The Round Tower (Rundetaarn), Copenhagen
A 17th‑century spiral ramp to the stars, the Round Tower blends royal history, sky‑gazing science and sweeping Copenhagen views in one compact city landmark.
Rising above the old Latin Quarter, Copenhagen’s Round Tower (Rundetaarn) is a 17th‑century observatory, viewpoint and cultural venue in one. Built by King Christian IV in 1642, it is famed for its wide, whitewashed spiral ramp that winds gently to a rooftop platform with sweeping city views. Along the way you pass the former university Library Hall, now a bright gallery for changing exhibitions and concerts, and can peek into the historic observatory that still studies the Danish night sky.
A brief summary to The Round Tower
- Købmagergade 52A, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1150, DK
- +4533730373
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-8 pm
- Sunday 10 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Arrive close to opening time or later in the evening to enjoy the spiral ramp and viewing platform with fewer crowds, especially in high season and on clear days.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the 200‑metre spiral ramp and final staircases are gentle but continuous, and the brick surface can feel uneven underfoot.
- Check current information about observatory restoration and opening hours before you go if stargazing or access to the very top is important to your visit.
- Pause in the Library Hall halfway up to explore the latest exhibition or simply rest by the tall windows and take in the building’s former life as a university library.
- On windy or cold days, bring an extra layer; the viewing platform is exposed, and temperatures feel cooler at the top than on the street below.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Metro and short walk from central Copenhagen
From Nørreport Station, one of Copenhagen’s main metro and S‑train hubs, it typically takes 5–8 minutes on foot to reach the Round Tower along level, paved pedestrian streets. All metro lines serving Nørreport run frequently throughout the day, and a single journey within the city centre costs around 20–25 DKK using standard public transport tickets or a travel card. The route is step‑free and suitable for strollers; only the interior of the tower presents accessibility challenges due to the ramp and stairs.
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City bus to the Latin Quarter
Several central bus routes stop around Nørreport and the adjacent streets, from where you can walk 5–10 minutes to the Round Tower through the old town. Bus journeys within central zones generally cost 20–25 DKK with a ticket or travel card, and services run every few minutes in daytime, slightly less often in the evening. Buses are low‑floor and accessible, though the tower itself has no elevator to the viewing platform.
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Cycling through the city centre
Copenhagen’s extensive cycling lanes make it easy to reach the Round Tower by bike in about 10–15 minutes from many central districts such as Vesterbro, Nørrebro or Østerbro. Expect to rent a city bike or standard bicycle for roughly 100–150 DKK per day from numerous rental outlets. You will need to dismount and walk your bike in the pedestrian section of Købmagergade, where cycling is restricted during busy hours.
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Taxi or rideshare within Copenhagen
A taxi ride from major inner‑city areas like the Central Station or Nyhavn usually takes 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from about 80–150 DKK for short central journeys, with surcharges in late evening or on weekends. Vehicles drop passengers on nearby streets, from where there is a brief walk through the partly pedestrianised centre to the Round Tower’s entrance.
The Round Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Hot Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Round Tower
A royal tower at the heart of old Copenhagen
Completed in 1642 for King Christian IV, the Round Tower was conceived as a monument to learning, combining an astronomical observatory, a university library and a church within one ambitious complex. Rising above the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter, its brick cylinder quickly became a landmark on Copenhagen’s skyline, a role it has kept for nearly four centuries. The tower was the first part of the Trinitatis complex, designed so scholars could move from worship to books and on to the stars without leaving the building. Its position just off bustling Købmagergade still reflects that blend of everyday city life and lofty scientific purpose. From street level, the simple cylindrical form topped by a copper‑clad dome hints at the precision and curiosity that shaped it.The famous spiral ramp and quiet alcoves
Instead of stairs, most of the ascent is via a broad spiral ramp that coils 7½ times around the hollow core. Originally wide and sturdy enough for horse‑drawn carts to carry heavy instruments and books, today it allows a gentle climb where people naturally fan out, pausing in shallow niches to catch their breath or look out of tall windows onto the rooftops below. The ramp’s whitewashed walls, worn brick floor and shifting daylight create a calm, almost meditative atmosphere despite the steady flow of visitors. Sound softens against the plaster, and each turn offers slightly different perspectives on the tower’s interior void. It is a rare example of early modern engineering that still feels surprisingly contemporary in its simplicity and accessibility.The Library Hall: from books to culture
Roughly halfway up, the spiral opens into the Library Hall, once home to the entire book collection of the University of Copenhagen. Wooden floors, arched windows and exposed beams recall its scholarly past, when thousands of volumes lined the walls above the church below. Today the hall is a versatile cultural space hosting changing exhibitions, concerts, talks and seasonal events. Installations, photography, historical displays or design shows might occupy the room on any given visit. A small shop and café corner add to the sense of the tower as a living venue rather than a static monument, yet the proportions and patina of the hall keep its academic spirit intact.Observatory dome and views across the city
Near the top, the route shifts from the ramp to a broad wooden staircase and a tighter stone stair that lead to the viewing platform and observatory. The open-air deck offers a 360‑degree panorama of Copenhagen: copper spires, church towers, the tiled roofs of the old town and, on clear days, a glimpse of the Øresund and Sweden beyond. Orientation tables help you pick out landmarks such as Rosenborg Castle and the Marble Church. Above the platform sits the historic observatory, one of the oldest functioning facilities of its kind in Europe. It has long served astronomers and enthusiasts, with telescopes used for public stargazing evenings in the darker months. Ongoing restoration work on the dome and interior aims to protect this scientific heritage while keeping the observatory active for future generations.Experiences, seasons and ongoing restoration
The Round Tower is open most of the year, with longer evening hours in the lighter months and special night openings in winter for astronomy activities. Entry includes access to the ramp, Library Hall exhibitions when they are not being installed, and the viewing platform when weather and works allow. Temporary closures of the very top can occur during maintenance or the current refurbishment of the observatory dome. Despite its central location on a busy shopping street, the tower retains an intimate character inside. The slow spiral ascent, the changing cultural programme in the Library Hall and the chance to step into a working observatory make it more than just a viewpoint. It is a compact journey through Danish history, architecture and science, wrapped into a single, elegantly rounded structure in the heart of the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Varehuset Messen
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A historic 1895 department store turned business college, crowned by Hermes and layered with centuries of mercantile and intellectual history on Købmagergade.
Fiolstræde 42
0.2 km
Historic observatory blending astronomy, science education, and star-gazing experiences in a tranquil woodland setting just outside Aarhus' vibrant city center.
Amitylux Tours | Exceptional Guided City Tours
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Experience the timeless grandeur of Lund Cathedral, an iconic Romanesque landmark in southern Sweden, renowned for its history, art, and enduring spiritual presence.
Jorcks Passage
0.3 km
Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Højbro
0.5 km
A historic iron arch bridging Copenhagen’s lively city centre and stately Slotsholmen, with hidden folklore sculptures stirring beneath its calm canal waters.
The King's Garden
0.5 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.
Wilhelm Hansens Hus
0.5 km
Former home of Denmark’s leading music publisher, quietly anchoring Gothersgade’s elegant streets between royal gardens and lively Kongens Nytorv.
Magstræde
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting charm of Magstræde, one of Copenhagen's oldest streets, filled with historic architecture, cozy cafes, and vibrant local culture.
Thorvaldsens Museum
0.6 km
Explore the world of neoclassical sculpture at Thorvaldsens Museum in Copenhagen, home to the works of Bertel Thorvaldsen and a treasure trove of art and architectural inspiration.
Vandkunsten Springvand
0.6 km
A hidden gem where medieval water engineering meets early 20th-century artistry in Copenhagen's charming Old Town.
Indre By
0.6 km
Medieval streets, royal palaces, and European shopping converge in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Christiansborg Palace
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Explore the majestic Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, a blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture that captivates all who visit.
Frederik VII
0.6 km
Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
Kongens Nytorv
0.6 km
Discover Kongens Nytorv, Copenhagen's historic square, surrounded by iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and easy access to Nyhavn and Strøget for an unforgettable experience.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.7 km
A quiet yet powerful royal monument in Christiansborg’s riding ground, uniting a pivotal Danish king with the groundbreaking sculptor who cast him in bronze.
Unmissable attractions to see
Københavns Synagoge
0.1 km
A discreet 1833 synagogue in Krystalgade whose neoclassical facade hides an Egyptian‑inspired interior and centuries of Danish Jewish history, faith and resilience.
Kultorvet
0.2 km
Historic coal market turned buzzing pedestrian square, where colourful façades, cafés and a modern fountain stage capture everyday Copenhagen life.
Skaal
0.2 km
A visionary concert hall in Copenhagen, DR Koncerthuset fuses world-class acoustics, avant-garde architecture, and a rich tapestry of live music experiences.
Gråbrødretorv
0.2 km
Mythic grandeur meets urban tranquility at Copenhagen’s spectacular Gefion Fountain, a must-see bronze sculpture and water feature rooted in Norse legend.
Balderdash
0.2 km
Strikingly designed by Jean Nouvel, Copenhagen’s DR Koncerthuset offers world-class acoustics and a dynamic program of classical, jazz, and international concerts.
Pub Crawl Copenhagen
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of history and modernity at Sankt Hans Torv, Nørrebro's lively public square.
Strøget
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s longest pedestrian promenade, Strøget blends historic streets, designer boutiques and animated street life into one continuous urban stroll.
Church of Our Lady
0.3 km
Lively, colourful canal harbour in central Copenhagen known for vibrant houses, historic ships, waterside cafés, and rich maritime heritage.
Amagertorv
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s historic marketplace turned elegant pedestrian square, where storks, cobblestones and centuries‑old facades meet modern design and city life.
Stork Fountain
0.4 km
Bask in the serene Baltic ambiance of Rødvig Beach on South Zealand—an inviting stretch of sand with sweeping views of Stevns Klint and local Danish charm.
Nørre Voldgade 11
0.4 km
Heritage 19th‑century walls meet modern apartment comfort in a buzzing, hyper‑central corner of Copenhagen’s historic inner city.
Læderstræde
0.4 km
A cosy Old Town side street where rebuilt 18th‑century townhouses, Danish design boutiques and laid‑back cafés create a calm, human‑scaled alternative to busy Strøget.
Gammeltorv
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s oldest square, where cobbles, Neoclassical facades and the Renaissance Caritas Well quietly trace eight centuries of urban life in the city’s historic core.
Nytorv 2
0.4 km
An everyday address on Copenhagen’s historic Nytorv, placing you between grand courthouse columns, cobbled markets of old and the pulse of the Strøget pedestrian zone.
Botanical Garden
0.4 km
Explore Denmark's royal heritage at Rosenborg Castle, home to the crown jewels and set amidst the historic King's Garden in Copenhagen.
Essential places to dine
Det Lille Apotek
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s oldest restaurant, where candlelit wooden rooms, traditional Danish dishes and centuries of stories create a warm slice of true Danish hygge.
Restaurant Schønnemann
0.2 km
Experience authentic Danish smørrebrød and century-old culinary tradition at Restaurant Schønnemann, a historic Copenhagen institution renowned for its iconic lunch culture.
Wining and Dining
0.2 km
French-inspired fine dining with exceptional wines in Copenhagen's historic heart
Restaurant Sole D’Italia - København
0.2 km
Classic stone-oven pizzas and familiar Italian favourites served on one of Copenhagen’s most atmospheric squares in the heart of the old town.
The Olive Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Warm brick-and-wood dining room in central Copenhagen serving polished Mediterranean-inspired classics, a four-course menu and easygoing evening cocktails.
Københavner Cafeen
0.4 km
Traditional Danish comfort food and smørrebrød served in a cozy, low-lit cellar restaurant on a historic Copenhagen side street steeped in hygge.
Restaurant Tight
0.4 km
Cozy multi-level townhouse restaurant in Copenhagen’s Old Town serving Nordic cuisine with a sunny southern twist, generous portions and a warm, brick-and-beam atmosphere.
Alouette
0.4 km
One‑Michelin‑star Green Star dining in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, where hyper‑seasonal Nordic tasting menus meet quietly striking design by the King’s Garden.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.4 km
Warm, candlelit hygge in Copenhagen’s old town, where classic Danish smørrebrød, hearty lunches and aquavit bring traditional flavors to a cosy side-street dining room.
Marv & Ben
0.5 km
Inventive New Nordic tasting menus and Danish culinary artistry await in an atmospheric 18th-century townhouse in Copenhagen’s historic Indre By.
l’Alsace
0.5 km
Classic French bistro cooking, polished wines and candlelit charm in the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping streets.
Krebsegaarden
0.5 km
An intimate art-filled townhouse in central Copenhagen where creative tasting menus, warm storytelling service and an epic cheese course turn dinner into an evening-long occasion.
Restaurant Grønnegade
0.5 km
Seasonal Danish‑French fine dining in a 17th‑century Copenhagen townhouse, offering intimate, adults‑only evenings with polished service and thoughtful wine pairings.
Restaurant Maven
0.5 km
Distinctive Scandinavian dining in the soaring nave of a former church, Restaurant Maven offers inventive cuisine and fine wine in Copenhagen's historic Indre By.
ferment, ramen izakaya
0.5 km
Intimate basement izakaya where fermentation, organic ingredients, and Nordic sensibility transform ramen and bao into deeply satisfying art.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Time's Up Vintage
0.1 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
0.1 km
A calm, curated Copenhagen fashion boutique where Scandinavian minimalism meets historic Krystalgade in a protected Neoclassical townhouse.
Studio Arhoj
0.1 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.
Souvenir Gifts shop
0.1 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.
Fjällräven
0.2 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.
Norse Store
0.2 km
Minimalist Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in central Copenhagen, offering a curated mix of premium menswear, footwear and design-led essentials.
Norse Projects
0.2 km
Scandi-cool flagship store pairing minimalist Nordic design with functional, all-season clothing in a calm, gallery-like space in central Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.3 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
0.3 km
Step off the cobblestones of Gammel Mønt into Henrik Vibskov’s offbeat fashion laboratory, where avant‑garde silhouettes, artful interiors and curated design collide.
Duck Haven
0.3 km
A tiny, colourful shop in Copenhagen’s old town where hundreds of themed rubber ducks turn souvenir hunting into a playful, photo‑worthy detour.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
0.3 km
Step off bustling Vimmelskaftet into a nostalgic world of Danish Christmas sparkle, romantic décor and gift-worthy treasures at Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen.
Magnolias
0.3 km
A compact, upscale secondhand boutique on Købmagergade, Magnolias blends Copenhagen chic with curated pre-loved designer fashion in the city’s historic shopping heart.
& Other Stories
0.3 km
Contemporary Scandinavian fashion, shoes, accessories and beauty in a bright, minimalist space on Copenhagen’s iconic Strøget shopping street.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
0.3 km
Historic Renaissance townhouse on Strøget where hand‑painted Royal Copenhagen porcelain, royal history and Danish design culture meet across three atmospheric floors.
Hygge Original
0.3 km
A cozy Danish design shop on Amagertorv, offering hygge-inspired clothing, textiles and gifts in a calm, Scandinavian setting amid Copenhagen’s busiest streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar'Vin
0.1 km
Discover the charm of Bar'Vin, a cozy restaurant and wine bar in Copenhagen, offering exquisite wines and delicious Danish cuisine.
Gejser Bar
0.1 km
Craft cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine in Copenhagen's most welcoming sophisticated bar.
Strøm
0.1 km
Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
The Jane
0.1 km
Mad Men–style speakeasy meets late-night dance floor in a warren of hidden rooms, leather sofas and cocktail-fuelled energy beneath central Copenhagen.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Bæst Cocktailbar
0.2 km
Intimate basement cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s old town, pairing creative drinks with warm lighting, easygoing music and a sociable late-night city-centre vibe.
Luke's Bar
0.2 km
Copenhagen's premier luxury dive bar where fine whisky meets authentic rock and metal culture.
No Stress Bar
0.3 km
Basement cocktail pub in Copenhagen’s historic center mixing dessert-inspired drinks, games, comedy and drag shows into one laid-back, late-night hangout.
Charlie's Bar
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
The Globe Irish Pub
0.3 km
Atmospheric Irish pub in central Copenhagen, pouring serious beer and whiskey alongside hearty comfort food, sports screenings and cozy, hygge-tinged corners.
The Moose
0.3 km
Graffiti-plastered walls, infamous moose murals and cheap late-night beers make this smoky Indre By dive bar a gritty, unpolished slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Trykbar
0.3 km
Cosy, central Copenhagen bar with a strong beer list, warm lighting and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends hygge with lively late-night energy.
The Dubliner
0.4 km
Lively Irish pub energy on Copenhagen’s Amagertorv, serving hearty pub classics, well-poured pints, live music and big-screen sport in a cosy, wood-lined setting.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
Aloë Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
Award-winning Cuban cocktails and street art vibes in Copenhagen's vibrant Inner City.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Arch
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mirage
0.3 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
The Zoo
0.3 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
Hive
0.3 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Chateau Motel
0.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Rumors
0.4 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
0.4 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
La Terraza
0.4 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Mini Bar
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Miami Bar
0.4 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lusso
0.5 km
A compact, high-end Copenhagen nightclub with champagne-forward table service, dim lighting and a stylish late-night crowd just steps from Kongens Nytorv.
Dorsia
0.5 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Cosy Bar
0.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Club Mambo
0.7 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Sacred Sites
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- 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
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
