Rooftop bars are found all over the world, but few cities have mastered them as perfectly as beautiful Bangkok. These oases of calm high above the bustling streets offer a chance to experience the city's magic from a completely new perspective… and to enjoy delicious, creative cocktails along the way. Travel writer and frequent traveler Chris Ashton presents his favorites.

From the dizzying heights of Sky Bar by Lebua to the glamour of a bygone era at The Speakeasy – these are the rooftop locations you should definitely add to your Bangkok bucket list.

Sky Bar of Lebua

Anyone who's scrolled through Instagram results under #bangkok in recent years has almost certainly come across this absolute highlight in Bangrak. The Sky Bar is legendary – the absolute highlight on the 63rd floor of the Lebua State Tower. Thanks to its Instagram fame, it's often quite crowded in the evenings, but the wait is worth it once the breathtaking view unfolds.

Vertigo and Moon Bar

Banyan Tree is synonymous with elegance and sophistication, and the stunning Vertigo restaurant and Moon Bar on the rooftop of Banyan Tree Bangkok are no exception. Find a candlelit table, order one of the signature cocktails like the Vertigo Sunset, savor delicious seafood and steaks, and watch the city come alive as the sun dips below the horizon.

Red Sky Bar

Located on the 56th floor above the city, in the Centara Grand at CentralWorld, the Red Sky Bar offers a feast for the eyes and the palate. Impressive during the day, it truly comes alive at sunset. A spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the skyline, a sea of ​​sparkling lights before you – the perfect place to relax and indulge yourself after an exciting day of sightseeing.

HI-SO roof terrace

Overlooking the emerald expanse of Lumphini Park, the HI-SO Rooftop Bar at the Sofitel So is currently the hottest spot. The terrace on the 29th floor is the perfect place to see and be seen, to mingle with Bangkok's high society, and then dance the night away to electrifying live DJ sets.

Over 11

Above 11, a fairytale retreat straight out of Alice in Wonderland, offers breathtaking views of the vibrant nightlife of Soi 11 and beyond from its rooftop location atop the Fraser Suites Sukhumvit. The whimsical decor, featuring giant steel trees and chairs that could easily double as wheelbarrows, is unique in the city – and the Peruvian-Japanese menu is simply divine.

The speakeasie

Last but not least, the Speakeasy Bar on the 24th and 25th floors of the Hotel Muse Bangkok, part of the M Gallery Hotel Collection, is a true hidden gem. Inspired by the Prohibition era of the 1920s, it entices guests with smooth jazz and the clinking of martini glasses. It's entertaining, unconventional, and guaranteed to become your new favorite bar. Fancy a drink or two in one of these glamorous havens? Dress stylishly and check the opening hours in advance by phone or on the website.