Magstræde
A gently curving cobbled lane of pastel houses and centuries-old townhouses, Magstræde offers an intimate, atmospheric glimpse into Copenhagen’s medieval core.
Magstræde is one of Copenhagen’s oldest and most atmospheric streets, a gently curving cobbled lane tucked into the historic heart of Indre By. Pastel-colored townhouses from the 17th to 19th centuries lean over original cobblestones, creating a cinematic backdrop that feels frozen in time. Once home to merchants, craftsmen and warehouses, today it is a tranquil, car-light passage perfect for unhurried strolls, architecture spotting and photography between the canal at Gammel Strand and the cultural quarter near Rådhusstræde.
A brief summary to Magstræde
- Copenhagen, Indre By, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable, flat shoes; the original cobblestones are uneven and can be slippery in wet or icy weather.
- Visit around early morning or just before sunset for softer light and fewer passersby if you are focused on photography.
- Look up and scan doorways and cornices; some of the oldest buildings hide dates, initials and historic details high above eye level.
- Combine a stroll here with nearby canal-front viewpoints at Gammel Strand for contrasting perspectives on historic Copenhagen.
- In winter, bring an extra layer; the narrow lane can feel noticeably cooler and more shaded than the broader surrounding streets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro and walking from central Copenhagen
From a central location near City Hall, the easiest option is to take the M3 or M4 metro line to Gammel Strand station, then walk the remaining few hundred meters through the Old Town. The metro ride within the inner city usually takes 2–5 minutes and runs every few minutes throughout the day, with a single-zone ticket typically costing around 20–25 DKK. The walk from the station is short but over cobbled streets, so it is less comfortable for high heels or very heavy luggage.
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City bus and short walk within Indre By
Several city bus routes serve stops close to the canal and City Hall Square in Indre By, from which Magstræde is an easy 5–10 minute walk through level but occasionally cobbled streets. Bus journeys within the central fare zone generally cost about 20–25 DKK if you purchase a standard ticket or use a travel card. Services run frequently during the day and early evening, but late-night departures are less regular, so check the timetable if returning after midnight.
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Cycling through Copenhagen’s bike network
If you are already in central Copenhagen, renting a city bike or using a bike-share scheme is a convenient way to reach Magstræde in around 5–10 minutes of cycling. Expect to pay in the region of 15–30 DKK for a short ride on a shared bike, depending on provider and duration. Dedicated bike lanes lead to the streets around the Old Town, but the final approach along Magstræde itself is narrow and cobbled, so ride slowly and be prepared to dismount if the lane feels crowded.
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Taxi or ride-hail to the Old Town perimeter
Taxis and ride-hail vehicles can drop you near the edge of the pedestrian-priority zone in Indre By, from where you walk the last 3–8 minutes to Magstræde. A short trip within the inner city often costs around 80–150 DKK depending on distance and traffic. Vehicles cannot drive directly along the narrow cobbled lane, so this option suits travelers with luggage who prefer to minimise walking but can still manage a brief stroll on uneven surfaces.
Magstræde location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Magstræde
A medieval lane woven into Copenhagen’s old heart
Magstræde threads quietly through the Old Town of Copenhagen, connecting the canal-side bustle of Gammel Strand with the historic streets around Rådhusstræde. Created in the early 1500s, it ranks among the city’s very oldest streets, its gentle dogleg curve still following a medieval line rather than any modern grid. Walking here, you trace the same narrow route once used by traders and townsfolk moving between the harbourfront and the inner city. The name itself hints at humbler origins: it derives from an old word for latrine, recalling public facilities that once stood close by when the shoreline ran differently. Over the centuries, fires reshaped much of Copenhagen, yet Magstræde survived with remarkable continuity. That survival makes it a rare fragment of the early city, layered with stories in brick, timber and stone.Color-washed facades and original cobblestones
Magstræde is instantly recognisable for its uneven carpet of cobblestones, among the few in Copenhagen that have never been fully replaced. The stones slow your steps and add a satisfying crunch underfoot, especially in damp weather when they glisten softly. Above them, houses in shades of ochre, muted green, dusty rose and deep red form an almost theatrical backdrop. Plot widths are irregular, window frames vary from house to house, and rooflines rarely align perfectly. This lack of uniformity gives the street its charm: nothing is quite symmetrical, yet everything feels coherent. Details reward close attention—hand-forged hinges, carved door surrounds, old house numbers and traces of former shop entrances embedded in the masonry.Historic townhouses and hidden craftsmanship
Several buildings along Magstræde are landmarks of domestic architecture. The oldest house, at numbers 17–19, dates from the 1640s, its dignified symmetry reflecting early bourgeois ambitions in this port city. Nearby, the Schäffer House, a refined 18th-century residence built for the royal court’s master carpenter, once contained elaborate Rococo interiors now preserved in the National Museum. Other facades tell of different trades: a former warehouse, once stacked with goods from overseas, shows larger openings and sturdier construction; an old brewery recalls the role of beer in daily life when drinking water could not be trusted. Together they form a streetscape that reveals how living, working and storage were intertwined in a compact pre-industrial city.A lived-in street between past and present
Although the architecture is historic, Magstræde is far from a static museum piece. Many buildings now host small offices, ateliers and studios, with discreet signage and minimal street-level alteration. Upper floors remain residential, and bicycles lean casually against plastered walls, reminding you this is still a neighbourhood address as much as a sightseeing spot. Traffic is minimal and usually limited to occasional service vehicles and cyclists, so the soundscape tends to be soft: footsteps on stone, snippets of Danish conversation, a distant bell from a nearby church. At certain times of day sunlight slants dramatically down the lane, lighting one side in warm tones while the opposite wall falls into cool shadow.Framing Copenhagen through a photographer’s lens
Magstræde’s compact scale makes it ideal for photography. The street’s curve means you never see from end to end in a single view; instead, facades appear in layered perspective, perfect for framing leading lines and vanishing points. Early morning often brings calm air and gentle light, ideal for capturing colors without harsh contrast, while evenings add a more cinematic mood as windows glow and lamps come on. Because the lane connects directly with the canal district and nearby cultural institutions, it works well as a visual anchor for exploring central Copenhagen on foot. A few steps in any direction reveal different scenes: water and boats at Gammel Strand, courtyards off side streets, or more formal facades closer to the governmental quarter, all within a compact walking radius.Atmosphere, seasons and the rhythm of the day
The character of Magstræde changes subtly with the weather and season. On clear days the pastel houses appear almost bright, while overcast skies lend a softer, almost painterly feeling. In winter, low northern light and the possibility of a dusting of snow give the street a quiet, almost introspective quality. In summer, open windows and the murmur of voices from within the houses add warmth and a sense of everyday life spilling gently onto the street. Whether you pause for photographs, trace architectural details, or simply pass through en route to nearby sights, Magstræde offers a condensed, tangible sense of Old Copenhagen: intimate in scale, rich in texture, and deeply rooted in the city’s evolution from medieval trading town to modern capital.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.2 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.
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
0.3 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 Danish Parliament
0.3 km
Where copper spires, royal salons and granite façades frame the working heart of Danish democracy on Copenhagen’s historic Island of Power.
Lur Blowers
0.3 km
Bronze Age horns meet early 20th‑century grandeur in this 20‑metre column, where two silent lur players keep watch over Copenhagen’s bustling City Hall Square.
Højbro Pl.
0.4 km
Maskinrummet is Skagen’s maritime museum and café, featuring historic marine engines, hands-on exhibits, and harbor-side atmosphere in Denmark’s northernmost town.
Frederik VII
0.4 km
Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
Stork Fountain
0.4 km
A trio of bronze storks, royal history and everyday city life meet at this elegant fountain in Copenhagen’s Amagertorv square on the Strøget pedestrian street.
Gråbrødretorv
0.4 km
Medieval square in Copenhagen's Latin Quarter where historic architecture, local cafés, and bohemian charm converge.
Church of Our Lady
0.4 km
Denmark's neoclassical cathedral, crowned with Thorvaldsen's masterpiece sculptures and centuries of royal ceremony.
H. C. Andersens Blvd.
0.4 km
A broad, bustling boulevard where Hans Christian Andersen’s legacy meets City Hall Square, Tivoli’s lights, and the everyday pulse of central Copenhagen.
The War Museum
0.4 km
Explore 500 years of Danish military history in Copenhagen's historic arsenal.
City Hall Square
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s City Hall Square is the city’s ceremonial heart, blending grand architecture, local traditions, lively events, and everyday urban buzz into one essential landmark.
Søren Aabye Kierkegaard by Louis Hasselriis
0.4 km
Discover Nordic art, culture, and cuisine from Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands at North Atlantic House, a historic waterfront warehouse in Copenhagen.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vandkunsten Springvand
0.1 km
Experience Copenhagen’s blend of urban cool and waterside relaxation at Islands Brygge, where harbor views, bathing, and local life come together in a thriving central district.
Thorvaldsens Museum
0.2 km
Denmark’s first public art museum, Thorvaldsens Museum blends neoclassical sculpture, vivid architecture, and tranquil courtyards into one immersive urban sanctuary.
Marmorbroen
0.2 km
An 18th‑century Rococo bridge that once formed the grand entrance to Christiansborg Palace, Marmorbroen quietly unites royal history, canal views and everyday city life.
Nytorv
0.2 km
Cobbled, compact and quietly dramatic, Nytorv blends royal-era markets, grim judicial history and Neoclassical authority at the pedestrian heart of old Copenhagen.
Weirdwalks Byvandring
0.2 km
Stroll the storied harbor promenade, discover Copenhagen’s iconic Little Mermaid, lush parks, and maritime sculptures along the scenic Langelinie waterfront.
National Museum of Denmark
0.2 km
Denmark’s past comes alive in a grand city palace, where Vikings, royal salons and playful children’s galleries tell 14,000 years of stories under one roof.
Frederiksholms Kanal
0.2 km
Frederiksholms Kanal—a historic waterway offering tranquil walks, classic canal views, and a journey through the heart of Copenhagen’s regal past.
Gammel Strand
0.2 km
A historic Copenhagen harbourfront where Viking-age roots, colourful 18th‑century facades and a contemporary art centre meet beside the city’s central canal.
Nytorv 2
0.2 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.
Copenhagen Free Walking Tours
0.3 km
Discover masterpieces from the Danish Golden Age and European classics to contemporary art in Denmark’s largest art museum, set by Copenhagen’s serene city park.
Læderstræde
0.3 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.
Strøget
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s longest pedestrian promenade, Strøget blends historic streets, designer boutiques and animated street life into one continuous urban stroll.
Museum of Copenhagen
0.3 km
Explore a thousand years of Copenhagen's history through artifacts, interactive exhibits, and the stories of its people.
Rainbow Square
0.3 km
A small city-centre plaza with a powerful rainbow dedication, Rainbow Square turns everyday pavement beside Copenhagen City Hall into a quiet landmark for LGBTQ+ equality.
Gammeltorv
0.3 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.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant 1733
0.1 km
Traditional Danish smørrebrød and hearty classics served in a cosy 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade, with canal views and warm, informal hospitality.
Restaurant Puk
0.1 km
Historic Danish restaurant in Indre By, Copenhagen, serving classic smørrebrød and comfort dishes in a centuries-old setting with authentic local atmosphere.
Marv & Ben
0.1 km
Inventive New Nordic tasting menus and Danish culinary artistry await in an atmospheric 18th-century townhouse in Copenhagen’s historic Indre By.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.2 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.
Københavner Cafeen
0.2 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
0.2 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.
Kanal-Caféen
0.2 km
Historic canal-side lunch restaurant from 1852, serving classic Danish smørrebrød and platters in cosy wood-panelled rooms beside Frederiksholms Kanal.
Rio Bravo
0.3 km
Western‑themed Copenhagen stalwart serving hearty Danish classics and steaks late into the night in a nostalgic saloon setting off City Hall Square.
Restaurant Karla
0.3 km
Century-old Danish restaurant serving beloved classics and authentic smørrebrød in the heart of Copenhagen, steps from major museums and city attractions.
Husmanns Vinstue
0.4 km
Classic smørrebrød, candles and aquavit in a historic Copenhagen cellar devoted entirely to the long, unhurried Danish lunch.
Wining and Dining
0.4 km
French-inspired fine dining with exceptional wines in Copenhagen's historic heart
Hard Rock Cafe Copenhagen
0.4 km
Rock legends, legendary burgers, and unforgettable American dining in Copenhagen's vibrant heart.
Restaurant Sole D’Italia - København
0.4 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.
Krebsegaarden
0.4 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.
Det Lille Apotek
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s oldest restaurant, where candlelit wooden rooms, traditional Danish dishes and centuries of stories create a warm slice of true Danish hygge.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Danish Art & Christmas Shop
0.2 km
A cosy, year‑round Christmas haven in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, filled with Danish‑designed ornaments, paper art and festive hygge moments.
Audrey Vintage
0.2 km
Curated vintage fashion in Copenhagen's heart, where timeless style meets sustainable shopping.
Akimbo
0.2 km
A cosy basement gift shop in Copenhagen’s old town, packed with colourful design, quirky treasures and hygge-infused souvenirs on charming Hyskenstræde.
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.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.3 km
Central Copenhagen’s hygge-filled stop for Scandinavian design and classic Danish souvenirs, perfectly placed on Nygade just off Strøget’s busy pedestrian flow.
& Other Stories
0.3 km
Contemporary Scandinavian fashion, shoes, accessories and beauty in a bright, minimalist space on Copenhagen’s iconic Strøget shopping street.
Souvenir Shop
0.3 km
Compact, convenient and central, this Frederiksberggade souvenir shop on Strøget is a quick one‑stop for classic Copenhagen gifts and mementos.
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.
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.
Viking Souvenirs
0.3 km
Lively Strøget souvenir shop packed with Viking‑themed gifts, Danish icons and suitcase‑friendly mementos, ideal for quick last‑minute presents in central Copenhagen.
Danish Souvenirs & Luggages
0.3 km
Central Strøget gift shop combining classic Danish souvenirs with practical luggage and bags, perfectly placed for a quick browse between Old Town sights.
Danish Souvenirs
0.3 km
Central Copenhagen’s one‑stop Strøget shop for Little Mermaid trinkets, Viking keepsakes and easy last‑minute gifts before you say farvel to Denmark.
Notre Dame
0.4 km
A cozy Copenhagen interiors institution packed with colorful Nordic homeware, thoughtful design and giftable treasures opposite the Church of Our Lady.
Wonderful Souvenirs
0.4 km
Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
0.4 km
Historic Renaissance townhouse on Strøget where hand‑painted Royal Copenhagen porcelain, royal history and Danish design culture meet across three atmospheric floors.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Zefside
0.1 km
Underground cocktail bar by night, pulsing nightclub by dawn—Copenhagen's shape-shifting social hub.
Godt Øl
0.1 km
Cosy basement craft beer bar in Copenhagen’s old town, pouring 12 rotating taps in a low-key, conversation-friendly setting from mid-afternoon until late night.
Ruby
0.1 km
An unmarked 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade hides Ruby, a quietly glamorous cocktail institution where inventive drinks meet candlelit canal-side charm.
Aloë Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
Award-winning Cuban cocktails and street art vibes in Copenhagen's vibrant Inner City.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
Centralhjørnet
0.2 km
One of Copenhagen’s oldest gay bars, Centralhjørnet is a cosy, festive corner pub where historic LGBTQ+ heritage meets camp décor and easy-going charm.
The Bird and The Churchkey
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
Southern Cross Pub
0.2 km
Two-floor Copenhagen sports pub pouring affordable pints, wall-to-wall live games, and late-night energy in the heart of the inner city.
not your USUAL wine bar
0.2 km
Discover wines from the world's forgotten regions in Copenhagen's most unconventional wine bar.
The Rooftop Bar
0.2 km
Compact rooftop oasis atop Hotel Danmark, pairing 360-degree Copenhagen views with cocktails, bubbles and golden-hour sunsets above the city’s historic heart.
Taphouse
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s modern beer hall, pouring 61 ever‑changing craft taps in a relaxed, Scandinavian setting just steps from the historic city center.
The Storm Inn Copenhagen
0.3 km
Experience the warmth of The Storm Inn in Copenhagen, a cozy pub offering a wide selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
Luke's Bar
0.3 km
Copenhagen's premier luxury dive bar where fine whisky meets authentic rock and metal culture.
The Dubliner
0.3 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.
Bæst Cocktailbar
0.3 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Chateau Motel
0.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Club Mambo
0.2 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
Hive
0.3 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Miami Bar
0.3 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Dorsia
0.3 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Mirror
0.3 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Rumors
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
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.
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
0.5 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Module
0.6 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Module Night Club in Copenhagen, where world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere await.
The Zoo
0.6 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.
Arch
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mirage
0.7 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Never Mind
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
