Sydney's new hamptons inspired rooftop bar with harbour views and retractable roof. Bar open from 12pm Wed-Fri + private events. Aurora Rooftop Hotel - Rooftop Bar Sydney. Email Us Get In Touch. 324 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills P (02) 9211 3462. Functions And Events. Our Blu Bar on 36 at Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney which serves vast variety of beverages is the ideal venue for chilling out completely.

Speed up your Summer countdown by visiting the best Sydney rooftop bars on offer.

Rooftop bars continue to pave the way as the most trendy, happening outings for Sydneysiders. With the weather gods blessing our climate, it’s no wonder we gravitate toward open areas with plenty of sunshine. Here is the ultimate Sydney rooftop bars checklist that should last you from now until the end of summer. We challenge you to attend them all!

Babylon Rooftop, CBD

Perch yourself in the heart of the city at Babylon, one of the CBD’s best rooftop bars. Taking inspiration from the ancient region of Levant, this bar-meets-restaurant delivers exceptional Middle Eastern flavours and hospitality. Expect an authentic menu of traditional dishes taking influence from Turkish and traditional Levantine cuisine. Make sure to nab a seat on the terrace for your choice of indoor or outdoor bar seating.

Level 7 Rooftop, Westfield Pitt Street Mall (188 Pitt Street), Sydney, (02) 8014 5663, open Tues to Thur 12pm – 10pm, Fri 12pm – 12am, Sat 10am -12am and Sun 10am – 5pm.

Henry Deane at Hotel Palisade, Millers Point

The heritage-listed Hotel Palisade has been standing since 1912. Though, its newly renovated star-on-top of the Christmas tree, Henry Deane, is a rooftop bar that oozes modern sophistication. It’s a comfortable cocktail lounge, decorated with cosmopolitan charm and provides 360-degree views of the city from the Harbour Bridge to Barangaroo and beyond. Food and drinks are all available in their finest forms from freshly shucked oysters and grilled lamb cutlets to bowls of mussels. We love the cocktails at Hotel Palisade particularly their Spiced Negroni and the Governors Gimlet made with Beefeater gin, celery liqueur, lime juice & bitters. For more info read our full review on Hotel Palisade here.

35 Bettington St, Millers Point NSW 2000, (02) 9018 0123, Open Monday-Saturday 12pm-midnight, Sunday 12pm-10pm

The Light Brigade, Woollahra

Sitting 83 metres above sea level, this rooftop bar provides an inner-city oasis, with a stunning view of the Sydney skyline. You’ll find a mixture of lounge and dining spaces, with a signature curved bar. Similar to a New York-style terrace, there is plenty of lush greenery with a casual Australian twist.

2a Oxford St, Woollahra, (02) 9357 0888, Open Monday-Saturday 12 pm to 9 pm and Sunday 12 pm to 8 pm.

Zephyr Sky Bar, CBD

A little decadence never killed nobody! Located at the top of the Hyatt Regency Sydney, Zephyr offers city-slickers a sensational view of the CBD and Darling Harbour that is almost unmatched. Choose your own adventure with refreshing made to order cocktails. Then sit back on the padded couches and watch as day turns to night, with the city buzzing brilliantly below. Share plates of seafood as you lose yourself in the distant swell of the ocean. Freshen up your evening with a taste of Sydney’s own rock lobsters, or just wander off with the view.

Level 12, 161 Sussex Street, Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 8099 1234, Current opening hours are Thurs-Sat from 3pm till late.

United, Barangaroo

Barangaroo is the hip place to be and this rooftop bar is no exception. United welcomes the flavours and ambiance of the tropics to the CBD. With the dim thud of tropical tunes, pick your way through a menu devoted to modern Australian cuisine. The slick urban outlook is almost as cool as the drinks menu which consists of classic and inventive cocktails.

Rooftop, Level 4, Exchange Place, 400 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo, (02) 8322 2099, Open: Mon- Sat: 12pm – late, Sun 11am- late.

East Village Sydney, Darlinghurst

The East Village Hotel was renovated back in late 2016, and the décor now harpers back to by-gone days across its three tiered bar. As you head to the terrace, escape to the American coast in the 1950s. Bathed in white with planter boxes and pops of green vegetation surrounding you, gaze at the city skyline in amazement. At 100sqm you have enough space to relax as you sip on a Mango Margarita ($19) and soak up the sun splintering through the retractable roof above.

234 Palmer St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, 0431 622 944, Open Mon 11 am – 10 pm, Tue to Sun 11 am – 12 am.

The Rook, CBD

Pub-like casualness tends to be a reoccurring theme amongst Sydney rooftop bars. Though, The Rook adds its own hint of class. That’s if you can find it. This rooftop bar is hidden above an unassuming language school. Enter off York Street and hit ‘R’ in the elevator for Rooftop or Rook. Don’t get off at the wrong floor or you’ll be learning English rather than sipping cocktails. Their specialties are listed as ‘lobsters, burgers and liquor’. The cocktails are a major drawcard for The Rook, especially when gin is involved. They also make delicious lobster rolls worth a try.

Level 7, 56-58 York St, Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 9262 2505, Open Monday & Saturday 4pm-midnight, Tuesday-Friday 12pm-midnight, Closed Sundays

Level Seven, Primus Hotel Rooftop Bar

Primus Hotel Sydney has transformed its exclusive pool area into the city’s most anticipated rooftop bar, Level Seven. This New York-inspired rooftop, once only available to hotel guests, has now opened its doors to the general public, giving everyone a slice of inner-city luxury. The cocktail menu features Level Seven’s signature drink, a Rosé Spritz, along with cocktail popsicles to enjoy poolside at all hours of the day. A casual food menu created by Executive Chef Daniel Menzies features everything from freshly shucked oysters to burgers and charcuterie platters.

Level 7, 339 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000 Open: Wed & Thurs 4pm- late, Fri & Sat 12pm- late, Sun 12pm- 7 pm.

The Rooftop, The Shelbourne Hotel CBD

Taking inspiration from the relaxed and lavish Hamptons, The Rooftop in Sydney’s CBD is a luxury garden terrace situated by the glorious harbour. As you relax in one of the plush hanging chairs, gaze through the retractable roof at the boats passing by on the Harbour. Brought to life by the pops of tropical plants, graze on delicate share plates of seafood, premium meats, salads and skewers.

Level 3, 200 Sussex St Sydney on the corner of Market St above the Shelbourne Hotel, Open Wednesday-Friday 12pm-late.

Ivy Pool Club, CBD

An obvious favourite amongst Sydney rooftop bars is Ivy Pool Club. Post-work drinks go down very well beside the refreshing pool and open skies, from Mondays to Fridays. If you’re feeling hungry book a table at Italian restaurant Ucello and dine poolside. The weekend scene embodies the summer essentials…sunshine, drinking and partying! Though, if you don’t own an outfit from Camilla or Polo Ralph Lauren you’ll definitely feel like a minority at their Sunday sessions.

4/320 George St, Sydney NSW 2000,+61 2 9114 7307, Closed Monday, Open Tues- Fri 12pm-late, Sat 6pm-late, Sun 1pm-late.

Zeta Bar, CBD

This stylish gem is situated in the heart of the city, right beside the QVB, in the Hilton Hotel. Serving a constantly great rotating cocktail menu, they are internationally acclaimed as ‘one of the most cutting edge cocktail bars in the Southern Hemisphere’. With a perfect location and dazzling views to match, there is no doubt this is one of the best Sydney rooftop bars around.

Hilton Sydney, Level 4, 488 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 9265 6070, Mon – Thurs 5pm- 12am, Fri 5pm- 2am, Sat 5pm- 3am.

The Taphouse, Darlinghurst

This temple of craft beer passes off as a local corner-pub. Though, it is full of hidden gems. Firstly, the rooftop bar and garden is fit for all seasons. Umbrellas and an intimate bar encourage minimal movement on sunny afternoons. Whilst it remains a perfect location for winter beers, with a log fireplace, blankets and heaters to warm you up as the drinks keep flowing. Another aspect that sets them apart from the rest are their beer paddles. You can choose up to 5 x 90ml beers to try on one paddle.

122 Flinders St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, (02) 9360 0088, Open Monday-Thursday 12 pm to midnight, Friday to Saturday 12 pm to 1 am and Sunday 12 pm to 10 pm.

Sweetheart’s Rooftop, Kings Cross

Hola mi amigos! Welcome to Mexico in the heart of Kings Cross. Sweetheart’s Rooftop is a casual bar and eatery where plenty of people go for drinking, dancing and chilling high above all the hustle and bustle. You’ll find it located above the Potts Point Hotel. It’s perfect for an afternoon drink in the sunshine with fresh beats to match. Let’s be honest, any place with a ‘Siesta Zone’ is bound to be a good time!

33-35 Darlinghurst Rd, Potts Point NSW 2011, (02) 9368 7333, Open Monday-Thursday 4pm-midnight, Friday-Sunday 12pm-midnight

Coogee Pavilion, Coogee

Merivale has the rooftop bar scene down pat. Heading into more suburban locations, Coogee Pavilion is a favourite rooftop bar in the Eastern Suburbs. Located on the shore of Coogee Beach, the open skies, ocean views, fresh greenery and modern bars make this large space another must-go rooftop bar. The menu is inspired by the Eastern Mediterranean and the ancient techniques of cooking over charcoal. Share a selection of dishes from the charcoal grill paired with accompaniments and Lebanese bread. They also do a good Bloody Mary should you need a pick-me-up. That along with the ocean breeze should sort you right out.

169 Dolphin St, Coogee NSW 2034, (02) 9240 3000, Tue – Sun 12pm – 12am.

SoCal, Neutral Bay

SoCal brings Southern Californian vibes to Neutral Bay. Expect sun, sangria, tacos, Coronas, fried chicken, margaritas and more. They have several different types of margaritas on offer along with classic cocktails, original creations and shared jug cocktails. You can order light drinking snacks like guacamole, salsa and chips through to more substantial dishes including snapper ceviche, roasted lamb, soft shell crab and pan-fried snapper.

1 Young St, Neutral Bay NSW 2089, (02) 9904 5691, Open Monday-Tuesday 5pm-late, Wednesday-Thursday 12pm-late, Friday-Saturday 12pm-2am, Sunday 12pm- 12am.

Ivanhoe Rooftop, Manly

The Ivanhoe Hotel is located in the heart of The Corso in Manly on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. It’s a popular destination amongst locals with multiple levels and sophisticated seating areas. The Ivanhoe Hotel’s interiors channel a Hamptons-inspired coastal beach vibe while retaining the relaxed atmosphere of a local pub. The rooftop balcony is a great spot to perch for a few drinks after a swim in summer. Grab a casual bite while you’re there or reserve an area for a catch up with friends and make a day of it.

27 The Corso, Manly Beach NSW 2095, (02) 9976 3955, Rooftop Bar open Fri & Sat 9pm – late.

Websters Bar, Newtown

Zanzibar was one of the most iconic pubs in Newtown, with its three levels of food, fun and ever-flowing drinks. Luckily, we don’t need to use past tense, because they’ve just changed their name, and added even more cool features. Now known as Websters Bar, the same shenanigans are still going down, high up on their rooftop that overlooks the streets of Newtown. Late-night cocktails, late-night pizzas and late-night vinyl DJs under the stars are all on the cards until 4am.

323 King St, Newtown NSW 2042, (02) 9519 1511, Mon- Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 10am – 12am.

Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, Watsons Bay

Watsons Bay’s Beach Club is one of our favourite Sydney rooftop bars. With the twinkling ocean in the foreground and beautiful harbour views, this is the ideal location to sip summer cocktails in the afternoon sun. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel are renowned for their quality food and drink offering and are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner on the rooftop.

1 Military Rd, Watsons Bay NSW 2030, (02) 9337 5444, Open Monday-Saturday 10am-midnight, Sunday 10am-10pm

Kings Cross Hotel, Kings Cross

Kings Cross Hotel is a landmark in ‘The Cross’ and almost as iconic as the adjacent Coca Cola sign. This multi-level venue caters for a wide variety of clientele. From late-night party-goers to those just wanting a nice casual drink after work. They also house a number of live entertainment and theatre productions. You’ll find the rooftop bar at the top of this seven-tiered hotel. When you arrive you’ll be rewarded with a great view high above the hustle and bustle. Kings Cross Hotel has happy hour deals daily, and free entry before 10pm on the weekends.

244-248 William Street, Kings Cross NSW 2011, (02) 9331 9900, Open Mon- Thurs 10am – 1am, Fri & Sat 10am – 3:30am, Sun 12pm – 1am.

Old Mates Place, CBD

Old Mate’s Place is smack bang in the heart of the city, snapping up prized real estate. The 40 person space is enticingly light and breezy, decked out with plenty of vibrant plants and a inviting bookshelves. Offering anything from vodka to beer, any drinker will be pleased. For snacking, be surprised by the roaring menu that includes Philly cheesesteaks.

Level 4, 199 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000, Open Tues- Wed 5pm – 2am, Thurs- Sat 12pm – 2am, Sun 2pm – 2am.

The Horse, Surry Hills

Happy hour, fried chicken, fairy lights, and an open rooftop. The Horse has everything a rooftop bar needs, and is located in the heart of Crown Street in Surry Hills. Ever noticed those really pretty fairy lights on the rooftop of the pub across the road from Shannon Reserve? This is the place! They host daily happy hour from 4pm-6pm and fried chicken gods, Chicken and Sons run the kitchen downstairs. Good drinks, good chicken and good vibes? It’s a no brainer addition to our Sydney rooftop bars checklist.

381 Crown St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, 1300 976 683, Open Monday-Saturday 12pm- 12am, Sunday 12pm-10pm

The New Brighton Hotel, Manly

Another beachside Manly pub that is perhaps one of the less known but popular Sydney rooftop bars is The New Brighton Hotel. The newly renovated pub includes dining, drinking, dancing and a small rooftop bar as the cherry on top. Look down onto the lively Corso and people watch or stare straight ahead at the beautiful ocean.

71 The Corso, Manly NSW 2095, (02) 9977 3305, Rooftop open 12pm – 11pm daily.

The Glenmore, The Rocks

The Glenmore is one of the original Sydney rooftop bars. Since 1921, The Glenmore has stood tall in The Rocks, facing the beauty of The Opera House and Harbour Bridge for years. It still carries its old colonial English tradition, with a recently renovated edge. The Glenmore is the perfect rooftop bar location for a relaxed pub dinner, a post-work drink, or a weekend cocktail. On the weekends when the sun is out it’s hard to get a table so if you’re heading there with a group of friends we suggest getting in early.

96 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 9247 4794, Open Monday-Thursday 11am- 12am, Friday-Saturday 11am-1am, Sunday 11am- 12am.

Intercontinental Double Bay, Rooftop Bar & Pool, Double Bay

The most recent addition to the rooftop bar scene is the rooftop bar and pool at theIntercontinental Double Bay. Previously open exclusively to guests it is now open to all, so experience lavish living yourself without the price tag of staying the night.

33 Cross St, Sydney NSW 2028, (02) 8388 8388, Open Daily 11am – one hour after sunset, from October to March.

Slims Rooftop, Hyde Park House

Slims Rooftop make the promise of being unlike any other rooftop bar in Sydney. Offering one of the only uninterrupted views of the glorious Hyde Park, Slims is a rush of vibrant pink and cacti. Fitted with sleek timber flooring, contrasting the pops of whit furniture, Slims is a funky hideaway on the city fringe.

Casino Rooftop Bar Sydney Hotel

Hotel Sweeney’s, CBD

Hotel Sweeney’s is one of a kind. Dot’s Rooftop Bar on the top floor is old-school pub meets intimate small bar and will have feeling right at home in the middle of the CBD. A casual man-cave where sport, beer and the masculine concur of the arduous staircase will be topics of discussion. But not to worry ladies, cocktails, fairy lights and the stunning Sydney skyline definitely won’t have you asking to leave.

236 Clarence Street (Corner of Druitt Street) Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 9267 1796, Open Monday-Saturday 9am-3am, Sunday 10am- 12am.

Bristol Arms Rooftop Bar, CBD

As far as Sydney rooftop bars go the Bristol Arms rooftop has one of the most relaxed, homely vibes in the heart of Sydney’s CBD concrete jungle. White picket fencing, timber panelling and casual décor bring a friendly and comforting element to Sydney’s skyline. You can also book this space for functions- hello rooftop birthday!

81 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 9262 5491, Open Mon- Wed 11am – 12am, Thurs 11am- 1am, Fri 11am-3am, Sat 12pm- 3am.

Taylor’s Rooftop Bar, CBD

This bar embodies everything good about Sydney’s rooftop bars. Lush greenery, open skies, comfortable lounges, live music and a casual yet sophisticated bar. Feel like it’s too much like your backyard? All you need to do is take a look at the incredible skyline, twinkling city lights and reflective skyscrapers. With a gentle summer breeze and refreshing contemporary cocktail, you’ll feel that summer excitement within seconds!

69-73 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 9252 6522, Open Monday-Saturday 11:30am-late.

Royal Hotel, Paddington

A Paddington favourite, The Royal Hotel rooftop welcomes young and old for a traditional pub experience and a classic nod to the frivolity of the eastern suburbs. Enjoy a cocktail in the glorious afternoon sun on the fourth floor of this local icon. Offering a $12 Cocktail Happy every Saturday from 6pm to 8pm, The Royal is the ideal place to kick start your evening.

Five Ways 237 Glenmore Road, Paddington, NSW 2021, (02) 9331 2604, Monday -Saturday 10am-12am, Sunday 11am-10pm

Smoke, Barangaroo House

All eyes have been on Matt Moran and Solotel’s Barangaroo House, and now doors are officially open! Smoke is the 150-seater rooftop bar, offering epic harbour and city skyline views as well as a luxurious interior design. On the drinks list, you’ll find a mix of the classics including negronis, martinis, spritzes and some original creations. Smoke will run as a recurrent theme throughout the 50+ cocktail list, with the food list offering some intriguing delights.

Casino Rooftop Bar Sydney Opera House

The Rooftop, The Quarryman’s Hotel

Situated at the top of the Quarryman’s Hotel in Pyrmont, The Rooftop emits uber cool Palm Springs vibes. Contrasting the craft beer institutions in the bar below, The Rooftop is all about the Californian cool with the chic venue providing a relaxed atmosphere of a pool-side lounge. The signature cocktail menu offers a selection of funky twists on shaken and stirred classics. Chomp away on a food menu nodding to modern American with poke bowls and tacos.

The Rooftop, The Quarryman’s Hotel 214-216 Harris St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Open: Mon- Sun 11am- 12am.

Cruise Bar Rooftop, The Rocks

Cruise Bar at Circular Quay is a great spot to grab drinks and dinner. We really like their restaurant on the second floor, Junk Lounge. The rooftop bar is in an iconic location, overlooking the Sydney Opera House and Cruise Ship terminal. This location is specifically for private events and hosts up to 400 guests. With day beds, ottomans, high tables, as well as all the technical stuff like DJ booths, microphones and projectors…this is one of the most WOW private locations in the whole of Sydney! Check out pics from the Vino n Vinyasa event we supported in the space.

Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay W, Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 9251 1188

Pyrmont Bridge Hotel, Pyrmont

The rooftop bar of the Pyrmont Bridge Hotel is the ideal location for a private event. The space is specifically segregated for private events, with a 120-150 person capacity. It is located high above Darling Harbour, overlooking all the hustle and bustle of Cockle Bay Wharf. With stunning views, a gorgeous setting and fine food and drink to match.

Casino Rooftop Bar Sydney Bar

96 Union St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, (02) 9660 6996

Aurora Rooftop Hotel, Surry Hills

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The Aurora Rooftop Hotel is a hidden, local treasure in Surry Hills. It’s the perfect location for drinks with a beautiful view, great food and function hire. It caters for all crowds, with local residents popping in for an afternoon drink in the sun, work professionals grabbing a beer and party crowds ready for a fun night ahead.

324 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, (02) 9211 3462, Open Mon-Thurs 10am-4am, Fri 10am-6am, Saturday 9am-6am, Sunday 9am-4am

Café Del Mar, Darling Harbour

Cafe Del Mar, the Mediterranean summer inspired bar at Cockle Bay Wharf. This rooftop bar pays tribute to Ibiza’s original Café del Mar, a temple that worships spectacular sunsets, a chilled out atmosphere, ambient music compilations and relaxation. It embodies these same attributes, with its own splash of Australian, French and Italian flavours in its food, drink and overall ambience.

35 Wheat Rd, Rooftop Terrace, Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 9267 6700, Open Tues-Sat 12pm-12am.

The Belvedere Hotel Rooftop Terrace, CBD

This rustic pub has been on Kent Street since 1823. You may have overlooked it, but they have a beautiful open rooftop terrace that overlooks the heart of Sydney. On the food menu you’ll find all your pub classics with the addition of a new authentic Greek menu. From Wednesday to Friday they have DJs on the rooftop terrace to keep you entertained.

482 Kent St, Sydney NSW 2000, (02) 9264 1688, Open Mon-Sat 10am-12am, Sun 10am-10pm.

Ching-a-lings, Darlinghurst

Ching-a-lings in Darlinghurst describe themselves as a space for ‘unpretentious fun’. This grungy rooftop bar is known for its great beats and cramming as many people as possible onto the open deck. It may lack the views of many other Sydney rooftop bars but they have endless happy hour deals and encourage genuine, down-to-earth fun.

1/133 Oxford St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, (02) 9360 3333, Open: Wed 6pm – 11pm, Thurs 6pm – 1am, Fri 5pm – 1am, Sat 6pm – 1am, Sun 5pm – 10pm.