With Stockholm's skies lit up in beautiful twilight shades late into the evening, it would be silly to be anywhere else but up high this summer. Here are the rooftop bars to have on your must-visit list
As our favourite season is finally here and we relish the endless summer days, what could be a better way to celebrate the warm weather and clear skies than at scenic rooftop bars? Given the few precious days we get to enjoy the sun, Scandinavians never miss a chance to work on their summer tan; thus, enjoying delicious foods, refreshing drinks, and remarkable views while still being outside is what we want for this season.
Thankfully, Stockholm has some of the best rooftop bars for that and we have gathered some gems in the city where you can experience everything from intimate and luxurious terraces to airy and trendy roofs with both drinks and food to keep you satisfied all summer.
Photo: Blique by Nobis
Arc at Hotel Blique by Nobis
Whether you’re looking for delicious foods, outstanding drinks, impeccable service, or a jaw-dropping view, Arc at Vasastan’s best hotel, Blique by Nobis, has it all. And even though you might initially come for the spectacular view (since it’s rumoured to be the best in Stockholm), we want to say that it is a requirement to order a Bansho, their passionfruit cocktail with pomegranate foam on top, (or one of their own kombuchas) as well as the Korean steam buns. Arc's Asian-fusion menu is out of this world, and we strongly recommend coming on an empty stomach. A tip is to try their sharing set menu, boasting mouth-watering dishes perfect for group dining. Lastly, don’t miss the lounge area with sofas outside in the corner to the left, or the stairs that lead you even one floor higher up – the view from there can't get any better.
Gävlegatan 18, 113 30 Stockholm
Photo: TAK Stockholm
Tak
So popular that it is almost considered a Stockholm landmark and must-see for both visitors and locals, Tak has been a favourite since its opening about seven years ago. Make sure to get here early, even on cloudy days, unless you want to join the queue snaking down the whole neighbourhood. However, the wait would still be worth it once you hit the 13th floor and get to experience the result of Swedish top chef Frida Ronge’s masterpiece where Japanese cooking techniques marries Swedish ingredients. The restaurant offers a sharing menu and the must-trys are the nigiris and their signature sushi bowl accompanied with a taste of Japanese Sake. The same floor also offers a private and more intimate dining space, Unn, where eight people can enjoy delectable dishes cooked in front of the table by an own chef. One level up is also Ima that doubles as an event space and occasional pop-up bar, as well as the outdoor bar and its smaller and more relaxed restaurant, Izakaya.
Brunkebergstorg 4, 111 51 Stockholm
Photo: @sthlmunderstjarnorna
Stockholm Under Stjärnorna, SUS
The more Södermalm-and-hipster-looking space across the roof from Tak, Stockholm Under Stjärnorna (SUS), has a younger crowd and more casual drinks and food, perfect for warm summer evenings. Don’t miss their movie nights during the summer as well as the screenings during sports events – there is no better place in Stockholm to watch football games.
Brunkebergstorg 2-4, 111 51 Stockholm
Photo: @bankhotelstockholm
Le Hibou
For an intimate rooftop experience where luxury meets an at-home-vibe, the gorgeous Bank Hotel’s elegant cocktail and terrace bar, Le Hibou, is where to go. The indoor area and its interior are inspired by an exclusive Parisian suite with details that make you feel like you’re in a fancy living room, and the outdoor terrace offers a stunning view of the area around Kungsträdgården and Berzelii Park. In addition to some lighter snacks, the bar also serves a selection of specially composed cocktails with a wide selection of non-alcoholic drinks, our favorite being Enzo Spritz.
Arsenalsgatan 6, 111 47 Stockholm
Photo: @tetto.se
Spesso & Tetto
The best place for after-work and people spotting in the city centre are the relatively newly opened venues Spesso and Tetto – Spesso being the stunning restaurant with both an indoor and outdoor area, with its sister-bar Tetto. Start the evening with a refreshing Spesso Martini on the terrace and then segue to Tetto’s lounge sofas where you can order pizza slices fresh from the oven next to the backend bar. As it’s one of the city’s hottest places since its opening, we definitely suggest coming early in order to get your spot.
Malmskillnadsgatan 38B, 111 57 Stockholm
Photo: @urbandelistockholm
Takpark & Höjden at Urban Deli
Another tip is Urban Deli’s airy and lush roof at Sveavägen where you can enjoy both thirst-quenching drinks and lighter dishes such as oysters, charcuteries, and fresh salads. DJs, live concerts and day parties are on the schedule for this season. Additionally, a kitchen has been added in the cocktail bar Höjden, located in a glass pavilion on the roof, where seasonal dishes grace the menu. Enjoy the breathtaking backdrop from the roof and explore their different bars as you stroll through their “labyrinth”.
Sveavägen 44, 111 34 Stockholm
Photo: @3sixtyskybar
3Sixty Skybar
Fresh in Stockholm’s rooftop bar scene, 3Sixty Skybar opened its doors in Liljeholmen in January and has quickly become a favourite among city dwellers looking to enjoy a delicious drink or meal surrounded by moody interior and spectacular scenery. Nestled on the 25th floor with walls almost entirely made of windows, it offers some of the best views of the city.
In addition to a comprehensive cocktail and wine list – try the ‘Grapefruit Fizz,’ a perfect summer drink with Martini Vibrante, passionfruit syrup, lemon, and pink grapefruit soda – the bar serves mouthwatering bites inspired by flavours from around the world, ideal for sharing while taking in the dazzling city lights of Stockholm.
Sjövikskajen 48, 117 57 Stockholm
Photo: @freyjasoder
Freyja + Söder
Located in the hip area of Södermalm, Freyja + Söder offers a buzzy atmosphere where contemporary art meets music, delectable drinks (the ‘Långholmen Ice Tea’ is a must-try), and a seasonal menu that harnesses local ingredients. With a panoramic view overlooking the Baltic Sea and Gamla Stan, it’s one of the city’s most breathtaking spots to while away a warm evening, watching as the sun sets behind the skyline. As the rooftop fits 400 people, lively and great vibes are guaranteed any given summer day.
Hornsgatan 18, 118 20 Stockholm
Photo: @gondolenstockholm
Gondolen
Love Swedish gastronomy and divine views? Then Gondolen, right around the corner from Slussen, is your spot. At the restaurant, you can enjoy stunning vistas from either the stylish indoor area or the outdoor terrace, which is open until late at night. Our top picks from the menu include the grilled lobster with turnip, chives, and Sandefjord sauce, as well as the Calix roe, served with potato cream, bread croutons, and onion – a very Swedish bite. To wash it down, opt for one of Gondolen’s signature cocktails or a selection from their broad wine and non-alcoholic beverage list.
Stadsgården 6, 116 45 Stockholm
Photo: Himlen
Himlen
Himlen, literally meaning ‘the sky’ in Swedish, is a fitting name for this rooftop bar situated on the 26th floor of Skrapan in Södermalm. In addition to refreshing drinks – our favourites include the ‘Yuzu Spicy’ with Olmeca Blanco, yuzu sake, lime, and red chilli syrup, and the ‘Peruvian in France’ with Pisco, Lillet, lime, and lemongrass syrup – the bar offers a saliva-inducing menu filled with grilled treats like buffalo cauliflower, char fillet, and fried calamari. For a more intimate setting, check out the restaurant’s other dining room, ‘The Kitchen,’ on the 25th floor, which serves a slightly different but equally tasty menu.
Götgatan 78, 118 30 Stockholm
Photo: @italienskan_restaurang
Italienskan
Didn’t book that trip to Italy this summer? Fret not. Nestled right in Stockholm’s city centre, this hidden gem promises to transport you to the Mediterranean. On their ‘La Terrazza,’ you can soak in the sun while sipping on an Aperol Spritz or a Negroni. Feeling famished? Dive into Italienskan’s flavour-bursting menu, featuring everything from hearty pastas and fresh salads to classic Italian desserts like tiramisu and gelato.
Hötorget 4, 111 57 Stockholm
Photo: @sodra_teatern
Mosebacketerrassen
Wondering where all of Stockholm’s cool kids and fun-loving crowd flock to? Consider popping by Mosebackterassen, a rooftop terrace housed in one of the city’s most popular nightclubs and venues, Södra Teatern. This Södermalm hotspot guarantees good times with live gigs and events, all topped off with scenic views of the charming area. While you’re there, be sure to explore the rest of the expansive venue, set in a beautiful 19th-century theatre, as its name suggests.
Mosebacke Torg 1, 3, 116 46 Stockholm
Photo: @naboterassen
Naboterassen
Next time you’re on a retail therapy excursion and in need of a cooling drink, we recommend stopping by Naboterassen, located right next to NK, one of the city’s best shopping destinations. At this intimate rooftop terrace, guests can enjoy a diverse array of cocktails and wines, as well as a selection of non-alcoholic options. Light, summery dishes like the Swedish classic Skagenröra, Greek salad, and charcuterie board are also available, making Naboterassen the ultimate pit-stop while strolling in town.
Regeringsgatan 47, 111 56 Stockholm
Photo: @sjostadenskybar
Sjöstaden Skybar
A must-visit rooftop bar outside the bustle of central Stockholm, Sjöstaden Skybar in Hammarby offers a cosy spot for drinks and nibbles, complete with picturesque views and 1970s-inspired interiors. The bar has both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to savour the views regardless of the weather. On sweltering summer days, we recommend relaxing on the terrace with a Hugo Spritz or a mocktail, while enjoying snacks like French fries, olives, and salads with your beverages. If you’re hungry for something more substantial, head inside to one of the spot’s 'rooms,' each boasting a unique vibe.
Hammarby Allé 12B, 120 30 Stockholm
What are the best rooftop bars with a view in Stockholm?
Rooftop bars are synonymous with breathtaking views, and the spots highlighted in this article are no exception. Spread across various parts of Stockholm, each of these rooftop bars offers a unique perspective, from serene seaside vistas to dynamic urban landscapes. For coastal views, we recommend Mosebacketerrassen, Freyja + Söder, or Gondolen. For stunning cityscapes, Himlen, 3Sixty Skybar, Tak, and Le Hibou provide some of the most captivating sights. Whichever bar you choose from this list, we guarantee the views will leave you spellbound.
What are the best rooftop bars for winter in Stockholm?
Given our familiarity with subzero temperatures and blizzards in the Nordics, several of Stockholm's rooftop bars also accommodate guests during the winter months. Many of the bars listed in this article have both indoor and outdoor areas, while some, like Himlen and 3Sixty Skybar, solely offer indoor spaces. Other great destinations for snow-blanketed city views mentioned in this article are Sjöstaden Skybar, Gondolen, Le Hibou, Tak, and Arc.