We’ve had the chance to travel to some amazing places. But more than the landmarks or fancy hotels, what sticks with us the most are the bars. There’s just something about sitting down in a new place with a cold drink, meeting locals, hearing live music, or watching the sun go down. These bars aren’t just places to drink, as they’re where memories were made.

This list is personal. We’re not ranking the fanciest or most famous bars. These are the spots that made us stop and say, “Wow, this place is special.” Sometimes it was the view. Sometimes it was the people. Sometimes it was a cat named French Fries. But all of them gave us a feeling we’ll never forget.

If you’re looking for bars that go beyond the usual tourist stops, bars that feel real, warm, and one of a kind, we hope this list helps. And if you ever find yourself near one of these places, do yourself a favor: stop in, order a drink, and enjoy the moment.

Nestled in the heart of Venice, the Venice Jazz Club offers an intimate setting where live jazz performances resonate through the historic canals. The ambiance is both cozy and electric, making it a perfect evening retreat after exploring the city’s labyrinthine streets.

📍 Venice Jazz Club Location
🌐 Venice Jazz Club Website

You may also want to check our blog here, on where to get drunk and have fun around Venice!

Imagine sipping a cold drink in a rustic bar perched on a sandbar, miles from the shore. Floyd’s Pelican Bar offers this surreal experience. Accessible only by boat, it’s a haven for those seeking tranquility, fresh seafood, and panoramic ocean views. (Pelican Bar | Coolest Bar in Jamaica – Jakes Hotel, Floyd’s Pelican Bar (2025) – All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go …)

📍 Floyd’s Pelican Bar Location
📸 Floyd’s Pelican Bar Instagram

A staple in Dallas since 1971, Milo Butterfingers is the quintessential American sports bar. With its laid-back atmosphere, pool tables, and hearty fare, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The recent renovations have only enhanced its charm. (Discover Milo Butterfingers: Fresh Renovations, Huge Patio, best …, A Review of the Newly Renovated Milo Butterfingers – D Magazine)

📍 Milo Butterfingers Location
🌐 Milo Butterfingers Website

Bob Dobbs exudes the warmth of a neighborhood pub. Known for its friendly staff and inviting patio, it’s a perfect spot to unwind with a cold beer and enjoy Tucson’s vibrant community spirit.

📍 Bob Dobbs Location
🌐 Bob Dobbs Website

Overlooking the majestic Seville Cathedral, the rooftop bar at EME Catedral Hotel offers breathtaking views paired with exquisite cocktails. It’s an ideal setting to soak in the city’s historic charm while enjoying modern luxuries.

📍 EME Catedral Hotel Location
🌐 EME Catedral Hotel Website

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Perched atop the Schilthorn at 2,970 meters, Piz Gloria is famed for its role in the James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” The revolving restaurant offers 360-degree views of the Swiss Alps, making it a must-visit for both movie buffs and nature lovers. (Schilthorn Piz Gloria)

📍 Piz Gloria Location
🌐 Piz Gloria Website

Located along the scenic Malecon, Tekila Bar is a vibrant spot known for its lively atmosphere, delicious margaritas, and stunning sea views. It’s a favorite among both locals and tourists seeking a fun-filled evening.

📍 Tekila Bar Location
📸 Tekila Bar Facebook

A quintessential Irish pub in the heart of Edinburgh, Finnegan’s Wake is celebrated for its live music, friendly patrons, and authentic ambiance. It’s a place where stories are shared over pints, and the music keeps spirits high. (Finnegans Wake Edinburgh: Irish Pub in Edinburgh)

📍 Finnegan’s Wake Location
🌐 Finnegan’s Wake Website

Situated atop the Guinness Storehouse, the Gravity Bar offers panoramic views of Dublin alongside the freshest pint of Guinness you’ll ever taste. It’s a fitting finale to the brewery tour and a haven for beer enthusiasts. (Visit the Guinness Store in Dublin | Guinness Storehouse)

📍 Guinness Gravity Bar Location
🌐 Guinness Storehouse Website

Set within a 2,000-year-old Nabatean tomb, The Cave Bar offers a surreal experience. After exploring the ancient city of Petra, it’s the perfect spot to relax with a drink, surrounded by history and mystique.

📍 The Cave Bar Location
🌐 Petra Guest House Hotel Website

A hidden gem in Old San Juan, The Cannon Club combines fine dining with live piano performances in a historic setting. The ambiance is both elegant and inviting, making it a memorable stop in the city. (The Cannon Club – Restaurant & Steinway Piano Bar – Tripadvisor)

📍 The Cannon Club Location
🌐 The Cannon Club Website

Spanning five floors, CasaCasco offers a blend of gourmet restaurants, a rooftop bar, and a nightclub, all set within a beautifully restored colonial building. It’s a hub of culinary and cultural experiences in Panama City. (Lider en gastronomía y buen ambiente – Casa Casco Panamá)

📍 CasaCasco Location
🌐 CasaCasco Website

Each of these bars has something unique.
Some have world-class music.
Some are in unforgettable locations.
Some just have a magical vibe that pulls you in.

We’ve traveled a lot, but these places stayed with us. If you’re looking for the best bars around the world, this list is a great place to start.

Each of these bars offers more than just drinks; they provide a window into the soul of their respective locales. Whether it's the music, the history, the views, or the people, these establishments have enriched our travels in unforgettable ways. We hope this guide inspires your own adventures and leads you to create memories as cherished as ours.

Note: Always check the official websites or contact the venues directly for the most current information on opening hours and services.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo