No matter where you stand, Cape Town is stunning—but seeing it from above reveals a whole new level of beauty. One of my go-to activities for a weekend night out is checking out one of the city's renowned rooftop bars.
When I head to a bar, I always gravitate toward local drinks. For South African beer enthusiasts, Castle Lager is the top pick. Wine lovers shouldn't miss pinotage, a red wine exclusive to South Africa (think of it as a cross between pinot noir and cinsaut). If cocktails are your thing, you absolutely have to try rooibos gin.
Cape Town's Finest Rooftop Bars
Need a Drink? Explore the Best Rooftop Bars in Cape Town.
In De Waterkant, Sky Bar offers spectacular vistas of Table Mountain. There's a pool on the rooftop, so pack your bikini and plan to stay until sunset.
Key Info: Head to 49 Napier Street before midnight for the Grey Hotel Sky Bar experience.
In central Cape Town, the Grand Daddy's Sky Bar features engaging themed nights that change daily. On Mondays, you can watch films on a big screen while enjoying the city lights.
Don't forget your camera to capture selfies with the vintage Airstream trailers on the roof!
Key Info: Located at 38 Long Street, the Grand Daddy's hours vary. In winter (Wednesday to Saturday), it's open from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. During summer (Monday to Saturday), hours are noon to 8:30 p.m. Year-round, it's weather-dependent, so confirm before visiting.
Perched atop the Cape Royal hotel, the trendy Zenith Sky Bar boasts a sparkling pool and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Seaboard.
Key Info: At 47 Main Road, Zenith Sky Bar stays open until midnight every night.
Head to Kloof Street for Up Yours at Yours Truly, a hipster favorite with a large deck. It's always packed, offering a lively atmosphere from morning coffee to evening cocktails.
Key Info: At 73 Kloof Street, Up Yours is open nightly until 11 p.m.
This aptly named rooftop bar provides 360-degree views of the CBD and the ocean. Come hungry because The Vue serves delicious tapas.
Key Info: At 40 Chiappini Street, The Vue is open until 10 p.m. every night of the week.
Another must-visit newcomer is the Silo Hotel. This 1920s grain elevator turned five-star hotel features a stunning rooftop bar.
Make sure to plan ahead as the venue requires a reservation.
Key Info: At Silo Square, V&A Waterfront, the Silo Hotel's rooftop welcomes guests from 11 a.m. until sunset daily.
Want to unwind after a long day? Check out The Waiting Room, a stylish spot in the CBD that's a top choice for after-work drinks.
Key Info: Located at 273 Long Street, The Waiting Room is open Monday to Saturday until 2 a.m.
Chinchilla Camps Bay is the newest addition to the Kove Collection's restaurants. It sits right above the beach on the Camps Bay strip, making it the perfect spot to sip a cocktail while watching the sunset.
Key Info: Find Chinchilla in The Promenade Building off Victoria Road. Stop by for a daytime drink or a nightcap between 12 p.m. and 10 p.m. daily.
Anyone who thinks bars lack good food hasn't been to Tjing Ting. This 200-year-old house has been transformed into a spectacular Chinese restaurant with a rooftop bar.
With stunning views, tasty food, and great vibes, this is the ideal place for a night out in South Africa.
Key Info: At 165 Longmarket Street, Tjing Ting is open Tuesday to Saturday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
