One of my favorite things to do while traveling is to scope out which hotel has the best Rooftop bar. There’s just something so serene about hanging out on the 30th floor with a cold cocktail while soaking in the surrounding views.

My most memorable experience of this was when I was studying abroad in Torino, Italy. The program had just ended and we decided before flying home that it would be fun to spend a couple nights in Milan since we had yet to make it to that part of Italy.

A fortunate turn of events (and a lot of Marriott points) gave us the opportunity to stay at the Boscolo Marriott (which has since been renamed The Palazzo Matteotti.) All I can say is wow, this hotel was simply incredible. It was tucked away in a 1920’s-era building right in the heart of the fashion district.  The lobby, the guest-rooms, the spa, and of course, the rooftop, were all impeccably designed with modern elements and Italian charm.

After we checked in, it took awhile for us to get out of the cool room as we were quite tired from 6 weeks of traveling Europe with no AC. But once we mustered up enough energy to take the elevator ride up to the Rooftop Bar and Restaurant, we were blown away.

Directly out the window was the Duomo, which, if you’ve been to Milan and seen it, is one of the most unbelievable churches in the world. And we were staring right at it. While the food and drinks at the hotel were certainly more expensive than we were used to, it was well worth the spectacular views, friendly staff, and relaxing vibe. We felt like royalty.

After that experience I made it an effort to find at least one Rooftop hangout wherever I travel. While nothing to date has matched that hotel in Milan, some of my best travel memories have been at the top of a hotel.

I figured it would be a good idea to start researching some places to add to the bucket list. Let’s just say I’m going to need a lot of time (and a lot of money) to hit them all. But you have to start somewhere, and below are 3 hotels I stumbled across in my research that really stood out.

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Why you should check it out:

The Rooftop pool and restaurant offer stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Skyline - some of the best in the entire city. If you’re thinking of where to spend your next summer pool party, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a great choice.

Design Notes:

The Brooklyn Bridge Hotel was designed by local artists who used native greenery and reclaimed materials to bring nature to the heart of New York.

Architect: INC Architecture & Design

Designer: INC Architecture & Design

Nakar Hotel

Why you should check it out:

Situated off the coast of Spain on the Island of Mallorca, the area surrounding the Nakar Hotel is simply spectacular. After grabbing a drink at the Rooftop bar, you can relax in the Infinity pool that offers stunning views of the local architecture and mediterranean sea.

Design Notes:

It’s pretty incredible. Everything from the Interior designer, architect, and chef - even the materials used to build the hotel - all hail from Mallorca.  

Architect: Magic Marques

Designer: Marga Rotger

Casa De La Flora

Why you should check it out:

While you may not be able to lounge on the Rooftop and enjoy a cocktail (Which is okay as many of their suites offer private pools with a view) the lush green grass that fills each roof is mesmerizing to look at. Especially since it runs right into the Andaman sea.

Design Notes:

Casa De La Flora describes themselves as the first modernist hideaway in Khao Lak. The property was constructed to have as many as many ocean view rooms as possible and combines a bold look with a nature feel.

Architect: VaSLab Architecture

Designer: VaSLab Architecture

If you have any suggestions for places you’ve been, please email us at connect@nonstopproducts.com. We want to hear from you!