You take a sip of sangria and a nibble of tapas while lazing on a plush poolside lounger and think, yes, this is the life. Ibiza? Mallorca? Nope. You’re in the heart of one of Spain’s most beautiful cities: Barcelona. More specifically you’re lounging on one of the best rooftops in Barcelona, hovering in a serene oasis above all the action below. And then of course there are the vistas – whether you’re after a privileged view of the Sagrada Familia, a chance to overlook life on the swanky Passeig de Gràcia or simply want to drink in every inch of the city, a visit to some of Barcelona’s sky-high rooftops is well worth weaving into your itinerary.
For Architecture… Casa Batlló and Casa Milа
It’s hard to beat Antoni Gaudí’s curious, captivating and at times down-right confusing Casa Batlló when it comes to architecture. The entire rooftop is designed to depict a dragon with a sword in its back. It’s not too clear what inspired Gaudís visionary design, but most believe he was entranced by a local legend of the patron saint of Catalonia. We can arrange for you to step aboard the dragon with a private architect guide to see the masterpiece through a different lens – learn about Gaudí’s raw talent, admire the colourful curved tiled walls and soak in the city skyline that lies beyond. Casa Mila – another of Gaudi’s signature pieces –also offers panoramic views across the city, as well as light shows and jazz concerts in the summertime.
For That Sagrada Familia View… Terraza Ayre
With an enviable location directly opposite the Sagrada Familia Basilica, the Ayre Rosellón Hotel’s enchanting rooftop terrace is the perfect place to contemplate Barcelona’s most impressionable piece of architecture away from the crowds. You can easily while away a sunny afternoon lounging on the plush sofas, tucking into tapas and cocktails and admiring every nook and cranny of the masterfully detailed wonder that stands before you.
For a View of the Gothic Quarter… Terraza Colon
After a busy day of sightseeing in Barcelona’s culture-packed Gothic Quarter, there’s nothing quite like taking some height to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the iconic Old Town. This is where the panoramic rooftop terrace at Hotel Colón steps in. Spread across two levels, the elegant outdoor seating area offers enviably unobstructed views of the mythical Barcelona Cathedral, as well as the ancient streets that wiggle around it. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, with great food and drink options, as well as live music in the evenings.
For 360° Views… Mirador de Arenas
A sweeping circular viewing platform perched atop a bull-fighting ring turned shopping centre, the Mirador de Arenas is a charming spot, where people from all walks of life come to soak in expansive views of the Barcelona skyline. You can take your time walking around and pointing out different sites you see – look out for the Plaça de Espanya, Palau Nacional and the Magic Fountain of Montjuic. For something a little more exclusive, head to the popular 360° Terrace at Barceló Raval, to marvel at, you guessed, 360° views across the entirety of Barcelona.
For Food… Terrat and Serras
For a dining experience unlike any other, spend an evening on the rooftop restaurant of the legendary Mandarin Oriental: Terrat. Everything from the contemporary alfresco seating to the considerate service oozes with luxury, while the views across Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona’s most exclusive shopping boulevard, remind you of your lavish surroundings. And then there’s the food. Oh the food. Revered Peruvian head chef Gastón Acurio has blessed Barcelona with his specialist menu, which puts his native cuisine on centre stage. For something a little closer to home, head to the Rooftop at Serras, a beautifully designed restaurant where you can enjoy Michelin-starred Catalan cuisine while drinking in the views of Marina Port Vell and Barceloneta Beach.
For Late Night Sessions… The Pulitzer Terrace
Also in the running for one of the best rooftops in Barcelona is the timelessly trendy Pulitzer Terrace. By day the rooftop terrace of Hotel Pulitzer is a laid-back, jungly oasis in the heart of one of Barcelona’s busiest areas, Catalunya Square; by night, the bar transforms into the place to be to catch some unmissable concerts and DJ sets. As the sun dips behind the cluttered horizon, the glittering lights of the city make for a beautiful backdrop to enjoy an evening of music and cocktail-fuelled fun.
For a Bit of Everything… La Dolce Vitae
We thought we’d go out with a bang with one of the absolute best rooftops in Barcelona: La Dolce Vitae. Sleek, sophisticated and oozing with charm, the rooftop of the Majestic Hotel really is about enjoying the sweet life. Want a great view? Grab a table at the edge of the terrace to soak in views of every inch of the city, including the Sagrada Familia and Montjuic. Feeling peckish? Tuck into some Mediterranean culinary delights whipped up by the in-house Michelin-starred chef. Fancy a late night session? Hang around on a warm summer’s evening to enjoy Ibiza-inspired DJ sets.