Top 10 rooftop bars in Bangkok

There's simply no better way to escape the relentless hustle and bustle of Thailand's first city, Bangkok, other than to disappear up on the roof.

The capital's rooftop bars are some of the very best in the world and if you're looking to discover the secret doors and lengthy lift time then check out our top 10 rooftop bars in Bangkok and prepare to get your head firmly in the clouds.

10. Cloud47, United Centre Tower
Where: All the way up to the 47th floor of the United Centre Building on Silom Rd.
The scene: This a huge space with some great 180 degree city views as well as a ceiling which, although rare for a rooftop bar in Bangkok, does come in handy in the rainy season. The vibe splits between live music lounge and sophisticated wine bar and if you're looking for some authentic Thai titbits to keep hunger pangs at bay then you definitely won't be disappointed.
Signature drinks: Over 500 international wines to choose from as well as plenty of classic cocktails.

9. Red Sky, Centara Grand Hotel
Where: All the way up on the 55th floor of Centara Grand Hotel inside CentralWorld Mall, Siam.
The scene: Sofas and supper make Red Sky a pretty darn busy place to hang-out although super 360 degree views of Bangkok make the masses just about bearable. Laid-back jazz lounge ambience with friendly staff and western dishes.
Top tip: Come early to catch the sun set and don't forget to book a table on arrival if you're planning to eat.
Signature drinks: Chilled imported white wine and a lengthy list of signature and classic cocktails.

8. 360, Millennium Hilton
Where: Floor 31 of the Millennium Hilton Tower on Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan.
The scene: Not as tall as several other rooftop bars in Bangkok however, don't discount this lesser-visited location as the all-round views from the spaceship-style cockpit are absolutely amazing. Comfortable sofas and an air of elegance gives visitors that all-important VIP feel without the formal attire and if you like your tunes soft and your wine list long then this could well be the one for you.
Intimacy update: Romance doesn't get any sweeter than 360's luxury alfresco hamper.
Signature drinks: Wines, cocktails and champagne for the more discerning traveller.

7. Above Eleven, Fraser Suites Sukhumvi
Where: This rooftop bar sits on the 33rd floor of the Fraser Suites Sukhumvit
The scene: For a unique bar experience be sure to wander up to Above Eleven, a wicked rooftop venue with theatrical décor. The evening starts with a maze that twists and turns to the entrance area, leading to an expansive venue flooded with deep purple lighting, modern music, and a breath-taking view of Bangkok’s skyline. Inspired by its location in one of the greatest urban parks in the world, the bar is decorated with structural trees that serve as canopies sweeping above the comfortable sofas and chairs. This is a cool place to spend the evening with friends, and the first Peruvian Japanese restaurant in South East Asia in a rooftop venue.  
Signature drinks: There are plenty of creative signature cocktails to choose from, including the Togatta Stiletto, a sweet concoction of sake, prosecco, passion fruit puree, lychee syrup, and fresh lychee.
Food: Inspired by an eclectic mixture of Peruvian fare and a Japanese cuisine in Peru called ‘Nikkei’, tuck in to fresh cebiches, anticuchos, sushi and sashimi.

6. Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar, Bangkok Marriott Hotel, Sukhumvit
Where: Right up on the 45th floor of the Marriott Hotel, Sukhumvit Road.
The scene: One of the city's finest 360 degree viewing platforms as well as three floors of space from where to kick back and relax. Choose between chic, party and conversational levels as you make your way through a great selection of snacky bites as well as some highly-creative cocktails.
Musical interlude: Indie favourites as well as contemporary chart toppers.
Signature drinks: BK 57 (saffron flavoured vodka and champers) and Bloom over the Roof (red fruit essence in mojito form).

5. The Roof @ 38, Mode Sathorn Hotel
Where: Climb to the 38th floor of Mode Sathorn Hotel on Sathorn Road.
The scene: One of BK's newest and most trendy rooftop bars is open to all including the elements and if it's raining then do yourself a favour and save your visit for another day. However, on a clear day, the 360 degree views and ambience are perfect with chilled low-fi DJs getting the mode and the volume just about spot on.
Food: Mexican, North African, French, Japanese and Thai.
Signature drinks: Bottled beer, imported wine and a few cocktails to whet your whistle.

4. The Speakeasy, Hotel Muse
Where: This suave bar is nestled on the 24th and 25th floor of Hotel Muse
The scene: This award winning rooftop restaurant brings an opulent, sophisticated ambience to the bustling city of Bangkok, offering panoramic views of the skyline and touches of beautiful Asian décor. Situating on two floors, there are six gorgeous lounges to choose from, each with their own cool ambience and decorations. Grab yourself an ice cold cocktail at the rooftop bar, watch the world go by on the lantern lit Terrace Bar, or sit back and relax in comfort garden furniture that sits on verdant grass in The Lawn. No matter which you choose, you’ll have a fantastic time chilling with your friends.
Signature drinks: Add to the sophistication with a rich selection of top shelf spirits and a large selection of fine wines.
Food: Mingling with friends is made even better with gourmet sharing platters and nibbles, created by Michelin Star Chef Jean Baptiste, including sesame chicken wings, crab and pork kebabs, and wagyu beef.

3. Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower
Where: 63 floors up within the golden dome on Lebua State Tower, Silom Rd, Bang Rak.
The scene: Things can get seriously busy here thanks, in part, to the fabulous river and city views (and a cameo in the Hangover II) although, if you can withstand the crowds, there isn't a better place when the sun goes down. It's standing room only due to the popularity of the place and you'll hardly be able to catch your breath before being whisked to a more convenient spot by a friendly and highly-efficient member of staff.
Best advice: Head to Distil Whisky and Oyster Bar before 6pm if you need more space.
Signature drinks: Grab yourself a Hangovertini for a green tea, apple, honey, rosemary and Martini Rosso taste sensation. Loads of wines, beers and less complicated cocktails available if you don't fancy the movie-indulgent offerings.

2. Park Society, Sofitel So Bangkok
Where: Floor 29 of Sofitel So Bangkok Hotel, North Sathron Rd, Bang Rak
The scene: This is a great venue to take in the shimmering towers of Siam and Silom with the greenery of Lumpini Park adding to a colourful canvas. Reasonably priced wine by the glass and a relaxed approach to the music makes this a very enjoyable place to sit back and watch the twinkling stars of BK start to appear as the lights of Park Society seamlessly soften.
Signature drinks: Enjoy a glass or two of wine to get you in a conversational mood.

1. Vertigo & Moon Bar, Banyan Tree Bangkok
Where: A whopping 61 floors up on the top of the Banyan Tree Hotel, South Sathorn Rd, Sathorn.
The scene: There is literally nothing above the Banyan Tree Hotel other than Bangkok's all-consuming sky which is why Vertigo & Moon Bar is such an apt name for this Bangkok rooftop legend. Basically, if you're after food - head to Vertigo and about face for drinks at Moon Bar. Once you've made your choice then all you have to do is negotiate the seemingly gravity-defying bridge in between the two venues and you're all set. Although prices can rise as high as the Banyan Tree itself, the views alone are totally worth it, especially if you're hoping to impress a special someone. Arrival before sun down is definitely recommended due to the limited amount of seating and if it's raining then you might as well hold fire as everything shuts down due to the open-air ambience.
Food for thought: Vertigo is fairly good for steak and seafood however, don't expect too much as it's usually the view that takes centre stage.
Signature drinks: High-end spirits, bottled beers and cocktails - just try to make them last if you're running low on funds!

Further reading:  Bangkok is a food heaven; a sensational taste experience that is unrivalled and guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Discover the top 10 restaurants in Bangkok.