Sunsets have the power to calm the mind and make us stop and think about our beautiful surroundings (especially when there’s cocktails involved). Make the most of golden hour at one of these incredible European bars:

1. La Terrazza at Hotel Continentale, Florence

The Lowdown: Located in the historical centre, a few steps from the Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria, the Cathedral and Palazzo Pitti, Hotel Continentale is a glamorous boutique design hotel, which revisits the vibrant style and spirit of the 50s. The rooftop bar, La Terrazza, is stylish and modern with beautiful soft colours and wood flooring, heated benches and a stunning open fire, allowing the terrace to stay open all year, with breath-taking views overlooking the River Arno and Ponte Vecchio. The cocktail menu features signature Italian cocktails such as the Negroni, which was born in Florence – perfect for enjoying whilst watching the sunset over the river.

Where: Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, 2r, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

2. Terrazza Vittoria at Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, Sorrento

The Lowdown: Just an hour’s drive from Naples, the 187-year-old Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria sits on the clifftops of the Amalfi coastline. Built on the ancient foundations of a villa designed for Emperor Augustus and popular amongst the stars, the hotel features a romantic Champagne Pergola and Terrazza Vittoria, a superb bar and restaurant set on Sorrento’s most iconic terrace with mesmerising views over the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius. It is the ideal place to watch the sun go down in Sorrento whilst enjoying a selection of the Chef’s exquisite Neapolitan specialities.

Where: Piazza Torquato Tasso, 34, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy

3. Cala Masciola at Borgo Egnazia, Puglia

The Lowdown: Guests and locals can take advantage of Borgo Egnazia’s beach club, the stylish Cala Masciola, located on the rocky Apulian coast. Admire the changing colours of the sea at sunset while sipping a cocktail and listening to the DJ. The beach club has a delicious restaurant where guests can order a variety of tasty local dishes or fish right from the fishmonger’s counter. Masciola is also the perfect place to try ‘crudo’; an Apulian tradition of eating freshly caught, raw shellfish or a plate of fresh fish served as carpaccio or tartare. Non-hotel guests need a reservation.

Where: Strada Comunale Egnazia 72010, Savelletri BR, Italy

4. Mahjong Roof Garden at Mandarin Oriental, Munich

The Lowdown: Open during the summer months, the new Mahjong Roof Garden is one of Munich’s best-kept secrets for al fresco dining.  This newly redesigned terrace features a champagne bar and lounge area curated by renowned design house, Roche Bobois, blending chic Asian touches with a Mediterranean vibe. Guests can take in the stunning views, showcasing everything from the twin domes of Munich Cathedral to the undulating alpine horizon alongside the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool. The menu features a summer-inspired mix of Asian and Latin American dishes alongside a myriad of wines and cocktails.

Where: Neuturmstraße 1, 80331 München, Germany

5. Eden Bar at Hotel Eden Roc, Ascona, Switzerland

The Lowdown: Hotel Eden Roc, Ascona is located on the water’s edge with its own beach and swimming pools fringed by palms. Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore with lakeside fire pits offering a wide selection of Italo-Swiss cuisine – the perfect way to end an action-packed day on the water. Ascona maintains the balmy climes and buzzing piazzas of the Mediterranean whilst being surrounded by alluring Swiss features.

Where: Via Albarelle 16, 6612 Ascona, Switzerland

6. 7th Floor Bar at Hotel Hassler, Rome  

The Lowdown: With over 125 years of history, Hotel Hassler Roma is the only hotel located at the top of the Spanish Steps, boasting unparalleled views of Piazza di Spagna and many of the domes and churches of the Eternal City. The 7th Floor bar has spectacular views over Rome to take in whilst enjoying an aperitivo. The hotel’s grand location allows guests to have instant access to some of Rome’s most popular sites, including the Pantheon, the Colosseum, Villa Borghese and Piazza del Popolo. Renowned for the best service in Rome, the hotel’s iconic guest book includes Audrey Hepburn, who visited just after winning her Oscar for ‘Roman Holiday’, Princess Diana, the Kennedy Family and many Hollywood stars.

Where: Piazza della Trinità dei Monti, 6, 00187 Roma RM, Italy