Top 3 Rooftop Bars in Madrid

One of the best things about Europe is its café culture; the warm weather often leads to a wave of chairs and tables spreading out onto the pavements and plazas. In Madrid, to maximise the space, things have also spread upwards to the rooftops and it's here that you can find the best views, music and atmosphere on a summer night. After managing to visit a few during my time in this lovely city I thought I would list my top 3 rooftop bars to give you an idea of where to head when in need of a drink.

1. El Círculo de Bellas Artes - La Azotea

Without doubt the most famous rooftop bar in Madrid is on top of the Círculo de Bellas Artes. If you visit one of the bars on this list make it this one! Although the fame comes with a hefty price tag (it costs 4 euros for a ticket to just get up to the terrace let alone buy a drink...) on a hot summer night it's definitely worth it. With panoramic views of the city, comfy lounge areas to lie down and enjoy a mojito or two, a chilled soundtrack and an atmosphere that leaves you ready to start the night this is the place to be! Try to arrive a little before sunset to watch the sky burn fiery orange and the city become a sea of lights.

 

 

 

 

 

2. El Palacio de Cibeles/Comunicaciones

 

If, as is often the case, you can't get a space at the Círculo then this is your next best option - literally within sight while standing on the terrace (see the picture above) is the Palacio de Cibeles or Palacio de Comunicaciones. Though it doesn't quite reach the lofty height of the Círculo's 7th floor you still get a great view of the Plaza de Cibeles all lit up at night and, as you're a little lower, the chance to people watch! There's a wide range of cocktails on offer to sip as you enjoy the view and plates of nibbles to munch on. The only less than good thing about this bar is the music - techno beats turned up high. Try and get a table round to the side overlooking the plaza; better views and not so loud!

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. El Viajero

 

Last, but by no means least, on the list is El Viajero. This is a somewhat different affair to the swanky Círculo or Palacio. Small and cosy with lovely views of the San Francisco and San Andreas churches, El Viajero is the place to come and enjoy a relaxing drink with friends. Draped in hanging baskets full of plants of every kind and equipped with gentle mist fans this is a lovely spot to watch the sun go down. Their food isn't up to much but their mojitos are famous.

 

 

 



 

So here ends the roundup of my top 3 rooftop bars in Madrid. I hope you've found some inspiration for your next night out in the city and enjoy sipping your drink while taking in those gorgeous views!