Rome’s rooftops offer the perfect vantage point to take in the city’s magic—its sea of terra cotta roofs, ancient ruins, and grand palazzos nestled in the hills. Lucky for visitors to the Eternal City, recent years have seen a proliferation of rooftop bars and restaurants that offer panoramic views of the city. One trend, having a drink on a terrace at sundown, has become an essential part of the daily routine of Romans and tourists alike.
The ponentino—the breeze that blows over the city at dusk—is best enjoyed with a well-stirred cocktail and a sunset that envelops Rome's monuments in warm golden hues. Here, The MICHELIN Guide's selection of the most spectacular rooftop bars, each of which promises a different perspective and equally extraordinary view.
The Court at Palazzo Manfredi
Via Labicana 125
The Colosseum as you’ve never seen it before. At dusk, The Court cocktail bar at Palazzo Manfredi offers an unparalleled view of the amphitheater bathed in golden light. The vibe is a blend of luxury and intimacy, with every detail carefully considered—plush sofas, elegant floor lamps, and lush greenery set the stage for lingering over expertly crafted cocktails. Try the Imperial Martini, a masterclass in mixology, or the Colosseum Negroni, a bold twist on the classic Italian aperitivo, created by renowned mixologist Matteo Zed. As night falls, The Court transforms into a mesmerizing hideaway beneath the stars, a magic mirrored in the onsite MICHELIN-starred restaurant, Aroma.
Bulgari Hotel Roma
Piazza Augusto Imperatore 10
Perched above Piazza Augusto Imperatore, the terrace of the Bulgari Hotel Roma (One MICHELIN Key) is an oasis of luxury with a commanding view over the city's heart. The sweeping panorama stretches from Villa Medici and Trinità dei Monti to the Tiber and Janiculum. This space evolves throughout the day—offering a sun-drenched retreat by day, a stylish aperitivo spot at dusk, and an elegant setting for cocktails beneath the stars by night—all infused with Bulgari’s signature sophistication. Inspired by the gardens of Ancient Roman villas, the terrace features over 200 potted local plants, an opus spicatum floor, and a mosaic fountain adorned with the emblematic Bulgari star. The restaurant menu, curated by MICHELIN-starred chef Niko Romito, showcases dishes and drinks that embody the innovation and excellence of the Bulgari Bar.
Terrazza Borromini
Via Santa Maria dell'Anima 30
For one of the best sunset views in Rome, head to the bar at Terrazza Borromini, perched atop the Palazzo Pamphilj – Eitch Borromini Hotel. Fittingly named La Grande Bellezza, this rooftop spot offers a breathtaking panorama, from St. Peter’s Basilica to the Capitoline Hill, with Piazza Navona and Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers in full view. Signature sips like the Borromini Spritz and Negroni pair well with refined amuse-bouches, while the palace’s historic frescoes add an artistic backdrop to the experience.
Sky Bar di Ozio at Orazio Palace
Via Orazio 21
in the heart of Prati, just steps from St. Peter’s and Castel Sant’Angelo, Ozio Sky Bar at Orazio Palace is an intimate escape with a breathtaking view of Rome. Under the glow of city lights, the bartenders go beyond the classics, crafting bold, South Asia- and Far East-inspired cocktails.
Sip a Sunset Orazio—a mix of Campari, vermouth, and ginger ale—as the sky melts into warm hues. Or The Witch, with Strega and Jameson, conjuring the city’s secrets. The You & Me, made with Brockmans gin and passion fruit, is a taste of the exotic. With over 70 gins from around the world, Ozio Sky Bar feels like a journey.
Zuma Rooftop Bar
Via della Fontanella di Borghese 48
Zuma, the high-end Japanese restaurant chain, brings its signature style to the rooftop of Palazzo Fendi, offering a sleek bar with a stunning view of Rome’s skyline. Overlooking the city—and the striking La Lanterna by architect Fuksas—this chic perch blends Japanese tradition with modern mixology. Sip on a Tokyo Spritz, a refreshing fusion of sake, Prosecco, and yuzu, or indulge in a Yuzu Martini, bright with fresh lemon.
Rhinoceros RoofBar
Via dei Cerchi 19/23
Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel and developed by the Alda Fendi Foundation, Rhinoceros is where art, history, and modernity converge. Home to exclusive residences and cutting-edge galleries, this visionary space overlooks the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus, setting the stage for a rooftop experience like no other.
At the Rhinoceros RoofBar, contemporary design meets mixology, with sophisticated cocktails like the Rhino Sour served in an art-infused setting. The gallery showcases works by both emerging and established artists, echoing the dialogue between past and present. Every detail—from designer furnishings to modern frescoes—elevates the atmosphere. It's an escape where Ancient Rome meets artistic and culinary innovation under the city’s starry skies.
Acquaroof Terrazza Molinari
Via del Vantaggio 14
Set in the Trident neighborhood, close to Piazza del Popolo, the Acquaroof Terrazza Molinari at the hotel The First Arte, Rome is a luxurious oasis with a 360°-view over the historic center and the Tiber. This elegant terrace is renowned for its innovative cocktails, the fruit of an exclusive partnership with Molinari, the iconic Italian liqueur brand. Acquaroof serves unique drinks like the Molinari Mule with vodka, muddled lime, cucumber, and ginger.
A meal at the hotel's MICHELIN-Starred restaurant, Acquolina, is an equally exclusive interlude.
Cielo at Hotel de la Ville
Via Sistina 69
Hotel de la Ville, a refined gem within the Rocco Forte Hotels group and holder of One MICHELIN Key, is home to Cielo—a rooftop bar that epitomizes Rome's elegance. From Cielo’s terrace, adorned with red and white striped sofas and parasols, you’re treated to one of the city’s most stunning sunsets, with panoramic views that stretch from the top of Trinità dei Monti.
Imagine the barman serving a perfectly balanced cocktail as chef Fulvio Pierangelini crafts dishes that celebrate Italy’s rich flavors. The cicchetti—small, flavorful bites—are the ideal accompaniment. As night falls and stars stretch across the skyline, a DJ creates a lively atmosphere, the music blending with laughter and clinking glasses.
