What makes a great bar? For some, it's the bartender's craft; for others, the atmosphere or the inventiveness of the menu. The newly released World's 500 Best Bars ranking, compiled by Top 500 Bars, attempts to settle the debate by aggregating thousands of opinions from critics, industry insiders, and social media users. The result is a list that celebrates both classics and hidden gems, and Europe features heavily.
The number one spot goes to Bar Leone in Hong Kong, a cocktail bar co-founded by Lorenzo Antinori that focuses on Italian-inspired classics. But Europe is not far behind: HIMKOK in Oslo takes second place overall and is crowned the best bar on the continent. The Norwegian distillery bar produces its own aquavit, gin, and vodka, with a menu inspired by the country's nature and traditions.
European highlights in the top 25
Athens' Line ranks fifth, having previously been named best bar in Europe by 50 Best. Its fruit wines are made and bottled on-site using local ingredients. Edinburgh's Panda & Sons, a speakeasy hidden behind a barbershop façade, comes in seventh, known for its innovative freezing techniques.
Milan's Moebius (ninth) offers over 300 spirits and unusual creations like a pesto martini, while Barcelona's Paradiso (tenth) is a speakeasy accessed through a fridge door in a pastrami bar, with a menu that changes annually. London's The Connaught Bar (11th), SIPS in Barcelona (12th), Locale Firenze in Florence (13th), Angelita in Madrid (14th), and De Vie in Paris (15th) all make the cut.
Further down, Paris's Danico (18th) and The Cambridge Public House (21st), London's Lyaness (19th), and Lady Bee in Lima, Peru (25th) round out a list that also includes entries from Asia, the Americas, and the Middle East.
The ranking reflects a broader trend of European cocktail culture thriving, with cities like Barcelona, London, and Paris emerging as global hubs. For travellers planning a bar-hopping itinerary, these spots offer a mix of tradition and innovation. As National Geographic's 2027 must-visit list also highlights European destinations, the continent's appeal for discerning drinkers is clear.
While the list is dominated by established capitals, it also shines a light on smaller scenes. Oslo's HIMKOK, for instance, demonstrates how local ingredients and a strong sense of place can elevate a bar to global recognition. Similarly, Edinburgh's speakeasy culture adds a layer of intrigue that appeals to both locals and tourists.
For those who prefer to explore beyond the top 25, the full 500-bar list offers a wealth of options, from hidden gems in Barcelona to innovative spots in emerging European destinations. The ranking is a testament to the creativity and resilience of the hospitality industry across the continent.
As the cocktail scene continues to evolve, Europe's presence in the top tier is unlikely to wane. With a mix of classic techniques and bold experimentation, these bars are setting the standard for what a world-class drinking experience can be.
