Why Berlin's Rooftops Steal the Show

Berlin's skyline will never be mistaken for Manhattan's vertical drama or Paris's uniform elegance—and that's precisely why we love it. From up high, the city reveals its true character: a patchwork of historic church spires piercing through industrial-era courtyards, the silver ribbon of the Spree catching sunset light, and the occasional crumbling Plattenbau giving way to unexpected green oases. Rooftop drinking here isn't about seeing the Eiffel Tower; it's about catching a glimpse of the zoo's monkeys from your bar stool or watching the sun dip behind the Fernsehturm while sipping a mezcal cocktail.

Whether you're after sophisticated sundowners, alternative community vibes, or somewhere to dance until the stars appear, Berlin's elevated drinking scene delivers. Here's our definitive guide to the best rooftop bars in the city, complete with insider tips on when to visit and what to expect.

The Icons: Where Every Berliner Has a Story

Monkey Bar at 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin

If there's one rooftop that defines Berlin's high-altitude drinking culture, it's Monkey Bar. Perched on the tenth floor of the 25hours Hotel in Charlottenburg, this spot offers arguably the most unique view in the city: the Berlin Zoo's monkey enclosure directly below, with the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche and the distant Tiergarten framing the horizon.

The vibe is buzzing year-round, but the real magic happens during summer sunset when the outdoor terrace fills with a mix of hotel guests, local fashion crowds, and tourists who've done their research. The cocktail menu leans tropical (fitting, given the primate neighbors), and the service is efficient if not effusive.

Insider tip: They don't take reservations for drinks, so arrive by 6 PM if you want a coveted outdoor spot, or be prepared to hover like a hawk.
Best for: First-time visitors and that essential "Berlin moment" photograph.

Klunkerkranich

No Berlin rooftop guide is complete without this Neukölln institution. Hidden on top of a shopping center parking garage (yes, really), Klunkerkranich began as a community garden project and evolved into the city's most beloved sundowner spot. The wooden deck, complete with actual trees and vegetable patches, offers panoramic views stretching from the Tempelhof airfield to the city center.

This is Berlin at its most democratic: students sharing beers next to young professionals, families with children early in the evening, and everyone bringing their own snacks (though they serve food too). The entrance fee is usually €3-5 after 6 PM, and while they accept cards, cash is king here.

Don't miss: The Sunday afternoon live music sessions when local jazz bands play against the backdrop of a burning orange sky.
Getting there: Take the elevator to the 5th floor of the Neukölln Arcaden parking garage, then follow the wooden stairs up.

Sophisticated Sundowners: Elegance Above the Streets

Hotel de Rome

For those evenings when you want to swap sneakers for something sharper, the terrace at Hotel de Rome on Bebelplatz delivers old-world luxury with views to match. Overlooking the illuminated State Opera and the historic square below, this is where you come for perfectly executed classic cocktails and conversation that doesn't require shouting.

The space is intimate—just a handful of tables—so reservations are essential, particularly on summer weekends. The dress code isn't officially enforced, but you'll feel more comfortable in smart casual attire. Try their signature Berlin Mule as the lights come on across the square.

Amano Rooftop

In the heart of Mitte, Amano offers a different kind of vista: the urban canyon of Auguststraße, with its gallery spaces and street art visible from above. The space feels distinctly Berlin—industrial-chic with concrete and steel softened by fairy lights and olive trees. It's smaller than photos suggest, creating an intimate atmosphere that fills up quickly with a post-work crowd.

The drinks are solid if pricey, but you're paying for the location and the view of the Fernsehturm peeking between buildings.

Pro tip: Visit during the "blue hour" just after sunset when the sky turns indigo and the gallery district's lights begin to twinkle.
Note: They operate a one-in-one-out policy on busy nights, so don't leave your spot if you're not done.

Orania.Berlin

Kreuzberg's contribution to the skyline scene comes courtesy of the Orania hotel on Oranienplatz. This intimate terrace overlooks the bustling square and offers a more neighborhood-focused experience than the tourist-heavy spots downtown. The bar program here is serious—expect natural wines and craft cocktails—and the occasional live jazz performance adds to the Weimar-era ambiance.

Party in the Clouds: Dancing with the Stars

House of Weekend

By day, this Mitte rooftop offers one of the best views of Alexanderplatz and the TV tower from its 17th-floor perch. By night, it transforms into one of Berlin's most spectacular open-air clubs. The transition happens gradually—expect deep house and techno beats to start rolling in around 10 PM as the cocktail bar becomes a dance floor.

The crowd is international and ready to party, so this isn't the spot for a quiet conversation. However, if you want to experience Berlin's famous nightlife with a view, there's nowhere better.

Important: Check their event calendar in advance; some nights require tickets and the elevator stops running at specific times.

nHow Berlin

Out in Friedrichshain, Europe's first music hotel offers a riverside rooftop that captures the gritty-glamorous energy of East Berlin. Looking out over the Spree towards the Molecule Man statue and the Treptower Park Soviet memorial, this space hosts everything from after-work networking events to weekend DJ sets. The boat traffic on the river below adds a kinetic energy that static city views can't match.

Your Rooftop Strategy: Essential Tips

Navigating Berlin's elevated drinking culture requires a bit of local knowledge. Here's what you need to know before you ascend:

Timing is everything: Berlin's rooftop season is painfully short. While many spots now offer heated winter terraces (complete with blankets and mulled wine), the prime months are May through September. For the best experience, arrive 90 minutes before sunset to secure a spot and watch the light change.
Reservation reality: Unlike restaurants, most Berlin rooftop bars operate on a first-come, first-served basis for drinks. If a place does take reservations (like Hotel de Rome), book at least a week ahead for weekend slots.
Dress codes: Generally, Berlin keeps it casual. Sneakers are fine almost everywhere, though beachwear and sports jerseys might raise eyebrows at the hotel bars. Bring a light jacket even in summer—those evening breezes at 10 stories up can be brisk.
Payment methods: While card acceptance is improving, many rooftop spots (especially the alternative ones like Klunkerkranich) still prefer or require cash. Come prepared to avoid awkward moments when the bill arrives.
The weather wildcard: Always check the weather before heading up. Most terraces close during rain, and Berlin's summer storms can appear suddenly. Many bars update their Instagram stories in real-time regarding openings.
Toilet logistics: It sounds trivial, but know the bathroom situation before you go. Some parking garage rooftops require descending several floors to find facilities.

The View from Above

Berlin's rooftop bars offer more than just elevated drinking—they provide perspective. From these heights, you can trace the city's fractured history, watch the present tense unfold in the streets below, and raise a glass to the ever-evolving future. Whether you're perched on a parking garage in Neukölln or sipping champagne overlooking Bebelplatz, you're participating in one of Berlin's great rituals: looking at this complicated, beautiful city from a little bit closer to the clouds.

Just remember to look down occasionally—you might spot the monkeys.