You’ve walked through Marienplatz, marveled at the Nymphenburg Palace, and maybe even tried a pretzel the size of your head. But if you’re still only seeing Munich at street level, you’re missing half the magic. The real magic? It’s up above.
Why Rooftop Bars in Munich Are a Must-Do
Most cities have rooftop bars. But Munich? It’s different. Here, you’re not just sipping a cocktail-you’re drinking in centuries of history, alpine peaks on the horizon, and the golden glow of the city’s old town lights as dusk settles. You don’t need a fancy ticket or a reservation at a Michelin-starred place. Just a good view, a cold drink, and a seat where the city unfolds beneath you.
Think about it: you can stand on a terrace in the heart of the city, glass in hand, and see the Frauenkirche’s twin domes, the Olympic Tower piercing the skyline, and the distant Alps shimmering under the last light of day. That’s not just a view. That’s a memory waiting to happen.
Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Munich with the Best Views
Not all rooftops are created equal. Some are cramped. Others charge €15 for a soda. A few are so packed you can’t even see over the crowd. Here are the five that actually deliver-real space, real views, and drinks that don’t taste like regret.
- Vertigo Rooftop Bar (at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof): Perched on the 17th floor, this is Munich’s most iconic rooftop. The glass walls let you see everything without feeling boxed in. Order the Alpine Gin Tonic-it comes with a sprig of local pine-and watch the sun set behind the Isar River.
- Skyline Bar (at the Mandarin Oriental): If you want sleek, modern, and quiet, this is it. Floor-to-ceiling windows, leather loungers, and a view that stretches from the city center to the foothills of the Alps. Their Black Forest Negroni is legendary.
- Das Dach (on the roof of the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten): Less glitzy, more authentic. This is where locals go when they want to unwind after work. The terrace wraps around the building, so you get 360-degree views of the Old Town and the Isar. Try the Wheat Beer Spritz-it’s brewed just down the street.
- Bar 23 (on the 23rd floor of the Hotel InterContinental): The tallest rooftop bar in Munich. The view is jaw-dropping, especially after dark. The city lights look like scattered stars. They serve small plates, so you can snack while you soak it in. The Alpine Mule with local honey is a game-changer.
- Roof Garden (at the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski): Hidden in plain sight, this garden-style rooftop feels like an urban oasis. Flower boxes, string lights, and a quiet hum of conversation. Perfect for sunset cocktails with someone special.
When to Go for the Best Experience
Timing matters. If you show up at 6 p.m. on a Friday, you’ll be waiting 30 minutes just to get a table. If you come at 4:30 p.m. on a Tuesday? You might have the whole terrace to yourself.
The sweet spot? Weekday afternoons between 4 and 6 p.m. You’ll catch the golden hour-the light turns the city into a watercolor painting-and beat the dinner rush. Weekends are lively, sure, but expect noise, crowds, and prices that jump 40%.
And if you’re chasing the sunset? Aim for 15 minutes before the sun dips below the horizon. The sky turns pink over the Alps, and the city lights flicker on one by one. That’s the moment you’ll remember.
What to Order (and What to Skip)
These aren’t your average cocktail spots. The drinks here are crafted with local ingredients-juniper berries from the Bavarian Forest, honey from the Chiemsee region, herbs grown on the hotel rooftops.
Go for:
- Bavarian Gin Tonic with local botanicals
- Wheat Beer Spritz with a splash of elderflower
- Black Forest Negroni (cherry liqueur + dark chocolate bitters)
- Alpine Mule with regional honey and ginger
Avoid:
- Overpriced imported cocktails (€18 for a mojito? No thanks.)
- “Signature” drinks with no real flavor-just food coloring and sugar
- Drinks served in giant plastic cups. You’re not at a festival.
What to Wear
Don’t show up in flip-flops and a t-shirt. These aren’t beach bars. Most have a smart-casual dress code. That means:
- Men: Collared shirt or nice polo, clean jeans or chinos
- Women: Dress, skirt, or tailored pants with a blouse
- Shoes: Closed-toe or stylish sandals-no muddy hiking boots
It’s not about being fancy. It’s about respecting the space. You’re not just drinking-you’re enjoying a piece of Munich’s soul.
How to Get There (And Where to Park)
Most rooftop bars are in the city center. Parking? Forget it. You’ll spend more time circling the block than enjoying your drink.
Best options:
- Take the U-Bahn: The U3 or U6 lines stop near all major hotels. Quick, cheap, and reliable.
- Walk from Marienplatz: It’s only 15-20 minutes to most spots. You’ll pass historic buildings, street musicians, and maybe a pretzel stand or two.
- Use a taxi or ride-share: Uber and Free Now work fine here. Just avoid rush hour (5-7 p.m.) if you can.
Pro tip: If you’re staying in the city, ask your hotel concierge to call a car for you. They know which drivers are reliable and won’t overcharge.
Price Range: What You’ll Actually Pay
Let’s cut through the fluff. Here’s what you’ll pay for a drink at these top spots:
| Bar | Cocktail | Beer (0.5L) | Water (still) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vertigo | €16-20 | €12 | €8 |
| Skyline Bar | €18-22 | €14 | €9 |
| Das Dach | €14-17 | €9 | €6 |
| Bar 23 | €17-21 | €11 | €7 |
| Roof Garden | €15-19 | €10 | €6 |
Yes, it’s pricey. But you’re paying for the view, the atmosphere, and the silence you can’t find on a crowded beer garden terrace. A cocktail here costs about the same as two beers at a traditional pub-but you get a whole different experience.
Best Time of Year to Visit
Spring (April-June) and early fall (September-October) are perfect. Mild temperatures, clear skies, and the Alps look sharp against the blue.
Summer? It’s warm, but crowded. And if it rains? Most rooftops have covered sections, but you’ll still feel the damp chill.
Winter? Yes, really. Some bars keep their terraces open with heaters and warm blankets. Snow dusting the rooftops? The city lights reflecting off the snow? That’s the kind of scene you’ll remember forever.
What to Do After
Once you’ve had your fill of the view, take a slow walk back down. Head to the Englischer Garten for a quiet stroll by the river. Or grab a late-night snack at Maximilianstraße-the area’s best bakeries are still open until midnight.
Or just sit on a bench near the Isar, listen to the city breathe, and think about how lucky you are to be here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rooftop bars in Munich open year-round?
Most open from April to October, but a few-like Skyline Bar and Vertigo-stay open in winter with heated terraces and blankets. Always check their website before heading out. Winter visits are quieter and just as beautiful.
Do I need a reservation?
For Vertigo, Skyline Bar, and Bar 23, yes-especially on weekends. For Das Dach and Roof Garden, you can usually walk in, but arriving before 5 p.m. gives you the best pick of seats. Book online if you can; it’s quick and saves time.
Can I go to a rooftop bar if I’m not staying at the hotel?
Absolutely. These are public venues. You don’t need a hotel key or a room reservation. Just show up, order a drink, and enjoy. Some places even have separate entrances for guests.
Are children allowed?
Most rooftop bars are adult-focused, especially in the evening. Some allow kids before 7 p.m., but it’s not common. If you’re traveling with family, try the Roof Garden at Kempinski-it’s the most family-friendly option during daylight hours.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, and it’s enforced. No flip-flops, shorts, or tank tops. Smart-casual is the rule. Think: clean jeans, a nice shirt, closed shoes. If you show up in gym clothes, you might get turned away.
What’s the best spot for photos?
Vertigo’s west-facing corner has the clearest view of the Frauenkirche at sunset. Skyline Bar’s glass railing is perfect for silhouette shots. For a wide-angle city panorama, head to Bar 23’s outdoor terrace after dark.
Final Thought: Don’t Just See Munich-Soar Above It
Munich isn’t just about beer halls and castles. It’s about quiet moments on a rooftop, wind brushing your face, the city glowing below you. It’s about realizing that the best views aren’t always the ones you have to pay a fortune to see. Sometimes, they’re just one flight of stairs-and one good drink-away.
So next time you’re in Munich, skip the crowded beer garden. Head up. Look out. Raise your glass. You’re not just visiting the city. You’re seeing it the way it was meant to be seen.
