Best Rooftop Bars in Milan (Guide By A Local)

by | Jun 14, 2023

Milano is known for its fashion, art, and design, but it’s also a city that boasts some of the most stunning rooftop bars in Europe.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset, a trendy spot to sip on cocktails with friends, or a luxurious rooftop restaurant to dine at, Milan has it all. I’ve spent a large part of my life in Milano including my university years so as you can guess, I’m intimately acquainted with the city’s amazing bar & club scene including the best rooftops around the city.

If you’re planning a visit to Milan, why not put my experience to good use? I put together the crème de la crème of the rooftop bar scene in Milan, each with its own unique atmosphere, signature cocktails, and breathtaking views. If you ask any of us Milanese, we without question have the best nightlife scene in all of Italy. Don’t wait. Let’s grab a drink and go on a tour of the best rooftop bars in Milan!

Terrazza 12

Located on the 12th floor of the Brian and Barry Building in the heart of Milan’s fashion district off Piazza San Babila, Terrazza 12 is a rooftop bar that offers a sophisticated and stylish atmosphere. As you step out of the elevator and onto the terrace, you’ll be greeted with stunning panoramic views of Milan’s skyline, including the iconic Duomo Cathedral.

The bar features a minimalist decor with sleek white furnishings, wooden floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer an abundance of natural light. The open-air terrace is dotted with potted plants, comfortable seating, and chic parasols that provide shade during the day and a cozy atmosphere at night.

The cocktail menu at Terrazza 12 is a mix of classic and contemporary drinks, featuring premium spirits and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Some of the most popular signature cocktails include the “12 Spritz” made with prosecco, Aperol, and a hint of fresh mint, and the “Barry & Brian” made with gin, elderflower liqueur, cucumber, and lime. The bar also offers an extensive wine list featuring Italian and international labels.

Terrazza 12 is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 6:30 pm to 2:00 am and has a smart casual dress code. It’s a great spot for a romantic evening or a night out with friends.

Address: Via Durini, 28, 20122 Milan, Italy

Ceresio 7

Ceresio 7 is a trendy rooftop bar located in the fashionable Brera neighborhood, overlooking the picturesque Piazza della Repubblica. Spread over two levels, this is definitely one of the best rooftop bars in Milan with an indoor restaurant and an outdoor terrace with a swimming pool. The decor is chic and contemporary, with white marble floors, sleek wooden furniture, and minimalist design elements.

The terrace at Ceresio 7 offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, including the Garibaldi towers and the new futuristic “Bosco Verticale” skyscrapers. The atmosphere is lively and upbeat, with music playing in the background and a mix of locals and tourists mingling at the bar.

The cocktail menu at Ceresio 7 is creative and innovative, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and a mix of classic and modern techniques. Some of the most popular signature cocktails include the “Ceresio Spritz” made with Aperol, passion fruit, and ginger beer, and the “Botanical Collins” made with gin, elderflower, and a mix of fresh herbs.

Ceresio 7 is open every day from 12:30 pm to 2:00 am and has a smart casual dress code. It’s a nice spot for a leisurely lunch, an afternoon drink, or a night out with friends.

Address: Via Ceresio, 7, 20154 Milan, Italy

Instagram account: @ceresio7

La Rinascente Terrace

Located on the 7th-floor rooftop of the iconic La Rinascente Department Store in the heart of Milan’s city center, La Terrazza and Maio Restaurant and Terrace are two of the city’s most popular rooftop bars. They’re both directly across from the spirals of the Duomo, providing stunning views of the cathedral.

La Terrazza at the Duomo offers breathtaking views of the city’s most famous landmark, the Duomo Cathedral. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, with comfortable seating and a mix of locals and tourists enjoying a drink or a light snack. The bar offers a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and spirits, as well as a small menu of gourmet bites.

Maio Restaurant and Terrace, on the other hand, is a more upscale and exclusive rooftop bar that also offers fine dining. The restaurant features elegant decor with plush seating, designer lighting, and stunning views of the city skyline. The menu is a mix of traditional Italian and modern international cuisine, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and a carefully curated wine list. The terrace is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, with candlelit tables and a romantic atmosphere.

Both La Terrazza and Maio Restaurant and Terrace (along with the other outlets in La Rinascente) are open every day from 10:00 am to midnight and have a smart casual dress code.

Address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Instagram: @maiorestaurant_milano

Organics SkyGarden @Cielo

Organics SkyGarden @Cielo is located on top of the stylish Hyatt Centric Milan Centrale, offering breathtaking views of the Milan skyline and the Bosco Verticale buildings. The bar is 40 meters above ground, providing guests with a unique perspective on the city over this business-friendly World of Hyatt outpost.

Currently undergoing renovations for a makeover ahead of the 2023 season, Organics SkyGarden @Cielo offers a lush rooftop garden with comfortable lounge furniture and intimate live music sessions. The bar has a dark and sophisticated ambiance, with beautiful Merano glass chandeliers adding a touch of elegance.

The cocktail menu at Organics SkyGarden @Cielo is a mix of classic and contemporary drinks, featuring handcrafted signature cocktails, fine wines, and premium spirits. The bar also offers a selection of food bites from both the land and sea, including a seafood plateau and beef tartare.

Organics SkyGarden @Cielo is open nightly during the warmer season and offers one of the trendiest aperitivos in town. The atmosphere is cosmopolitan and upscale, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one.

Address: Via Giovanni Battista Pirelli, 20, 20124 Milano MI, Italy

Instagram: @organicsskygarden_milan

Radio Rooftop Milan

No list of the best rooftop bars in Milan would be complete without mentioning Radio Rooftop Milan, one of the city’s most longstanding hotspots. Located on top of the ME Milan Il Duca hotel in the Piazza della Repubblica, Radio Rooftop Milan offers breathtaking views of the Milan skyline, and a slice of New York and London in Milan. In fact, this rooftop is the sister bar Radio Rooftop London, one of London’s best rooftops.

The bar has a luxurious and beautiful decor, with a cosmopolitan and stylish atmosphere. The cocktail menu is creative and well-crafted, featuring a mix of classic and contemporary drinks. The rooftop terrace has lots of comfy seating both inside and out on the terrace, making it perfect for both relaxing and vibrant nights out.

The menu also includes a seasonal selection of elevated bar bites, created by Chef Adriano Venturini. From finger food to small degustation dishes that span many continents, there’s something for everyone. The music at Radio Rooftop Milan is also a standout feature, with live DJs playing deep-house sounds every night.

Radio Rooftop Milan attracts a trendy and glamorous crowd, so be sure to dress neatly to feel right at home. Reservations are highly recommended if you want to have a private table.

Address: Piazza della Repubblica, 20124 Milan, Italy

Instagram: @radiorooftopomilan

Terrazza Triennale

Terrazza Triennale is one of the most venerable rooftops in Milan, offering high-quality Italian cuisine along with wine and cocktails served with some of the best views in the city. Located on the Palazzo dell’Arte in downtown Milan, the restaurant overlooks Sempione Park, the Sforza Castle, and Milan’s skyline.

While the restaurant’s specialty is the food, the drinks don’t fall far behind, thanks to the restaurant’s long list of Italian wines, signature mixology cocktails, and craft beers.

The Terrazza Triennale is currently closed for renovations but is expected to open again in time for the summer of 2023. When it reopens, you’ll be able to enjoy the luxurious and exclusive atmosphere of this rooftop restaurant, located in a greenhouse that offers perfect weather and a nature-filled ambiance.

Terrazza Triennale is perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion, with Michelin-starred chef Stefano Cerveni serving both traditional and modern takes on Italian cuisine. The terrace is also used for press events and parties for the design scene, making it a trendy spot to visit.

Address: Viale Alemagna Emilio, 6, 20121 Milan, Italy

Instagram: @gruppo_vista

The Roof Milano

Located on the 10th floor, The Roof Milano offers breathtaking panoramic views of Milan from a unique perspective. Previously known as La Terraza dei Cavalieri, this terrace is rebranded in 2020 and is now part of two different hotels. It offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere for enjoying Italian cuisine and drinks.

Savor aperitifs, classic cocktails, Italian wines, straight liquors, and strong coffee, while lounging on one of the comfortable sofas overlooking Piazza Guiseppe Missori. The prices may be high, but the experience is well worth it. The staff is professional and friendly, and reservations are encouraged, though walk-ins are welcome.

The large terrace overlooks the basilica of Sant’Alessandro and the liberty buildings in the center of Milan, up to the distant snow-capped Alps. The relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, professional staff, and outstanding Italian cuisine make The Roof Milano an experience to make time for whether you’re looking for lunch, an aperitif at sunset, or an excellent dinner.

The Roof Milano Bar & Restaurant is open for an aperitif from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Reservations are highly advisable. Easily accessible by public transportation, The Roof Milano is just a few steps from Piazza Duomo. It’s an elegant venue meaning a follow a dress code of smart casual or better.

Address: Piazza Giuseppe Missori 3 20123 Milan, Italy

Instagram: @theroofmilano

The Dome Milano

The Dome Milano is a trendy and sophisticated rooftop bar located in the heart of Milan, near the famous Piazza della Repubblica, offering panoramic views of Milan’s skyline, including the iconic Duomo Cathedral. This very elegant new addition to the rooftop bar scene in Milan offers a fantastic location with stunning views of Piazza Duomo.

The bar features a chic and modern decor with a black and white color scheme, plush seating, and sleek design elements. The outdoor terrace is dotted with greenery, comfortable lounge chairs, and a spacious bar area. Dome Milano has a lively and upbeat atmosphere with music playing in the background and a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the rooftop cocktails and the vibe.

The Dome Milano is known for its signature cocktails, with the Dome Spritz with Gold Leaf being a favorite among visitors. The cocktail menu at the Dome Milano includes a mix of classic and contemporary drinks, featuring premium spirits and fresh, seasonal ingredients. The bar also offers an extensive wine list, featuring Italian and international labels.

The Dome Milano is open every day from 5:00 pm to 2:00 am and has a smart casual dress code. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a night out with friends, with its stunning location and stylish ambiance.

Address: Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 2, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

Instagram: @thedomemilano

Bottom line

From trendy spots to romantic getaways, Milan has a rooftop bar that’s perfect for everyone. These bars bring a more cosmopolitan, modern vibe than the rooftops you’ll find in Rome. Terrazza 12 and Ceresio 7 offer sophisticated atmospheres, while Maio & The Terrace at the Duomo provides fine dining with a stunning view. Organics SkyGarden @Cielo and Radio Rooftop Milan offer stylish options, while Terrazza Triennale and The Roof Milano have breathtaking panoramic views. Dome Milano is a newer addition, with a chic and modern ambiance.

Whether you’re in the mood for an upscale night out or a casual evening with friends, you’ll find something perfect for you among Milan’s best rooftop bars. Don’t miss out on experiencing the high life in Milan at one of these incredible venues. And if you’ve found a hidden gem that’s not on the list, let me know in the comments below. If I haven’t already been there, let’s just say, it won’t take me long to check it out…

Frances Benaglia - best rooftop bars in milan
Frances Benaglia

Frances Benaglia is an Italian-American native of Milan, Italy. After earning her degree from Bocconi University during which she did an ERASMUS exchange in Stockholm, she embarked on a journey of discovery and took a gap year to travel to over 20 countries. She's now a management consultant and is known for her meticulous planning research skills, making the most of her time off by finding the perfect places to unwind and relax.

Frances Benaglia is an Italian-American native of Milan, Italy. After earning her degree from Bocconi University during which she did an ERASMUS exchange in Stockholm, she embarked on a journey of discovery and took a gap year to travel to over 20 countries. She's now a management consultant and is known for her meticulous planning research skills, making the most of her time off by finding the perfect places to unwind and relax.
All posts by Frances Benaglia

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