Luxury real estate is as much about views as it is about features. Second only to “location, location, location”, a property’s views can easily slap additional millions to the home’s price tag.
But not all views are made equal, and there are a few cities around the world whose skylines are simply breathtaking — and best observed from sky-high rooftops that offer unobstructed views of the vibrant cityscape.
Which cities would then command the best views?
A recent study ranked the top ten cities with the best rooftop views, considering factors like skyscraper density, Instagram hashtags, global search trends, and the abundance of rooftop bars and restaurants.
From New York City’s world-famous skyline to Hong Kong’s towering luxury rooftops and Paris’s iconic landmarks, seeing the world from above doesn’t get much better than this. Ready to take in the view? Let’s dive into the rankings (particularly since the U.S. takes the lead with the most number of cities with killer skyline views).
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#10 Bangkok, Thailand
With 142 skyscrapers (and nearly just as many rooftop bars), Bangkok offers generous views over its ornate shrines and temples, vibrant street life, tall buildings, and network of canals, which place it on the 10th spot.
#9 Las Vegas, United States
The increasingly popular Las Vegas — where A-listers and wealthy buyers have been flocking to in recent years — knows how to dazzle, and its rooftops are no exception.
While Las Vegas only has 18 skyscrapers, it makes up for the lack of height with sheer entertainment value. With 132 rooftop bars (equal to New York’s count) you’ll find everything from luxurious pool decks to open-air lounges that overlook the Strip’s glowing neon skyline.
Singapore, Singapore
Singapore known for its sleek, modern skyline with green-topped buildings and futuristic architecture.
With 134 rooftop bars — the second-highest of any city on our list — it’s one of the most curated places to catch a sunset or sip cocktails above the city. While it trails other cities in hashtags and search volume, Singapore’s skyline views are a favorite for travelers.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Home to the iconic Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur brings the drama when it comes to high-rise views. The city boasts 248 skyscrapers and 111 rooftop bars, giving visitors plenty of elevated options.
From buzzing rooftop lounges to relaxed skyline restaurants, the city’s rooftops are a vibrant part of its nightlife. With nearly 389,000 Instagram hashtags, KL is clearly capturing attention with its stunning cityscapes.
Chicago, United States
The birthplace of the skyscraper knows a thing or two about skyline views.
With 183 towering buildings and 88 rooftop bars, Chicago blends classic architecture with Lake Michigan panoramas for a rooftop experience that’s both grand and grounded. It’s a favorite backdrop for photographers and city lovers alike, as proven by its 4.7 million Instagram hashtags.
Paris, France
You don’t need skyscrapers to have an iconic skyline. Paris proves that with just four high-rises, but it tops nearly every city in Instagram hashtags (9.6 million) and global search interest.
From historic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur to sweeping views across the Seine, Paris’s rooftops offer some of the most romantic and recognizable vistas in the world.
Doha, Qatar
With 109 rooftop bars (second only to Hong Kong) Doha’s skyline scene is booming. Its sleek skyscrapers and modern towers set against the desert horizon make for striking city views.
While its Instagram presence (1.5 million hashtags) is still growing, the city’s investment in rooftop venues shows it’s aiming high — both literally and figuratively.
Dubai, UAE
In Dubai, sky-high living is practically the norm. With 421 skyscrapers — including the world’s tallest building — and 87 rooftop bars, it’s a city that feels built for breathtaking views. Whether you’re watching the sun dip behind the Burj Khalifa or soaking in the skyline from a luxury rooftop pool, Dubai’s rooftop scene is as bold as the city itself. Its 4.3 million Instagram hashtags reflect a strong global following.
Hong Kong, Hong Kong
With a whopping 661 skyscrapers, which is more than any city on the planet, Hong Kong is the definition of a vertical city.
Its rooftop bars (176 total) range from glitzy cocktail lounges to hidden gems overlooking Victoria Harbour. Backed by 95.7 composite points and a vibrant Instagram scene, it’s a paradise for urban explorers and skyline chasers.
New York City, United States
No surprise here. With 433 skyscrapers, 132 rooftop bars, and a staggering 7.8 million Instagram hashtags, New York tops the list.
From the Empire State Building to One World Trade, Manhattan’s skyline is the gold standard — and there’s no shortage of rooftop spots to take it all in. Whether it’s a rooftop garden in Brooklyn or a swanky Midtown bar, the city offers infinite ways to view the city that never sleeps.
Great city views attract good business
Million-dollar views are a great selling point
Tabi Vicuña, Founder of Heepsy, the company that commissioned the study, points out that million-dollar views are great selling points for many other businesses outside of luxury real estate:
“Great views have become a huge selling point for bars and restaurants as people constantly share their lives on social media. When someone finds a spot with an amazing cityscape or sunset view, they’re eager to post it online – and that’s exactly what businesses are counting on.“
Which city’s skyline would you like to wake up to every day?
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