Melbourne is famous for its hidden rooftop bars that offer stunning views, creative cocktails, and vibrant atmospheres tucked away above the city streets. While many locals and visitors frequent well-known spots like Rooftop Bar and Naked in the Sky, the city is full of lesser-known rooftop gems perfect for those seeking a more intimate or off-the-beaten-path experience. Here are some hidden rooftop bars in Melbourne's CBD to check out in 2024.

1. Goldilocks Bar

Located on Swanston Street, Goldilocks Bar is a hidden gem that many overlook. Situated on the rooftop above the Denim Co. building, it’s a quirky and cozy bar where you can escape the bustling streets below. Despite its central location, Goldilocks retains a laid-back vibe and offers a creative cocktail menu with a focus on local ingredients. The bar is divided into two sections, with an indoor area and a rooftop terrace.

• Vibe: Intimate and quirky with fairy tale-inspired décor
• Drinks: Seasonal cocktails, craft beers, and wines
• Address: 264 Swanston Street, Melbourne

2. Bomba Rooftop

Bomba Rooftop is a stylish, Spanish-inspired bar located atop the Bomba Tapas Bar & Rooftop. While it has gained popularity in recent years, it remains a hidden gem due to its slightly tucked-away entrance. Once you make your way upstairs, you’re greeted by a modern, minimalist rooftop with a great view of the city skyline. It’s the perfect spot for after-work drinks or a weekend cocktail, and the rooftop menu offers a selection of delicious Spanish tapas to pair with your drink.

• Vibe: Relaxed yet trendy, with a warm and inviting atmosphere
• Drinks: Spanish wines, craft cocktails, and sangria
• Address: 103 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

3. Siglo Bar

Siglo Bar is a chic and sophisticated rooftop located above the European on Spring Street, offering a rare, classic cocktail experience. Although it has long been a favorite of locals in the know, it remains a bit of a secret due to its unassuming entrance. The rooftop features views of Parliament House and the iconic Princess Theatre, making it a perfect spot to relax with a cocktail while enjoying the sights of historic Melbourne.

• Vibe: Sophisticated, elegant, and perfect for late-night drinks
• Drinks: Classic cocktails, fine wines, and cigars
• Address: 2/161 Spring Street, Melbourne

4. Imperial Hotel Rooftop Bar

While the Imperial Hotel is well-known for its pub scene, its rooftop bar is a more hidden escape in the heart of the CBD. Located right next to the Parliament House, it offers stunning views of the city’s skyline, including Parliament and St Patrick's Cathedral. The spacious rooftop is a great spot to catch up with friends, and during spring and summer, it becomes a hotspot for watching live sports or simply soaking up the sun with a cold drink in hand.

• Vibe: Laid-back, with a lively atmosphere during big sporting events
• Drinks: Classic pub beers, cocktails, and craft brews
• Address: 2-8 Bourke Street, Melbourne

5. Madame Brussels

Madame Brussels is a whimsical rooftop bar that feels like a charming garden party in the sky. Its quirky design, complete with pink accents, garden furniture, and astroturf, transports guests into a playful and relaxed world. Despite its unique décor, Madame Brussels remains relatively hidden from tourists due to its understated entrance off Bourke Street. It’s a delightful spot for spring afternoons, with jugs of cocktails, wines, and delicious snacks to share.

• Vibe: Playful, garden party theme with a fun atmosphere
• Drinks: Jugs of cocktails, spritzers, and light wines
• Address: Level 3, 59-63 Bourke Street, Melbourne

6. The Rooftop at QT

For those looking for a more modern and glamorous rooftop experience, The Rooftop at QT is one of Melbourne's best-kept secrets. Located on top of the QT Melbourne hotel, the rooftop bar is sleek, stylish, and offers stunning views of Melbourne’s skyline. Despite its trendy design, the entrance is tucked away on Russell Street, making it a bit of a hidden gem. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a sophisticated cocktail, and with comfy lounges and chic décor, it’s perfect for an evening out with friends or a romantic date.

• Vibe: Stylish, modern, and luxurious
• Drinks: Signature cocktails, premium spirits, and champagne
• Address: 133 Russell Street, Melbourne

7. Johnny’s Green Room

Located atop King & Godfree on Lygon Street, Johnny’s Green Room is a nod to Carlton’s Italian heritage with its casual yet trendy rooftop setup. Offering panoramic views of the city skyline and beyond, this rooftop bar is still relatively under the radar compared to some of its more famous counterparts. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with Italian-inspired cocktails and aperitivo snacks, makes it a perfect springtime spot for enjoying the afternoon sun or watching the sunset.

• Vibe: Casual, with a lively yet laid-back Italian-inspired atmosphere
• Drinks: Italian cocktails, aperitivos, and spritzes
• Address: Level 2, 293-297 Lygon Street, Carlton

8. Union Electric Rooftop Gin Garden

Union Electric Bar is already a hidden laneway treasure, but not everyone knows about its cozy Rooftop Gin Garden. Tucked away on Heffernan Lane, this rooftop space is all about gin and tonic creations, featuring a wide range of gins from around the world. The green, leafy setting makes it feel like a secret garden in the middle of the city. If you’re a gin lover, this is the perfect hidden gem for you.

• Vibe: Intimate, green oasis with a focus on gin
• Drinks: Specialty gin and tonics, cocktails, and craft spirits
• Address: 13 Heffernan Lane, Melbourne

Final Thoughts

Melbourne’s hidden rooftop bars offer unique atmospheres and stunning city views, perfect for enjoying the spring weather. Whether you're looking for an intimate cocktail experience, a quirky garden party, or a stylish night out, there’s a rooftop in the CBD to suit every mood. Be sure to explore these hidden gems and enjoy the beauty of Melbourne from above in 2024.