourne’s city center, you’re bound to enjoy unrivaled views of the city right from its heart. Don’t miss washing down their scrumptious and light scallops and calamari with a glass of dry white wine.
Seeing that the Melbourne rooftop bar gets quite busy, it’s wise to book in advance if you don’t want to miss out on their lively atmosphere and great food.
Recommended drink: With incredible menus boasting Mediterranean seafood, dry white wine is a perfect choice.
Dress code: Smart casual.
19) BOMBA ROOFTOP BAR IN MELBOURNE CBD
Address | Lonsdale St, Melbourne
Hours | Tuesdays to Saturdays 12:00 P.M.–12:00 A.M.; and Sundays to Mondays 05:00 P.M.–12:00 A.M.
Reservation | Their rooftop terrace isn’t accepting any bookings now.
The Spanish are all about style and substance, and Bomba in Melbourne CBD sure encapsulates its distinct Mediterranean vibe. This dual-level institution on Lonsdale Street gives visitors the best of both worlds.
A renowned tapas restaurant on the ground floor and a great rooftop bar upstairs. Fill up on delicious Spanish food, and then keep the good times rolling with a bevvie or five just a few steps away.
Recommended drink: Bomba is a Spanish bar, so their house Sangria is obviously recommended!
Dress code: Smart casual.
20) FERDYDURKE
Address | Tattersalls Lane, Melbourne
Hours | Sundays, Tuesdays to Thursdays 05:00 P.M.–01:00 A.M.; Fridays to Saturday 05:00 P.M.–03:00 A.M.; and closed Mondays.
Reservation | None required unless you’re watching a performance.
Explore Melbourne’s famous laneway lifestyle and stop in at Ferdydurke on the iconic Tattersalls Lane for a tipple of two. The crowd (and staff) here are all enviably hip, and the drinks menu is varied and yummy. Rub shoulders with the cool crowd in this laid-back rooftop bar.
Recommended drink: A classic Margherita, like a boss.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual.
PLANNING A TRIP TO AUSTRALIA?
I’ve spent quite a large amount of time traveling down under and have visited Melbourne several times, and my website is filled with awesome articles and travel guides just like this.
Check out a few of them below, and feel free to reach out to me if you ever have any questions!
- The Ultimate SYDNEY Itinerary | How to Spend 4-7 Days in Sydney
- The Ultimate MELBOURNE Itinerary | How to Spend 4-7 Days in Melbourne
- The 17 Best Hostels in Melbourne For Backpackers & Budget Travelers
- The Ultimate Guide For Moving To Sydney on a Working Holiday Visa
- Cairns – Sydney: The Ultimate Greyhound Bus Pass Itinerary
- 30 Music Festivals in Australia To Experience Before You
- The 15 Best Music Festivals in Sydney
- Top 30 Music Festivals in Melbourne
THANKS FOR READING ABOUT THE BEST ROOFTOP BARS IN MELBOURNE!
This post was originally a guest post from Darryl and Adam from Welcome To Travel but has since been updated to include more rooftop bars! Darryl and Adam are best friends from the North of England. After graduating from university in 2010, they set off on a 6-month backpacking trip and haven’t returned home! The place they now call home, though, is in Melbourne, Australia.
Their love for travel and people has led them to start their own business, Welcome To Travel, which showcases Melbourne and its surroundings while doing exactly what it says on the tin, welcoming backpackers from around the world to not only Australia but the wonderful concept of traveling itself!
Traveling and helping other people travel is their passion, and they love to offer free advice in the form of blogs, vlogs, Q+A sessions, and even personal Skype calls.
The Loop Roof looks fabulous Fave! So inviting; right up my alley. Gotta love a good rooftop bar for an enchanting experience. Thanks for sharing :)
Ryan
Nothing beats a cold beer and an awesome view…best experience!
Great rooftop bar choices!
Dave
DRINKi ?
Nice blog you got on rooftop bars in Melbourne! You are sharing a wonderful blog with us. I like this blog and found very helpful. Thanks a lot for sharing.