The Lakes in Copenhagen (Søerne)
Copenhagen’s inner lakes form a graceful blue arc of paths, birds and cafés, blending history and everyday hygge in the city’s most beloved waterside stroll.
Skirting the western edge of central Copenhagen, The Lakes (Søerne) are a graceful chain of three inner-city lakes – Sankt Jørgens Sø, Peblinge Sø and Sortedams Sø – encircled by broad paths, trees and café-lined boulevards. Once part of the city’s defensive system and later a water reservoir, they are now one of Copenhagen’s favourite urban escapes, perfect for jogs, leisurely strolls, birdwatching, people‑watching and lingering on benches as the skyline reflects in the water.
A brief summary to The Lakes in Copenhagen
- Copenhagen, København N, 2200, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Walk the full loop of all three lakes, roughly 6–6.5 km, to experience how the scenery and surrounding neighbourhoods subtly change along the way.
- Aim for early morning or golden hour on clear days for calmer paths, softer light and some of the best reflections for photography.
- Pick up coffee, pastries or picnic supplies from nearby bakeries or supermarkets and make use of the many benches and grassy spots by the water.
- In winter, only step onto the ice if local authorities have officially declared it safe; conditions can look solid while remaining dangerous.
- Keep an eye out for the bird islands in Sortedams Sø and bring binoculars if you enjoy casual urban birdwatching.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro and walk from Nørreport
From central Copenhagen, take the M1, M2, M3 or M4 metro to Nørreport Station, one of the main hubs near The Lakes. The ride from many central stops takes about 3–8 minutes, with frequent trains running every few minutes during the day. A single zone ticket within the central area typically costs around 20–30 DKK. From Nørreport it is an easy 5–10 minute walk along broad pavements to reach the lakeside paths, generally suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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S-train to Vesterport or Østerport
Use the S-train network and get off at Vesterport or Østerport stations, both lying close to different stretches of The Lakes. Travel from Copenhagen Central Station takes roughly 2–5 minutes, and a standard city ticket costs in the range of 20–30 DKK. Trains run frequently throughout the day, though late-evening services may be less frequent. From either station, expect a 5–12 minute walk on generally flat urban streets to the water.
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City bus to lakeside boulevards
Several city bus lines run along the boulevards bordering The Lakes, including routes that pass through Nørrebro and Østerbro toward the centre. Typical journey times from inner districts range from 10–20 minutes depending on traffic, with single tickets usually costing around 20–30 DKK. Buses tend to be frequent during daytime but can thin out late at night and on Sundays. Most stops have level boarding and electronic displays, making this a convenient option in cooler or wet weather.
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Cycling from inner Copenhagen
Using a regular or rental bike, you can reach The Lakes from many central neighbourhoods in about 5–15 minutes, following Copenhagen’s extensive network of segregated cycle lanes. There is no direct cost beyond any bike rental, which typically ranges from about 100–200 DKK per day depending on the provider and type of bike. Expect some sections to be busy during rush hours, with fast local cyclists, so basic confidence in city cycling is helpful. Bike racks are placed at many points along the lakefront.
The Lakes in Copenhagen location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
- Snow
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Hot Weather
Discover more about The Lakes in Copenhagen
From Defensive Moat to Urban Oasis
The three linked basins known as The Lakes – Sankt Jørgens Sø, Peblinge Sø and Sortedams Sø – arc gently along the western side of central Copenhagen, forming a watery border between the old core and neighbourhoods like Nørrebro, Vesterbro and Østerbro. Originally dammed as part of the city’s fortifications, they could be flooded to slow advancing armies and later served as a vital water reservoir. Today the ramparts are gone, but the water remains at the heart of daily life, framing views of church spires, copper roofs and tidy apartment facades. Each lake has its own character. Sankt Jørgens Sø is the deepest, with sloping banks that feel more like a natural pond. Peblinge Sø and Sortedams Sø are edged by granite walls and regular rows of trees, giving them a more formal, urban look. Together they create a distinctive skyline: low, open water in the foreground, with Copenhagen rising modestly behind.Life Along the Pathways
Encircling the water is a network of broad gravel and paved paths, forming a loop of just over six kilometres if you walk around all three lakes. It is one of the city’s most beloved circuits for runners, dog‑walkers and commuters on bicycles, who share the space with parents pushing prams and friends chatting over takeaway coffee. Benches line much of the route, inviting you to stop, sit and simply watch the flow of city life. On sunny days the grassy patches and low embankments become informal lounges. People stretch out with books, picnic blankets and portable speakers, turning the lakeside into a linear park. When the wind ripples the surface, reflections of clouds and facades shimmer with every passing gust, adding a constantly changing backdrop to the relaxed scene.Bird Islands and Seasonal Changes
Sortedams Sø shelters two small artificial islands, Fiskeøen and Fugleøen, created as protected breeding grounds for birds. Here you can spot ducks, swans, gulls and occasional migratory visitors, particularly in spring and autumn. Their calls mix with the hum of traffic from the surrounding boulevards, a reminder that this is both habitat and cityscape. The Lakes change character with the seasons. In spring, fresh leaves and early blossoms soften the water’s edge and longer days bring runners out in force. Summer draws cyclists, picnickers and café‑goers to shaded terraces with views across the water. Autumn paints the tree line in ochre and rust, turning the reflections into a muted watercolour. In cold winters, when the ice becomes thick enough and authorities declare it safe, the lakes can transform into enormous outdoor playgrounds.Cafés, Pavilions and Everyday Hygge
Around the perimeter you will find a string of cafés, casual restaurants and bars, many with outdoor seating facing the water. Grabbing a coffee to go and circling one lake has become a small Copenhagen ritual, as has pausing on a bench for a pastry or an ice cream. Historic pavilions and modern glass-fronted venues add architectural variety, some occupying old leisure buildings like former skating clubs. This mix of modest architecture, open water and human activity encapsulates everyday hygge: nothing grand, just an easy, cosy way to enjoy the outdoors. For visitors, The Lakes offer a quick, intuitive way to understand how Copenhagen balances dense urban living with accessible green and blue spaces.Exploring Neighbourhoods from the Water’s Edge
Because The Lakes sit at a junction of several districts, they are also an excellent orientation point. From different stretches you can slip into lively Nørrebro, elegant Østerbro or the compact historic centre, each only a few streets away. Yet the moment you return to the water’s edge, the atmosphere relaxes again. Whether you walk the full loop or linger on a short section near your accommodation, The Lakes provide both a scenic backdrop and a calming reference line for exploring Copenhagen on foot or by bike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Folkets Park
0.6 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
Amitylux Tours | Exceptional Guided City Tours
0.8 km
Experience the timeless grandeur of Lund Cathedral, an iconic Romanesque landmark in southern Sweden, renowned for its history, art, and enduring spiritual presence.
Fiolstræde 42
0.8 km
Historic observatory blending astronomy, science education, and star-gazing experiences in a tranquil woodland setting just outside Aarhus' vibrant city center.
The King's Garden
1.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of The King's Garden, a historical park in Copenhagen surrounding the majestic Rosenborg Castle, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
The Tower Playground
1.1 km
Award-winning Copenhagen playground where kids explore & climb miniature city towers; centrally located in Fælledparken with family-friendly facilities.
Nørrebrogade
1.1 km
Copenhagen's creative heartbeat: independent design, multicultural energy, and authentic Nordic cool.
Church of Our Lady
1.1 km
Denmark's neoclassical cathedral, crowned with Thorvaldsen's masterpiece sculptures and centuries of royal ceremony.
Nørrebro
1.2 km
Copenhagen's most vibrant multicultural neighbourhood where creative energy, street culture, and authentic local life converge.
Varehuset Messen
1.2 km
A historic 1895 department store turned business college, crowned by Hermes and layered with centuries of mercantile and intellectual history on Købmagergade.
Gammeltorv
1.2 km
Discover Copenhagen's only Russian Orthodox Church, renowned for its gilded domes, lavish icons, and evocative ties to Denmark's royal and multicultural heritage.
Gråbrødretorv
1.2 km
Medieval square in Copenhagen's Latin Quarter where historic architecture, local cafés, and bohemian charm converge.
Jorcks Passage
1.2 km
Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Nytorv 2
1.3 km
Where Copenhagen’s Neoclassical courthouse meets a centuries-old market square, blending solemn civic history with the everyday buzz of the old city.
Nytorv
1.3 km
Historic domed observatory in Aarhus offering inspiring stargazing nights, public tours, and a glimpse into Denmark’s astronomical history atop a leafy city hill.
Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk
1.3 km
Experience Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, where golden onion domes and vibrant frescoes highlight an extraordinary cultural and architectural landmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
Søtorvet 2
0.1 km
An ornate 19th‑century lakeside residence where French‑inspired façades, poetic café lore and everyday Copenhagen life meet at the city’s watery front door.
Dronning Louises Bro
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s granite social bridge, arching over the city lakes with historic elegance, everyday bike traffic and some of the best urban sunsets in town.
Nørrebros Theater
0.1 km
Historic 1886 theatre turned contemporary cultural hub, blending bold performances, visual art and neighbourhood atmosphere in the heart of Copenhagen’s Nørrebro district.
The Lakes
0.2 km
Innovative cocktails and cozy ambiance in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Sankt Hans Torv
0.3 km
A relaxed, café-lined square in the heart of Nørrebro where church spires, classic façades and everyday streetlife capture contemporary Copenhagen.
Workers Museum
0.5 km
Step into Copenhagen’s historic Workers’ Assembly Hall and trace 150 years of working-class life, from cramped attic flats and factory floors to activism, cafés and children’s play.
TorvehallerneKBH
0.6 km
Copenhagen’s glass‑walled food market, where Nordic produce, global flavours and local craftsmanship meet in two buzzing halls beside Nørreport Station.
Copenhagen Food Tours - Best-Rated Experiences
0.6 km
Explore Denmark's labor history at The Workers Museum in Copenhagen's historic Workers' Assembly Hall.
The Danish Natural History Museum
0.7 km
University-based museum of geology, zoology, and botany set beside Copenhagen’s Botanical Garden, linking scientific collections with the living world outside.
Nørre Voldgade 11
0.7 km
Heritage 19th‑century walls meet modern apartment comfort in a buzzing, hyper‑central corner of Copenhagen’s historic inner city.
Botanical Garden
0.7 km
Explore Denmark's royal heritage at Rosenborg Castle, home to the crown jewels and set amidst the historic King's Garden in Copenhagen.
Tropical Bikes
0.8 km
Explore Copenhagen's cycling culture with Tropical Bikes' diverse rental options and guided tours.
Ørstedsparken
0.8 km
Historic city ramparts reborn as a lakeside green refuge, where playgrounds, sculptures and café culture meet everyday Copenhagen life in the heart of Indre By.
Museum of Natural History
0.8 km
Copenhagen’s national museum for nature, where meteorites, minerals and living gardens connect deep time with the city’s green heart beside the Botanical Garden.
Skaal
0.9 km
A visionary concert hall in Copenhagen, DR Koncerthuset fuses world-class acoustics, avant-garde architecture, and a rich tapestry of live music experiences.
Essential places to dine
SAFARI
0.3 km
Colorful Pan-African bistro in creative Nørrebro serving bold sharable plates, natural wines, and community spirit in a welcoming, art-filled setting.
La Neta Nørrebro
0.3 km
Sizzling Mexican street food, artisanal tortillas, and Mikkeller craft beer unite at La Neta Nørrebro—a bustling culinary hotspot in Copenhagen’s vibrant heart.
Kate's Joint
0.3 km
Kate’s Joint brings Nørrebro’s multicultural energy to the table with creative Asian fusion, communal dining, artful interiors, and a famously laid-back vibe.
Mæxico Nørrebro
0.4 km
Colorful cantina vibes, creative tacos, and festive cocktails bring a lively taste of Mexico’s street food culture to vibrant Nørrebro in central Copenhagen.
ARK
0.4 km
Michelin Green Star vegan fine dining in central Copenhagen, where seasonal Nordic produce, foraging and low-waste philosophy shape an intimate tasting-menu experience.
Selma
0.5 km
Modern Nordic smørrebrød and craft beers in a cozy Copenhagen corner, where a Swedish chef turns the classic open sandwich into refined, Bib Gourmand–worthy plates.
Høst
0.5 km
Experience exceptional Scandinavian fine dining at Høst in Copenhagen, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Hooked Nørrebro
0.6 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Hooked Nørrebro in Copenhagen - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors in a vibrant setting.
Kiin Kiin
0.6 km
Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in Copenhagen’s Nørrebro, offering inventive tasting menus and modern fine dining that blend Southeast Asian flavors with Nordic influences.
Aroii - Nørrebro
0.6 km
Savor inventive Asian fusion cuisine in lively Nørrebro, where Aroii delivers creative Thai-inspired plates and vibrant ambiance in one of Copenhagen’s buzziest districts.
Bæst
0.7 km
Experience Nørrebro’s celebrated Bæst, where organic Italian pizzas and in-house charcuterie meet Scandinavian sustainability and vibrant Danish hospitality.
Gaarden & Gaden
0.9 km
Discover Gaarden & Gaden, a stylishly laid-back bistro in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, serving inventive local cuisine and natural wines in a warm, communal setting.
Tèrra
0.9 km
Celebrated for organic Italian-Danish tasting menus and eco-conscious fine dining, Tèrra offers a memorable culinary experience in Copenhagen’s vibrant Østerbro.
Restaurant Radio
0.9 km
Seasonal Nordic fine dining with Michelin recognition, where great taste and genuine hospitality meet accessible excellence.
The Olive Kitchen & Bar
0.9 km
Warm brick-and-wood dining room in central Copenhagen serving polished Mediterranean-inspired classics, a four-course menu and easygoing evening cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Butik Bungalow
0.1 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
McKorman
0.2 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
PRAG Nørrebro
0.4 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
Exotic Mix
0.6 km
Gourmet nuts, dried fruits and chocolate dragées from around the world, served from a colourful family‑run stall inside Copenhagen’s Torvehallerne market.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.8 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Fjällräven
0.9 km
A compact Fjällräven brand shop on historic Kultorvet, pairing Scandinavian outdoor design with expert gear advice in the heart of Copenhagen’s old town.
Souvenir Gifts shop
1.0 km
Classic Copenhagen souvenirs in a compact, central shop on historic Købmagergade, perfect for last‑minute gifts and easy-to-pack mementos from the Danish capital.
Time's Up Vintage
1.0 km
Discover curated vintage fashion, rare designer finds, and decades of style history at Time’s Up Vintage in Copenhagen’s bustling Indre By.
Another nué
1.0 km
A calm, curated Copenhagen fashion boutique where Scandinavian minimalism meets historic Krystalgade in a protected Neoclassical townhouse.
København K
1.1 km
Hidden in a Latin Quarter courtyard, København K is a long-standing Copenhagen vintage shop packed with curated second-hand fashion, denim and quirky homeware finds.
Quirky Lane
1.1 km
Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
Wasteland
1.1 km
A high-energy vintage hub in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, packed with curated 80s, 90s and Y2K streetwear, denim and accessories in a distinctly urban setting.
Studio Arhoj
1.1 km
A working Copenhagen design studio where shelves of colorful ceramics and glass meet the sights, sounds and warmth of craft being made in real time.
Notre Dame
1.1 km
A cozy Copenhagen interiors institution packed with colorful Nordic homeware, thoughtful design and giftable treasures opposite the Church of Our Lady.
Carmen Copenhagen
1.2 km
Compact vintage treasure trove in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where characterful clothes, curated racks, and cozy atmosphere turn slow browsing into a small adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kind Of Blue
0.1 km
Discover the lively charm of Kind Of Blue, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen offering creative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Barking Dog
0.2 km
Discover The Barking Dog, a trendy bar in Copenhagen offering expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant nightlife experience.
Escobar København
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Escobar København, a must-visit bar in the heart of Nørrebro offering great cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
Harbo Bar
0.3 km
Cosy, candlelit café‑bar on Blågårdsgade blending daytime coffee and snacks with intimate, bohemian evenings at the heart of Copenhagen’s Nørrebro district.
Léanowski Bar
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Léanowski Bar, a local favorite in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, known for its craft beers and creative cocktails.
PULP bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at PULP Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
Ølbaren
0.4 km
Experience the heart of Copenhagen’s beer culture at Ølbaren, a cozy bar with an extensive selection of craft brews and vibrant atmosphere.
The Mudhoney
0.6 km
Discover The Mudhoney, a stylish cocktail bar in Copenhagen, blending coffee shop charm with expertly crafted cocktails for a perfect night out.
Bootleggers
0.6 km
Cosy two‑floor craft beer cellar and speakeasy‑style cocktail bar by Torvehallerne, pouring rotating taps, classic drinks, burgers and bottomless popcorn.
BRUS
0.7 km
Discover the best craft beers and seasonal dishes at BRUS, Copenhagen's top brewpub for foodies and beer lovers alike.
Dexter's
0.7 km
A cosy African–Caribbean rum bar by Copenhagen’s lakes, blending tropical cocktails, Afro-Caribbean rhythms and warm Jamaican hospitality in an intimate setting.
Ørsted Ølbar
0.7 km
Cozy basement craft-beer bar opposite Ørstedsparken, mixing candlelit pub charm, expert pours and an impressive Danish microbrew lineup in central Copenhagen.
Himmeriget
0.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and exquisite drink selection at Himmeriget, a premier bar in Frederiksberg, perfect for socializing and relaxation.
Paloma Vermuteria
0.8 km
Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.
The Globe Irish Pub
0.8 km
Atmospheric Irish pub in central Copenhagen, pouring serious beer and whiskey alongside hearty comfort food, sports screenings and cozy, hygge-tinged corners.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
RUST Natklub
0.5 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
Temple Bar
0.5 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Moon Club
0.7 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
Mirage
0.8 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
La Terraza
1.1 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Cosy Bar
1.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Rumors
1.2 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
1.2 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Miami Bar
1.2 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hive
1.2 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Dorsia
1.3 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Culture Box
1.3 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Chateau Motel
1.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Romantic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
