Not-to-Miss Rooftop Hotel Pools

Image source: Wikimedia Commons By Polytropos-Commons

When staying in a larger city, your hotel swimming pool can be a mini-oasis set in the middle of the bustling metropolis. Some hotel pools are nothing more than bathtub size afterthoughts, but many others are rooftop gardens offering unobstructed access to the sun and sweeping views of the city surroundings. Here are eight rooftop pools not to miss on your travels.

Athens Ledra Hotel, Greece

It's hard not to start the list of amazing rooftop pools with one that features 360-degree panoramic views of the ancient city of Athens, including a front-on view of the Acropolis. There are views of the Parthenon and down to the streets and cafes of the Plaka.

Hotel Fasano, Rio De Janeiro

Rio De Janeiro is famous for its beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema, but if you want the best views of the popular coastline, book a couple nights at Hotel Fasano. The rooftop infinity pool showcases stunning views of both Ipanema Beach and the city's skyline. The rooftop deck also includes a fitness center, sauna and massage center, along with a coffee shop. Designed by Philippe Starck after the success of the Hotel Fasano in So Paulo, this iconic hotel has already attracted a number of A-list celebrities.

Intercontinental Hotel, Hong Kong

The Intercontinental Hotel in Hong Kong doesn't have just one rooftop pool, it's actually a collection of three spa pools featuring varying temperatures hot, warm, and cold. The views from these pools don't come cheap, but it's worth it for the front row view to Victoria Harbour and the Avenue of the Stars. The roof top terrace also features a teak deck dining area surrounded by lily ponds. Be sure to take a dip in the pool at night to catch one of the best views of the Symphony of Lights show.

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Without a doubt, one of the best rooftop pools in the world is the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. This gigantic pool is on the 55th floor, 650 feet in the air, and is the size of three football fields. Marina Bay Sands claims it to be the largest rooftop pool in the world, requiring all three skyscrapers of the hotel to hold it up. It offers the best views in Singapore, but sorry, you aren't allowed to enjoy it unless you are a guest of the hotel.

Molino Stucky Hilton, Venice

One of the most beautiful rooftop pools in Europe is the Molino Stucky Hilton in Venice, Italy. Save your money on the gondola ride and pop for a night or two at the Molino Stucky Hilton to enjoy incredible views of the canals and Venice. The pool sits at 115 feet above sea level, but note, check the seasonal schedule, or you will find yourself like me nose pressed against the glass trying to get a good look at it.

Shangri-Las Far Eastern Plaza Hotel, Taipei

Perched atop 43 stories, the Shangri-Las Far Eastern Plaza Hotel rooftop swimming pool offers some of the best views of Taipei, including the skyscraper Taipei 101. The Shangri-La is Taipei's tallest hotel and one of the most luxurious. The rooftop pool is heated, has a Jacuzzi and a nearby elegant bar where you can enjoy cocktails later in the evening.

The Joule, Dallas

The Joule Hotel in Dallas, Texas, features a rather unique rooftop pool that gives swimmers the sensation of swimming off the buildings edge. The glass-fronted pool cantilevers eight feet beyond the hotel building. Note the Joules rooftop pool is seasonal and is only open to hotel guests from mid-March through the end of October.

Vine Hotel Funchal, Madeira

The rooftop pool at the Vine Hotel in Funchal, Portugal, is a heated infinity edge pool, featuring 360 degree views of Madeira Island. There is a 20-meter long Jacuzzi, which also shows off views of Fort So Joo and the mountains.

Where is your favorite rooftop hotel pool?

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.