Abstract: A device for actuating a sun-roof of motor vehicles and the like, which comprises a frame which can be fixed at an opening provided in the roof of motor vehicles and the like. The frame forms two mutually opposite guiding rails. The device comprises, for each guiding rail, a slider which can be associated with translatory motion means for its sliding in the corresponding rail and is provided with two mutually spaced lateral pins which can engage two cam-like slots provided on a bracket for supporting the sheet-like element that can be arranged so as to close the opening. There is also provided a plate which is articulated to the bracket and is actuated by the slider in order to place the plate in a position for coupling to the frame, wherein the sliding of the slider causes the rotation of the sheet-like element, and in a movement position, in which the sliding of the slider causes the translatory motion of the sheet-like element arranged at an angle.