Ofelia Plads
A wide-open harbour square on Kvæsthusbroen where Copenhagen’s water, culture and contemporary architecture meet in one flexible, ever-changing public stage.
Ofelia Plads is Copenhagen’s modern waterfront square on Kvæsthusbroen, stretched out over the harbour between Nyhavn and Amalienborg. This 13,000 m² pier has been transformed from an industrial quay into an open-air cultural stage, hosting concerts, theatre, sports screenings and art installations against a backdrop of wide harbour views and striking contemporary architecture, including the Royal Danish Playhouse and the Opera House across the water.
A brief summary to Ofelia Plads
- Kvæsthusbroen, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1250, DK
- +4570106070
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 6 am-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10:30 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10:30 pm
- Friday 6 am-10:30 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10:30 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Bring an extra layer or windproof jacket: the exposed pier catches the sea breeze even on seemingly mild days.
- Time your visit for golden hour or dusk to see the Opera House, playhouse and harbour lights reflected in the water.
- Check local cultural listings in advance; large concerts, screenings and festivals often take place on the square.
- Use the golden pavilions in season for snacks, drinks and canal-tour tickets so you can linger on the steps without leaving the pier.
- If you need a quieter moment, walk toward the far end of the pier where crowds thin and the harbour views open up.
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 and short walk from central Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take the M3 or M4 metro line to Marmorkirken Station, which typically takes 3–6 minutes from hubs such as Kongens Nytorv. A standard single-zone ticket costs around 20–25 DKK. From Marmorkirken it is an easy 10–15 minute walk on level pavements through the historic district to Ofelia Plads. This option is suitable for most visitors, though in icy or rainy weather the final stretch along the harbour can feel exposed.
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Harbour bus to the pier
Use the public harbour bus service that runs along Copenhagen’s inner harbour and stop at the Ofelia Plads/Skuespilhuset area. Depending on where you board, the ride usually takes 10–25 minutes and uses the same ticket system as city buses and metro, with fares in the 20–30 DKK range per journey. Boats run at intervals rather than high frequency, so check the timetable in advance. Boarding is generally step-free, but in rough weather or during winter ice conditions services may be reduced.
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City bus from central areas
Several city bus routes connect central Copenhagen with the vicinity of Amalienborg and the Royal Danish Playhouse in about 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic. A single ticket usually costs around 20–25 DKK and covers buses, metro and harbour buses within the relevant zones. Buses are low-floor and wheelchair-accessible, though they can be crowded during rush hour and on major event days at Ofelia Plads, which may extend travel time slightly.
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Cycling through the harbour district
For a classic Copenhagen experience, rent a bicycle in the city centre and cycle to Ofelia Plads in roughly 10–20 minutes, depending on your starting point. Bike rental typically ranges from 100–150 DKK per day from local shops or app-based services. Dedicated cycle lanes lead through most of the route, and the terrain is flat, but be prepared for strong headwinds near the waterfront and be extra cautious during rain or snow when surfaces can become slippery.
Ofelia Plads location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Ofelia Plads
A Harbour Pier Turned Urban Living Room
Ofelia Plads occupies the long Kvæsthusbroen pier, projecting into Copenhagen’s inner harbour just a short stroll from Nyhavn and Amalienborg Castle. Once a working quay, it has been reshaped into a vast, level square where sky, water and city meet in a clean-lined expanse of pale paving and broad steps. The sense of space is striking: you are surrounded by water on three sides, with uninterrupted views to the Opera House and the comings and goings of harbour traffic. Completed in 2016 after several years as a temporary experimental “Ofelia Beach”, the square was deliberately designed as a flexible, open platform. There are almost no permanent obstacles, so the whole surface can shift character from quiet public promenade to buzzing cultural arena in a matter of hours.Cultural Stage Under Open Skies
Ofelia Plads functions as an outdoor extension of the Royal Danish Theatre, whose modern playhouse rises directly alongside the pier. Throughout the year, the square becomes a stage for ballet, opera, concerts and theatre, sometimes with large temporary seating stands, sometimes with more informal performances where passers-by simply stop and watch. The generous dimensions make it an obvious home for major public events: European football on big screens, Copenhagen Jazz Festival concerts, summer dance evenings and seasonal celebrations such as the midsummer Sankt Hans bonfire, when a towering pyre is lit by the water and music drifts across the harbour. Light installations during winter festivals add another layer, transforming the surface and surrounding water with colour and sound.Everyday Hangout on the Kissing Stairs
Outside of headline events, Ofelia Plads works as a vast outdoor living room for the city. Long, stepped edges sometimes nicknamed “kissing stairs” spill gently down to the water, inviting you to sit with your legs dangling above the harbour, book or coffee in hand. The steps create natural pockets where small groups gather while still feeling part of the larger scene. Along the pier you will spot sleek golden pavilions that act as kiosks and service hubs. In warmer months they host a café and bar where you can pick up drinks, pizzas or simple snacks to enjoy on the steps or at scattered lounge seating. The mood can shift from quiet and contemplative on a chilly weekday morning to lively and sociable on a sunny evening when the quay fills with people meeting after work.Architectural Neighbours and Harbour Views
One of the great pleasures here is simply looking around. On one side, the dark timber-clad Royal Danish Playhouse seems to hover above the water, glass façades reflecting sky and waves. Across the harbour, the Opera House’s broad roofline is perfectly framed, especially atmospheric at dusk when its interior glows. Turn slightly and you glimpse the classical outlines of Amalienborg Castle and the domed Marble Church beyond. This contrast between historic silhouettes and cutting-edge cultural buildings is part of Ofelia Plads’ appeal. It sits at a junction of eras, where Copenhagen’s royal heritage, 20th-century harbour industry and 21st-century design all remain visible in a single sweeping panorama.Harbour Life and Seasonal Atmosphere
Being right on the water, Ofelia Plads changes personality with the weather and season. On clear summer days the light is sharp and bright, the air filled with the cries of seabirds and the hum of boat engines as sightseeing cruises and harbour buses slip past. In winter, the wind can cut across the open surface, but the square gains a quieter, almost cinematic quality, with mist, reflections and occasional art or light works giving the area a contemplative feel. Canal cruises depart from the pier, turning the square into a natural embarkation point for exploring the wider harbour. Although you may see swimmers elsewhere along Copenhagen’s waterfront, bathing at Ofelia Plads itself is currently not allowed, so the edge remains focused on lingering, looking and boarding boats rather than jumping in.Practical Details for Your Visit
The square is open long hours from early morning until late evening, and access is step-free along most of its length, with smooth paving suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The sheer size of the pier means there is usually space to find a quiet corner, even when a portion is set aside for events. Temporary facilities appear in high season, including food and drink outlets, seating areas and ticket offices for canal tours. Basic services such as restrooms and information boards are provided in or near the pavilions when they are operating. Given the exposed waterfront location, it is wise to come with an extra layer, even on days that feel mild in the city streets, so you can fully enjoy lingering by the harbour without being chased away by the breeze.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sankt Annæ Pl.
0.2 km
Historic square blending royal heritage, climate innovation, and urban livability in central Copenhagen.
Hans Christian Andersen plaque
0.3 km
A modest plaque on elegant Amaliegade quietly marks Hans Christian Andersen’s presence amid the formal mansions and palace axis of Copenhagen’s Frederiksstaden.
Larsens Pl.
0.4 km
Historic waterfront where Scandinavian dreams embarked for America, now a refined promenade of heritage and harbour views.
Stromma Canal Tours Copenhagen
0.4 km
A lush botanical oasis at the heart of Copenhagen, featuring historic glasshouses, rare Nordic plants, tranquil lakes, and immersive gardens for every season.
I am Queen Mary
0.6 km
A powerful harborfront monument honoring rebel leader Mary Thomas, confronting Copenhagen’s colonial past beside the historic West Indian Warehouse.
Wilhelm Hansens Hus
0.7 km
Former home of Denmark’s leading music publisher, quietly anchoring Gothersgade’s elegant streets between royal gardens and lively Kongens Nytorv.
Operaen
0.8 km
A striking harbourfront landmark where cutting-edge architecture, golden interiors and world-class opera meet amid sweeping views of Copenhagen’s historic skyline.
Knippelsbro
0.8 km
Copper-topped towers, lifting roadway and harbor breezes make Knippelsbro a compact, characterful bridge linking historic Slotsholmen with canalside Christianshavn.
Christiania
0.8 km
Explore Christiania, Copenhagen's alternative lifestyle hub, filled with vibrant street art, unique shops, and a rich cultural experience.
Museum of Danish Resistance
0.8 km
Explore the gripping history of Denmark's WWII resistance movement at this immersive Copenhagen museum, uncovering tales of bravery and sacrifice in the face of Nazi occupation.
C.F. Tietgens Hus
0.8 km
A Neoclassical monument to Danish banking heritage and industrial vision, built for one of history's most influential entrepreneurs.
Sankt Annæ Gade
0.8 km
Explore Skagen’s Maskinrummet, where maritime history, restored engines, and nautical culture meet within a unique, authentic portside museum and café.
Church of Holmen
0.8 km
A Renaissance gem transformed from anchor forge to naval sanctuary, where maritime heritage and royal history converge.
Horn mine
0.9 km
A disarmed World War II naval mine displayed in Churchill Park, turning a former weapon of the sea into a quiet reminder of conflict amid central Copenhagen’s greenery.
Christianshavn
0.9 km
Maritime charm meets modern cool in Copenhagen's most picturesque neighbourhood of coloured houses and idyllic canals.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hey Captain
0.0 km
Experience the heart of Hillerød at Fisketorvet, where shopping, dining, and culture converge in a historic market square.
The Kissing Stairs
0.1 km
Stroll along Langelinie, Copenhagen’s bustling waterfront, where iconic statues, historic parkland, and sweeping harbor views create a quintessential maritime escape.
The Playhouse
0.1 km
A beautiful English gothic church in the heart of Copenhagen, St Alban’s blends British heritage and Danish history beside the city’s iconic fortifications.
Inderhavnsbroen
0.2 km
Explore the evolution of Danish design at Copenhagen's historic Designmuseum Danmark.
Nyhavnsbroen & Nyhavn
0.2 km
A modest canal bridge with a grand view, Nyhavnsbroen is the perfect perch above Copenhagen’s most colourful harbour and its centuries of maritime stories.
Nyhavn
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s storybook harbour, where colourful 17th‑century houses, wooden ships and waterside cafés bring the city’s maritime history to life in one vivid canal.
Springvandet i Amaliehaven af Arnaldo Pomodoro
0.3 km
A dramatic bronze fountain at the heart of Amaliehaven, where modern sculpture, royal views and harbor breezes meet in a tranquil geometric garden.
Amaliehaven
0.3 km
A small but beautifully composed waterfront garden weaving royal vistas, sculpture, and harbor views into a calm green oasis in central Copenhagen.
North Atlantic House
0.4 km
A 1767 waterfront warehouse transformed into Copenhagen’s vibrant gateway to the art, stories and flavors of Greenland, Iceland and the Faroe Islands.
Copenhagen Opera House
0.4 km
UNESCO-listed Renaissance castle in Helsingør, famed as Elsinore from Shakespeare’s 'Hamlet', with iconic spires, lavish halls, and sweeping views across the Øresund Strait.
Rytterstatuen
0.4 km
A surreal subterranean art museum beneath Søndermarken Park, fusing Copenhagen’s 19th-century waterworks with modern installations and immersive experiences.
Amalienborg
0.4 km
Discover the majestic Rosenborg Castle—home to Denmark’s Crown Jewels, regal interiors, and lush gardens—offering a journey through centuries of royal Danish history.
Kunsthal Charlottenborg
0.4 km
Historic Charlottenborg Palace transformed into one of Northern Europe’s leading contemporary art halls, blending bold exhibitions with Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv views.
Bredgade 18
0.4 km
A quietly elegant address on Copenhagen’s grand Bredgade, surrounded by Frederiksstaden’s mansions, churches and design showrooms in the heart of the city.
Amalienborg Palace Museum
0.4 km
Step behind the facades of Copenhagen’s royal square to explore intimate apartments, glittering gala halls and Fabergé treasures at Amalienborg Palace Museum.
Essential places to dine
Khun Juk
0.2 km
Refined Thai dining tucked into Copenhagen’s iconic Nyhavn, where candlelit tables, fresh flowers and layered flavors turn dinner into an intimate evening event.
Restaurant Barr
0.3 km
Modern North Sea cuisine, serious beer and warm Nordic design meet in a historic harbor-front warehouse in the heart of Copenhagen’s Christianshavn.
Skipperkroen
0.3 km
Harbourfront smørrebrød and seafood in an 18th‑century Nyhavn house, pairing classic Danish flavours with canal views from cosy rooms and a lively terrace.
Cap Horn
0.4 km
Candlelit Nordic bistro in a historic Nyhavn townhouse, blending classic Danish seafood, canal views and cosy hygge from late morning to late evening.
Nyhavns Færgekro
0.4 km
Classic Danish cooking and a famed herring buffet in a cozy canal-side tavern, set within one of Nyhavn’s colorful townhouses overlooking Copenhagen’s historic harbor.
Aoc
0.5 km
Two Michelin stars of bold Nordic flavors in a historic 17th-century cellar.
à terre
0.5 km
à terre brings French fine dining infused with Nordic creativity to central Copenhagen, offering an intimate, innovative tasting menu experience near Copenhagen’s key attractions.
Goldfinch
0.6 km
Stylish Cantonese-inspired dining and cocktails on historic Kongens Nytorv, pairing shareable plates with a moody interior in the heart of Copenhagen.
Restaurant Kanalen
0.6 km
Seasonal Danish cooking and relaxed Nordic elegance in a historic canalside house on Christianshavn, where boats glide past your table and the water sets the mood.
Restaurant Rebel
0.6 km
Seasonal Danish produce meets French technique at this relaxed, MICHELIN-recommended bistro on Store Kongensgade, where an open kitchen and inventive plates define the mood.
Restaurant Vita
0.6 km
Historic Danish dining in a former royal pharmacy, serving traditional smørrebrød and national classics.
Den Lille Fede
0.6 km
Cosy, candlelit tasting-menu restaurant near Kongens Nytorv, where playful Nordic-inspired courses and thoughtful wine pairings turn dinner into an unhurried evening event.
Bistro Royal
0.6 km
Elegant all‑day French‑Danish bistro on Kongens Nytorv, pairing brasserie classics with prime people‑watching and a lively, chandelier‑lit atmosphere.
Restaurant Koefoed
0.6 km
Fine dining in a historic coal cellar celebrating Bornholm's culinary traditions and Danish gastronomy.
Marchal
0.7 km
Michelin-starred Nordic–French fine dining in the historic elegance of Hotel d’Angleterre on Copenhagen’s grand Kongens Nytorv.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Maritime Antiques &
0.2 km
Atmospheric basement shop near Nyhavn where genuine maritime antiques share space with heritage-inspired clothing and rugged knitwear in a cosy, ship-like setting.
Copenhagenglass
0.2 km
Intimate glassblowing studio and shop near Nyhavn, where Danish maritime-inspired designs and hands-on sessions turn molten glass into memorable Copenhagen souvenirs.
Zane
0.5 km
Intimate Copenhagen florist and design boutique on stylish Bredgade, blending seasonal blooms, Nordic homeware and thoughtful gifts in a cosy, lived-in space.
Royal Souvenir Shop
0.5 km
Compact and colourful, Royal Souvenir Shop on Bredgade distils Copenhagen into easy‑to‑pack gifts, from royal guards and Vikings to flags, mugs and playful keepsakes.
The Wilde Shop
0.6 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.6 km
Central Copenhagen’s cosy hygge boutique for Danish design, classic souvenirs, and easy last-minute gifts just off bustling Kongens Nytorv square.
Viking Souvenirs
0.7 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
Magasin du Nord
0.7 km
Copenhagen’s classic department store: historic architecture, Nordic style, gourmet treats and relaxed cafés gathered under one elegant roof on Kongens Nytorv.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
0.7 km
Central Strøget souvenir and luggage shop combining classic Danish mementos with practical travel gear, open long hours for convenient, last‑minute Copenhagen gifts.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
0.7 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
The Crown souvenir
0.7 km
Compact, colorful souvenir stop on elegant Amaliegade, perfect for picking up Danish flags, Little Mermaid trinkets and royal-themed keepsakes near Amalienborg.
Urban Outfitters
0.9 km
Trendy multi-level fashion and lifestyle store bringing Urban Outfitters’ eclectic clothing, homeware and vinyl mix to the heart of Copenhagen’s Østergade.
Storm - design art fashion
0.9 km
A pioneering Copenhagen concept store where avant-garde fashion, art, design objects and niche fragrances meet in a minimalist, gallery-like space on Store Regnegade.
ILLUM
0.9 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.9 km
Denmark's largest souvenir chain with 14 locations offering over 2,000 authentic Danish keepsakes and contemporary design pieces.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brønnum
0.5 km
An opulent, multi‑room cocktail bar steps from Kongens Nytorv, where historic townhouse elegance meets contemporary mixology and candlelit late‑night conversation.
TATA Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A velvet-draped, fireplace-warmed cocktail hideaway inside Hotel Sanders, where classic mixology, Danish design and theatre-inspired charm blend seamlessly.
Aloha Beach Bar
0.7 km
Island-inspired cocktails, neon glow and late-night party vibes packed into a compact tropical bar just off Gothersgade in central Copenhagen.
Bar Deco
0.7 km
Intimate Art Deco–inspired cocktail bar near Kongens Nytorv, pairing crafted drinks with moody lighting and a relaxed, grown‑up Copenhagen atmosphere.
Balthazar
0.7 km
A luxurious Champagne bar at Hotel d’Angleterre, pairing an extensive bubbles list and crafted cocktails with velvet-luxe interiors and a lively DJ-backed ambience.
Eiffel bar
0.8 km
Experience the cozy atmosphere of Eiffel Bar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets affordable drinks in a charming setting.
1105
0.8 km
Intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s 1105 postcode, pairing dark, elegant interiors with carefully crafted Nordic-inspired drinks and classic mixes.
Black Swan
0.8 km
Craft-forward, cosy and unpretentious, Black Swan is Copenhagen’s inner-city local where rotating taps, serious cider and good conversation flow late into the night.
The Moose
0.9 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.
Charlie's Bar
0.9 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
Trykbar
0.9 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.
K-Bar
0.9 km
Intimate harbourfront cocktail den in central Copenhagen, known for monochrome style, inventive infusions and quietly confident classics poured with real care.
Ved Stranden
1.0 km
Canal-side natural wine bar and shop in a historic townhouse, blending Copenhagen charm, thoughtful bottles and relaxed, living-room warmth by Christiansborg Palace.
Bo-Bi Bar
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
The Dubliner
1.0 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lusso
0.7 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.
Mini Bar
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
The Zoo
0.9 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.
Culture Box
0.9 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.
Hive
1.4 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Rumors
1.5 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
1.5 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Miami Bar
1.5 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Arch
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mirage
1.5 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
La Terraza
1.5 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Club Mambo
1.6 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
Dorsia
1.6 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
1.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- 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
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Business Friendly
