Quick answer: For drinks with a view, the standouts are in Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Dubai and Athens.
A great rooftop bar pairs a knockout view with the right atmosphere. These cities do it best.
The 10 best rooftop-bar cities
Singapore
Marina Bay’s skyline from sky-high bars like CÉ LA VI atop Marina Bay Sands and 1-Altitude.
Bangkok
The famous Sky Bar at lebua and Vertigo, high above the city.
Hong Kong
Ozone at The Ritz-Carlton — one of the highest bars on earth.
Dubai
Glittering skyline and beach-club rooftops with Burj Khalifa views.
Athens
Rooftops across the city framing the floodlit Acropolis.
New York City
Manhattan skyline bars like 230 Fifth and countless hotel rooftops.
Rome
Aperitivo with domes and rooftops across the Eternal City.
Cape Town
Table Mountain and Atlantic views from city rooftops.
Barcelona
Hotel rooftops over the Gothic Quarter and the Med.
Mexico City
Buzzy rooftops over the Centro and Roma-Condesa.
How to choose
Go at sunset for the best light (and book ahead), check dress codes at the smarter spots, and aim for a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.