9 rooftop bars you can book

You'll find this award-winning bar three floors above Loop Project Space & Bar. You’ll feel like you're in a jungle in the sky, with Loop Roof's exotic garden setting. The cocktails are killer and the bar snacks match perfectly. Book online for a 2-hour session, with a maximum of 10 people per group. There's a $20 pp cancellation fee as, like every venue, capacity is limited.

It’s a quintessential Melbourne experience. The lift is out of order and you have to hike up seven flights of stairs at Curtin House to make it to Rooftop Bar. But it's worth it. The views are breathtaking. The burgers are juicy, the sweet potato fries are rad. The drinks include classic cocktails and a good range of beer, cider, wines and spirits. Head to their homepage to book your 2-hour spot (group bookings are limited to 10 people). You’ll need to give your credit card details along with your booking – there’s a $24 charge if you don’t show up.

Take the lift to the eleventh floor of the glamourous QT Hotel and drink in the city views. It has a retractable awning so you can unwind with a cocktail all year round (we know Melbourne’s weather). The menu includes bar snacks or more substantial dishes from the QT restaurant. They’re currently accepting walk ins, as well as taking reservations. We recommend calling to make a booking as they are operating at a reduced capacity.

Make sure you go online and make a booking before you climb the stairs of the Carlton Hotel to the rooftop! If you do, you’ll be rewarded with Palmz' secluded, tropical hideaway. It's overgrown with bougainvillea and palm trees. With its thatched hut bar, this watering hole is a kooky favourite. Dive into the daring cocktail menu as the city sparkles through the palm fronds.

Hands up who’s missed meeting friends at Fed Square? Then make a booking at Transit on the top floor of the Transport Hotel building. Transit Rooftop Bar is one of the largest rooftop bars in Melbourne. It has a massive terrace with views of the MCG and Southbank. It’ll be the perfect way to ease yourself back into the city you love. Bookings are available Thursday and Fridays from 3pm, Saturday and Sundays from 12pm. Spots are limited to 10 people for 2-hour sittings.

The Imperial Hotel at the top end of Bourke Street is a historic pub dating back to 1858. Today it's known for its large rooftop beer garden and live sports, as well as its icy cold beers and classic pub fare. Book a spot on the rooftop beer garden to check out the 360-degree views of the city. All COVID-precautions are in place too. Head to their website to secure your booking.

What’s nicer than a beer in the sun, in the middle of the city? The European Bier Cafe is for discerning beer lovers. There's over 40 varieties of beer on offer! Go to their website to book a table on its rooftop Aer bar and take in those views with your brews. Plus a pizza or something from the classic pub menu.

Marameo is a fun, easy-going Italian eatery. It offers a range of pasta and mains, but we love the spin on the rooftop terrace. Tucked in amongst city buildings, you're hidden from view and left to concentrate on which spritz to try next. Marameo can take bookings of up to 10 people. Book online, with credit card details as cancellation policies apply.

Good old Cabinet Bar & Balcony has been around for years and never fails to feel like a love letter to Melbourne. It's tucked behind Little Collins Street and next to the Melbourne Town Hall. It's a Parisian-style gem, with European furnishings and retro chic decor. Head to their website and book a table on the balcony. Order a couple of cocktails and some flat bread. Then take in the wonderful views over Swanston Street down to the Yarra.