There's no denying that Melbourne is a stunning city, so it's no surprise there's a seemingly endless supply of rooftop bars where you can take it all in. Whether you're after sunsets and snacks or cocktails and catch-ups, Melbourne's rooftop bars are the perfect spot for hanging out and soaking up the views.
You might think that Melbourne rooftop bars are just made for summer, but throw in a heater and some mulled wine or other warm cocktail and you've got yourself one lovely, cosy winter outing.
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From secret spots hidden down alleyways to iconic venues serving up the city's best views, we've sussed out the rooftop bars that are on another level — the ones that are really wow-worthy.
So here are the best rooftop bars Melbourne has to offer for 2025, according to Urban List.
Inuman
167 Exhibition Street, Melbourne CBD
Image: Inuman | Supplied
Inuman, meaning ‘to drink’ in Tagalog, is Melbourne’s first Filipino cocktail bar. It’s where mixology meets Filipino culture, and the result is intriguingly delicious cocktails you won’t find on any other menu in town. Take the Sago’T Bling Pig for example, a punchy mix of vodka, tanduay, ube, bergamot, coconut milk, and cacao — it’s bright purple, silky smooth and goes down way too easily. Set atop sibling venue Askal, enjoy this open-air rooftop with gorgeous views of the surrounding inner-city landscape. This is up there among the best Melbourne rooftop bars out there.
INSIDER INTEL
- Happy hour is all day Wednesday and 5-7pm all other days they're open.
- The freshly shucked oysters with kiwifruit hot sauce are a big vibe.
- No bookings, it's walk-ins only.
Santana
Level 3/169 Melbourne Place, Melbourne CBD
Image: Santana Rooftop | Supplied
It’s cigars and cocktails at Santana, and we’re here for it. Lit by candles, the glow of the neon Santana sign, and the secondhand light of surrounding skyscrapers, this might be the most ambient and vibey rooftop bar in Melbourne. Honestly? It’s got ‘date night’ written all over it. The cocktail list is curated and the spirits list is long. Santana is a special place, and you most definitely don’t need a cigar in hand to enjoy it.
INSIDER INTEL
- Who said rooftop bars aren’t for winter? Their warm cocktails will heat you up from the inside out.
- Open seven days, hit up Santana whenever the mood strikes.
- It’s drinks only, so make this your pre or post-dinner spot.
Slowpoke
Level 4/50 Gipps Street, Collingwood
Where ‘70s Italian glamour meets old-school dive bar, Slowpoke is not somewhere you’ll be rushing out of anytime soon. The rooftop wraps around the building, and the large windows mean you’re looking straight at the skyline even sitting at the indoor bar. DJs every Friday and Saturday night complete the vibe check, and the cocktails are just as curated as the venue and entire Slowpoke experience.
INSIDER INTEL
- The Slowpoke Cheeseburger, drizzled in honey alongside the hash brown fries with apple pie sauce might just trigger an existential crisis.
- Check their Insta for monthly soundtrack updates.
- They’re open for business Wednesday to Sunday.
Mid Air
Level 12 / 130 Russell Street, Melbourne CBD
Image: Melbourne Place | Supplied
Perched 12 floors above Melbourne Place, Mid Air is where city views meet Mediterranean indulgence. Designed by acclaimed architects Kennedy Nolan, this rooftop oasis feels like stepping into another world—one where the golden light of sunset hits just right and the cocktails flow.
INSIDER INTEL
- Perfect for a rooftop meal alongside your drinks, the Mediterranean-led menu delivers.
- The signature cocktails and spritzes are exactly what you want to be drinking on a rooftop.
- Open every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Book your table here.
Gigi Rooftop
Level 2/917 High Street, Thornbury
Image: Umberto Group | Supplied
Sipping a chilled glass of vino, perched just a little higher in the sky— it’s the simple things in life. Above Umberto Espresso Bar, this tiny, hidden Thornbury gem (and the only rooftop bar on High Street) promises gorg skyline views, refreshing cocktails, and all the laid-back vibes you need for a perfect sunny escape.
INSIDER INTEL
- Closed over winter, wait until summer hits to visit Gigi Rooftop.
- We think you’ll hit it off with their Gigi spritz.
- Start the night off with the pinsa picante.
HER Rooftop
270 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: HER | Supplied
The top floor of iconic Melbourne venue HER is possibly the hottest real estate in town when the sun is out. With a chic Euro garden terrace feel, colourful mosaic artwork and a long-brass-stacked bar, it's an ideal spot to throw back their signature Paloma while you take in the CBD vista.
INSIDER INTEL
- We recommend pairing some rooftop cocktails with anything from their extensive Thai barbeque style share menu.
- If you’re chasing a group booking, snag yourself a lounge package which gives you access to an exclusive parapet area, heaps of food and a welcome cocktail.
- Just like Music Room, the rooftop attracts a crowd, so be sure to get there early.
Rooftop Bar
11/133 Russell Street, Melbourne CBD
Image: Rooftop Bar Melbourne CBD | Supplied
Rooftop Bar (or just 'Rooftop' to the initiated) atop Curtain House is a Melbourne classic, perfect for sunny Sunday sessions that seamlessly turn into evening hangs. With craft beers, seltzers, and cocktails on deck, it's an easy choice for an all-day hangout. The bartenders are ready to recommend house favourite cocktails, pair that with stunning CBD views and sunshine, and you've got the ultimate rooftop experience. Plus, Cookie and Toff In Town are just downstairs for afters. Defs one of the best rooftop bars Melbourne CBD has to offer.
INSIDER INTEL
- Be warned, the multiple levels of stairs did not come to play, take them at your own risk, you’ll be gasping for a well-earned pint at the top.
- Or, you know, take the lift (don't take the lift).
- There’s plenty of seating, a smoking area and when it's chilly, stacks of heaters.
Hickens Hotel
127 Russell Street, Melbourne CBD
Image: Hickens Hotel | Supplied
Remember The Crafty Squire on the corner of Russell and Little Collins? The iconic venue is set to reopen as Hickens Hotel, and you guessed it — there’s going to one impressive rooftop bar upstairs. Post-$6.5 million transformation, the four-level venue (yep, they’re adding an extra floor) will blend more than 160 years of history with a distinctly modern pub offering. The brand-new open-air rooftop will be primed for knock-offs, golden hour cocktails and late night hangs.
INSIDER INTEL
- No hard date for opening yet, but we’re assured it’ll be open this winter (hopefully with some heaters cranking).
- Downstairs, The Carlton Lounge will deliver nostalgic 70’s-style rumpus bar vibes complete with pool tables.
- Abe’s Athletic Hall is where you’ll find arcade games and big screens.
Full Moon Fever
225 Johnston Street, Abbotsford
Image credit: Full Moon Fever | Jake Roden
Full Moon Fever is the perfect rooftop escape after a game of pool at Lulie Tavern. This retro spot channels 70s California vibes with desert-themed decor, re-used brickwork, and stained-glass windows. Overlooking Johnston Street, it’s all about laid-back charm with a menu featuring top-tier burgers, crispy fried chicken, and ice-cold tins. Whether you’re craving a bite or a refreshing drink, it’s a must-visit for rooftop hangs in Melbourne’s inner north.
INSIDER INTEL
- Hit up the next full-moon gathering on this rooftop, it’s not one to miss.
- Thursdays are sorted with $1 wings.
- Take the group chat to Trivia with a view on Thursday nights.
The Beverly
24/627 Chapel Street, South Yarra
Image credit: The Beverly | Jake Roden
The Beverly is the ultimate Sunday rooftop destination in Melbourne, offering LA-inspired, poolside chic vibes with DJs and Instagram-worthy cocktails. Perfect for big events or casual after-work drinks, this stylish spot also serves up a playful menu of share plates like prawn ceviche with jalapeno cream, spanner crab pasta, and pulled pork belly ragu, making it ideal for long, boozy catch-ups.
INSIDER INTEL
- Their Sunset Scenes menu Monday to Thursday is a special set menu for the early birds from 4 to 6pm.
- You are going to soak up some epic panoramic sky-high views of Melbourne.
- They get their oysters from Boomer Bay in Tassie.
The Cornish Arms
163A Sydney Road, Brunswick
Image: Cornish Arms | Supplied
Yep we’re counting this classic pub as a certified gold rooftop bar. We're struggling to think of a rooftop in Melbourne with better vibes and food specials. The best thing about the Cornish Arms is the location: rooftop bars in Brunswick are bloody rare, so this is some prime real estate.
P.S. Check out our Brunswick Guide for more to do in this part of town.
INSIDER INTEL
- Get a stellar happy hour bevvy on the only rooftop bar Brunswick has on offer.
- Cornish Arms serves both omnivorous and vegan options including souvlakis all Monday long.
- Of course Saturdays see DJs on the roof, so you can sip and dance with a view.
Quarterhouse
693 Collins Street, Docklands
We’re all for a Melbourne rooftop bar, especially one that opens out onto the brand new Sky Park, suspended over Collins Street. Quarterhouse, just near Southern Cross station, is three levels of after-work or pre-game goodness. The huge open-air, wrap-around terrace offers laid-back indulgence. This mega-venue is set to be your new go-to when you’re in that part of town.
INSIDER INTEL
- The rooftop menu is very shareable with seven different kinds of wood-fired pizza.
- DJs set the vibe from 5pm Thursday to Saturday, and from 3pm on Sunday.
- There’s a $79 long lunch every Saturday that’s worth checking out.
Bomba
103 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: Bomba | supplied
Bomba Rooftop, nestled on Lonsdale Street, is a plant-filled oasis and one of Melbourne’s premier rooftop bars. With stunning views of the city skyline, this breezy open-air venue serves up a delightful array of tapas and top-tier cocktails. Their signature sangria carafes—available in red, white, and rosé—are perfect for sipping during golden hour while soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
INSIDER INTEL
- Get the full restaurant dining experience dished-up on the roof and pick between two set menus starting at $69.
- Take away the fuss of deciding what to drink and snag yourself one of their curated drinks packages.
- The charcoal grilled pork belly, with fennel and topped with mojo verde is a must-munch.
Johnny’s Green Room
Level 2/293-297 Lygon Street, Carlton
Image credit: Johnny's Green Room | Supplied
Johnny’s Green Room offers one of the most picturesque views of Melbourne’s skyline, making it a top contender among the best rooftop bars in the city. Snack on pizzas, slurp back a gelato-infused cocktail or just take in the views, it's the perfect rooftop setting for a relaxed soirée with mates, cementing Johnny’s Green Room as a must-visit rooftop bar in Melbourne.
INSIDER INTEL
- Hustle a seat close to the edge so you can get that front-row seat kinda view of the skyline.
- Pizzas are off-tap, but the Gamberetti and funghi take the cake.
- You have not lived until you try the limoncello marg.
Goldilocks
Level 5/264 Swanston Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: Goldilocks | supplied
Perched above the Denyer Building on Swanston Street, Goldilocks is a charming rooftop bar that perfectly captures a fairytale vibe. With a focus on sustainability, this intimate space specialises in local Victorian craft beers, wines, and whimsical cocktails. Sip on signature cocktails under twinkling fairy lights while enjoying a mostly vegan and vegetarian menu. Goldilocks offers a fantasy atmosphere, making it one of Melbourne’s best rooftop bars for unwinding and indulging.
INSIDER INTEL
- Spice your night up with a warming hot chocolate that’s spiked with your choice of liqueur.
- The Goldilocks boozy picnic gives you two-hours of free flowing beer, cider, wine and selected cocktails—plus some nibbles.
- The Papa Bear cocktail is a hard one to pass up—husk rare blend Australian rum, frangelico, honeycomb syrup, apple and lime.
Siglo
2/161 Spring Street, Melbourne CBD
Siglo is a rooftop bar that’s all about exclusivity—if you know, you know. And if you’re willing to wait in line, you definitely know. Always ranking high on any "best anything in Melbourne" list, Siglo is renowned for its premium cocktails, from classic martinis to espressos, all served with stunning European-inspired views. For those feeling indulgent, grab a cigar and soak in the atmosphere, or head downstairs to the former Supper Club turned Greek restaurant Kafeneion for a meal that’s just as memorable.
INSIDER INTEL
- If you indulge in a puff, you can get Cuban cigars straight to your table.
- Lock yourself in for a long-one here, there’s a strict no bookings policy.
- The penicillin cocktail lives up to its name.
Naked For Satan
285 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
Image: Naked For Satan's Naked Upstairs | Supplied
It wouldn’t be a list of the best rooftop bars in Melbourne if we didn’t add Naked For Satan's rooftop bar, Naken Upstairs. If you’re looking for a reason to get you over to the northside, it’s right here. This rooftop spot is as devilishly good as its name suggests, with fabulous views of the city, delicious eats, long drinks and everything in between.
INSIDER INTEL
- The express lunch menu is killer, but don’t miss out on their baked camembert, topped with chilli and fermented honey…yum.
- They’ve got an extensive list of infused vodkas.
- If you’re chasing a rooftop venture, with that northside vibe, this is it.
State of Grace
27 King Street, Melbourne
They say good things come in two. This is probably why the State of Grace rooftop covers two stories. You’re sorted with an array of grazing plates, sourdough pizza, and an extensive cocktail list all day. Time it right with the golden hour and you’re sorted.
INSIDER INTEL
- Have a field day with their ginormous pull-apart baked brie.
- They can neither confirm nor deny that they have a secret bar in a hidden entrance (from 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday).
- Snag a burger and pot for $25.
Mirror Mirror Rooftop Lounge
Level 3/209 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne
Image credit: Tiffy Group | Michael Pham
Mirror Mirror, a Snow White-themed rooftop bar above South Melbourne's Clarendon Hotel, is a must-visit for whimsical vibes and stunning city skyline views. This enchanting spot offers fairytale-inspired cocktails like the Poison Apple and Sweet Dreams, perfect for sipping while enjoying magical Melbourne views. Whether you're snapping selfies or soaking up the atmosphere, this bar is sure to make you feel like the fairest of them all.
INSIDER INTEL:
- Treat yourself a bargain bevvy between 3pm to 6pm with their daily $10 Happy Hour
- Curated by a Michelin-trained chef the snack menu changes with the seasons.
- Start your weekend right with their Fairest Of Them All Boozy Brunch going at $80 a pop.
Main Image credit: Full Moon Fever | Jake Roden
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