20 show-stopping Sydney rooftop bars to toast the sunset from  

With the world’s greatest harbour at the feet of millions of Sydneysiders, is it any surprise that this iconic Aussie city boasts some of the most spectacular rooftop bars in the country to sink a sip from.

From dazzling sunrises over the east’s best beaches, to the bright bold colours of a setting sun over the Blue Mountains, you’re never short of a view or two when it comes to life in Sydney. But of course, everyone knows that the greatest views are always well above ground level. 

From stories up, rooftop bars litter the city like starlight, each clambering for a glittering glimpse of the world’s largest natural harbour. Or perhaps it’s the bridge that rises over Sydney like a beacon or the stark white sails of the Opera House that draw crowds to the top of buildings. 

It seems that wherever you turn in this unique city, sky-high drinking holes have popped up to quench the thirst of locals and visitors alike, for who could ever ignore the striking skies over one of the country’s prettiest cities. 

So, we’ve done the runaround for you and gathered up some of the lushest rooftop bars to wet your whistles. Because with sunset ticking, you don’t have time to waste. 

1. Wentworth Bar

rooftop bar interior at Wentworth Bar — Escape to this outdoor bar for a reprieve from the bustling city. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

Best For: Escaping the city beat

If Sydney’s iconic, then so too is Wentworth Bar with its infamous curved design in line with the Sofitel below. Offering respite from any weather, the 495-square metre outdoor terrace (which can fit 250 guests) isn’t just an escape from the hustle and bustle below. It’s got a life of its own. 

With weekly DJ line ups, all the hors d’oeuvres you could want, and a global cocktail menu worth climbing five floors for (featuring the hotspot’s Fifth Floor Fizz for $23), you can’t go wrong at Wentworth Bar . 

Address: Level 5, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, 61-101 Phillip Street

2. Martinez

Martinez Rooftop — Admire Sydney Harbour Bridge views over casual drinks. (Image: Steve Woodburn)

Best for: Post-work summer drinks

If you work in the CBD and are looking for a post-work spot, Martinez is a relaxed oasis in the sky with bridge views. This rooftop bar embodies the relaxed, easy-going dining culture of southern France and the Mediterranean coast with light bites of food and seafood-driven dishes such as prawn and scallop hashbrown “toast", burrata with plums, and barramundi with mussels. These are to be washed down with summery spritzes and a selection of classic Provence and Australian rosés.

Address: Opposite Hinchcliff House, Quay Quarter Tower, Express lift entrance off Young Street, Ground Lobby/50 Bridge St, Sydney NSW 2000

3. Aster

rooftop bar of Aster Bar — This oasis invites guests to revel in its world-class harbour views.

Best For: A sparkling view over Sydney Harbour

There’s just something about drinking on top of an exclusive harbour-side hotel with unrestricted views across to Sydney Harbour Bridge that leaves you feeling like an international traveller. 

For a five-star experience, head to the highest floor of the InterContinental Hotel Sydney and capture the city from 32 floors up at Aster . While if breathtaking views aren’t enough, a cocktail menu designed by expert mixologists and a food menu boasting Sydney rock oysters and Hervey Bay Scallop Crudo is certainly going to win you over. 

Address: Level 32, 117 Macquarie Street

4. The Bristol

Best For: An urban rooftop hideaway

Think old soul, new vibe because the heritage listed, five-storey CBD pub boasts the perfect mix of a 120-year-old history with a modern twist and Euro summer feels.  Featuring a 180-degree view of the city, The Bristol ’s sunset deck offers up a Greek meze menu, a DJ through the weekend, and a Golden Hour happy hour from 430pm to 630pm Monday to Friday. 

While creative cocktails, a handpicked selection of local and international beers, and a curated wine list are enough to keep visitors long after dark. 

Address: 81 Sussex Street, Sydney

5. The Sussex Hotel

rooftop bar of The Sussex Hotel — Spend an afternoon sipping cocktails in this lush space.

Best For: Getting up and out of Barangaroo 

Hidden away behind a red-brick facade in Sydney’s business hub, lies one of the city’s most surprising rooftop bars at the foot of skyscrapers. The Sussex Hotel’ s rooftop bar offers stunning sunset views alongside a Mediterranean mezze complete with orange and white umbrellas and an olive tree at the centre.  It’s like being on holiday, if only for your lunch break. 

Address: 20 Sussex Street, Sydney

6. Harper Rooftop Bar

Best For: A classy dip and sip

There is nothing that excites us more than a rooftop bar with a pool and Harper might just be everything we’ve been dreaming of. Sitting on top of a boutique Art Deco hotel, the Kimpton Margot, this literal watering hole not only features a sky-high pool, but a gorgeously colourful decor you just want to get lost in while you sip on playfully crafted cocktails and let the good times flow. 

Perched high above the CBD, Harper Rooftop Bar promises an escape from the daily grind and doesn’t just deliver with a drinks menu to die for, but also offers Vino & Vinyasa evenings (because #balance), Puppy & Pino Sundays (when all doggo parents get a free glass), Burger Fridays for $20, Golden Hours, and weekend DJs.

Address: Level 7 Kimpton Margot, 339 Pitt Street, Sydney 

7. The Library Bar 

The Library Bar rooftop view — This watering hole is one of the city’s charming hidden gems.

Best For: Preppy chic vibes but make them “bookish"

When you’re told that the entry to one of the city’s best-kept secrets is “at the back of the State Library of NSW and through the loading dock", you know that you’ve stumbled across Sydney’s greatest hidden bar. 

Worth its weight in books that date back to the 12th century, The Library Bar is as magic as the pages below it. With an eclectic and electric decor, designed by the talented library staff themselves, and sweeping views across The Domain to the city and beyond, this rooftop should be at the top of every Sydneysider’s list. Throw in a monthly trivia night, “themed for bookish people", and you’re going to be doing more than just reading at this library. 

Address: 1 Shakespeare Place, Sydney

8. Old Mate’s Place 

Best For: A cosy night out

Give us a rooftop garden with cocktails any day of the week, and Old Mate’s Place does not disappoint. 

Nestled in the birdcage of Sydney’s CBD, this bar is a literal breath of fresh air among its lush greenery and speakeasy vibes. It’s a scenery that just demands a strong drink, and lucky this multi-level venue has plenty. It’s intimate, it’s cosy, and it’s exactly where you want a nightcap after a great first date. 

Address: Level 4, 199 Clarence Street, Sydney

9. Joji

Joji rooftop bar — Visit this Japanese-inspired bar for mesmerising views and a spectacular menu.

Best For: The place to be seen

This sophisticated rooftop is almost too trendy for words. Literally. Because I’ve just discovered that Joji means George in Japanese which makes perfect sense when the Japanese bar sits five levels above George Street.  

Located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, at the back of the Cartier building as the website points out, guests are treated to skyline views and an “elevated and stylish experience". For those feeling hungry, the menu offers a range of raw and not-raw meals including Sydney rock oysters, kingfish, sashimi, and Shio Koji chicken karaage, while DJs will have you up on your feet all night. 

Address: Level 5, 388 George Street, Sydney

10. The Rook

Best For: Truffle fries (enough said) 

Promising killer cocktails, top-notch bar food and stunning city views, The Rook is a great addition to Sydney’s hidden rooftop bars. Sitting above busy CBD streets, escape the hustle and bustle at this unique gem.

From Sydney rock oysters to charcuterie boards, scallops, roast corn and squid fritti, the bar snack menu delivers more than your average rooftop. And then there are the famous truffle fries sprinkled with parmesan. 

Address: Level 7, 56-58 York Street, Sydney

11. Henry Deane

Henry Deane rooftop bar — Be swayed by the charms of Sydney Harbour all over again.

Best For: Views no matter which way you look

Referred to as the crown jewel of Hotel Palisade, Henry Deane doesn’t fall short of a view or two. Split across multiple levels, this cocktail bar and lounge offers up oodles of space, bars and balconies to disappear into. 

In direct eyesight of the magnificent Sydney Harbour Bridge, this rooftop provides plenty of eye candy for those looking to take in the sights of the city. While eager to dazzle taste buds, the kitchen offers up caviar tins, scallops, Ortiz salted anchovy fillets, seafood ragu and pork belly to name a few plates. Then finish it off with a tantalising cocktail such as a John Lemon, Hard Road Highball, or Smooth Criminal. 

Address: 35 Bettington Street, Millers Point

12. The Glenmore Hotel 

Best For: Feeling like a reality TV star

Make like the babes on Made in Bondi and get to the top of The Glenmore Hotel – a Sydney icon since 1921 – for one of the best 180-degree views over Sydney Harbour. With the Opera House in the gazing distance, this open-air rooftop is a no-brainer and packs one of the best breezes in Sydney.  

While it’s been busy hosting reality TV stars, the heritage-listed pub still offers up Aussie pub grub with classics like rump steak, chicken schnitzel, chicken parmigiana and, my personal favourite, wedges with sour cream and sweet chilli. The owners say it’s “where Australian hospitality meets an undeniable Sydney ambience." 

Address: 98 Cumberland Street, The Rocks

13. Kasbah

Kasbah rooftop bar — This Mediterranean-inspired bar brings a unique dining experience to city dwellers.

Best For: Transcending into a Mediterranean oasis 

Hanging out for a holiday but can’t afford the airfare? At the century-old The Strand Hotel in Darlinghurst you can get the next best thing with Kasbah . Boasting city views and decor to die for (think linen couches, textured rugs and leafy greenery), the rooftop bar just sings hot sultry summer nights.

Then, of course, there’s the food; a dazzling display of French-Moroccan dishes. From baba ghanoush to beetroot hummus, zucchini flowers to yellowfin tuna crude, and octopus to lamb kofta, you can really travel around the world without leaving Sydney. 

Address: 90 William Street, Darlinghurst

14. East Village Hotel

East Village Hotel rooftop bar — Get your groove on at one of the city’s most iconic rooftop bars.

Best For: A drink at any time of the year

Finding a 100-year-old Aussie pub with a rooftop bar is like hitting the jackpot and this one’s got a stunning Sydney skyline as its backdrop. 

With signature cocktails and curated wines, the East Village Hotel ’s terrace is more than it seems and with a retractable roof it’s available all year round. Just picture a bright Mediterranean setting with yellow umbrellas to keep cool in the summer, and a cosy rooftop garden in the winter with a canopy of fairy lights. It’s the best of both worlds. 

Address: 234 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst

15. Slims Rooftop 

Slims rooftop bar — A visit to this chic hangout spot feels like a holiday.

Best For: Your next Instagram post 

They say Slims is “unlike any other rooftop bar in Australia" and I think they might just be right. The frilly pink umbrella and cactus covered deck offers such magnificent uninterrupted views over the city and setting sun that the only thing to do is to order an Aperol Spritz and drink it all in. 

While adorned with white garden furniture and chic lounges, Slims isn’t just known for its killer decor. The captivating aesthetic extends to the menu too with food so colourful it pops on plates. Imagine Hiramasa Kingfish ceviche, Peking duck pancakes, karaage chicken, pork gyoza and picture-perfect poke bowls.

Address: 47-49 William Street, Darlinghurst  

16. Sweethearts

Best For: A Mexican fiesta

Sitting on the top of the Potts Point Hotel and soaring three floors above Darlinghurst Road, Sweethearts is serving cute and cosy with a Mexican twist. This hideaway delivers mouthwatering meals and cocktails that just yell fiesta, while a sneaky tequila tasting always hits the spot. 

Whether it’s kicking back after work or partying it up on the weekends, this Mexican cantina is as known for its taco Thursdays as its Sunday sessions. Get amongst it any day of the week. 

Address: Level 3/33-35 Darlinghurst Road, Potts Point

17. The White Horse

the lush rooftop terrace at The White Horse — Enjoy breezy cocktails at the lush rooftop terrace.

Best For: Relaxed drinks with a touch of sophistication

While it’s The White Horse ’s restaurant that gets all of the attention after the 1930s premise underwent a multimillion-dollar glow-up earlier this year, it’s the rooftop that’s not to be missed.   

Filled with foliage, demure decor and mood lighting to set the vibe, the outdoor terrace and public bar offer a relaxed backdrop for any type of catch-up, or event. Since it opened, brands have been hopping on the hot spot hype and it’s definitely become the place to be seen.

Address:  31 Crown Street, Surry Hills

18. Webster’s Bar

Best For: A thirst-quenching drink after a train ride

Located just a hop, skip and jump from Newtown station, Webster’s Bar is a great spot for an easily accessible drink if you’ve worked up a good thirst on the train to Sydney’s Inner West. 

Spread out across three floors, Webster’s offers a 1950’s 1950s-inspired bar on the ground and a speakeasy lounge on the first floor, but it’s the rooftop on the second that really draws the crowds in. The owners say it’s “where good vibes meet a soundtrack of Sunday music" and with 16 craft beers on tap, they’re not wrong about that. 

Address: Level 2, 323 King Street, Newtown

19. Hotel Ravesis

Hotel Ravesis rooftop bar — Wine and dine in this intimate and panoramic setting. (Image: Nikki To)

Best For: An iconic drink over Australia’s hottest beach 

Located just over the road from the most popular beach in Australia, Hotel Ravesis is really something. Whether it’s for a boogie on the sticky dance floor below, a meal in the elegant dining room, or a sunset drink on the expansive terrace that wraps around the historic building, it’s a classic beachside hotel built for a good night..

Offering sweeping views over Bondi, the building resonates a coastal spirit and draws on Mediterranean cultures to offer up seafood, lamb, chicken, and Middle Eastern salads. And while the house-made cocktail list is short, the sips are more than alluring.

Address: 118 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach

20. Miami Rice

rooftop bar in Miami Rice — Nothing beats the rejuvenating charm of a beachside bar’s ambience, truly.

Best For: Beachside sunset vibes

Drink in the very best of Manly with a setting sun and ocean breeze at Miami Rice , the iconic Hotel Steyne’s jaw dropping sunset deck. 

Sitting just a few metres from the sand of Manly beach, this historic building boasts more bars than you can count, but it’s the upper-level terrace that really captures hearts. With a DJ on standby, good vibes floating in, and Asian style share plates on the menu, Miami Rice is the only place to be in Manly this summer. 

Address: 75 The Corso, Manly 

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.