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
I’m very satisfied with my visit to the Berlin Zoo. The variety of animals is impressive, and the viewing areas are perfectly designed for easy observation. The landscaping is also beautiful, making the walk very enjoyable.
The only downside was visiting in winter. Many animals stayed indoors to keep warm, so I couldn't see them all. Despite the limited visibility, the ticket price was the same as in summer, which was a bit disappointing.
Overall, it's a 4.5/5 experience for me, but the quality of the zoo is so high that I’m happy to give it 5 stars. Highly recommended, but better to visit during warmer months!
Tấn Trà Nguyễn - 4 weeks ago
If you love animals, don't miss this place. It’s very clean and organized. However, on weekends, it gets crowded like a house on fire, so I recommend going on a weekday morning. The bird house and the hippos were my favorites. It’s very easy to access by train (U-Bahn/S-Bahn). Highly recommended! Online ticket is cheaper.
Mahsa Hafezi - a month ago
We visited Berlin Zoo during Christmas week with our kids, and it was a wonderful experience. Even in winter, the zoo is well organized and very enjoyable for families. Many indoor enclosures and animal houses were open and warm, which was perfect for children. The zoo is spacious, clean, and easy to walk around, and we loved seeing iconic animals like the pandas and elephants. There were also festive touches that made the visit feel special during the holiday season. Our kids had a great time and learned a lot. Highly recommended for families visiting Berlin, even in winter!
Vangelis Afantenos - 3 months ago
Absolutely delightful experience. Would love to visit again sometime soon. The giant pandas, different types of monkeys, giraffes strolling around, tiger, lion, hippopotamus, bears lying around, the penguins, seals, and so much more. My toddler had a great time and the snack shops and playgrounds were the cherries on top.
Ellen John - a month ago
Zoologischer Garten is more than just a zoo—it’s a whole experience, especially during the Christmas season. We actually didn’t go inside the zoo to see the animals, but spent most of our time walking around the area and exploring the Christmas market, which was absolutely worth it.
The festive lights, food stalls, and hot wine created such a cozy winter atmosphere. One of the biggest highlights was seeing the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, left intentionally half-destroyed as a reminder of history. We went inside, and it was quiet, powerful, and very humbling—an unforgettable contrast to the lively Christmas market outside.
It’s a perfect spot to stroll, soak in Berlin’s history, and enjoy seasonal treats, even if you’re not planning to visit the zoo itself. A great mix of culture, history, and holiday vibes. Highly recommended, especially in winter.
Sheika Fateema - a month 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
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Zoo Berlin:
Photo Gallery
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Photo Credit: marsupium photography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: marsupium photography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: marsupium photography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: marsupium photography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: marsupium photography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: marsupium photography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: marsupium photography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: marsupium photography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: foilman - cc license via Flickr
