We know it’s brown, but the Yarra River still makes a special setting for Arbory Afloat. Fresh from its winter hiatus, this outdoor floating bar and restaurant has a new look this season inspired by Spain’s Balearic Islands. Expect a bright, beachy feel, complete with orange umbrellas and olive trees. Made for groups, the drinks span from carafes of spritzes (the Watermelon Strawberry Spritz is a true refresher) and jugs of sangria to Spanish-leaning wines. Bring a bunch of friends, work through the tapas – there’s crudo, croquetas, chorizo and more – and your afternoon might just turn into evening. 2 Flinders Walk, Melbourne; arboryafloat.com.au.

There are plenty of newer destination rooftop bars that demand a visit, but Siglo, with its strong Euro vibes, has been winning people over for 15 years. At the top of town, above much-loved, but temporarily closed The Melbourne Supper Club, Siglo’s courtyard patio looks across to Parliament House, which is beautifully lit at night. You can (almost) pretend you’re in Paris. Attentive table service and an excellent drinks list might see you move from a G&T to Champagne and onto a Negroni, but beware the 3am close – it’s easy to lose track of time up here. 2/161 Spring St, Melbourne; siglobar.com.au.

Previously home to one of Melbourne’s definitive outdoor venues, Belgian Beer Garden, The Commons has taken over this sprawling site, creating some distinct spaces in the process. Much of this venue is used for events, but you can still choose between a shady spot in the Beer Garden or a table in the Rosé Garden, with its rattan chairs, large umbrellas and bright planter boxes. Pub-style favourites keep the Beer Garden happy, while more refined dishes – think grilled barramundi, poached chicken salad and vodka rigatoni – are served up in the Rosé Garden. Bottomless brunches are a hit here on weekends, too. 17 Moubray Street, Melbourne; thecommonscollective.com.au.

This striking former dairy and milk bar is one of Melbourne’s newest havens for anyone into great drinks and food who also appreciates a good rooftop (props to the website for sharing the sunset’s ETA each day). Rooftop tables are hot property, but this curved building, with its inviting interiors, courtyard and stunning spiral staircase all deserve a special mention. Plus, the wine list covers some classy ground and is bang-on for the fancy snacks. You could stop by for a quick beer and fries, but we dare you to spot the lobster and prawn roll and leave without ordering one, too. 109 Wattletree Road, Armadale; harvie.bar.

For something different – and an outlook to match – head to Williamstown’s Hobsons Bay Hotel for the sweeping panorama. This pub’s rooftop area looks across the water to the sparkling city skyline, but it’s about more than just the view here. The food is a step above, as seen with the likes of soft-shell crab sliders, raw yellowfin tuna, porchetta roll and 500g bone-in sirloin. Cocktails, craft brews and food-friendly wines add interest to the drinks list, too. Make it a big day out by catching the ferry over from town – it’s a 10-minute walk from the wharf. 28 Ferguson Street, Williamstown; hobsonsbayhotel.com.au.