Batman’s dramatic lookout over Gotham wouldn’t be half as cool if he was just standing on a random street corner, would it?
There’s no getting around it. Rooftops make things better.
Bars are great. Rooftop bars are better. Pools are awesome. Rooftop pools are the pinnacle of awesomeness.
Hotels with rooftop pools command an air of extravagance. It takes a significant chunk of change to build up top, so you can expect amazing service and a world-class hotel to back up the shining crown of the place.
If a dip amongst the skyscrapers is up your alley, read on, as we’re showing you some of the coolest hotels with rooftop pools.
Marina Bay Sands Hotel
Location: Singapore
Price: $556+
Vibe: Iconic Southeast Asian Luxury
The rundown: We couldn’t write an article about rooftop pools and not include the Godfather of sky-high-swimming–the Marina Bay Sand Hotel. Instantly iconic from the moment it opened, the staggering hotel is a marvel of architecture and engineering. Holding dominion over the Singapore skyline, it’s a bucket list hotel for many travelers.
Of course, its expansive infinity pool is the jewel in an already glittering crown. Staring out over the city, a dip here is an unforgettable experience. It’s guests-only, so you won’t be able to swing a swim if you’re just passing by.
Mandarin Oriental
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Price: $755+
Vibe: Catalonian elegance
The rundown: Mandarin Oriental is synonymous with luxury and high-end service, and its Barcelona location is no different. Located on the atmospheric Passeig de Gràcia, guests find themselves in a prime spot for city exploration with an elegant base to return to.
Its stunning rooftop pool will make an argument for never leaving the property, however. Despite rising above the city, guests still feel very much a part of the Catalan capital, merging with the skyline. The guest rooms might be even cooler if that’s possible.
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Location: New York, USA
Price: $419+
Vibe: Big city sanctuary
The rundown: It’s not the first time this hotel has popped up on our lists, and it certainly won’t be the last. Its unmatched location overlooking Manhattan sets the tone for an incredible stay, building a serene experience in the big city. 1 Hotel does what so many New York hotels fail; it’s created a genuinely peaceful retreat without losing the personality of NYC.
And that pool. Smaller than others on the list, but boasting that view of the city’s financial district makes it more than worthy of a place. Somehow the rest of the hotel is just as spectacular, especially those oversized tubs with Brooklyn Bridge views.
The Silo Hotel
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Price: $950+
Vibe: Design-forward getaway
The rundown: Another regular, The Silo Hotel in Cape Town, is a staggeringly impressive property. Designed to impress from the ground up, it’s a masterclass in creativity. Guestrooms are adorned with modern artwork celebrating the region, while the architecture puts the city and its surroundings in full view for everyone.
Those views are never better than from the rooftop pool. Its industrial design would be striking even at ground level, but the looming presence of Table Mountain elevates it to something truly spectacular.
Caruso, A Belmond Hotel
Location: Amalfi Coast, Italy
Price: $2.7k +
Vibe: Unparalleled Italian luxury
The rundown: There’s no getting around the eye-watering price tag on the Caruso. But this breathtaking hotel is special. World-class service, impeccable design, and what has to be one of the greatest hotel views in Italy (if not the world) all combine to create an unforgettable experience.
Its rooftop pool is remarkable. Offering panoramic views of the entire coast, the hardest part of your day will be prying yourself away from it. Whether enjoying an early morning dip or a sunset splash, the Caruso will live long in the memory.
137 Pillars Suites
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Price: $399+
Vibe: Sky-high in the big city
The rundown: Bangkok is a wonderful city. But it’s a chaotic one you’ll need to retreat from after a long day of exploring. 137 Pillars offers that retreat in spectacular form. Wonderfully modern but still tied into the traditional culture, it’s the perfect blend for a stay in today’s eclectic Bangkok.
Its rooftop pool is the highlight of an already astounding hotel. Its infinity edges seem to drop off into the city’s skyline, almost like floating above the city. You could do far worse.
by travelers, for travelers.
