Everyone knows that the higher you go, the more enjoyable a drink is. If it weren’t so immeasurable, this would be a scientific fact, so you’ll just have to trust us. Luckily, Melbourne is the place for some of the best rooftop bars, allowing you to gaze out over this stunning city while enjoying a delicious cocktail.
But how do you pick which of Melbourne’s many rooftop bars to visit? We’ve made this answer easy by pulling together the best high-altitude spots to grab an amazing drink and perch over the city like a stone gargoyle or Victorian Batman. Work your way through all of them!
This particular rooftop sits atop a two-storey heritage Edwardian building, formerly a bank, complete with vintage vault doors and bartenders who are known as tellers. The renovated space is now one of the most stylish spots in Richmond, with a stunning alfresco courtyard that looks out over the streets.
Known for their cocktails, you’ll find DJs, stylish after-work crowds and some late-night parties at Fargo and Co.
Fargo and Co often has seasonal pop-ups. The dancefloor is always pumping, the drinks are always great, and you’ll always have a good time on one of Richmond’s best rooftop bars.
Harlow’s brand new rooftop offers the ultimate spot to perch, sip and snack with some of the finest Melbourne CBD views around. They serve classic pub food, plenty of delicious drinks, and the best part, all pooch pals are welcome in the beer garden (on a lead).
Harlow’s menu features pub classics with a modern twist, like pimped-up schnittys and plenty of light bites to share over a stunning cocktail or frosty cold brew. What more could you want from one of the best rooftops in the CBD?
Perched high at the top of The Imperial Hotel is a huge rooftop that can hold around 270 people and has relaxed lounge seating from which you can view breathtaking city views. The Imperial’s rooftop garden is unrivalled in the Melbourne rooftop bar scene and a very popular place to soak in the beauty of the city skyline.
The Imperial also happens to be one of the best spots to watch live sport in the CBD. Right next to the historic Princess Theatre, the rooftop bar has spectacular views of Parliament House from one of the oldest pubs in Melbourne. The rooftop jumbotron screen is no joke!
You’ll find all of the pub classics here, and this setting simply wouldn’t be right without a cold beer. Luckily, there are plenty on tap and in the fridge at the Imperial to choose from!
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Experience Melbourne’s skyline like never before at the Richmond Club Hotel rooftop! Head on up to the top level and discover an eclectic oasis that will take your breath away. With stunning panoramic views of the cityscape, including the iconic MCG, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.
Relax in the outdoor seating area while sipping on a cocktail and taking in the breathtaking views. The rooftop oasis is the perfect place to unwind with friends after a long day, or to celebrate a special occasion.
The Provincial rooftop may be the most famous (read: popular) in Melbourne. Everyone has a story of an epic night from this rooftop, and the city views make it a must-visit, day or night. The cocktail list is as stylish as the rooftop itself, and the people who frequent it come dressed to match. This is a place to look and feel good while you drink some of the most delicious concoctions in Fitzroy.
If rooftops are what you love (which makes sense if you are reading this), The Provincial offers a relaxed but electric spot that boasts stunning sunset views and a great way to watch the happenings of Brunswick Street below. Full of lush greenery and chic decor, this is the rooftop for everyone.
One of our favourites would have to be the State of Grace Rooftop which offers great views overlooking Melbourne city with a casual feel that is welcoming to all. The pizzas deserve a special mention, and the cocktails pair perfectly. So that’s great Melbourne CBD views, delicious pizzas, and awesome cocktails; the trifecta!
The State of Grace Rooftop accepts bookings from Sunday to Thursday, and you can see how lucky you get on Friday and Saturday because this is a very popular perch. Conveniently located in the city’s heart, the venue also has a cool little hidden cellar bar called Fall From Grace, but it’s a secret.
Whether it’s your lunch break, time for a big with friends, or you are in need of some late-night bites, State of Grace is ready for you.
Did you know that the Duke of Wellington is Melbourne’s oldest licensed pub? It was established in 1853, back when people probably weren’t concerned about rooftop bars. Now, however, we are. And this one, located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD right opposite The Forum, is one of the greats.
You can go to the Duke for breakfast, lunch or dinner and enjoy pub classics like the parma or the a classic cheeseburger. They also have plenty of share plates, making it easy to bring all of your buddies.
The newly-opened rooftop bar offers views of the Forum, Fed Square and Flinders Street and has a unique menu and cocktail list. The Duke is also a great spot to catch all of the footy action on the big screens, or as a stop before or after the game if you are heading to the MCG down the road.
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We end our list with a floating rooftop! Yarra Botanica is a two-level floating bar and eatery that sits nicely on the Yarra River, offering a great lineup of seasonal food and drinks. You’ll enjoy both city and water views in the heart of Southbank while sipping an all-local lineup of quality Victorian drinks.
We are well aware of how beautiful Melbourne is, which is why we have so many venues that offer rooftop views! Check out the full list below and see every inch of Melbourne with a bird’s-eye view and soak in how truly wonderful this city scene can be.
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