Rooftop Bars and Restaurants in Lisbon: Above the Sky of Lisbon

Figure 1 - Best rooftops in Lisbon (Lisbonlux, 2023)´ 

Lisbon, with its iconic hills, shimmering river views, and sun-kissed streets, is as beautiful from the ground as it is from the sky. With a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, no better way can be found to take in Lisbon's breathtaking vistas than from one of its many rooftop bars and restaurants. From cocktail-sipping to a gourmet meal, or simply enjoying the sunset over the Tagus River, these rooftops are some of the best in Lisbon from which one can see the city from above. 

1. Park Bar: Rooftop with a View 

Located literally atop a parking garage in Bairro Alto, this is a true hidden gem offering arguably one of the most stunning panoramic views of Lisbon. It's a small bar, famous for its laid-back, bohemian feel, with locals and tourists coming here for a relaxed setting, cocktails, and unparalleled views of the setting sun. If you're thinking more casually, this rooftop is perfect for sipping on a drink while watching the sun go down behind the 25th of April Bridge. 

2. Topo: Class with a Hint of Fashion 

On top of "Centro Comercial Martim Moniz", Topo is currently one of the trendiest hangouts in town. This rooftop bar offers a sleek setting with great drinks and tapas. The views stretch all the way from historic Alfama to the modern Parque das Nações area. This turns out to be a favorite for an evening out, either for those visiting Lisbon for the first or umpteenth time, with its minimalist décor combined with cozy seating.  

3. Sky Bar Lisboa: Chic and Glamorous 

Perched atop the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Hotel, Sky Bar Lisboa is an ultra-glamorous rooftop with a view second to none in town. With fashionably decorated rooms and special cocktails, it is the perfect spot for a posh night out. From here, guests have sweeping views of the city's skyline, the Tagus River, and the iconic Eduardo VII Park. The bar is especially popular at night when the lights of Lisbon sparkle against the starry background. 

4. Rooftop Bar at Memmo Alfama: Hidden Oasis 

For a more intimate rooftop experience, head to the Memmo Alfama hotel in the heart of Lisbon's oldest neighborhood. This rooftop is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with views of the historic Alfama district and the river in every direction. The bar serves an array of refreshing cocktails, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the winding streets below. It is quiet and cozy, like a rooftop-perfect place for a peaceful evening. 

5. LX Factory: The Industrial Chic Choice 

What used to be an industrial hub is now a complex housing the trendiest restaurants, shops, and bars and is considered one of the coolest places in Lisbon. In fact, the rooftop bars, such as Rio Maravilha, tend to be more eclectic and artsy. In the neighborhood of Alcântara, Rio Maravilha is hip and laid-back, with a stellar view of the river and the 25th of April Bridge. It is a great spot to have a cocktail and take in the creative vibe of Lisbon's burgeoning cultural scene. 

6. Casa Independente: A Vintage Vibe 

Nestled in the historic Graça neighborhood, Casa Independente boasts a kooky, old-school feel that marries classic Lisbon with a dose of contemporary cool. This discreet rooftop bar is nestled within a stunningly restored mansion, which guarantees a tranquil escape from more touristy areas. Its laid-back vibe is topped only by the extensive drinks menu, making it an ideal spot to while away the afternoon, gazing over the rooftops of Lisbon's oldest quarter. 

7. Miradouro de Santa Catarina: For a truly laid-back and casual rooftop experience, Miradouro de Santa Catarina is a favorite among locals. This is not really a bar or restaurant but a viewpoint, and one of the best views over the city, particularly at sunset, can be seen from here. Often, this park is full of Lisbon residents who enjoy the view, drink something, or simply chill during late afternoon sun. It is excellent for people-watching, with views of the river simultaneously with the rooftops and the iconic São Jorge Castle. 

8. Zambeze: African Fusion Dining with a View 

No other rooftop dining experience can compare to Zambeze in Lisbon. Nestled in the Alfama district, this restaurant mixes traditional Portuguese flavors with African influences. Enjoy an excellent overall view of the city's historic heart and the grand São Jorge Castle from this rooftop terrace. It doesn't matter if one has a hearty meal or is sipping on the signature cocktail-the view is as flavorful as the food. 

9. The Insolito: Chic, Cozy, and Stylish 

Head to The Insolito in Bairro Alto for a stylish and very chic rooftop. Intimate, compared with many of Lisbon's rooftops, this place no doubt offers up a cool spot in style and character. Cocktails are very creative, and for the food menu, there is a nice balance between traditional Portuguese cuisine and some international flavors. Enjoy the views over the Baixa neighborhood and the river at this elevated experience with a twist. 

10. Java: The Roof Gem in Mercado da Ribeira 

Located right in the center of one of Lisbon's hotspots, the Mercado da Ribeira, better known as Time Out Market, Java is an isthmus of a rooftop bar-one that brings style and laid-backness to this boisterous dining heart of Lisbon. It boasts a stunning river view and overlooks the Cais do Sodré area, offering an elevated respite from the market's crowded floors. It would be wise to drink expertly concocted cocktails or have some light food on the premises while the sun goes down over the Tagus River. In this modern and chic environment, it is absolutely ideal to spend the time after a day touring the food market below the hotel. 

The rooftops of Lisbon offer an unparalleled way to appreciate the beauty of this charming city. From swanky cocktail bars to laid-back hideaways, these lofty hotspots reveal the surprising breadth of Lisbon's varied landscapes. Be it to toast the sunset with a drink in hand, savor gastronomic delights, or simply drink in the views, these rooftops will make any visit to Lisbon truly unforgettable. Take your camera, go to one of these viewing points, and get ready to be wowed with Lisbon from above! 

Sources:  

“OS 30 Melhores Terraços, Rooftops e Bares Panorâmicos Em Lisboa.” Os 30 Melhores Rooftops e Terraços Em Lisboa 2024, www.lisbonlux.com/lisboa/melhores-terracos-e-rooftops.html. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.  

Silva, Clara, et al. “20 Best Rooftop Bars in Lisbon Chosen by Locals.” Time Out Lisbon, Time Out, 13 Nov. 2024, www.timeout.com/lisbon/bars-and-pubs/best-rooftop-bars-in-lisbon.  

Amy Abrahams, Abigail Malbon. “18 of the Best Rooftop Bars in Lisbon.” CN Traveller, Condé Nast Traveller, 11 June 2024, www.cntraveller.com/gallery/rooftop-bars-lisbon.