Italy is a land of simple quality. The most basic pleasures - a bite into a red tomato, a cold glass of water - seem to come alive in the country's vibrant atmosphere! Even the sunlight feels clearer, brighter and warmer here.
That's why some of the best experiences you can in Italy ask for little more than sunlight and a tasty cocktail. The country's rooftop bars are the ideal place to just breathe in the colour of your destination and soak it all up.
Here are 6 of the best rooftop bars from thousands of venues across the country to help you find the ultimate experience, and views for days!
What more could you need?!
Rome
Aroma Restaurant
Nestled in between the gardens of Colle Oppio and the Colosseum itself, this awesome restaurant offers the best possible views from every direction. The food and drinks are, understandably, a little on the pricey side, but the location and quality of the menu more than make up for the expense. It's a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
La Terrazza Bar, Capo d'Africa
This informal bar has access to two intimate terraces with views of the Santi Quattro Coronati. The atmosphere is warm, friendly and rustic, with some gorgeous greenery to help you feel relaxed. You can get cocktails and snacks at any time of day here, making it the perfect mid-afternoon stopover whenever you need a break from all that sightseeing.
Florence
La Terrazza Rooftop Bar, Hotel Continentale
This is a rooftop bar with a difference. Set on the top floor of a medieval Consorti tower, it's perhaps one of the most unique locations in the city to take in Florence's colourful skyline. The cocktail menu is also to die for, with exceptional attention to detail put into every drink. Take a look at their signature collection, which includes unique mixes such as the Spice Oddity and Bloody Marianna.
Roof Garden, Hotel Palazzo Guadagni
This place is the epitome of Tuscany's rustic charm. The Palazzo's Roof Garden offers picture-perfect views over the Florence rooftops, with gorgeous traditional decor to match. The hotel itself is a 16th-century townhouse situated in the elegant Oltrarno district of the city. Stop in here for a coffee at lunchtime or an afternoon aperitif before heading into the city for dinner.
Milan
Terrazza Triennale
Of all the rooftop venues we looked at, Terrazza Triennale is perhaps the most unique. Located on the roof of the famous Triennale art and design museum, the designers' top-tier architectural insight carries over to this restaurant for a special culinary experience. Galvanised steel and glass juxtaposes the modern interior with the classic Italian dishes and cocktails you'll find on the menu. It's an epic location no matter the weather or the time of year!
Terrazza 12
Looking like something out of a 60's spy movie, the decor at Terrazza 12 makes it a super hip place to visit for an aperitif in the sunshine. It also sports a perfect view of the Duomo rooftops as it overlooks the historic city center. With an extensive cocktail menu, the staff here will encourage you to pair your drinks with a carefully selected choice from the snacks menu. It's a great venue for those looking for a trendy experience in one of the city's best party regions.
If all this talk of warm sunshine and cool cocktails has got you thirsting for adventure, visit our Adventure Planner. It's a convenient way to visit Italy's best cities totally drama-free.
