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There’s something special about watching a film under the open sky, with a glittering city skyline as your backdrop. For those who appreciate the finer things, luxury hotels with rooftop cinemas are turning movie nights into elevated experiences. These aren’t your average screenings; they’re thoughtfully curated evenings with gourmet food, plush seating, and unforgettable views. You could sip Champagne in Paris or lounge poolside in Athens; each of these hotels offers a unique way to enjoy film, wrapped in world-class comfort.
1. El Palace Barcelona, Spain
Once frequented by Salvador Dalí and Sophia Loren, El Palace Barcelona blends its old-world elegance with a fresh, cinematic twist. Its rooftop garden terrace becomes a moviegoer’s haven on select evenings, with panoramic views over the Catalan capital. Guests can sink into stylish loungers with a glass of cava in hand as award-winning films flicker across the screen. Gourmet tapas from the hotel’s Michelin-starred chefs complete the experience.
2. Hôtel Paradiso, Paris
Tucked away in Paris’s 12th arrondissement, Hôtel Paradiso by mk2 brings a fresh, film-first concept to luxury stays. The rooftop hosts open-air screenings of cult classics and indie gems, surrounded by lush greenery and the Paris skyline. Inside, some suites even feature in-room projectors and big screens, so guests can enjoy a movie marathon with Champagne and room service in total privacy.
3. Anantara Plaza, Nice
Sitting above the Promenade des Anglais, Anantara Plaza offers breathtaking Mediterranean views and some serious rooftop ambience. Its Ciné Rooftop events are equal parts cinema and celebration, with DJ sets and a smartly curated film line-up. A cinema concierge makes sure everything, from seating to drinks, is just right.
4. The Emily Hotel, Chicago
In the heart of Chicago’s trendy Fulton Market, The Emily Hotel partners with Rooftop Cinema Club for an experience that’s relaxed but refined. Guests settle into plush lounge chairs with wireless headphones and city views stretching into the night. Artisan cocktails and inventive small plates replace standard movie snacks, creating a vibe that’s more boutique soirée than block party.
5. Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens
This landmark hotel in central Athens offers a summer rooftop cinema like no other. The setting is a seventh-floor pool deck with views of Lycabettus Hill and the illuminated Acropolis. Screenings are exclusive to guests, who can order fine Greek wines and tasting platters right to their loungers. It’s elegant, tranquil, and unmistakably Athenian.
These hotels aren’t just places to stay; they’re destinations where film and luxury come together in a spectacular fashion. Whether you’re watching a classic under the stars or enjoying a private screening with dinner service, these rooftop cinemas offer experiences that are as memorable as the films themselves.
