The world's best rooftop restaurants and bars

01/06/2016

Want to give family travel a break and spend some quality relaxation time without the kids? Why not take a trip to one of the world's best rooftop bars and restaurants, or stop by if you're in the neighborhood after a long day of business travel? You'll find some of the most breathtaking views of city skylines and the liveliest atmospheres around. According to some online travel sources, these are the top rooftop terraces the world has to offer:

Sir Elly's Terrace, The Peninsula Shanghai

Shanghai offers one of the most beautiful rooftop bars you'll find anywhere in the world. The views are exquisite, displaying a 270-degree glimpse over the Huangpu River and The Bund, according to CNN. The city skyline gleams with neon colors as guests sip on some of Shanghai's tastiest refreshments at its glowing bar. The terrace also offers light snacks for travelers to enjoy as they admire the city's unforgettable views.

Pod 39, New York

Jetsetter suggested Pod 39 as a great stop during United States travel. Conveniently located within a short distance of Grand Central Station, the East 39th Street bar is one of the most spacious rooftop terraces, at 4,500 square feet. For all those who can appreciate extensive views of the the Big Apple, the bar's location on the 17th floor offering panoramas extending from the Chrysler Building to the East River makes this the perfect place to spend an evening. The source also praised the bar's unique neoclassical touches, such as its red brick walls and terra-cotta columns.

Pompidou Centre Rooftop Restaurant and Bar, Paris

Travelers will be pleased to know that one of Paris' trendiest rooftop bars, the Pompidou Centre, has recently acquired the new sixth-floor Le George restaurant. According to Jetsetter, the eatery was built by world-famous architects Dominique Jakob and Brendan MacFarlane. The elegant outdoor terrace seats 150, with unbeatable views of the hustle and bustle of the city's busiest sections with streets performers at every corner.

High Rooftop Lounge, Los Angeles

According to CNN, the High Rooftop Lounge in Los Angeles offers guests a completely different vibe than most renowned rooftop bars. Located on the sixth floor of Hotel Erwin, the laid-back, beachy atmosphere provides travelers with a 360-degree view of Venice Beach and Hollywood off in the distance. With the beach right underneath the bar, the location is prime for those looking to take a break from the hot SoCal sun with a refreshing drink or bite to eat. A visit during the evening also offers some of the best sunset views.

Radio Rooftop Bar, London

This spacious rooftop bar is situated high on the tenth floor of the ME London Hotel. Named after the very first BBC television program broadcast there in 1922, the cozy terrace features fire pits for friends to gather around as they enjoy the night. Travels can stop by for spectacular views of London, stretching from the iconic Houses of Parliament to Canary Wharf, according to Jetsetter, or join some of the city's most festive residents for Frequency, the bar's monthly cocktail party.