Lisbon  is a city of seven hills and, the best terraces of the city so a city of spectacular views. Views across the Tagus River, sweeping toward the Atlantic; city-wide views, labyrinthine neighborhoods of narrow terracotta-tiled streets, large brightly painted neoclassical buildings, architectural landmarks from the Moorish castle to iconic bridges ... and lots of sunshine! Naturally, then, the charms of Lisbon are absorbed from the top of one of the citys many bars. They are a diverse band, from chic, clean hotel bars to bright little places in revived neighborhoods - here is our choice of the 10 best terrace bars in Lisbon.

LEMON IN THE H10 DUKE OF LOULÉ

This is a bar that those in the know are trying to keep secret. The beautifully designed H10 Duque de Loulé, a boutique hotel in a restored 18th-century building, only opened last year, but its elegant, small 10th-floor terrace has proved an instant hit for those looking for something chic and civilized in central Lisbon. The covered terrace opens into an elegant and exclusive space, decorated in blue and white that reflects the restorative tones of the view above and beyond. A great place to deepen the conversation as you look over the rooftops towards the river.

 

PARK

Situated on the sixth floor of a car park in the bohemian Bairro Alto, this is an urban twist on the classic rooftop. Head here for casual cool with a hipster slice and enjoy cocktails, sangria and hamburgers from a terrace adorned with vibrant foliage. The scene is anything but pedestrian, with 180-degree views, including the Santa Catarina church, so close you can almost touch it, with the visual touch of the majestic 25 de Abril suspension bridge that stretches across the Tagus. Perfect for relaxing an afternoon before DJs catch up with beats that will keep you up until the small hours.

 

UPSCALE AT EPIC SANA LISBOA HOTEL

A rooftop bar, restaurant and an infinity pool overlooking the ninth floor of a five star hotel. This bar in the Amoreiras neighborhood lives up to its name; whether you are reclining by the pool on sun loungers (sipping UpScale Colada, made with rum, pineapple juice and coconut ice cream), or eating sushi and tapas on the futuristic white tables of the rooftop restaurant. If you are not staying, you can still check in for an extravagant day (it is € 50 per day to use the pool during the day) or a romantic night under the stars.

TERRACE BA IN BAIRRO ALTO HOTEL

This award-winning bar above the five-star Bairro Alto Hotel opened in 2005 and has been a must visit ever since. In the heart of the city, its everywhere, whether after a long lunch in the sun, a break from shopping on the lively cobblestone streets below, or a drink to start the party - all while enjoying the panoramic view. Its small and cozy, with wicker chairs and stacks of cushions, and its size helps give a unique sophistication that is a hit for both locals and travelers. Arrive early if youre looking for a sunset - it can be hard to get a table.

ROOFTOP BAR AT THE WORLD HOTEL

This is a bar that knows when your views are best tapped, as the regular sunset parties attest. Located on the ninth floor of the four-star Hotel Mundial, parties take place all summer long, where resident DJs and live jazz will help you relax while enjoying the panorama of the elegant Baixa Pombalina neighborhood and São Jorge Castle. While the view is the main attraction, the relaxed atmosphere, white furniture and fresh cocktails, tapas and burgers on offer make this an easy-breezy go-to popular.

SILK CLUB

Whenever your food, and people, are as beautiful as the view, come here. Silk is a super exclusive restaurant, bar and club on top of a listed building in the elegant Chiado shopping district. Dress appropriately and make a reservation, or risk not being through security; but once you will see what all the fuss is about - from fresh, deliciously prepared Japanese cuisine to minimalist design in opulent, dark tones for 270-degree views of the city.

SKY BAR IN TIVOLI LISBON

Stretch out on the cushions or take a privileged position around the lighted bar, then pick a cocktail and enjoy the afternoon sun in this summer hotspot. Situated on the ninth floor of the five-star Tivoli Hotel in the 1930s, on glamorous Avenida da Liberdade, this terrace bar is only open from April to September, making it a must see in the warmer months. If the breathtaking views of the city center and the river are not enough (will be), DJs, live music and regular theme parties provide an extra attraction to the sky.

DECK BAR 7 AND BAR LOUNGE IN PORTO BAY FREEDOM

Another recent addition to the setting (opened in 2015), this five-star hotel near the Avenida da Liberdade shopping mecca has one thing that makes its rooftop stand out: a jacuzzi. It is a cozy wooden space that is ideal for the sun during the day and for relaxing after a day of exploration. Keep in mind that it is not open late (until 22h in summer and 18h in winter), so include in your plans those times when only a few bubbles (cocktail in hand) will do.

 

lostin EXPLANED

Heres something bright and different after all the usual minimalist and rooftop bars: a rooftop terrace in the Principe Real neighborhood, decorated with pink umbrellas and colorful furniture, creating an invigorating rainbow burst against the blue sky. Large overhanging trees bring welcome shade in the courtyard, style out of space in a peaceful retreat that is attractive at any time of the day. Stop for dinner and Indian-inspired décor with exceptional views of the city center.

 

TOP

A contender for the new hottest spot to be seen, Topo has a "yet to be discovered" seduction that makes you feel like youve stumbled upon something secret. In part, this is because it is very hard to find. Six floors up at the top of a modest shopping mall in the multicultural Martim Moniz, you can easily get past it. But persevere and you will be rewarded with cocktails and mouth-watering tapas. The real prize, however, is the vision. It overlooks the old town of Mouraria, with São Jorge Castle proudly in sight. Go to sunset where DJs seduce at night.

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