The Round Tower (Rundetaarn), Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s 17th‑century spiral tower where astronomy, history, exhibitions and city‑wide views converge above the cobbled streets of the old Latin Quarter.
Rising above the old Latin Quarter, Copenhagen’s Round Tower is a 17th‑century observatory turned cultural hub, famous for its wide spiral ramp and sweeping city views. Built in 1642 for astronomy and learning, it now combines historic architecture with contemporary exhibitions, concerts and an active observatory. The gentle, 200‑metre helical walk replaces stairs for most of the ascent, passing the former university library hall before reaching the open viewing platform and copper‑domed observatory at the top.
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
- Plan 1–2 hours so you have time for the spiral walk, Library Hall exhibitions and a relaxed break on the viewing platform rather than rushing straight to the top.
- Visit on a clear day or towards late afternoon for atmospheric light over the rooftops; winter evenings often include observatory opening hours for stargazing.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the 200‑metre cobbled ramp and final staircases are not difficult but can feel surprisingly long if you are in stiff footwear.
- Bring a light layer, as the open viewing platform can be windy even when the streets below feel calm; in colder months it is noticeably chillier at the top.
- If you use a stroller, you can manage most of the spiral ramp, but the last staircases to the platform require carrying or leaving it below; wheelchairs reach only the lower levels.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro from central Copenhagen hubs
From major central stations such as Nørreport or Kongens Nytorv, take the M1, M2, M3 or M4 metro lines to Nørreport if you are not already there, then walk about 5–10 minutes through the pedestrian streets to the Round Tower. Metro trains run every few minutes throughout the day, and a single zone ticket within the city typically costs around 20–25 DKK. Stations and trains are step‑free, but note that the tower itself is not fully accessible to wheelchairs beyond the lower levels.
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City bus within Copenhagen
Several inner‑city bus routes stop near Nørreport and along streets adjacent to Købmagergade, from where it is roughly a 5–10 minute walk to the tower. Travel time from most central districts is 10–20 minutes depending on traffic and route. Standard bus tickets within the city are usually in the 20–25 DKK range per journey and can be bought via ticket machines or transport apps. Buses are low‑floor for easy boarding, but remember that the final approach is through pedestrian areas where vehicles are not permitted.
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Bicycle within the city centre
Copenhagen’s extensive cycle lanes make it straightforward to reach the area around the Round Tower by bike from most central neighbourhoods in 10–20 minutes. Use public bike parking on nearby streets before entering the pedestrian zone, as bicycles are not allowed inside the tower. If you use a public bike‑share system, expect to pay roughly 10–20 DKK for a short central ride, with longer usage charged per additional time block. Cycling is suitable in most seasons, though strong winds and icy conditions in winter can make the ride less comfortable.
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Walking from central Copenhagen
If you are already staying in the inner city, allow 10–20 minutes on foot from many popular areas such as City Hall Square, Nyhavn or Rosenborg Castle. Routes lead through largely flat, paved streets and pedestrian shopping areas, making the walk easy for most visitors. Surfaces are generally smooth, but cobblestones in some sections can be less comfortable for strollers or people with limited mobility. Walking is free, and moving at a relaxed pace also lets you explore nearby churches, shops and side streets on the way.
The Round Tower location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Round Tower
A royal tower for science and the stars
Completed in 1642 for King Christian IV, the Round Tower was conceived as the astronomical heart of Copenhagen, part of the larger Trinitatis complex that united church, library and observatory in one ambitious project. From the outset it was a working scientific facility, giving scholars a stable, elevated platform from which to chart the night sky above the city’s rooftops. That scientific role lives on today. The observatory near the summit is one of the oldest functioning observatories in Europe, traditionally opening on selected evenings in the cooler months. Inside its distinctive copper dome, astronomers guide visitors through the planets and star fields, continuing a tradition of curiosity that has spanned nearly four centuries.The famous spiral ramp and ascent
Instead of a staircase, most of the climb is via a broad, cobbled spiral ramp that coils 7½ times around the tower’s hollow core. Originally designed wide enough for horses and carriages to reach the top with heavy instruments and books, it now offers a gradual, almost theatrical approach as you circle higher above the streets of the old town. Along the way, small alcoves and lookouts break the ascent, offering glimpses through narrow windows to tiled roofs and spires. Near the top, the ramp gives way to a broad wooden staircase and then a tighter stone stair, a final reminder that the last stretch of the journey still demands a short, steeper climb before you emerge into daylight on the upper platform.Library Hall: from university stacks to cultural stage
Roughly halfway up, the Library Hall occupies a generous floor above the adjoining church. Once home to the university’s book collection, it stored thousands of volumes in the days when this was Copenhagen’s main academic library. The high, white‑washed vaults and timber floor were built to carry both weight and quiet concentration. Today the hall has a very different life. It hosts changing exhibitions, from contemporary art to historical displays, as well as concerts, talks and special events. A small shop and café counter make it a natural pause in the climb, with space to sit beneath the arches and appreciate how the tower still balances learning, culture and everyday city life.A panorama of spires and rooftops
At the summit, an open‑air viewing platform circles the tower, ringed by a simple iron balustrade. From here, Copenhagen reveals itself in all directions: the copper and brick spires of churches, the outline of Rosenborg Castle in the distance, and on clear days the shimmer of the Øresund and the coast of Sweden. The height is modest by modern standards, but the central location makes the view feel intimate rather than remote. You look out across the city’s historic core at almost eye level with nearby towers, tracing medieval streets and modern boulevards from a single, compact vantage point.Living landmark in the heart of the city
Despite its age, the Round Tower functions less as a static monument and more as a living part of Copenhagen’s cultural calendar. Exhibitions rotate through the Library Hall, seasonal astronomy evenings bring the observatory to life, and occasional thematic programmes focus on topics like light, time and the universe. Ongoing restoration work on the copper dome and observatory underscores its status as protected heritage. Rather than closing it off from everyday use, conservation aims to keep Christian IV’s "star castle" active for future generations, preserving both the brickwork beneath your feet and the view of the sky above your head.Practical experience and accessibility
A visit to the Round Tower is compact but layered: most guests spend one to two hours exploring the ramp, Library Hall, viewing platform and, when open, the observatory. The ramp’s 200‑metre incline is gentle but continuous, and the final staircases mean full access to the top is not suitable for wheelchairs or those who struggle with steps. Information panels explain the tower’s history, scientific role and architecture, while the central location on Købmagergade makes it easy to combine with nearby museums, churches and shopping streets. Inside, the rule is simple: look up, slow down and let the spiral pull you through centuries of Copenhagen history in a single, graceful ascent.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Varehuset Messen
0.1 km
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
0.2 km
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
0.6 km
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
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- 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
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- 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
- Business Friendly
