Bangkok has developed so rapidly in recent years that it has earned the reputation of being the "New York of Asia" or "new New York." Countless skyscrapers dominate the skyline, and many of them boast dazzling rooftop bars. Every time we arrive in the city and take a taxi from the airport, we are struck by the sheer number of skyscrapers we see from the window—rising up like giant bamboo shoots.

On every trip to Bangkok, we love visiting a new rooftop bar, as it always makes for a special evening. We've recreated scenes from "The Hangover" at Lebua, enjoyed breathtaking sunsets at Nobu, and partied until the early hours at Tichuca. Each rooftop bar is unique in its own way – some are proper bars, others simply offer a great view, and a select few boast top-notch cuisine. Below, we present our personal favorites in the city.

The 10 best rooftop bars in Bangkok

1. Nobu Bangkok

In our opinion, the best rooftop bar in Bangkok is Nobu – right at the top of the Empire Tower in Sathorn. The observation deck on the 60th floor is simply sensational: you have a breathtaking view over the entire city, including the Chao Phraya River, IconSiam, and the King Power Mahanakhon building. We were there at sunset, and it was incredible – especially the orange glow against the backdrop of the curved bronze railings. Besides the usual cocktails and drinks, the bar also offers its typical Japanese-Peruvian dishes.

Read more: Nobu Rooftop Bar (Bangkok): 10 things you should know before your visit

2. Le Du Kaan

Just a few floors below Nobu, on the 56th floor, is Le Du Kaan – not a bar in the traditional sense, but a restaurant with breathtaking views. The cuisine is Thai (not Japanese) and is considered modern, fine dining. Le Du Kaan features a terraced veranda that juts out from the Empire Tower, furnished with comfortable sofas for al fresco dining. Like Nobu, the architecture is characterized by undulating structures, providing a stunning backdrop for sunset photos.

3. Tichuca Rooftop Bar

Tichuca is the perfect introduction to Bangkok's rooftop bars – always busy (with tourists and Thais alike) and offering breathtaking views. The bar is famous for its "Avatar Tree," an LED installation that spectacularly changes color throughout the night. Since the food menu is limited, we recommend a late lunch and arriving no later than 5:00 PM to catch the first elevator up. This gives you time to enjoy the sunset, order a few cocktails, and stay until the DJs start spinning and the dance floor is packed. Friday and Saturday nights are ideal for a lively party atmosphere.

Read more: Tichuca Rooftop Bar: Bangkok's jungle bar is worth the hype

4. The Speakeasy Rooftop Bar Bangkok

The Speakeasy Rooftop Bar is located on the 24th/25th floor of the Hotel Muse, not far from Lumphini Park. While the view isn't as spectacular as at Nobu or Tichuca, the 1920s-style ambiance, reminiscent of the Prohibition era, and the cozy atmosphere make it a unique alternative. It's a great place to meet up with friends, enjoy a few gins, and relax in the cigar lounge – jazz music creates a dreamy mood. The secret garden and private glass domes are also worth a visit and give the bar a touch of "Instagram-worthy" appeal. A perfect start to the evening before heading out to the clubs.

Book your accommodation: Hotel Muse Bangkok

5. SIN Rooftop Bar Bangkok

Located on the 27th floor of the Avani+ Riverside Hotel, the SIN Rooftop Bar offers breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River, including the glittering Asiatique Ferris wheel in the background. The bar's distinctive features include the elevated red DJ booth and the geometric gold and black patterns adorning the walls. Live DJs spin a mix of relaxed lounge and feel-good house music every night, gradually building energy as midnight approaches. With only 80 seats, the bar provides an exclusive atmosphere while still offering ample space for an unforgettable night out.

Book your accommodation: Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel

Read more: SIN Rooftop Bar review: The best river view in Bangkok?

6. Akara Sky Hanuman Bangkok

Located in the futuristic OCC building, specifically on the 58th and 61st floors, is the Akara Sky Hanuman Bar: a multi-level bar that blends Thai mythology with digital art. Upon entering, the Thai murals on the ceiling and the enormous monkey god head (illuminated at night) immediately catch the eye, guiding the way to the open-air platform. Cultural performances such as Thai dance and Muay Thai add a special touch to the evening. As one of Bangkok's highest bars, it offers breathtaking views.

Image credit: © Akara Sky Hanuman Bangkok

7. Eagle Nest Rooftop Bar

Wat Arun is arguably the most famous structure on the Chao Phraya River, and seeing it illuminated at night is one of the absolute highlights of any visit to Bangkok. For this experience, we recommend the Eagle Nest Rooftop Bar: a cozy restaurant in the old city that, in addition to fine dining, offers several levels from which you can admire the temple on the other side of the river. Please note that the Eagle Nest does not accept reservations, only walk-ins. Therefore, it's best to arrive early (around 5:00 pm) to secure a table.

8. Spire Rooftop Bar Bangkok

The view from the Spire Rooftop Bar at the luxurious Dusit Thani Hotel is breathtaking. It's probably only surpassed by the Nobu. You enjoy a wonderful view of Lumphini Park and the city's skyscrapers in the background – in many ways, it's reminiscent of Central Park in New York. While the food and drinks are expensive, they're not as outrageously so as at the Lebua. Anyone staying at this beautiful hotel will find it hard not to constantly go up to the 39th floor.

Book your accommodation: Dusit Thani Bangkok

9. Sky Bar (Lebua)

The Lebua is truly a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it still exudes the cult charm of the movie "The Hangover," but on the other hand, it's incredibly expensive. We stayed at the Lebua after snagging a bargain on booking.com. The view from the room and the semicircular balconies was great, but everything was quite run-down and shabby. The Sky Bar, however, was definitely worth a visit: it remains a stylish and elegant venue with a fantastic view of the Chao Phraya River. If you can overlook the prices, you'll still have a great time there.

10. Ojo Bangkok

Ojo Bangkok is Thailand's highest restaurant and lounge. Located on the 76th floor of the iconic King Power Mahanakhon building, it offers the feeling of dining above the clouds. The restaurant serves upscale Mexican cuisine—so good, in fact, that it has been featured in the Michelin Guide. Enjoy your meal indoors and then relax on the rooftop terrace with cocktails while taking in the breathtaking views. Ojo is the perfect spot for a romantic date, with its glamorous yet retro-futuristic decor.

Frequently asked questions about rooftop bars in Bangkok

What is the dress code for rooftop bars in Bangkok?

In most rooftop bars in Bangkok, common sense prevails. For men, this means shorts and flip-flops are taboo (no matter how hot it is outside). Sportswear and beachwear are also inappropriate. If the rooftop bar is located on the roof of a luxury hotel or an office tower, a well-groomed appearance is generally expected. We learned this the hard way at Lebua when we had to buy long trousers at the last minute from a shady vendor at the foot of the State Tower. His entire business model is presumably based on turning men away.

How much does a rooftop bar cost in Bangkok?

Rooftop bars in Bangkok are significantly more expensive than regular bars. But ultimately, quality comes at a price. Minimum spends may apply, and reservations are often required; at Nobu, for example, the minimum spend is 2,000 THB per person. Some upscale restaurants are also pricey: at Ojo, bills of 2,500 to 5,000 THB per person are not uncommon. To counteract these high costs, it's recommended to choose a rooftop bar during your Bangkok trip and spend a truly special evening there.

Is there an age limit and what kind of ID do I need to bring?

In Thailand, the legal drinking age is 20 – hard to believe! This minimum age usually applies to rooftop bars as well. If you look younger, security will ask for your passport when you enter the elevators on the ground floor or at the bar's main entrance. However, some restaurant areas are accessible to those under 20 – good news for families with young children. While carrying your passport might be a hassle, it's the safest option.