Rome’s timeless beauty is best enjoyed from above, where you can take in the city’s sprawling rooftops, ancient ruins, and iconic landmarks. There’s nothing quite like sipping a glass of wine or enjoying a meal while gazing at the Colosseum, Vatican, or the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. Here’s your guide to the best rooftop bars and restaurants in Rome, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
1. Terrazza Borromini: Views of Piazza Navona
Located on the top floor of Palazzo Pamphilj, Terrazza Borromini offers one of the best views of Piazza Navona. This rooftop bar and restaurant is an elegant spot to enjoy a glass of wine or a fine Italian meal while overlooking the square and the dome of Sant’Agnese in Agone.
The terrace is open for both lunch and dinner, but it’s especially magical at sunset when the golden light bathes the Baroque buildings below. It’s a popular spot, so reservations are highly recommended.
2. Aroma: Fine Dining with a Colosseum View
If dining with a view of the Colosseum is on your bucket list, Aroma should be at the top of your list. Located on the rooftop of the Palazzo Manfredi Hotel, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a dining experience that combines gourmet Italian cuisine with jaw-dropping views of Rome’s most famous monument.
The intimate setting and impeccable service make Aroma a great choice for special occasions. The menu features creative takes on classic Roman dishes, paired with an extensive wine list.
3. La Terrazza: Panoramic Views from the Spanish Steps
For a rooftop experience with panoramic views of the Spanish Steps and the Villa Borghese gardens, head to La Terrazza at Hotel Eden. This luxurious restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a menu that highlights seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
The floor-to-ceiling windows and the terrace provide an unparalleled vantage point of Rome’s skyline. Whether you’re visiting for lunch, dinner, or just cocktails, La Terrazza is an unforgettable place to take in the city’s beauty.
4. Caffè Capitolino: Rooftop Drinks at the Capitoline Museums
For a more casual rooftop experience, visit Caffè Capitolino, located on the terrace of the Capitoline Museums. This cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere with incredible views of the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the city beyond.
It’s the perfect place to stop for a coffee, drink, or light snack after exploring the museums. Plus, the view of ancient Rome laid out before you makes it one of the best hidden gems in the city.
5. Minerva Roof Garden: 360° Views of Rome
Located on top of the Grand Hotel de la Minerve, the Minerva Roof Garden offers a stunning 360-degree view of Rome. From here, you can see the Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica, and even the Vittorio Emanuele Monument. The restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients.
For a more casual experience, stop by in the evening for a drink and watch as the city lights up after dark. It’s a serene and elegant place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city below.
6. Hotel Raphael: Rooftop Garden with Organic Dining
Hotel Raphael’s rooftop garden offers a more intimate and eco-friendly dining experience. Overlooking Piazza Navona and the rooftops of central Rome, the restaurant serves organic, vegetarian, and vegan cuisine with a gourmet twist.
The garden-like setting, with its lush greenery and climbing plants, creates a peaceful atmosphere far removed from the city’s busy streets. It’s a fantastic choice for health-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on flavor or experience.
7. Les Étoiles: Iconic Views of St. Peter’s Basilica
For one of the best views of St. Peter’s Basilica,Les Étoiles, located on the rooftop of Hotel Atlante Star, offers one of the most iconic views in Rome, with a front-row seat to St. Peter’s Basilica. The bar and restaurant provide both indoor and outdoor seating, so no matter the weather, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Vatican City.
The terrace is particularly stunning at sunset when the sky takes on hues of orange and pink, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for a romantic evening or a casual drink with friends. The menu features a variety of cocktails and Italian dishes, making it a great spot for both dining and drinks.
8. Tiziano Terrace by Monti View: Overlooking the Roman Forum
For a rooftop experience that offers views of the Roman Forum and the surrounding historic area, head to Tiziano Terrace by Monti View, located in the Monti Palace Hotel. This hidden gem in the Monti neighborhood combines a chic rooftop bar with unparalleled views of ancient Rome.
Whether you’re stopping by for a glass of wine, a cocktail, or a casual meal, the terrace offers a perfect blend of style and history. The proximity to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum adds a unique sense of place, making it one of the best rooftop experiences in the city.
9. Zuma Rome: A Modern Take on Rooftop Dining
Zuma, located on the rooftop of Palazzo Fendi, offers a sleek and modern rooftop experience that’s perfect for those looking to blend fine dining with incredible views. The restaurant serves contemporary Japanese cuisine with a twist, including sushi, sashimi, and robata-grilled dishes.
The terrace offers stunning views of central Rome, including the Altare della Patria and other nearby monuments. It’s a chic spot for an upscale night out, offering a modern contrast to the city’s ancient beauty.
10. Up Sunset Bar: Modern Vibes Near the Spanish Steps
Located atop the La Rinascente department store near the Spanish Steps, Up Sunset Bar is a trendy, modern rooftop spot offering 360-degree views of Rome’s city center. While you can indulge in cocktails or a light meal, the real draw here is the panoramic vista of Rome’s skyline, including landmarks like the Pantheon and Villa Borghese.
This rooftop bar is a popular spot for a sunset drink after a day of shopping, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors looking for a stylish hangout.
Why Rooftop Bars and Restaurants Are a Must-Visit in Rome
When visiting Rome, the city’s beauty is best appreciated from above, where ancient history and modern life converge in a breathtaking skyline. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, a casual sunset drink, or a gourmet dining experience, these rooftop bars and restaurants offer not just great food and drinks, but also views that will leave you in awe.
Travelers often ask if these rooftops are worth the higher price tag, and the answer is a resounding yes. The views, ambiance, and atmosphere combine to create an experience that’s truly unique to Rome. For a memorable evening, make sure to visit one of these stunning rooftops and soak in the eternal city from above.
