The Ultimate Guide to Rooftop Bars in Shanghai: 15 Stunning Spots You Need to Visit

Introduction

Looking for the best rooftop bars in Shanghai? Youre in the right place! Shanghais skyline is world-famous. Imagine sipping a cool drink while watching thousands of lights twinkle across the city. Sounds amazing, right?

This guide covers everything you need to know about Shanghais rooftop bar scene. Well share 15 incredible spots, from fancy lounges to hidden gems. Youll also get insider tips on when to go, what to wear, and how to save money. Ready to discover the best views in the city? Lets dive in! 🌃

Quick Guide: Find Your Perfect Rooftop Bar

Before we explore each bar, heres a quick way to find what youre looking for. Shanghai rooftop bars come in all styles and price ranges.

By Vibe:

• 🥂 Romantic – Perfect for dates and special moments
• 🎉 Party – Great music and lively crowds
• 💼 Sophisticated – Ideal for business or upscale evenings
• 😎 Casual – Relaxed spots for any occasion
• 📸 Instagram-Worthy – Best photo opportunities

By Budget:

• 💰 Budget-Friendly – Drinks under ¥100
• 💰💰 Mid-Range – Drinks ¥100-200
• 💰💰💰 Luxury – Drinks ¥200 and up

By Area:

• The Bund – Classic Shanghai views
• Pudong/Lujiazui – Modern skyscraper views
• French Concession – Charming neighborhood vibes
• Jingan – Central and trendy

The 15 Best Rooftop Bars in Shanghai

1. Flair at The Ritz-Carlton 🌟

The ultimate luxury experience

Best For: Special occasions, impressive dates, stunning views

The Vibe: This is where Shanghais elite come to play. Located on the 58th floor of the Ritz-Carlton in Pudong, Flair feels like floating above the city. The design is sleek and modern. Floor-to-ceiling windows show off both the Bund and the futuristic Pudong skyline. Its fancy but not stuffy.

The View: Jaw-dropping 360-degree panoramas. You can see the historic Bund buildings on one side and the towering skyscrapers of Lujiazui on the other. On clear nights, the view seems endless.

Signature Drinks: Shanghai Sunset (¥180), Flair Martini (¥160), Champagne Selection (¥200+)

Price Range: 💰💰💰 High-end (¥150-300 per drink)

Pro Tip: Book a window seat at least two days ahead. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for the best light show as the city transforms.

Address: IFC Mall, 8 Century Avenue, Pudong | Hours: 5 PM – 1 AM daily | Dress Code: Smart casual

2. Vue Bar at Hyatt on the Bund 👀

Classic Bund views done right

Best For: Tourists, first-time visitors, photography lovers

The Vibe: Vue Bar sits on the 32nd and 33rd floors of the Hyatt on the Bund. It offers perhaps the most iconic view of Shanghais skyline. The outdoor terrace lets you feel the breeze while gazing at the Oriental Pearl Tower. Inside, the mood is warm and welcoming.

The View: This is THE postcard view of Shanghai. The entire Pudong skyline stretches before you like a wall of glowing towers. The Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Jin Mao Tower all stand right in front of you.

Signature Drinks: Bund Breeze (¥120), Shanghai Mule (¥110), Craft Beer Selection (¥80-100)

Price Range: 💰💰 Mid to high (¥100-180 per drink)

Pro Tip: The outdoor jacuzzi area is perfect for photos. Even if you dont swim, the terrace around it offers great angles. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Address: 199 Huangpu Road, Hongkou | Hours: 5 PM – 2 AM daily | Dress Code: Smart casual

3. Bar Rouge 🔴

Where the party never stops

Best For: Nightlife lovers, dancing, group outings

The Vibe: Bar Rouge is legendary in Shanghais nightlife scene. Located right on the Bund, this rooftop bar in Shanghai combines stunning views with serious party energy. World-class DJs spin here regularly. The crowd is international and ready to dance.

The View: Youre looking directly across the river at Pudong. The terrace puts you right in the action, with the glow of neon reflecting off the Huangpu River below.

Signature Drinks: Rouge Punch (¥130), Champagne Towers (varies), Classic Cocktails (¥100-150)

Price Range: 💰💰 Mid-range to high (can get expensive with bottle service)

Pro Tip: Go early (before 10 PM) for drinks with a view. Stay late for the party. Wednesday and Saturday nights have the best DJ sets.

Address: Bund 18, 7th Floor, 18 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road | Hours: 6 PM – late | Dress Code: Stylish

4. POP Bar at Three on the Bund 🍸

Sophisticated style with substance

Best For: Cocktail enthusiasts, design lovers, romantic evenings

The Vibe: POP Bar offers a more refined rooftop experience. The design is art deco meets modern Shanghai. It feels like stepping into a glamorous era while still being completely current. The crowd is stylish but not pretentious.

The View: Excellent Pudong views from a prime Bund location. The terrace wraps around the building, giving different perspectives as you walk.

Signature Drinks: Bund Classic (¥140), Seasonal Specials (¥120-160), Wine Selection (¥80-200 per glass)

Pro Tip: The happy hour (5-7 PM) offers great value. Ask for a terrace table even if the weather looks uncertain – they have heaters and blankets for cooler evenings.

Address: Three on the Bund, 7th Floor, 3 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road | Hours: 5:30 PM – 12:30 AM

5. Kartel 🍷

The hidden French Concession gem

Best For: Budget-conscious visitors, casual vibes, wine lovers

The Vibe: Want a great Shanghai rooftop bar without the Bund prices? Kartel is your answer. This French Concession favorite has a cozy terrace overlooking tree-lined streets. The vibe is relaxed and friendly. Locals and expats mix easily here. No pretension, just good times.

The View: Instead of skyscrapers, you look out over charming historic buildings and leafy streets. Its a different side of Shanghai – quieter and more intimate.

Signature Drinks: House Wine (¥50-70 per glass), Aperol Spritz (¥65), Local Craft Beer (¥45-60)

Price Range: 💰 Budget to mid-range (¥40-100)

Pro Tip: Come for sunset happy hour. The terrace fills up fast on nice evenings, so arrive by 6 PM to grab a good spot. Try their cheese boards too!

Address: 1 Xiangyang Bei Road, near Julu Road | Hours: 11 AM – 2 AM daily | Dress Code: Casual

6. Char Bar at Hotel Indigo 🥩

Steakhouse vibes in the sky

Best For: Food lovers, meat enthusiasts, stylish evenings

The Vibe: Char Bar sits atop the Hotel Indigo on the Bund. It combines a rooftop bar with a premium steakhouse. The result? You can enjoy world-class drinks alongside incredible food. The atmosphere is warm and sophisticated without being overly formal.

Signature Drinks: Smoked Old Fashioned (¥130), Char Negroni (¥110), Whiskey Selection (¥100-400)

Pro Tip: Book a terrace table for drinks, then move inside for dinner. The combination makes for a perfect evening. Their happy hour includes excellent bar snacks.

Address: Hotel Indigo, 29th Floor, 585 Zhongshan Dong Er Road | Hours: 5 PM – 12 AM daily

7. Cloud 9 at Jin Mao Tower ☁️

The original sky-high bar

Best For: Tourists, bucket list experiences, altitude seekers

The Vibe: Cloud 9 holds a special place in Shanghai history. Located on the 87th floor of the Jin Mao Tower, it was one of the citys first super-high rooftop lounges. The atrium design is breathtaking – you can look down through the center of the hotel. Its touristy but still impressive.

The View: Youre literally in the clouds (or at least it feels that way). On clear days, the view stretches for miles. The Bund looks tiny from up here. Its a totally different perspective on the city.

Signature Drinks: Cloud Nine Martini (¥150), Chinese Tea Cocktails (¥130), Champagne (¥180-400)

Pro Tip: The bar opens early, so you can catch sunset without the late-night crowds. Book a window seat and watch the city lights turn on one by one.

Address: Jin Mao Tower, 87th Floor, 88 Century Avenue, Pudong | Hours: 5 PM – 1 AM daily

8. Found 158 🌿

Underground surprise with rooftop reward

Best For: Young crowds, bar hopping, unique experiences

The Vibe: Found 158 is unlike anything else on this list. You enter through a sunken garden below street level, then discover multiple bars and restaurants. Some have rooftop spaces that pop up above the greenery. Its quirky, creative, and very Shanghai.

The View: Rather than city skylines, you look out over lush gardens and creative architecture. It feels like a secret world hidden in the French Concession.

Price Range: 💰 to 💰💰 Budget to mid-range (¥50-120)

Pro Tip: Come with friends and explore different bars within the complex. Each has its own personality. The terraces are magical on warm evenings with fairy lights everywhere.

Address: 158 Julu Road, near Ruijin Er Road | Hours: Varies by venue | Dress Code: Casual

9. TOPS at Banyan Tree Shanghai 🌳

Zen luxury above the city

Best For: Romantic escapes, spa-goers, peaceful evenings

The Vibe: The Banyan Tree is known for its spa, but TOPS bar deserves attention too. Located high above the Bund, it offers stunning views of Shanghai in a calmer setting. The design draws on Asian influences with modern touches. Think bamboo, soft lighting, and tranquil music.

Signature Drinks: Jasmine Pearl (¥140), Asian Spice Collection (¥130), Sake Selection (¥100-250)

Pro Tip: Combine with a spa visit for a full luxury experience. Book a corner seat for privacy. They also offer excellent mocktails if you prefer non-alcoholic options.

Address: Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund, 19 Haiping Road | Hours: 5 PM – 12 AM

10. Roof 325 🏠

Neighborhood charm with character

Best For: Locals, casual drinks, authentic atmosphere

The Vibe: Tucked away in the French Concession, Roof 325 offers a different take on Shanghai sky bars. Its small, cozy, and feels like drinking on a friends rooftop. The crowd is mostly locals and long-term residents. No dress codes, no attitude – just good drinks and better conversation.

The View: Charming rooftop views of old Shanghai architecture. Youll see traditional lane houses and tree canopies rather than skyscrapers.

Signature Drinks: Seasonal Cocktails (¥70-90), Local Spirits (¥60-80), Beer Selection (¥35-50)

Price Range: 💰 Budget-friendly (¥40-100)

Pro Tip: Perfect for a low-key evening before dinner. The bartenders are friendly and happy to recommend drinks based on your taste. Cash is still preferred here.

Address: 325 Jianguo Xi Road, French Concession | Hours: 6 PM – 2 AM | Dress Code: Very casual

11. The Roof at Waterhouse 🏗️

Industrial cool meets river views

Best For: Design enthusiasts, photographers, boutique hotel fans

The Vibe: The Waterhouse is an award-winning boutique hotel in a converted warehouse. Its rooftop bar keeps the industrial edge – exposed brick, metal accents, and raw concrete. But the views are pure luxury. It attracts a creative, design-conscious crowd.

The View: Positioned along the Huangpu River with views of the Bund and Pudong. The industrial setting creates a unique frame for Shanghais glittering skyline.

Signature Drinks: Waterhouse Signature (¥110), Gin & Tonic Selection (¥90-120), Natural Wines (¥80-150)

Pro Tip: Stay for sunset photos – the industrial architecture creates amazing silhouettes against the sky. The bar is small, so arriving early guarantees the best seats.

Address: 1-3 Maojiayuan Road, South Bund | Hours: 5 PM – 11 PM | Dress Code: Casual chic

12. Sir Ellys at The Peninsula 👔

Old-world elegance meets modern Shanghai

Best For: Classic luxury, sophisticated tastes, special celebrations

The Vibe: The Peninsula hotel represents timeless Shanghai elegance. Sir Ellys terrace continues this tradition. White tablecloths, attentive service, and refined cocktails define the experience. Its where Shanghais business elite entertain important guests.

The View: Premium Pudong views from the historic Bund. The terrace is beautifully landscaped with comfortable seating areas.

Signature Drinks: Ellys Fizz (¥160), Classic Martini (¥140), Rare Spirits (¥200+)

Pro Tip: Afternoon tea transitions beautifully into evening cocktails. The service is exceptional – mention any special occasion and theyll make it memorable.

Address: The Peninsula, 32 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road | Hours: 5 PM – 1 AM | Reservations: Essential

13. Revolucion Cocktail 🍹

Craft cocktails without the corporate feel

Best For: Cocktail nerds, creative drinks, intimate evenings

The Vibe: This small French Concession bar proves you dont need a tower for great drinks. Their tiny rooftop offers an escape from the polished hotel bars. The focus is entirely on craft cocktails made with precision and passion.

Signature Drinks: Daily Specials (¥80-100), Classic Cocktails (¥70-90), Mezcal Selection (¥90-150)

Pro Tip: Tell the bartender what flavors you like – theyll create something special. Their mezcal knowledge is exceptional if you want to explore.

Address: 57 Fuxing Xi Road | Hours: 7 PM – 2 AM | Dress Code: Casual

14. Shake at The Puli 🍃

Understated luxury in Jingan

Best For: Design lovers, peaceful drinks, hotel guests

The Vibe: The Puli hotel is known for minimalist Asian luxury. Shake bar carries this philosophy to its terrace. Clean lines, natural materials, and calm energy set it apart from louder venues. Its a grown-up rooftop lounge for those who prefer conversation over clubs.

The View: Jingan Temple area views with a mix of traditional and modern Shanghai. The terrace overlooks quiet gardens.

Signature Drinks: Puli Signature (¥130), Tea Cocktails (¥110), Premium Sake (¥100-200)

Pro Tip: Perfect before or after dinner at the hotels excellent restaurant. The atmosphere is best early evening when soft music plays.

Address: The Puli Hotel, 1 Changde Road, Jingan | Hours: 5 PM – 12 AM

15. M Glam at M on the Bund ✨

Historic institution with modern style

Best For: Culture seekers, foodies, celebration dinners

The Vibe: M on the Bund is a Shanghai dining institution. M Glam, its glamorous bar and terrace, continues this legacy. The space combines art deco heritage with contemporary design. It feels like a scene from old Hollywood set against Shanghais futuristic skyline.

The View: Direct Pudong views from one of the Bunds best terraces. The position is perfect for watching the evening light show on the buildings across the river.

Signature Drinks: Glamour Cocktails (¥140), French Wine Selection (¥100-300), Champagne (¥180-500)

Pro Tip: Combine drinks with dinner downstairs for a full evening. The terrace has limited seating, so arrive early or book ahead for prime spots.

Address: Five on the Bund, 7th Floor, 20 Guangdong Road | Hours: 5 PM – 12 AM | Reservations: Highly recommended

Practical Guide: Planning Your Rooftop Bar Visit

⏰ Best Times to Visit

Wondering when to go? Heres the breakdown:

• Sunset Hour (5:30-7:30 PM): Best for photos and watching the city light up. Also happy hour at many venues!
• Early Evening (7-9 PM): Comfortable crowds, good for conversations
• Late Night (10 PM+): Party atmosphere at venues like Bar Rouge
• Weekdays: Fewer crowds, easier reservations
• Weekends: More energy, but book ahead

👔 Dress Code Guide

Most rooftop bars in Shanghai expect smart casual. But what does that actually mean?

DO Wear: Clean jeans or trousers, collared shirts or nice blouses, closed-toe shoes or elegant sandals, dresses or skirts

DONT Wear: Flip-flops or beach sandals, athletic wear or gym clothes, ripped jeans (at upscale venues), very casual t-shirts

💰 Budget Planning

How much should you budget for a night out at Shanghais sky bars?

• Budget venue: ¥150-250 for an evening (2-3 drinks)
• Mid-range venue: ¥300-500 for an evening
• Luxury venue: ¥500-1000+ for an evening

Money-Saving Tips:

• Take advantage of happy hours (typically 5-7 PM)
• Visit on weekdays for better deals
• Share bottle service with groups
• Eat before you go (bar food is expensive)
• Try French Concession bars for lower prices

🚇 Getting There

By Metro:

• Bund bars: Nanjing East Road Station (Lines 2, 10)
• Pudong bars: Lujiazui Station (Line 2)
• French Concession: South Shaanxi Road (Lines 1, 10, 12)

By Taxi: Use Didi app for reliable rides. Expect ¥30-80 depending on distance. Traffic is heavy 5-8 PM.

Insider Tips From Locals

Want to experience Shanghais rooftop bars like a local? Here are secrets most tourists miss:

• The "magic hour" is real – Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for the best experience
• Reservations matter – Even casual bars fill up on nice weather days
• Happy hours are generous – Many run until 7 or 8 PM with 50% off
• Weather apps are essential – Check air quality (AQI) for clear views
• Weekday golden rule – Tuesday and Wednesday are the emptiest nights
• Bring a jacket – Even in summer, high-altitude breezes can be cool
• Cash backup – Some smaller bars still prefer cash
• Make friends with staff – Return visitors often get better tables
• Photography timing – The lights turn on around 7 PM year-round
• Rainy backup plan – Most hotels have indoor bar alternatives

Conclusion: Your Shanghai Rooftop Bar Checklist

Ready to explore the best rooftop bars in Shanghai? Here are your key takeaways:

✅ Quick Picks by Category:

• Best Overall Experience: Flair at The Ritz-Carlton
• Best Classic View: Vue Bar at Hyatt on the Bund
• Best Value: Kartel in the French Concession
• Best for Parties: Bar Rouge
• Best for Romance: TOPS at Banyan Tree
• Best for Cocktails: Revolucion Cocktail
• Best for Photos: The Waterhouse

✅ Before You Go:

• 📱 Make reservations for popular venues
• 👔 Dress smart casual or better
• ⏰ Arrive before sunset for the best views
• 💰 Budget ¥150-500 depending on venue
• 🌤️ Check weather and air quality

✅ Money-Saving Tips:

• Hit happy hours (5-7 PM)
• Visit on weekdays
• Try French Concession bars
• Share drinks with friends

Shanghais skyline is waiting for you. Whether you want luxury glamour or laid-back local vibes, theres a perfect rooftop bar for every taste. So grab your friends, check the weather, and head up to enjoy some of the best views in Asia. Cheers! 🥂