Sydney’s best rooftop bars to sip the day away!

Sydney is home to plenty of epic drinking jaunts. From old, English style pubs to classy and contemporary hidden bars, Sydneysiders are certainly spoilt for choice.

One type of bar which is forever popular with beverage-seeking folk is that of the rooftop. With the Macleay Hotel in such a great central city location, Sydney's best rooftop bars are only a short journey away. Here are our top five!

1. Coogee Pavilion

Bondi Beach is one of Sydney's most frequented tourist spots, with 1.6 million visitors travelling to the sun-filled destination in the year ending 2016, according to Destination NSW. A popular Sydney walk starts at Bondi and leads to the rooftop bar in question, Coogee Pavilion. And at the end of the day, what better way to quench your thirst after enjoying this leisurely walk than with a refreshing cocktail or two? 

Located on the northern headland, the Coogee Pavilion has become a go-to for locals and tourists alike. Pull up a seat in the spacious and plant-dripped rooftop courtyard and order in one of the bar's signature drinks, complete with 270-degree beach views. Choose from the likes of the 'Beachbum' which features tequila, peach Schnapps, lime, pineapple and mint or try the classic 'Aperol Spritz', boasting plenty of bubbly prosecco!

2. ARTBAR

Located in the Museum of Contemporary Art, just around half an hour on the train from the Macleay Hotel, is ARTBAR. What do you get when you mix art, music, fun and slurp-worthy drinks? One of Sydney's best rooftop drinking joints, that's what!

On the last Friday of every month, the gallery allows visitors to become a part of different, interactive art projects before heading upstairs to the rooftop bar. Enjoy unbelievable views of the Harbour Bridge and beyond as you sip the night away!

3. The Royal Hotel

They say the best things come in small packages and when The Royal Hotel is involved, we'd have to agree. Located just a short walk away from your Sydney city accommodation is one of the city's best rooftop bars with equally incredible views.

With a capacity of just 40 people, you'll feel like a true local in the know as you enjoy seasonal cocktails complete with hard-to-beat vistas of Paddington Harbour. Feeling peckish? The varied menu features the likes of zesty crab linguine and a crispy Southern fried chicken burger, just to name a few.

4. Corridor

In the southwest suburb of Newton resides one of Sydney's most recognised rooftop bars – Corridor. Enter this well-loved establishment on King Street, climb the wooden stairs, walk down candle-lit hallways and 'corridors' until you reach the cosy outside nook where your favourite drinks await.

Spend an evening working your way through craft beers, an expertly selected wine list and imaginative cocktails while lounging on the outdoor deck. With rustic interiors paired with neon signs, it's an eclectic place worth checking out!

5. El Topo

Enter El Topo and prepare to feel like you've stepped straight into a Mexican nirvana. This Day of the Dead themed bar is located just 20 minutes away from the Macleay Hotel by train and its colourful decor, spacious outdoor deck and extensive tequila list is enough to make anyone say ¡Olé!

The killer views don't have to stop at these incredible city rooftop bars. The Macleay Hotel also boasts great views of Sydney, right from your own room! Find out more about our accommodation today.