Sky-High Sips & Bites: Rooftop Restaurants and Bars on the French Riviera and Monaco

 

From glittering sea views to golden sunsets over hilltop villages, the French Riviera offers a dreamscape that's best admired from above. Rooftop restaurants and bars across the Côte d’Azur combine jaw-dropping views with top-tier cuisine and cocktails, making them must-visit spots for travelers and locals alike. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, a sunset aperitif, or a chic night out, here are some of the best rooftop venues from Monaco to Saint-Tropez.

1. Eden-Roc Lounge – Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes

Perched above the Mediterranean on the tip of Cap d’Antibes, the Eden-Roc Lounge is an icon of Riviera luxury. This exclusive rooftop terrace pairs panoramic sea views with expertly crafted cocktails, Champagne, and a menu that highlights local flavors. While reservations are essential, the experience is unforgettable—especially at sunset.

2. Horizon Rooftop – Fairmont Monte Carlo, Monaco

Right in the heart of the principality, Horizon Rooftop offers 360-degree views of the sea, the Rock of Monaco, and the glamorous Grand Prix hairpin turn below. Known for its upscale Mediterranean cuisine, seafood specialties, and exceptional wine list, it's a top pick for both lunch with a view and sophisticated evening dinners.

3. La Terrasse du Plaza – Nice

One of Nice’s best-kept secrets, this stylish rooftop atop the Hotel Plaza boasts sweeping views over the Promenade des Anglais and the Baie des Anges. The vibe is chic but relaxed, with a menu of contemporary French cuisine, rosé by the bottle, and live DJ sets during summer evenings that turn the rooftop into a lively lounge.

4. Les Toits – Hôtel de Paris, Saint-Tropez

In the heart of the legendary village, Les Toits at Hôtel de Paris is a rooftop oasis above the hustle and bustle. A stylish pool, plush loungers, and an elegant restaurant make it perfect for a luxurious lunch or dinner under the stars. The menu features fresh Provençal ingredients and inventive cocktails to match the setting.

5. SEEN Rooftop – Anantara Plaza, Nice

One of the Riviera’s newest additions, SEEN Rooftop combines vibrant design with a panoramic backdrop of the Bay of Angels. Run by celebrity chef Olivier da Costa, the menu offers a modern fusion of Mediterranean, Japanese, and South American flavors, along with a lively ambiance and creative mixology.

6. The Roof – Five Seas Hotel, Cannes

Just a few steps from the Palais des Festivals, The Roof is a favorite among the film festival crowd. This intimate rooftop combines a cozy ambiance with elegant bites and cocktails, centered around a pool deck and lush greenery. Expect a relaxed yet fashionable crowd and an unbeatable view over Cannes’ rooftops.

7. Blue Gin – Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, Monaco

Though technically not on a rooftop, Blue Gin’s elevated terrace feels sky-high above the sea. Known as the “waterfront lounge,” it offers a chic, club-like setting with DJ sets, signature cocktails, and a view that melts into the Mediterranean horizon. It’s a hotspot during summer nights in Monaco.

8. The Lounge Bar - Hotel Radisson Blu 1835, Cannes

In Cannes, on the 7th floor of the Radisson Blu 1835 opposite the Old Port, steps away from the center of the city, cocktails are served with a twist of magic. On the intimate panoramic terrace with designer furniture, get lost in contemplation of one of the most beautiful shorelines on the Côte d'Azur.

Tips for Rooftop Revelry

• Dress the part: Most rooftop venues enforce smart-casual or upscale attire, especially after sunset.

• Make reservations: Tables with the best views go quickly—book ahead whenever possible.

• Time your visit: Sunset is prime time, but a late lunch or starlit dinner can be just as magical.

These are just a suggestion of the many rooftop restaurants and bars to experience. Whether you're sipping Champagne in Monaco or enjoying Provençal tapas in Nice, the French Riviera’s rooftop scene is where culinary elegance meets coastal beauty—elevated, literally.