10 Best Rooftop Bars in Shanghai

Located at the northern end of the Bund, Sir Elly’s Terrace offers breathtaking views of the Shanghai skyline and the Huangpu River. This spot offers an impressive lineup of drinks, from coveted whiskeys to signature cocktails concocted with exotic ingredients such as lychee, oolong tea and Sichuan peppercorn.

Art-deco-inspired aesthetics and laidback music give this place an elegant vibe. Sunset is a great time to visit when the city is basked in a golden glow. Alternatively, drop by late at night for an alfresco party against a dramatic backdrop.

The VUE Bar complex occupies the 32nd and 33rd floors of the Hyatt on the Bund and features a variety of relaxing spaces to kick back in. The main bar space exudes a rustic ambience with its woody, winery-themed decor. There’s also a cocktail bar, lounge area and a terrace complete with plush daybeds, a luxurious marble jacuzzi and unrivalled views of the city.

At VUE bar, you can order everything from classic cocktails such as Bloody Marys and Mojitos to delectable champagne-infused creations with monikers that pay homage to the city, such as the ‘Shanghai Express’ and the ‘Shanghai Elixir’.

Perched atop the Bund 18 building, Bar Rouge is one of the city’s most iconic nightlife spots. The interior, drawing on both Asian and European influences, is designed to excite. Expect a catwalk-inspired entrance, a central island bar and dazzling dance floor.

Bar Rouge has played host to some big names in techno music such as David Guetta and Bob Sinclair. Savour champagne and cocktails as you dance the night away or just soak in the glittering city views. The bar draws flocks of visitors on the weekends, so be sure to reserve a table.

Admire the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower from Flair at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong which offers a unique vantage point of the city. This swanky spot encompasses a loft-style interior and split-level terrace with cosy lounge sofas. So, it’s perfect for alfresco drinks. 

Sip on a signature cocktail steeped in Chinese influences or treat yourself to a glass of fine wine. The food menu is extensive, with tapas-style Asian bites like sushi and satay. Drop by in the afternoon for an exquisite high tea with sweet and savoury treats like mint sorbet and corn croquettes.

Kartel Wine Bar sits on top of an assuming building in the Jingan area, making it one of the city’s best kept secrets. One of Shanghai's oldest bars, this 3-storey establishment rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views. Exposed brick walls, wooden floors and laidback music give it a relaxing atmosphere.

Kartel Wine Bar has an eclectic line up of drinks, from wine cocktails and sangria to beer on tap, as well as a mouthwatering selection of French food. Drop by for happy hour, from 6 pm to 8 pm, for affordable drinks as you bathe in the sparkling lights of the city.

Located on the 7th floor of the Quanchen building, the elegant Fellas bar is a great place for drinks with a view. Make your way to the wraparound terrace which comes with 70s-inspired decor and affords a commanding view of The Bund. 

The Fellas has an incredible selection of Italian wine, beer and cocktails. The Chongqing Mala-garita packs a punch. Prepared with Sichuan peppers and red chilli, it’s a fiery twist on the margarita. Pair your drinks with some of the hearty Italian dishes on offer, such as shrimp tartare and seafood pasta.

The Captain is one of the more affordable spots on the Bund. This hip bar, located on a hostel rooftop, stands out with its quirky, nautical-themed decor and casual vibe. 

This speakeasy delights visitors with its handcrafted cocktails and spirits sourced from around the globe. The food menu is just as impressive, making it great for brunch with a view. Expect tasty treats such as truffled pork dumplings and sesame tuna. The Captain is popular in the evenings. If you’re looking to splurge, book a VIP room for an exclusive night above the streets of Shanghai. 

Ruiku is perched on the 21st floor of the luxurious St. Regis on the Bund. With its prime location, this upscale bar is a great vantage point to admire Shanghai’s dramatic waterfront and skyline, and experience high-end hospitality. The decor drips with opulence, so don your best attire for your visit. 

RuiKu has an extensive fine-dining menu. Epicureans can treat themselves to oysters and seafood paired with rare wines, whiskeys or champagne. If you’re looking for something more unusual, order hookah to share a memorable moment with your friends. 

Curtained cabanas, handcrafted cocktails and beautiful city views make La Terrazza the perfect place for an unforgettable night out. Decked with exotic flora and candle-lit lanterns, this charming bar is reminiscent of the resorts of the Riviera.

La Terrazza’s elegance is reflected in its extensive drink menu. Sample some Italian wine or try one of their creative cocktails. The Bulgari Signature Cocktail is prepared with gin, Aperol and fruit juices, while the Yellow Sapphire is infused with elderflower liqueur, perilla leaf and Dragon Well tea.

Adorned with ivy-clad trellis and lush tropical plants that frame the Shanghai skyline, ROOF is the ultimate urban oasis. It combines Chinese botany with English landscaping techniques to create an enchanting setting. With lawn bowling, croquet, an open-air movie theatre and day beds, visitors have plenty of options for recreation and relaxation.

Enjoy delicious cocktails crafted by an expert mixologist and snack on bar bites such as truffle fries or tempura. Soak in the picturesque views in the daytime with an afternoon tea.