World's 10 best rooftop bars

For optimum ogling of iconic city skylines, there's a special place where city meets sky: the venerated rooftop bar. Skip out on the tourist hullabaloo at designated observatories— and the frenetic hubbub of the streets below—and head instead for lofty heights and bird's-eye views at high-profile, high-rise watering holes. These 10 rooftop bars are truly "tops," offering atmosphere that's even more intoxicating than your drink, and million-dollar views for the mere price of a cocktail.


Moon Bar (Photo: Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts)1. Bangkok, Thailand

Moon Bar at Banyan Tree Bangkok

From its 61st floor perch, this stunning helipad-cum-rooftop oasis ranks supreme for sultry sunset cocktails. A series of elevated platforms and low glass walls ensure prime 360-degree panoramas of the bustling Thai capital below. Book ahead for a table at the adjoining Vertigo restaurant, where an open-air grill turns out barbecued seafood and steaks. www.banyantree.com

The View: Landmarks like the Grand Palace, Royal Chapel, Wat Pho Temple, and winding Chao Phraya River litter the lengthy landscape.

Signature Drink: The Vertigo Sunset (Malibu with pineapple, cranberry, and lime juice)

Insider Tip: A dress code is in effect, so forgo those flip-flops and shorts.