Bars & Pubs

The Best Rooftop Bars In Rome For Sunset Sips In 2026

8th Apr 2026
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Rome might not be short on iconic landmarks, but seeing the city from above hits differently. Rooftop bars here offer a whole new perspective—looking out over domes, terracotta rooftops and ancient ruins, often with a drink in hand as the sun starts to dip.

Many of the best are found at the top of Rome’s hotels, where the height, the setting and the drinks all come together. Expect standout views and seriously good cocktails, often led by some of the city’s top bartenders. From more low-key terraces to those that feel a little more indulgent, these are the rooftop bars in Rome worth making time for.

The Court at Palazzo Manfredi

Via Labicana, 125, 00184 Rome

The best rooftop bars in Rome at Palazzo Manfredi with a rooftop terrace overlooking the ColosseumImage credit: Hotel Palazzo Manfredi | Booking.com

For one of the best views in Rome, The Court at Palazzo Manfredi is hard to top. While not technically a rooftop, the open-air terrace feels like one—delivering uninterrupted, front-row views of the Colosseum and the ancient ruins of the Ludus Magnus.

This is a cocktail bar first and foremost, with a strong focus on mixology led by bar manager Matteo Zed, whose international experience shows in the drinks. Expect inventive, beautifully executed cocktails that go well beyond the classics, making it just as much about what’s in your glass as what’s in front of you.

The space itself is intimate and polished, with a courtyard-style layout that frames the view without distraction. It’s very much a book-ahead situation, but for an early evening drink with one of Rome’s most iconic backdrops, it more than delivers.

Terrazza Les Etoiles

Via dei Bastioni, 1, 00193 Rome

Best rooftop bars in Rome at Terrazza Les Etoiles with a saxophone player and guest overlooking the rooftops of Rome and the dome of St Peter’s BasilicaImage credit: Terrazza Les Etoiles

Across the top floors of the Atlante Star Hotel, Terrazza Les Étoiles delivers one of the most expansive views in Rome, stretching out in every direction with St. Peter’s Dome taking centre stage. From up here, you’re looking out over rooftops, church spires and distant hills—it’s the kind of view that feels properly cinematic.

The rooftop itself is spread across multiple levels, with a garden setting that softens the space and adds to that slightly removed, above-the-city feel. It’s especially good around sunset, when the light hits the dome just right—there’s even a perfect photo spot framed between the hedges.

At its core is the cocktail bar, where aperitivo runs daily with a set offering that includes drinks and a spread of small bites. It’s a little more structured than some rooftops, but the setting more than makes up for it—an easy pick for a pre-dinner drink with a serious view.

Otivm Rooftop Bar

Via d'Aracoeli, 11A, 00186 Rome

Best rooftop bars in Rome at Otivm Rooftop Bar with a rooftop terrace dining and lounge area overlooking the Capitoline HillImage credit: Otivm Hotel | Booking.com

At the top of Otivm Hotel, this rooftop bar delivers a quieter, more refined take on Rome’s skyline. Just moments from Capitoline Hill, the terrace opens out to sweeping views over the Altare della Patria and surrounding rooftops—one of those vantage points that feels slightly removed from the crowds below.

The drinks list is tight but thoughtfully put together, with a more modern approach to mixology led by bartender Matteo Ghittoni and his team. Expect something a little different from the usual, with cocktails that feel considered without being overworked. It’s an easy one for a relaxed drink with a view—less scene, more space to settle in and take it all in.

Paparazzo Rooftop

Via Federico Cesi, 37, 00193 Rome

Best rooftop bars in Rome at Paparazzo Rooftop with a retro, glamorous outdoor dining area lit up at nightImage credit: Paparazzo Rooftop | Instagram

Up on the top floor of Le Méridien Visconti, Paparazzo taps into Rome’s La Dolce Vita era, reimagined with a more modern edge. It’s a little more playful than some of the city’s rooftops, with a lively atmosphere that leans into that old-school glamour.

The cocktail menu draws inspiration from 1960s film, fashion and nightlife, with drinks that come with a few unexpected twists. There’s a slightly theatrical feel to it all—in a good way—with each drink designed to stand out.

Inside and out, the space carries that same energy, with a sophisticated finish that nods to vintage Italian style. Expect bold flavour combinations, a few more adventurous pours and a crowd that’s here for a good time—especially when live music is on.

La Grande Bellezza at Palazzo Pamphilj

Via di Santa Maria dell'Anima, 30, 00186 Rome

Best rooftop bars in Rome at Terrazza Borromini with two large cocktails garnished with mint overlooking the dome of Sant’Agnese churchImage credit: Terrazza Borromini | Instagram

On the fifth floor of Palazzo Pamphilj, La Grande Bellezza is one of Rome’s most impressive rooftop bars—and one that fully leans into the setting. From here, you’re looking straight over Piazza Navona, with a close-up view of the dome of Sant’Agnese in Agone and rooftops stretching out across the city.

The space feels elegant and thought-out, balancing the grandeur of the 17th-century palazzo with a more contemporary edge. Aperitivo is a big part of the experience, with generous spreads designed for sharing alongside a strong lineup of wines, premium spirits and signature cocktails.

It’s undeniably on the more elevated end, both in setting and price, but the location more than justifies it. Book ahead—this is not one you’ll be walking into.

Acquaroof Terrazza Molinari

Via del Vantaggio, 14, 00186 Rome

Best rooftop bars in Rome at Acquaroof Terrazza Molinari with an outdoor dining area overlooking Rome’s rooftopsImage credit: The First Arte | Booking.com

Set above the city on the sixth floor, Acquaroof Terrazza Molinari pairs wide-open views with a more laid-back yet equally glamorous feel. From here, you’re looking out over Piazza del Popolo and the surrounding rooftops—an easy spot to lounge as the light starts to shift.

Cocktails are a strong focus, with a creative menu with a fresh, slightly coastal influence, alongside a solid lineup of Italian and international sparkling wines. The drinks are adventurous without being overcomplicated, backed by a team that knows exactly what they’re doing behind the bar.

There’s also a Mediterranean food offering running from lunch through to aperitivo and dinner, making it one you can stay at for a while.

Zuma

Via della Fontanella di Borghese, 48, 00186 Rome

Image credit: Zuma Rome | Instagram

Best rooftop bars in Rome at Zuma with the terrace dining area lit up in the evening
Image Credit: Zuma | Instagram 

Not your typical Roman rooftop, but one that consistently makes the list for good reason, London-based Zuma brings its signature Japanese dining and bar experience to the top of Palazzo Fendi. The space feels distinctly different from the city’s more traditional terraces, with a sleek, design-led setting high above the streets.

The rooftop bar looks out across Rome’s skyline, making it a strong spot for sunset drinks before heading into the restaurant below. Cocktails draw on Japanese flavours—think yuzu, sake and citrus-forward combinations—with standouts like the Tokyo Spritz or a bright Yuzu Martini.

Zuma spans two floors, with an indoor restaurant and lounge alongside the terrace, plus a menu of izakaya-style dishes if you’re settling in for longer. It sits at the higher end, especially in the evening, but the setting and atmosphere make it worth it.

The Bulgari Terraces

Piazza Augusto Imperatore, 10, 00186 Rome

Best rooftop bars in Rome at the Bulgari Hotel’s terrace with an outdoor seating area surrounded by greenery and an open-air window framing RomeImage credit: Bulgari Hotel Rome | Website

The Bulgari terraces bring together sweeping views and a more intimate, garden-like setting. Surrounded by greenery inspired by ancient Roman villas, the space feels removed from the city below, with outlooks stretching across landmarks like the Mausoleum of Augustus, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Tiber.

There are a couple of terrace options depending on the season, from a smaller, more intimate bar space to a larger open-air setting in summer.

Drinks are a highlight, with aperitivo done properly alongside a menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito. Expect Italian bites that match the setting, with cocktails and wines to suit—best enjoyed slowly as the light shifts across the city.

Cielo at Hotel de la Ville 

Via Sistina 69, Spagna, 00187 Rome

Best rooftop bars in Rome at Cielo with an outdoor terrace seating area lit up at nightImage Credit: Rocco Forte Hotel | Booking.com

Above the Spanish Steps, at the top of the iconic Hotel de la Ville, Cielo delivers one of Rome’s most memorable rooftop settings, with views stretching out from Trinità dei Monti across the city skyline. It’s the kind of place that really comes into its own at sunset, when the light softens and the rooftops start to glow.

The terrace itself is instantly recognisable, with red and white striped sofas and parasols giving it a distinctly Roman feel, balanced by a more luxe, hotel-led finish. Drinks are well executed and made to be savoured slowly, alongside a menu of cicchetti—small, flavour-packed bites designed to share.

As the evening moves on, the atmosphere lifts, with music and a steady buzz that carries through the night. It’s one of those spots that manages to feel both special and relaxed at the same time.

U-Terrace Lounge Bar

Via dei Maroniti, 12, 00187 Rome

Best rooftop bars in Rome at U-Terrace Lounge Bar with an outdoor seating area overlooking Rome’s historic monumentsImage credit: U-Terrace Lounge Bar | Instagram

U-Terrace Lounge Bar sits atop the U-Visionary Roma Hotel, between Trevi and Monti, offering wide views across Rome’s rooftops. It’s a smaller space, which gives it a more intimate feel—ideal if you’re after something a little quieter above the city.

The drinks list covers signature cocktails alongside a strong selection of Italian wines, with a simple food offering of Roman pinsa, cicchetti and share-style bites. This is where you settle in for a drink or two, take in the view and let the city move around you below.

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