Blu Bar on 36

Way up on the 36th floor of the Shangri-La hotel, this skyline bar offers views over Sydney Harbour, the Bridge, the Opera House and the Darling River - and all the way down below you through the glass counter tops that line the floor-to-ceiling windows.

The feel is a little corporate and carpety, and it's a shame there's no outside space, but the views can't be beat and the drinks are surprisingly good, from the spirits and craft beers right through to some home created cocktails.

Order a classic, or a Rising Sun - an Aperol Spritz charged with lemon, sugar and orange bitters - and sit back and enjoy the sunset. At busy times, it's wise to call ahead to book a space in the Harbour View Lounge, which has the best views and less of a corridor feel than the glazed area in front of the long bar.