The 13 best rooftop bars in Barcelona

As the name suggests, this spot is, well, pretty damn majestic. Here, you're on the tenth floor of the Hotel Majestic, with Barcelona at your feet and views stretching from Tibidabo to Montjuïc, passing by the Torre Glòries, Sagrada Familia, and Casa Batlló. But that's not the only thing that brings us back here again and again. Somehow, La Dolce Vitae never gets too crowded, and the food is spectacular. Think tartare, hamburgers, ceviche, poke and fabulous pasta. Our top tip? Order the blinis with smoked salmon and the octopus with saffron potatoes and Pico de Gallo vinaigrette. Pure magic. 

You might have guessed this, but this bar has 360-degree views over the city. Found on the 11th floor, this is Barca like you've never seen it, with panoramic views at 40 metres high. It's open daily from 12pm to 2am, and the cocktails are really fabulous. The best way to enjoy 360 is on the weekend, when they run a (very reasonably priced) brunch on the rooftop: Head up to the heavens, get tipsy, and perhaps take a nap after. Perfection. 

The Monument Hotel doesn't have its name just for show: it's located in Enric Batlló's house, an architectural gem from the 19th century, that's part of the Golden Square of L'Eixample. Its rooftop Verbana is an intimate and green space with a pool, sofas and a chill out area and an extensive food menu, with some of the best sandwiches you'll ever taste. Its especially famous for the bokata martintxo, a Galician beef steak sandwich with sardine cream and chips, but there's more traditional dishes on offer too, like the oxtail ravioli with foie gras sauce. For a tip, head there at lunchtime on a weekday, where you can get a Michelin-starred lunch for a really reasonable price.

If you like a roof terrace with a bit of history, this is the place. El Palace was inspired by the romantic garden of the palace built by Francesc Cambó, and the paintings of modernist artist Ramon Casas. It's basically a very beautiful rooftop garden, boasting a pool and over fifty plant species, fountains and pergolas, an oasis of peace, and the perfect antidote to that flashy neon ‘luxury’ often associated with rooftop bars. Throughout the week, they put on a fantastic lineup of activities, from outdoor movie nights (with all-you-can-eat popcorn) to yoga, pilates and brunch. Check out their schedule to book online.

Many of Barcelona's rooftops offer a restricted view of the city's major sights. The terrace at the top of the Grand Hotel Central is a sure way to avoid disappointment: with its seemingly endless pool (for guests only) and impressive views of almost the whole city, it's no surprise that this terrace doesn't stay empty for long. The limited public access adds to the popularity of the venue. They take reservations, and it's well worth booking ahead especially as prices here are relatively cheap... in rooftop terms. If you book in advance for dinner, you don't have to pay a cover charge.

This spot is great in more ways than one. From its reasonable prices (by rooftop bar standards) to its panoramic views of the city, plus live music every Wednesday. But its vibe is what sets it apart. When the place fills up in the evenings or at the weekend, there's a certain zen to the city skyline in the backdrop, an Aperol Spritz in hand, arm at a constant 45-degree angle, and the melody of the DJ's track wafting overhead. If the sun starts to get at you, you can cool off by dipping your feet in the pool. Stay a bit longer and catch an unbeatable sunset view. 

Only a stone's throw away from Barcelona's busiest square, Plaça Catalunya, this urban garden is the perfect place to kick back and relax on a temperature-friendly night. Sip a sweet cocktail while enjoying the tropical paradise around you, and as if that wasn't enough, during The Pulitzer's famous concerts and DJ sets throughout the week, dance the evening away for no extra charge. Whereas the view from this terrace may not be outstanding, the kitchen's crunchy chicken definitely is, so make sure you don't miss out on the culinary delights of Catalan and Spanish cuisine while delighting in this green oasis in the centre of Barcelona.

Much like the name implies, this is where you want to be to grab a drink and chill out with a stunning view of the city. Whether it's with a 'canya' (draught beer) next to the pool or a glass of wine at sunset, this terrace offers an escape from running around the city with its laid-back and relaxed vibes. Hungry? Ohla hotel also has several restaurants on-site, like the Michelin-starred Caelis, and La Plassohla, where traditional Catalan cooking meets luxury dining. This spot is a definite must during the warm, sunny days if you're looking for some downtime and serenity atop a luxury hotel. The prices are steep, but the experience is well worth it.

The B-Pool Bar at the top of the B-Hotel is the place to see and be seen. Not only does the spacious rooftop terrace provide a good view of Plaça Espanya, but you've got to agree that dining next to the too-blue-to-be-true pool and under the envious gazes from the tourists on the Arenas shopping centre's viewing platform just opposite B-Pool Bar has its own draw. And we don't blame you. Compared to other rooftop bars, the prices for scrummy tapas and cool drinks are relatively affordable, so you can enjoy your evening on this elegant terrace with a clear conscience... even if you can't resist ordering Ben & Jerry's for dessert.

There is something absolutely majestic about Antoni Gaudí's final masterpiece that leaves its visitors in awe, and this hidden gem has the best views of the city's most emblematic landmark. Situated directly in front of the Sagrada Família, the terrace offers visitors a spot front and centre to sit and relax while enjoying something from the food or drink menus. Their food options include bar snacks, sandwiches, tapas, and desserts. Prices are relatively reasonable, and you'll find plenty of places to take it easy, with deck chairs, loungers and sofas galore. So settle in and take in your surroundings in all their splendour.  

If what you're after is a hidden jewel, a place not yet over-explored by heaps of tourists, Villa Emilia's La Terraza could be the perfect place for you. Just a short walk from Plaça Espanya, this cosy and tastefully furnished rooftop terrace is a prime example of Barcelona's Mediterranean laid-back side. The view from La Terraza is not as magnificent as from other rooftops, but the place makes up for it with its intimate atmosphere and live music sessions. On regular days, they offer a small but fine selection of tapas and refreshing cocktails.

As a master of the balancing act between elegance and cosiness, La Terraza del Claris is a safe bet for a great time. The view from the large rooftop is good, but the true strength of this terrace is its unbeatable atmosphere of well-being and stylish design. Unlike many other rooftop bars, La Terraza del Claris also boasts a top restaurant in the space. While there are cheaper places to dine out, well-prepared Mediterranean specialities and the friendly wait staff ensure you get what you pay for.

Located right in the heart of the city, with a bird's eye view of the Barcelona Cathedral in the Gothic Quarter, this terrace has some stunning views of the city. Thanks to the amazing location, this spot has the best of both worlds, with Mountjuïc and the port in sight. Despite being in the middle of all the hustle and bustle, the vibe here is calming. This spot can transport you from the almost-too-difficult-to-walk madness of the city centre seven floors up to a quick escape from the chaotic city between the mountains and the sea. A sweet reminder of how magical Barcelona is... though you probably didn't need much reminding.