B Y S A M A N T H A V A N D E P O L L

A guide to the best places to get some killer views and fabulous drinks in Bangkok

I N T R O

I like to think I’m a bit of an expert in this field, and no not because I’m a borderline alcoholic but because I’ve been to my fair share of boozy establishment over the years and I feel I am more than fully qualified to pass judgement on what counts for a good bar. Rooftop bars have become a bit of a thing for me in recent years, especially when travelling. Apparently over priced drinks and view to die for are my jam. Who knew? In all seriousness rooftop bars in any big beautiful glittering city are a must and Bangkok have some of the best.

The history of rooftop establishments has it's origins stemming from the 1800's when New-York based businessman Rudolph Aronson wanted to re-create the European style urban garden used to host performances and events in New York. As the City had so little space in order to do this, he looked to the roof of his casino on broadway. The roof garden quickly became popular and other soon followed in suit with many hotels adopting similar set ups. From a financial perspective rooftop experiences can be extremely lucrative with higher priced items and patrons spending more time and money than a regular restaurants/ bar just to enjoy the unique environment. Seeing a city from the highest point gives an entirely new perspective on your surroundings. Especially when you're in a large scale, high rise city - to see it from above is really a wonderful experience.

In my opinion some of the best rooftop bars are in Bangkok and over the years I’ve found myself returning to them time and time again. When most people travel to Bangkok they go as backpackers, staying in the Khao San neighbourhood as it’s well connected and cost effective for the budget traveller. If you haven't been to Bangkok before then most expectations tend to be based around assumptions like the second 'Hangover' film. However Bangkok is a City of many things and what a lot people don't expect is the cosmopolitan side to it. Even if you’re on a tight budget allow at least one visit to one of these places. Yes they’re more expensive than your average street bar or even UK bar for that matter but go for the experience. When I travel I want to try everything a city has to offer and for me that means everything! From the cheaper local haunts to the cosmopolitan skyscraper bars - you’re there to experience life so do it.

T O P 5 P I C K S

1. Moon and Vertigo at Banyan Tree

2. Octave at Marriot

3. HI-SO at So Sofitel Hotel

4. Lebua State Tower

5. Train night market

6. Indigo hotel

Moon and vertigo

Kicking off with my favourite, this was the first rooftop bar I ever visited in Bangkok and in my opinion it’s still the best I've ever been to. Situated on the 61st floor, not only is it the highest bar in Bangkok but it also boasts 360 degree panoramic views across the city. Designed to resemble a ship deck, the atmosphere at Moon and Vertigo is elegant and with a cool vibe. You'll feel fancy AF sitting up there with your vino.

Considering the incredible views, the drinks are as expected far more expensive at around £8 GPB for a local beer. However once you sit down you won’t want to leave. The amount of times I say I’m going for one (because of the high prices of course) but end up having 3-4. The setting is mesmerising and so worth it in my opinion. Be there to watch sunset and see the city come to life after dark - they have search lights they switch on after nine and it’s magical. Another tip is to arrive just before it opens as it fills quickly and you’ll struggle to find a seat otherwise.

Octave

Located on the popular Sukhumvit Road among the high rises and busy streets is Octave. This bar has a younger vibe to it with a more hip look. In the perfect location for a night out with plenty of surrounding bars and restaurants, it’s a great way to start the evening. Make sure to grab a table by one of the outer corners so you have the best viewpoint up Sukhumvit Road. They also do the most fabulous cocktails, be sure to try their mojito!

Hi So

This bar was a bit of an unexpected find for me. I booked the wrong dates for my original hotel so checked into the Sofitel only to be pleasantly surprised by HI-SO bar and restaurant on the top floor. Not as large as it’s rivals, it’s much smaller in scale but the views across Lumphini park are spectacular. HI-SO hands down has my favourite view across Bangkok. You'll take the most spectacular photos from this vantage point, I've even been lucky enough to have some of my own photographs this view featured in a magazine. It has shades of New York with its leafy outlook and city skyline - I also watched the prettiest sunset that I’ve ever seen in Bangkok at this bar a few years ago. Well worth the visit trust me.

They also serve food on the rooftop as well if you fancy a spot off dinner and have a fantastic choice of wine. I recommended the New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.

Lebua state tower

Everyone knows this bad boy. Made famous from the second Hangover film and now one of the most popular spots in Bangkok - this is actually on the list from a different perspective.

As far as the actual rooftop bar goes I’m not a huge fan but I have an alternative suggestion so hear me out. I stayed at the Lebua hotel a few years ago after travelling for a few months across Asia, the actual hotel is fantastic but I wasn’t blown away by the rooftop bar. If you’re a non guest then you have to pay 20 GPB just to access the rooftop - now I don’t think this is a bad idea in fairness to paying guests otherwise the bar would be overwhelmed with visitors due to its popularity. For a basic cocktail you’ll be paying around £25 each add that in with your cab fare there and back, you’re looking at a minimum spend of £75. If you want more than one drink then £100 plus.

So this is where my suggestion comes in.

I stayed at the hotel for one night and payed extra for the special club package. For two people this cost around £140 - with this you got a river suite on a high floor, breakfast, unlimited food and alcoholic drinks through the day at there executive club lounge and access to their OTHER rooftop for club hotel guests only. Situated on a lower deck but just as pretty with better views it’s so much quieter. It's also only really used by club guest. So you can knock back the wine, eat canapés and enjoy the views in style all for £15 more than an evening visit to Sirocco rooftop bar. For those whose blood is made up of 90% vodka like me then this is heaven.

Train night market

This next one is a little different from the previous venues, with a slightly more alternative take on the rooftop bar scene. Within the bustling night train market lies a small collection of shipping containers with no frills bars built on the open rooftops. Each overlook the colourful market stalls, you can sit and have a chilled beer watching the hustle and bustle of the market below.

If you prefer a more relaxed traveler vibe then this is your place. You can sit and enjoy a few drinks then get involved in the market. The market has a great selection of stalls from hawker style food stalls to bargain clothing and trinkets. You'll find all manner of curiosities here, it’s a fantastic evening all round!

6. Indigo Hotel

Another beautiful hotel located in the Lumphini district with panoramic views across Bangkok. I stayed here for a couple of nights back in 2017 and as well as a underrated rooftop bar it has one of the most fantastic infinity pools in all the city!

Whether you're visiting a big bustling city like Bangkok or a charming old Andalusian town like Granada, I would always recommend hitting up a rooftop bar or two to get those fantastic city views. These wonderful venues offer an incredible atmosphere as well as a an experience unique to where they are placed. Travel is about so many things but sometimes just being able to stop and look at whats around you is just as important as any wonder of the world or adventure seeking thrill. Now where's that salt and wedge of lemon..