Summer on Top: 10 Irresistibly Chic Terraces to Bookmark Now
It’s that moment in the calendar when Europe starts peeling off its coat, ordering a spritz, and flirting shamelessly with the sun.
Terraces reopen like clockwork, sunglasses become socially acceptable indoors, and suddenly, every conversation begins with “somewhere outdoors?” Whether you're in Paris or Porto, rooftop or courtyard, summer dining is once again the continent’s favourite sport.
But a great terrace is never just about the weather. It’s about atmosphere. That perfect mix of good lighting, better drinks, and just enough background chatter to make you feel like you're part of something fabulous. This year’s line-up of European terraces is impossibly good-looking—some new, some just beautifully revived—with views that stretch from Sardinian cliffs to Stockholm’s summer islands.
So whether you’re city-hopping, sun-chasing, or simply in the market for a prettier place to eat your burrata, these are the terraces you’ll want to be seen on this summer. Stylish, sun-soaked, and worth booking before everyone else catches on.
Costa Smeralda, Sardinia, Italy
Forget branded cabanas. Le Terrazze Ritual is Sardinia’s most seductive secret—a surreal, multi-level terrace carved into granite cliffs above Baja Sardinia. Think open-air jungle temple meets aperitivo hour. There are waterfalls, candlelit nooks, panoramic sea views and a DJ booth tucked into the rocks. A little wild, very chic, and utterly unforgettable.
Paris, France
Perched atop the chic Hôtel Dame des Arts in the Latin Quarter, this rooftop bar offers 360-degree panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. The ambiance is effortlessly elegant, featuring bespoke cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere that captures the essence of Parisian summer nights.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s rooftop game is strong, but La Terrazza still reigns supreme. Set above the Eixample buzz, it serves cocktails with a view, a rotating live music lineup, and a steady breeze that keeps you looking mysteriously unbothered. A must at sunset—preferably with something citrusy in hand.
Ibiza, Spain
Bold, buzzy and beautifully hedonistic. The Standard’s rooftop in Ibiza is all about poolside lounging, late-afternoon mezcal, and views over Dalt Vila that practically beg for a linen shirt and a big pair of shades. The energy moves from chilled to cheeky as the sun goes down—come dressed for both.
London, UK
Perched above Trafalgar Square, The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James offers panoramic views of London's iconic landmarks, including the National Gallery and Nelson's Column. This chic terrace combines classic British elegance with a contemporary twist, making it an ideal spot for sunset cocktails and people-watching.
Omiš, Croatia
Perched above the charming town of Omiš, nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Cetina River, Eol Rooftop Bar offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and waterways. This trendy spot has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its vibrant atmosphere, live music events, and expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you're enjoying a relaxed afternoon drink or dancing under the stars, Eol provides an unforgettable experience in one of Croatia's most picturesque settings.
7. Lumi Rooftop
Lisbon, Portugal
Perched atop the Lumiares Hotel in the vibrant Bairro Alto district, Lumi Rooftop offers panoramic views of Lisbon's historic skyline. The terrace combines contemporary design with a relaxed ambiance, featuring minimalist furnishings and lush greenery. The menu showcases modern Portuguese cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients, complemented by an inventive cocktail selection.
Berlin, Germany
Perched atop the stylishly revamped Hotel Zoo on Kurfürstendamm, Grace Rooftop offers a glamorous escape with panoramic views over West Berlin. This rooftop oasis features plush lounge seating, ambient lighting, and a curated cocktail menu that attracts the city's fashionable crowd. Whether you're sipping a signature drink under the stars or enjoying the DJ sets that enliven the weekends, Grace Rooftop provides an atmosphere that's both elegant and electric. It's the perfect spot to experience Berlin's vibrant summer nights in style.
Athens, Greece
Perched atop a neoclassical mansion in the heart of Athens, The Dolli Rooftop Restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience with panoramic views of the Acropolis. This stylish venue combines contemporary design with classic elegance, featuring minimalist décor, ambient lighting, and a curated menu that showcases modern Mediterranean cuisine..
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm has no shortage of rooftops—but Le Hibou is where the champagne flutes clink a little louder and the heels are a little higher. Sitting atop the beautifully restored Bank Hotel, this glam hideaway channels a sultry Paris-meets-Scandi mood, with plush velvet banquettes, sculptural lighting, and the kind of crowd that knows how to accessorise their negroni. Sunset hits different here—partly because of the view, mostly because of the vibe.
