A complete roundup of Athens’ top 10 rooftop bars, featuring outstanding Acropolis views.
One of the most unique experiences you can have in Athens is enjoying a drink at the rooftop bars in its center.
The view of the Acropolis as the sun sets, combined with the light summer breeze, creates the ideal atmosphere to complete your busy day.
For this reason, in all the bars on the following list, you’ll find both locals and visitors from abroad frequenting them.
When is the best time to visit the rooftop bars of Athens?
During the summer months, the temperature is particularly high during the day.
So, I recommend visiting the rooftop bars just before sunset or in the evening.
Most of them stay open until 2:00 – 3:00 in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your cocktail.
Another option is to visit these bars in the morning as they serve coffee and breakfast.
If you choose this route, aim to arrive by 8:00 in the morning.
After 10:00, the heat on the rooftops can become unbearable.
Of course, if you visit Athens before mid-May or after mid-September, you can stop by the rooftop bars at any time of day.
During these periods, the heat is noticeably less, even at noon.
Another tip to keep in mind is that most of these establishments fill up quickly.
But don’t worry, they’re all fairly close together – less than 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) apart.
That means, instead of waiting in line, you can stroll from one to another in less than half an hour.
To make things easier for you, I’ve included a link with the location of each bar under its description.
You can also find all of them on the map below.
Before you continue reading below, make sure you check out my step-by-step itineraries with the best places in town and their pins on Google Maps so you don’t miss a thing.
They are carefully and clearly designed, depending on the number of days at your disposal: Athens in 1 day, Athens in 2 days, Athens in 3 days, Athens in 4 days, or hidden gems of Athens if you plan to stay even more days.
Top 10 Rooftop Bars in Athens
1) Couleur Locale
Why: To locate Couleur Locale, it’s best to use the point on the map below this text: its entrance is tucked away in an arcade that can be easily overlooked.
Despite its “hidden” location, it remains popular as one of Athens’ most beautiful rooftop bars.
Its outdoor space is big enough to accommodate many guests.
However, if the rooftop is full, consider the less-crowded floor below.
Notably, the tables to your left as you enter provide an unobstructed view of the Acropolis, and the area is also air-conditioned.
2) Retire @ ERGON House Athens
Why: Retire @ ERGON House is one of my most favorite rooftop bars in Athens, along with Couleur Locale.
This establishment has well-prepared cocktails, ample space between tables for comfort, and attracts fewer tourists than most downtown bars.
Additionally, it’s situated above a small marketplace with local Greek products that’s worth a visit.
However, keep in mind that not all its seats offer a view of the Acropolis.
If you’re unable to secure a front table, it will feel like drinking on just any other rooftop in the city.
3) 360 Cocktail Bar
Why: 360 Cocktail Bar is undeniably the most popular rooftop bar on this list.
You will find it directly opposite the Monastiraki metro entrance, at the start of the area’s Flea Market.
During the summer months, queues form almost daily as people wait to get in.
Despite the high number of visitors it receives every day, the service remains polite and friendly.
Its cocktails are well-made and often feature local ingredients, some of which are highlighted in my article on Greek liquors you must try.
Nevertheless, the volume of the music tends to increase as the night progresses, which some might find intrusive.
Additionally, its rooftop is somewhat lower than those of other bars.
Overall, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a lively atmosphere rather than a quiet, romantic evening.
4) A for Athens
Why: A for Athens offers what might be the most iconic view of the Acropolis hill among all the city’s rooftop bars.
The nighttime view, with the illuminated landmark in the background and bustling Monastiraki square in front, is truly unforgettable.
The bar itself extends over two levels – an indoor lower level and an open-air upper one.
Despite this, the space remains relatively small, so finding a seat can be a challenge during the high season.
But it’s worth a try, given its extremely central location and the abundance of alternative spots nearby.
5) Anglais Athens
Why: If A for Athens has the best view of the Acropolis, Anglais Athens certainly offers the best overall view in all of Athens.
From its rooftop, you can admire sights such as the Acropolis, the Roman market, the Temple of Hephaestus, and Pnyka.
One big plus is that it doesn’t have blind spots: no matter where you sit, you’ll enjoy a panoramic city view.
The entrance is tucked away behind the mosque in Monastiraki Square, just a few meters from the homonymous metro station.
As for the menu, it’s best to stick with the drinks and cocktails, as the food could use some improvement.
6) Tolokali
Why: The ambience at Tolokali is more similar to a Greek island home terrace than a bustling bar in the heart of Athens.
Conveniently located near the Thisio metro station, it’s easily accessible within a few minutes’ walk.
Moreover, it offers affordable prices and a menu that also includes light food options.
If the roof is full, which might happen, don’t worry; you can retreat to its beautiful courtyard, enveloped in greenery.
7) Bios
Why: A bit off the beaten tourist path, the rooftop of Bios offers a uniquely distant view of the Acropolis.
Just a 10-minute walk from the Kerameikos metro station, it offers a more alternative vibe compared to others on our list, while keeping its prices affordable.
On summer evenings, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, it tends to fill up.
However, compared to other rooftop bars, you’re generally more likely to find a seat here.
Just keep in mind to arrive early to secure a spot on its characteristic sunbeds.
If you’re looking for a more local experience, this is an ideal choice since you’re likely to meet more Athenians than tourists.
8) Ciel Athens
Why: At Ciel’s rooftop bar, you’ll enjoy a unique view not only of the Acropolis, but also of Lycabettus and the temple of Hephaestus.
Located on Mnisikleous Street, next to the Metropolis of Athens, its tiny entrance might be easy to miss.
Once you find it, take the elevator up to the 6th floor, above the hotel of the same name.
Ciel also serves brunch and lunch, but I suggest sticking to the drinks and cocktails, which are their strong suit.
If nearby bars are packed, Ciel is a good alternative as it typically doesn’t have a long wait.
9) Ermou 18 Beyond The Horizon
Why: Just off Athens’ most popular pedestrian area, Ermou Street, is the entrance to the rooftop bar, Ermou 18 Beyond The Horizon.
To reach its rooftop, take the elevator to the sixth floor, then ascend one more floor on foot.
The moment you pass the entrance, you’ll be met with a breathtaking view.
Do note that it’s one of the most popular bars in town, so be prepared to queue for service.
10) GB Roof Garden
Why: The best hotel in Athens center, the Grande Bretagne, naturally has the most refined rooftop bar in town.
Expect top-notch service, sophisticated decor, excellent cocktails, and, of course, an unrivaled view of the Acropolis.
As you would expect, the luxury comes with a price tag, often twice as much as other bars on this list.
But if you value luxury, don’t hesitate — you’ll find it right in the city’s heart, next to Syntagma Square.
Reservations are strongly advised.
Conclusion
I hope this article helped you discover the best rooftop bars in Athens.
You may also be interested in my guide ‘Are Athens Tours Worth the Cost? An Honest Look!‘, as well as my recommendations for the top 5 beautiful areas to stay in the Athens Riviera.
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Thank you for all your advice. Would you recommend any of these places to eat dinner? Or do you think we would be better off eating somewhere else and maybe going to a rooftop bar after?
Thanks!
Hello Jennifer,
Almost all of these bars offer light food options, such as burgers and pizza, so you can certainly dine there as well. If I were you, I would choose either Couleur Locale or Retire @ ERGON House Athens. ERGON also has a decent Greek restaurant on the ground floor, allowing you to enjoy a meal there before heading up to the rooftop for your cocktail.
If you’re seeking a more complete and luxurious dining experience, the GB Roof Garden also has an excellent restaurant. However, do expect much higher prices there.