Zoo Berlin
With over 3.5 million annual visitors (including the aquarium), Zoo Berlin is of the most popular attractions in Berlin. It’s the oldest Zoo in Germany and is home to more species than any other zoo in the world. Today the 80 acre zoo has more than 20,000 animals representing over 1300 species.
Zoo Berlin is located in Tiergarten at one of the city’s major transport hubs - Berlin Zoologischer Garten often referred to as the Zoo. Directly served by the U-Bahn, S-Bahn and multiple bus lines, it is easy to get to.
Zoo Berlin’s mandate goes well beyond displaying animals that people normally don’t get to see. It is highly specialized in its focus on global conservation efforts and preserving endangered species.
To this end, they work closely with universities, research facilities and other zoos from around the globe to support breeding programs and help reintroduce endangered species.
They also work closely with Berlin's other large zoo, Tierpark Berlin which came into being
Highlights of the zoo include the Hippopotamus House, Panda Garden, Eagle Canyon, Penguin World, Great Apes, and the World of Birds with free-flight halls.
Aquarium Berlin is also part of Zoo Berlin, but it can be visited separately or with a combination pass for only slightly more. We have more information about Aquarium Berlin on a separate page.
Zoo Berlin invests considerable effort to house its animals in enclosures that mimic their natural environments.
For an additional fee, you can take part in one of several guided tours around different themes providing additional insights into the animals and taking you behind the scenes.
History
The idea to open a zoological garden originated with the director of the zoological museum and a professor at Berlin University Martin Hinrich Lichtenstein. He was an advisor to the King and in charge of his collection of animals. Working with naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, and landscape architect Peter Joseph Lenné the project was given the go-ahead.
The zoo took 3 years to build and first opened in 1844 with animals donated from the menagerie and pheasantry of King Friedrich Wilhelm IV.
The zoo underwent multiple expansions and was home to over 4000 animals by the start of the Second World War. Tragically, only 91 survived the war which was heavily damaged, especially near the end when it was one of the last areas of Nazi German resistance.
Since the war, the zoo has been and continues to be progressively restored and updated becoming the world-class facility it is today.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesZoo Berlin Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Address: Hardenbergpl. 8, 10787 Berlin, Germany
Official Website: Zoo Berlin
Zoo Berlin Reviews
Rated
out of 5 Huge variety of animals in spacious enclosures. Beautifully landscaped with plenty of greenery, making it a pleasant place to spend a whole day. Great for all ages! Don't miss the impressive hippo house with underwater viewing, the sprawling penguin world, and of course, the popular giant panda garden.
Alex Glimberg - in the last week
I had the most amazing experience visiting the zoo in Berlin! It's the biggest zoo I've ever been to, and I was absolutely fascinated by the wide variety of animals and exhibits. From majestic elephants to playful monkeys, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The layout of the zoo was well-planned, making it easy to navigate and explore.
Additionally, the food court was fantastic, offering a diverse selection of delicious meals and snacks to fuel my day of adventure. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, animal lover, or simply looking for a fun day out, I highly recommend visiting this zoo.
Costin Lucian - a month ago
Enjoyed it big time. We bought bundle tickets for zoo+ aquarium in advance. Spent around 4 hrs in zoo & 1 hr in aquarium in a fast mode. Could easily add another 2 hrs. Very well designed & well preserved zoo. Recommended for tourists as a break in between all museums & buildings visit in Berlin. Petting zoo is a must 😍
Sajedeh Naghavi - 3 weeks ago
The Berlin zoo is pretty amazing and if could spend an amazing 3-4 hours here. There are a lot of animals and birds and will take a few hours to cover the entire place. The zoo is very well maintained and very clean. It’s very popular amongst the kids but adults have a great time as well. I would recommend this zoo and spending half a day here. Also, tickets might be purchased online or directly at the zoo counter. The hand out a map of the zoo to make it easier to navigate inside.
saurabh gagpalliwar - a month ago
Wonderful zoo in a very old and beautifully maintained park in Berlin. Many exotic animals all laid out by region or country they all come from. Perfect weather, zoo had a lot of visitors but had plenty of room to keep moving and see the exhibits. First zoo I have seen in Europe and it was well worth the few Euros.
Tony R - 4 weeks ago
Directions
How to get to Zoo Berlin by U-Bahn or S-Bahn
Nearest U-Bahn or S-Bahn Line(s): U2, U3, U9, S3, S5, S7, S9, S75
Nearest U-Bahn or S-Bahn Station(s): Berlin Zoologischer Garten
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