1
The Bank Roof Bar
Istanbul
Photo: The Bank Roof Bar
Overview
In short:
Perched on top of the superb The Bank Hotel Istanbul, an historic old bank building turned into modern hotel, The Bank Roof Bar invites to an elevated and imperishable experience. Floating above Karaköy, Istanbul's most hip area, the stylish and open air terrace comes surrounded with magnificent views over the Old City, including Golden Horn, Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace and the Blue Mosque.
Food & Drinks:
Indulge in an extensive drink menu, including classic cocktails and The Bank Roof Bar's signature creations, as well as a wide variety of whiskies, local & international wines, and all kinds of spirits. Complementing the drinks you find a unique selection of finger foods, like 'Rock Style Chicken', 'Baby Calamary' & 'Beef Carpaccio', along with tasty snacks and treats.
What we say:
Open daily to all from mid day to late night, The Bank Roof Bar is pretty much always a great choice to enjoy Istanbul from above. Settle down in the comfy loungers or by the cool bar, and let the upscale yet casual atmosphere and the amazing views sweep you away.
Our insider tip
- One floor below the rooftop bar you find Serica Restaurant. offering a gastronomic journey with a view.
Details
Photo: Scappi
Overview
In short:
Occupying the ninth floor of Swissôtel Büyük Efes in the heart of Izmir, Scappi offers an elevated setting where sophisticated Mediterranean vibes meet refined Italian flavors. Inspired by the legacy of Bartolomeo Scappi, the venue blends elegant, bright and art-filled interiors with a beautiful and panoramic outdoor terrace, presenting panoramic and uninterrupted views of the Izmir Gulf, Kordon’s lively promenade, and the city’s iconic sunsets.
Food & Drinks:
Recognized by both Michelin Guide and Gault & Millau, the culinary journey at Scappi features traditional Italian cuisine with modern Mediterranean accents, prepared daily from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy risotto, fresh pasta, and pizzas crafted with the finest ingredients, alongside original recipes for meat dishes and desserts. The food is complemented by expertly crafted signature cocktails and Italian favorites, as well as a carefully curated selection of local and imported wines.
What we say:
The place to go for a refined and upscale gastronomic rooftop experience in Izmir, Scappi's combination of Michelin-recognized Italian cuisine, curated drinks and absolutely breathtaking sunset views really creates a setting out of the ordinary.
Our insider tip
- On selected evenings, live jazz and DJ performances turns up the atmosphere an extra notch.
Details
Photo: Artsy
Overview
In short:
Artsy brings a sophisticated, versatile and elevated experience to the heart of Ankara, right below the city’s landmark Atakule. Mostly famous as a cocktail bar, here you actually find four different areas within a single space, blending art, flavor, fashion, entertainment, and shopping. Part arts-focused and creative interior lounge and part lush and breezy outside terrace, surrounded by amazing panoramics over the Ankara skyline and the Botanical Park below.
Food & Drinks:
The menu at Artsy centers on perfectly crafted cocktails and specially roasted coffees, providing a delightful selection for both daytime and evening visits. Sip creative signatures, classics and bubbly cocktails, or try something from the list of Negroni's and Martini's. Alongside the drinks, you can enjoy an all-day brasserie menu, featuring shareables, salads, sandwiches and bowls.
What we say:
Filled with a creative ambiance, well-crafted drinks, grand views and artistic flair, Artsy is a sophisticated spot with a vibrant energy, perfect for both more relaxing sessions in the sunshine or a special night out, often with cool tunes in the background and always accompanied with a sparkling Ankara skyline.
Details
4
Peyvaz Rooftop at Grand Galata Hotel
Istanbul
Photo: Peyvaz Rooftop at Grand Galata Hotel
Overview
In short:
Set in the shadow of the Galata Tower, Peyvaz Rooftop crowns the fantastic Grand Galata Hotel & Spa on Bankalar Street in the heart of Istanbul, offering a modern yet romantic ambiance high above the city bustle. This elegant rooftop destination caters to both couples seeking a memorable evening and families enjoying a leisurely breakfast. The sleek terrace boasts sweeping panoramas over the Golden Horn, with the iconic Galata Tower and the Bosphorus prominently on display.
Food & Drinks:
The Peyvaz menu celebrates Turkish and Anatolian flavors, with a focus on vibrant meze, succulent kebabs, and expertly grilled plates. A well-composed drinks list complements the cuisine, including Turkish wines, signature sips and classic cocktails to elevate the rooftop experience.
What we say:
Peyvaz Rooftop stands out for its balance of authentic flavors, modern setting, attentive service, and remarkable views. From a unique breakfast with a view, to amazing sunset sips and intimate dinners, you can xpect a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that invites lingering both morning and night.
Details
Peyvaz Rooftop at Grand Galata Hotel
5
Asmani Restaurant
Antalya
Photo: Asmani Restaurant
Overview
In short:
Asmani Restaurant, Bar and Terrace is one of the top-ranking taste-stops of Antalya, and all of Tureky. Found on the 10th floor of the Akra Hotel, this is a fantastic venue to enjoy a drink or casual fine-dining, surrounded with panoramic views over the Mediterranean, the Bey Mountains and the Antalya skyline. With a setting just about as impressive as the views, where stylish dining seats and lounge spots are complemented with plenty of elegant details, Asmani is the prefect loacation for a special night in Antalya.
Food & Drinks:
The Asmani menu features a creative blend of traditional tastes from the Turkish and World cuisines, made from fresh, seasonal and high-quality ingredients. Complementing the food is an impressive selection of wines, and from the rooftop bar you can order some great and crafted specialty cocktails.
What we say:
With a unique atmosphere, where nice tunes and the peaceful sound of the waves of the Mediterranean Sea set the tone, Asmani Restaurant is the perfect host for unforgettable nights.
Details
Photo: GIO Rooftop
Overview
In short:
Kusadasi is a beautiful beach resort town on Turkey’s western Aegean coast, close to the famous and ancient city of Ephesus. With lots to see and do, there is one venue that offers a unique view over it all: GIO Rooftop. Perched on top of the fabulous DoubleTree by Hilton, right across the sea, this modern and stylish rooftop restaurant and lounge serves both food and drinks to panoramic views over the Aegean Sea and pretty much all of Kusadasi and its surroundings.
Food & Drinks:
With a menu described as 'Where Mediterranean and Asia Meet', here you can enjoy everything from risotto and sushi, to live Teppanyaki shows. The food is complemented with a great selection of cocktails, from signature creations to frozen margaritas, as well as a large array of fine wines and other spirits.
What we say:
Visit GIO Rooftop for romantic dinners with live piano concerts at sunset, or enjoy refreshing signature cocktails to the beats of the nightly live DJs. Aiming to provide a great mix of good music, good food and good times, any night up at at GIO is bound to be a good one.
Details
7
Haruna Cappadocia
Cappadocia
Photo: Haruna Cappadocia
Overview
In short:
A one-of-a-kind experience from the moment you walk in, the Carus Cappadocia Hotel sure knows how to spoil their guests, and that extends to every aspect of the experience. Its restaurant, called Haruna, comes with a lovely rooftop terrace, well equipped with comfortable seating, fireplaces, and exclusive areas meant to give guests some extra privacy.
Food & Drinks:
Open from early breakfast to late dinner, Haruna serves both authentic local dishes and international tastes, prepared with farm-fresh seasonal ingredients. The drink menu is about as diverse, ranging from regional wines to classic cocktails and internatonal brews.
What we say:
A bit on the pricey side, but Haruna really delivers in terms of setting and quality. The views of Göreme's landscape are spectacular and come the yearly Hot Air Balloon Festival; you'll be hard-pressed to find a better spot to enjoy some drinks while watching the show.
Details
Photo: 16ROOF
Overview
In short:
Located on the European banks of the Bosphorus, on top of of the superb Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul, 16ROOF is a buzzing and multi-level venue, blending rooftop restaurant with airy rooftop lounge. From up here, you get a magnificent view over Bosphoren and the Asian part of the city on the other side of the water, and you can also see down to the Besiktas soccer team home arena.
Food & Drinks:
The restaurant serves international food every night, including sushi, pasta and a large selection from the grill. The dishes are paride with a really impressive wine menu, and the rooftop 'Sky Menu', includes well-crefted signature cocktails, martini's, smoked cocktails and a wide range of beers, cigars and shish.
What we say:
With a vibrant and trendy atmosphere, 16ROOF is a perfect Istanbul rooftop bar for lounge cocktails and fun dinners all days of the week. But come weekend, the party atmosphere really takes off with live music and DJ sessions all night long.
Our insider tip
- The rooftop is seasonal, open from May to October.
Details
9
Pool Bar at The Marmara
Bodrum
Photo: Pool Bar at The Marmara
Overview
In short:
An exclusive and luxurious option, The Marmara hotel is set on a hilltop and offers 180° views of the Bodrum Bay and part of the Kos Island. Especially from the top floor Pool Bar, set next to the hotel's rooftop pool. Filled with an air of effortless freedom, this is a daytime hot-spot where all are welcome to enjoy the warmth of Bodrum.
Food & Drinks:
Working in harmony with the poolside setting, the rooftop menu features fresh fruit drinks, tropical beverages, and light fare.
What we say:
Enjoy relaxing and carefree poolside sips with a view at the Pool Bar, then head to Tuti Restaurant located on The Marmara Bodrum's expansive terrace, to get a culinary taste of the Aegean Sea.
Details
10
Tipsy Old Town
Antalya
Photo: Tipsy Old Town
Overview
In short:
Found in Antalya's historic Kılınçarslan neighborhood, Tipsy Old Town is a social hot-spot to blend vibes with amazing ocean views. Set on top of the Antalya Inn Hotel, the charming rooftop features a retractable roof, and can easily turn from comfy and covered to open-air and breezy. Open from early morning to late night, it's a popular gethering spot among both locals and visitors.
Food & Drinks:
Offering a great blend of local and global flavours, the rooftop menu includes a wide range of beers, house and classic cocktails, sangria, burgers, pizza, schnitzel and much much more.
What we say:
While great for some relaxing daytime sessiosn, Tipsy Old Town really comes to life at night. Starting with beautiful sunset sips, turning into vibrant and friendly resto-bar evenings.
Details
Hans has visited over 500 rooftop bars, 200 rooftop pools and 300 rooftop restaurants since 2015. This vast experience has made Hans a true rooftop expert, and one of the most knowledgeable in the field. Today, numerous of travel magazines, bloggers and media websites contact Hans to get his expertise on rooftops.
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