Melbourne CBD has a solid collection of rooftop bars, with standout venues including Rooftop Bar on Swanston Street, Siglo on Spring Street, Naked in the Sky in Fitzroy (just outside the CBD proper), and Eau de Vie’s rooftop on Flinders Lane. Most open from late afternoon through to late evening, with outdoor seating and city skyline views.
The Best-Known Options in the CBD
Rooftop Bar at 252 Swanston Street is one of the oldest and most visited, sitting atop the Curtin House building. It runs an open-air terrace with a casual bar menu and city views, and converts to an enclosed cinema space in winter. Siglo at 161 Spring Street occupies a terrace above the European restaurant, with a more polished feel and a wine and cocktail list suited to after-work crowds. Goldilocks on Little Collins Street is a hidden rooftop bar with a creative cocktail menu and relaxed seating. Foo Bar on Flinders Lane combines Korean-inspired bar snacks with rooftop access.
What to Expect: Prices, Hours, and Access
Most CBD rooftop bars do not charge a cover entry fee, though some operate a ticketed system on Friday and Saturday nights or during special events. Cocktails typically range from $18 to $26, with craft beers and wine available from around $12 to $16 a glass. Hours vary by venue, but most open from around 4pm on weekdays and from noon on weekends. Rooftop Bar at Curtin House is one of the few that operates year-round, closing its retractable roof in cooler months. Many venues are walk-in only for small groups, but reservations are recommended for groups of four or more, particularly on weekends.
Getting There and Practical Tips
All CBD rooftop bars are accessible via public transport, with tram stops along Swanston Street, Collins Street, and Flinders Street covering the main venues. Parking in the CBD is limited and expensive on weekend evenings. Dress codes are generally smart casual, and a few venues (including Siglo) lean toward a more formal standard on weekends. Check each venue’s website before visiting, as some close temporarily for private events or weather-related reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Melbourne CBD rooftop bars dog-friendly?
Most rooftop bars in the CBD do not permit dogs, as they are classed as licensed food premises. Some venues with dedicated outdoor terraces may accommodate this on a case-by-case basis, so it is worth calling ahead rather than assuming.
Which CBD rooftop bars are open in winter?
Rooftop Bar at Curtin House is the most well-known year-round option, converting to an enclosed space with heating in the cooler months. Siglo also operates through winter with outdoor heaters and partial coverage. Venues with fully exposed terraces may reduce hours or close temporarily during Melbourne’s colder stretches.
Do CBD rooftop bars take bookings?
Several do accept reservations, particularly for larger groups. Siglo takes bookings through its website. Rooftop Bar at Curtin House is generally walk-in, though private event bookings are available. Calling ahead on busy Friday and Saturday nights is always a practical approach regardless of the venue.
