Many of the world’s most populous and international cities are home to luxurious hotels that captivate even the most seasoned of world travelers. For globetrotters looking to stay in a hotel that is a vacation unto itself, Rome, Dubai and Las Vegas are great places to begin. With magnificent hotel rooftops offering sweeping views of their city homes, these three intoxicating resorts are perfect for travelers who crave the view from the top.

Hotel St. George Roma – Rome, Italy

Hotel St. George Roma Rooftop

In the heart of Rome, not far from the fabled Piazza Navona and just a short walk to the Vatican, stands the St. George Roma Hotel. This five-star hotel occupies a towering structure built in the 15th century, though it features many luxury enhancements to blend modern, minimalist style with Old World charm and comfort. The Rooftop Bar and Restaurant has the feel of a traditional trattoria, and guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the Eternal City while sipping wine or enjoying a romantic dinner. On clear nights, there is no better way to take in Rome’s majestic skyline.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel – Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Jumeirah Beach Hotel – Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The UAE is known for its opulent excess, and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel does not disappoint. Not only does the massive complex house more than 600 guest rooms in its uniquely curved architecture, it also features twenty separate restaurants and an enclosed water park. Two rooftop terraces offer guests stunning views of the Persian Gulf, including the elegant Uptown Bar on the 24th floor rooftop. During daylight hours, guests can watch dozens of boats coming and going in the harbor. After dark, the Jumeirah is the perfect vantage point to enjoy the twinkling lights of bustling city life from the most chic and sophisticated rooftop club in town.

Palms Casino Resort – Las Vegas, Nevada

Palms Casino Resort – Las Vegas, Nevada

It’s no surprise that Sin City boasts one of the most magnificent hotel rooftops in the world. The lavish Palm’s Fantasy Tower is an architectural achievement in its own right, but it’s the rooftop Moon Nightclub that really wows guests. Color-changing glass tiles cover the dance floor, casting rainbows across the curtains of glass beads strung up in every direction. Although the effect is something akin to twinkling stars, the true show begins for stargazers when the Moon’s giant, retractable roof opens to showcase the desert night sky above. For those looking to enjoy the colorful light displays from Vegas’ many fountain shows, the Moon Nightclub offers a vantage point you won’t find anywhere else.

Peter Wendt is a freelance article writer from the great state of Texas.  He enjoys traveling the world for inspiration.  Although he has not been far, he enjoys climbing up to the rooftops for precious views of the city he is visiting.  While hotel rooftops require much more planning, Peter recommends visiting this website for spectacular home roofs.