Vigen Strandpark
Calm fjord waters, a sandy strand and wide views to Roskilde’s skyline make Vigen Strandpark a relaxed, easy-going escape for swimming, paddling and picnics.
Vigen Strandpark is Roskilde’s beloved fjordside beach park, stretching along the gentle waters of Roskilde Fjord just north of the city. Sheltered by low headlands and overlooking the twin spires of Roskilde Cathedral, it combines a sandy bathing beach, grassy picnic lawns and easy access to water sports such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. With Roskilde Camping next door, simple facilities close at hand and direct access into Skjoldungernes Land National Park, it’s an easy-going escape for sunbathers, swimmers and active adventurers alike.
A brief summary to Vigen Strandpark
- Roskilde, 4000, DK
- +4560464245
- Duration: 1.5 to 5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet; most of the seabed is sandy but there can be occasional stones and shells in the shallows.
- Pack layers and a windproof jacket, even in summer, as breezes over Roskilde Fjord can feel cooler than in the city streets.
- If you plan to rent a kayak or SUP in high season, reserve in advance with local operators to secure equipment during busy weekends.
- Combine a visit with time at Roskilde Cathedral or the Viking Ship Museum, then head to the beach for a late-afternoon swim and sunset light.
- Use the facilities at the neighboring campsite and follow local guidelines for rubbish and wildlife to help protect the fjord environment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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City bus from Roskilde center
From central Roskilde, use a local city bus toward the northern residential areas near the fjord; services typically run every 20–30 minutes on weekdays, less frequently evenings and weekends. Expect around 15–25 minutes of travel plus a short walk to reach the beach park. A single adult ticket within the local zone usually costs about 20–30 DKK, and low-floor buses make this a convenient option for most visitors.
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Bicycle from Roskilde city
Cycling from Roskilde’s historic center to Vigen Strandpark takes roughly 15–25 minutes, mainly on local roads and paths that gently descend toward the fjord. The route is mostly paved and moderately hilly, suitable for everyday bikes and families with older children. City bike rentals in Roskilde commonly cost around 80–150 DKK per day, and this is one of the most scenic ways to link the cathedral and Viking Ship Museum with a swim at the beach.
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Car or taxi within Roskilde area
By car or taxi from central Roskilde, the drive to Vigen Strandpark usually takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. There is roadside and designated parking close to the beach area, but spaces can fill during hot summer afternoons. Taxi fares within town typically fall in the range of 120–200 DKK one way, varying with time of day and distance from your starting point.
Vigen Strandpark location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Hot Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Any Weather
Discover more about Vigen Strandpark
Where Roskilde Meets the Fjord
Vigen Strandpark curves along the inner reaches of Roskilde Fjord, on the low shoreline between the small harbor at Veddelev and the outskirts of Roskilde. From the sand you look straight across the water to the city, with the brick towers of Roskilde Cathedral rising above the roofs and yacht masts. The fjord here is narrow and sheltered, so the water is usually calm, with long, shallow stretches that invite even cautious bathers to wade out. The park blends sandy beach with grassy belts and low coastal vegetation. Winding paths connect the waterline to open lawns and small stands of trees, so you can move easily between swimming, sunbathing and quiet corners in the shade. On bright days the light over the fjord feels almost inland-lake still, especially in the evening when the sun sinks behind the gentle hills of Zealand.Swimming, Sand and Simple Seaside Pleasures
The heart of Vigen Strandpark is its broad bathing beach, a long arc of pale sand backed by dunes and grass. The seabed is mostly sandy and shelving, making it well suited to families and anyone who prefers a gradual entry into the water. In summer, the fjord warms enough for long, relaxed swims without strong currents or surf. Right behind the beach you find space to spread out on towels or set up a picnic, with easy access to basic facilities at the neighboring Roskilde Camping area. A short stroll along the shore becomes a gentle coastal walk, linking to paths that continue toward Veddelev harbour in one direction and closer to Roskilde in the other. On quieter days you may share the strand mainly with seabirds and the soft slap of water against moored boats.Gateway to Skjoldungernes Land National Park
Vigen sits on the edge of Skjoldungernes Land National Park, a landscape that weaves together fjord, meadows, forests and traces of early Danish history. From the beach, kayakers and paddleboarders can slip almost immediately into the wider protected waters, where small coves, low islands and marshy headlands create a changing coastal scenery. Because much of the fjord is part of a protected area, birdlife is rich. Out on the water and along the shoreline you may see flocks of waterfowl, herons standing motionless in the shallows and, with luck, birds of prey circling higher above. The park feels close to the city yet firmly rooted in a broad natural landscape that continues far beyond Roskilde’s edges.On the Water: Kayaks and Paddleboards
In the summer season, Vigen Strandpark doubles as a base for water sports. A local outfitter operates a kayak rental close to the beach, supplying sea kayaks, paddles and life jackets for independent trips on the fjord. Stand-up paddleboarding is also popular, with calm conditions that make it accessible for beginners while still offering distance and variety for more experienced paddlers. From here you can set out toward wooded Boserup Forest, small islands such as Elleore or the waters below the Viking Ship Museum, always with the low coastline never far away. Routes can be tailored to wind and weather, seeking shelter in inlets when breezes pick up. For many visitors the combination of a swim from the beach and an unhurried paddle along the shore is the highlight of a summer day at Vigen.Facilities, Comfort and Seasonal Rhythm
Although Vigen Strandpark feels natural and open, it is not a remote wild beach. The adjacent campsite brings conveniences within easy reach: restrooms, showers, a small shop or café in season and ice cream on hot days. Play areas at the campground add options for younger children, and broad grassy strips behind the sand work well for simple ball games or just lying in the sun. The park is open year-round, with its mood shifting with the seasons. In high summer, long Scandinavian evenings keep the water bright late into the day, while spring and autumn often bring crisp air, migratory birds and fjord views best enjoyed from the paths rather than the water. Even in winter, walkers use the shoreline for fresh-air strolls, watching low light play across the fjord and the silhouette of Roskilde in the distance.A Relaxed Fjordside Escape Close to the City
Despite its proximity to central Roskilde, Vigen Strandpark feels like a small break from urban life. It is easy to combine a morning exploring the cathedral or Viking Ship Museum with an afternoon by the water, trading stone and timber for sand and reeds. Cyclists often arrive via quiet roads and paths that follow the fjord, turning the beach into the endpoint of a short ride. Whether you come for swimming, paddling, a picnic or simply to watch the play of light across Roskilde Fjord, the park offers a gentle, unfussy slice of Danish coastal life. The views back to the city, the soft line of the shoreline and the constant presence of water tie together nature and culture in a way that feels distinctly local to this corner of Zealand.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Masterhøj udsigtspost
2.2 km
Bronze Age mound commanding 360-degree views of Roskilde, fjord, and medieval heritage.
Sct Hans Have
2.2 km
Explore Aarhus’ signature waterfront, where innovative architecture, lively promenades, and maritime history create Denmark’s most vibrant urban shoreline.
Det Kongelige Palæ i Roskilde
3.4 km
Baroque palace where Danish royalty met democracy, now a vibrant hub for art and culture.
Skänk Beer & Wine bar
3.7 km
Experience Aarhus’ celestial heritage at the Ole Rømer Observatory, where history, culture, and astronomy converge for hands-on stargazing and exploration.
Roskildekrukkerne
3.8 km
Three colossal ceramic jars rising from a mirrored basin transform Roskilde’s station square into an open-air monument to a thousand years of city history.
LegeJunglen
20.2 km
Discover LegeJunglen in Slangerup: An indoor playground paradise with slides, trampolines, and jungle-themed fun for kids of all ages, ensuring a memorable family day out, rain or shine.
Køge Nord
20.2 km
A soaring timber‑lined footbridge and high‑speed rail hub turning everyday commuting into a slice of contemporary Danish architecture and panoramic landscape.
Søndersø
20.5 km
Escape to Søndersø: A serene lake in Værløse offering tranquil nature walks, birdwatching, and recreational activities amidst lush forests and historical landscapes.
Jægerspris Castle
21.4 km
Discover Danish history and royal romance at Jægerspris Castle, a beautifully preserved estate with a captivating museum and scenic parklands, offering a glimpse into the lives of King Frederik VII and Countess Danner.
Drive in Put and Take
21.8 km
Discover a serene fishing escape at Drive in Put and Take in Lynge, Denmark, boasting clear waters, family-friendly facilities, and a tranquil atmosphere just a short drive from Copenhagen.
Køge Å
22.4 km
Explore Skagen’s maritime history with hands-on exhibits and live marine engines at Maskinrummet, an atmospheric museum in the heart of the harbour.
Farum Lake
22.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Farum Lake in Furesø Municipality, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Denmark.
Køge Ås
23.3 km
Striking lighthouse at Denmark’s northern edge, offering panoramic views, interactive birdwatching, café, exhibitions, and a window into Skagen’s wild coastal nature.
Fiskebæk Naturskole
24.0 km
Discover the enchanting Fiskebæk Naturskole, a scenic spot in Værløse, Denmark, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers exploring the great outdoors.
Stendysser
24.3 km
Bronze Age burial chambers hidden within ancient forest, connecting modern visitors to Denmark's prehistoric past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roskilde Harbour
2.5 km
Historic fjordside harbour where Viking heritage, a modern marina and relaxed waterfront life meet beneath the towers of Roskilde Cathedral.
Viking Ship Museum
2.5 km
Stand face to face with 1,000-year-old Viking ships, then step outside to see their full-scale descendants being built and sailed on Roskilde Fjord.
MC og Bil træf
2.6 km
Sommeraftener med motorbrøl, krom og uformel bilkultur på et åbent areal i Roskilde, hvor bil- og MC-entusiaster samles til hyggeligt torsdagstræf.
Puppe
2.7 km
A small but evocative public sculpture in Roskilde, “Puppe” offers a quiet moment of contemporary art amid everyday city life.
RoS Gallery
2.8 km
Contemporary art in a beautifully restored gasworks on Roskilde’s harbour, pairing industrial character with changing exhibitions and free, easy-going access.
Roskilde Mini Town
2.8 km
Explore centuries of Danish architecture in miniature form at this charming, detail-rich attraction.
Himmelev skov
2.8 km
A young, rolling forest of ponds, meadows and trails where Roskilde’s northern suburbs fade into an evolving landscape of Danish nature and quiet everyday escapes.
Koncertkapellet
2.8 km
Roskilde's intimate chapel-turned-concert hall for classical and acoustic music in a historic restored setting.
Sct Ibs Kilde
2.8 km
A humble historic spring at Roskilde’s shoreline, Sct. Ibs Kilde links everyday water, medieval faith and the rise of a cathedral city above the fjord.
Byparkens Legeplads
2.9 km
Shaded, child-friendly play space in the heart of Roskilde’s Byparken, surrounded by mature trees, gentle equipment and the calm of a classic Danish city park.
Sct Gertruds Kilde
3.0 km
A small, historic spring on Frederiksborgvej where Roskilde’s sacred past, urban growth and ever-flowing groundwater quietly meet at the edge of the city hillside.
Kattinge Vig
3.2 km
A sheltered fjord cove near Roskilde where protected nature, birdlife and gentle Scandinavian coastal scenery create a quiet escape for walkers, anglers and paddlers.
Sct Hans Kilde
3.3 km
A tiny historic spring tucked behind Roskilde’s houses, Sct. Hans Kilde offers a brief, tranquil glimpse into the town’s medieval, church-linked water heritage.
Lovise Kilden
3.3 km
A quietly flowing spring on Folkeparken’s edge, where a 19th-century convent resident left her name on Roskilde’s gentle green landscape.
Rørmosen sti
3.3 km
A small, tranquil nature path with pond, reeds and everyday birdlife, tucked behind Roskilde’s Hørhusene homes for easy, close-to-town walks.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Vigen
0.2 km
Waterfront Danish dining on Roskilde Fjord, where smørrebrød lunches and sunset dinners share the stage with sweeping views towards Roskilde’s historic skyline.
M/S Sagafjord - Restaurant Roskilde
2.5 km
Classic restaurant ship gliding across Roskilde Fjord, pairing seasonal local cuisine with slow, scenic cruises from the harbour’s edge.
Café Fjordliv
2.5 km
Harbourfront Nordic–French café in Roskilde with its own sourdough bakery, organic coffee and seasonal small plates served beside the calm waters of the fjord.
Snekken Trattoria
2.6 km
Waterfront Italian-inspired dining on Roskilde Harbour, pairing fjord views and a large terrace with relaxed brasserie dishes, brunch and all‑day service.
Restaurant Store Børs
2.6 km
Seasonal Danish gourmet dining overlooking Roskilde Fjord, where ingredient quality and informal elegance meet.
Viking Pizza Roskilde
2.9 km
Hearty pizzas and grill classics near Roskilde’s Viking harbour, serving no‑nonsense comfort food for families, locals and museum‑goers from late morning to evening.
Pipers Hus
3.0 km
Classic Danish comfort food in a park pavilion with sweeping views over Roskilde Bypark, the harbour and fjord, blending city dining with a touch of nature.
Restaurant Raadhuskælderen
3.5 km
Historic cellar dining beneath Roskilde’s old town hall, serving classic Danish smørrebrød and hearty dishes in a warm, modern-meets-traditional setting.
Rib House
3.5 km
Hearty ribs and grill classics in a relaxed, family‑friendly steakhouse tucked into a central Roskilde courtyard near the city’s historic sights.
Restaurant Mumm I/S
3.6 km
Slow-food focused, seasonal small-plate dining in an intimate Roskilde townhouse with a leafy summer courtyard and a distinctly Nordic, wine-led evening atmosphere.
Florentz Cafe & Brasserie - Restaurant Roskilde
3.6 km
French-inspired café and brasserie in Roskilde’s historic Hotel Prindsen building, serving brunch, bistro classics and drinks on lively pedestrian Algade.
Bryggergården
3.6 km
Traditional Danish cooking and local beers in a historic former brewery house on Roskilde’s main pedestrian street, blending cozy interiors with lively street life.
Restart
3.6 km
Casual café-restaurant on Roskilde’s main pedestrian street, serving fresh, unfussy salads, sandwiches and cakes in a warm, modern Scandinavian setting.
Restaurant Upstairs
3.6 km
Elevated European dining in historic Roskilde, where seasonal ingredients and skilled craftsmanship meet Nordic warmth.
Namaste - Restaurant Roskilde
3.6 km
Authentic North Indian cuisine in a beautifully restored historic building in central Roskilde.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Red Cross Op Shop
3.4 km
Volunteer-run Red Cross thrift shop in central Roskilde, where affordable second-hand finds and everyday browsing quietly support humanitarian work.
No 1 Butik
3.5 km
Intimate Roskilde lifestyle boutique blending Nordic design, playful gifts and gourmet treats into one cozy, carefully curated shopping stop.
Byline Denmark (tidligere Byline & Bisgaard)
3.5 km
A cozy courtyard boutique in the heart of Roskilde, blending Scandinavian fashion, accessories, and gift ideas in a calm, well-curated setting.
Metropol
3.6 km
Intimate Roskilde boutique in Djalma Lunds Gård, blending Scandinavian style, curated labels and a touch of vintage in a calm, welcoming shopping space.
NORII Roskilde
3.6 km
A cozy Scandinavian womenswear boutique on Roskilde’s Algade, offering curated, timeless pieces and personal service in the heart of the historic city.
PURE Copenhagen
3.6 km
A cosy Roskilde boutique blending Scandinavian-inspired women’s fashion, personal styling, and a relaxed neighbourhood feel right on historic Algade.
Hos Simone
3.6 km
Cosy mother‑and‑daughter women’s boutique on Roskilde’s main street, offering wearable Scandinavian style, fair prices and warmly personal, small‑town service.
Copenhagen Luxe Roskilde
3.6 km
Curated Scandinavian fashion in natural materials on Roskilde's pedestrian shopping street.
Feelfash
3.6 km
Intimate fashion boutique on Roskilde’s Algade, blending Danish street style with occasion-ready looks in a compact, curated setting.
Bog & Idé
3.6 km
Central Roskilde’s cozy book and gift shop, where classic Danish bookselling meets games, stationery and everyday essentials on historic Stændertorvet.
Bahne
3.6 km
Scandi-chic fashion, interiors and gifts gathered under one roof on Roskilde’s main shopping street, blending everyday practicality with laid-back Danish style.
Boutique Dedenroth v / Helle Dedenroth
3.6 km
Owner-run women’s fashion boutique on Roskilde’s central square, offering curated, timeless clothing and a relaxed, personal shopping experience.
Den franske vinhandel
3.6 km
Historic Roskilde wine merchant with a cavernous cellar, freshly roasted coffee and gourmet treats, turning a simple shopping stop into a richly flavoured experience.
Normal
3.6 km
Brand-name products at unbeatable prices in central Roskilde's premier discount store.
Imerco
3.6 km
Bright, well-stocked Danish homeware and kitchen store on Roskilde’s main pedestrian street, perfect for practical buys and design-led souvenirs in one easy stop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Teatercaféen
3.0 km
Unpretentious local beer hall in Roskilde where everyday life, cheap drinks and warm conversation matter more than design or trends.
PAUSE
3.6 km
Intimate wine and beer bar in Roskilde's historic center, celebrating Nordic hospitality and craft beverages.
PROP Vin og Tapasbar
3.6 km
Intimate Roskilde wine bar pairing curated bottles with Mediterranean-inspired tapas in a candlelit room and sheltered courtyard, strictly for a relaxed 25+ crowd.
Ruder Konge Bodega
3.7 km
A timeworn Danish bodega in central Roskilde, offering cheap beer, pool tables and unpretentious pub life just off the city’s main pedestrian street.
Gullanden
3.7 km
An unpretentious Roskilde pub with darts, DJ nights, cold beer and a loyal local crowd, where evenings stretch easily into the early hours.
Klosterkælderen
3.7 km
Roskilde's premier craft beer cellar with 200+ beers and authentic Danish pub charm.
Mulligans Irish Pub
3.7 km
Authentic Irish pub in two storeys with live music, craft beers, and vibrant social atmosphere in central Roskilde.
Copé Lounge
3.7 km
Urban lounge bar by Roskilde’s main square, blending backyard summer vibes, easygoing cocktails and cosy Danish hygge late into the night.
Georges Bodega
3.8 km
Old-school Danish bodega at Roskilde’s Hestetorvet, pouring cold beer from morning to late night with indoor smoking, local regulars and station-square views.
Gustav Wieds - Byens Ølbar
3.8 km
Craft-focused neighbourhood beer bar in central Roskilde, combining eight rotating taps, a cosy wooden interior, jukebox tunes and billiards in a relaxed local atmosphere.
28 Live
3.9 km
A lively “youth club for adults” in central Roskilde, blending bar, games, live shows, sport and nightclub energy under one sociable roof.
RUCbar - café & bar
4.4 km
Student-run café-bar at Roskilde University’s Student House, serving affordable drinks and coffee in a relaxed campus hangout from lunchtime into the evening.
Roskilde Bodega
4.4 km
Classic Danish corner bar on Holbækvej with pool, darts, slot machines and a lively local crowd, offering an unpolished, authentic bodega atmosphere from day to late night.
Charlie Chaplin
5.0 km
An unfussy neighbourhood bar in Roskilde, Charlie Chaplin pours cold beers and warm conversation in a relaxed local bodega setting far from the city’s tourist crowds.
Vinbaren Muicon
5.1 km
An intimate wine bar in Roskilde’s Musicon district, pairing cozy Nordic warmth with a curated wine list and relaxed, conversation-friendly vibes.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Danseriet
3.7 km
Frivilligdrevet danseklub i Roskilde med stort dansegulv, livebands og hyggelig stemning for danseglade gæster på tværs af aldre og niveauer.
Garbos Roskilde
3.8 km
Cozy neighborhood nightclub in central Roskilde, blending casual bar vibes with a compact dance floor and late-night weekend energy on Hersegade.
Dansebar Roskilde
3.9 km
Roskilde's premier multi-floor nightclub with dual dance spaces, three bars, and DJ-driven energy until dawn.
Klubhuset
6.3 km
Low-key local clubhouse turned disco-style nightspot, where a simple bar, small dance floor and regulars’ vibe create relaxed, unpretentious nights in Roskilde.
Tropicana DC
6.4 km
Compact Latin-flavoured nightclub on Roskilde’s industrial edge, delivering loud beats, simple drinks and a late-night dancefloor focused purely on partying.
Den Dansende Viking
12.6 km
High-energy suburban nightclub in Egedal Centret, serving packed dance floors, late-night DJ sets and budget-friendly drinks for party-focused weekends.
The Flame
25.3 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub by Køge’s harbor, serving up youthful beats, live acts and weekend dance-floor vibes in an intimate, no-frills setting.
LUSIO
25.3 km
Compact harbor-side nightclub in Køge with late Friday hours, a tight dance floor, and an intimate, no‑frills setting for Danish weekend nights out.
Bloom Nightclub
25.3 km
Late-night harborfront beats and a compact dance floor bring big-night energy to small-city Køge every Friday and Saturday.
Club El Diablo
26.2 km
Adults-only entertainment venue offering a discreet, welcoming atmosphere for private social experiences.
Falafelberg
28.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
Haven - Events
28.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
28.6 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Union
30.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Union, Copenhagen's premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable experience.
Vela Lesbian Lgbtq+ NightClub
30.0 km
Experience the inclusive spirit and vibrant nightlife at Vela Lesbian LGBTQ+ Nightclub in Copenhagen, where every night is a celebration of love and diversity.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
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
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
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
