Diergaarde Blijdorp
Explore diverse Asian, African, and Arctic wildlife in a beautifully designed zoo with an impressive Oceania aquarium and naturalistic habitats.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Diergaarde Blijdorp
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse Asian, African, and Arctic wildlife in a beautifully designed zoo with an impressive Oceania aquarium and naturalistic habitats.
"Rotterdam Zoo is a beautifully designed, peaceful place where animals are cared for in naturalistic habitats."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Easier access and saves time at the entrance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large, so be prepared for a lot of walking!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oceania Aquarium
Oceania section
Dive into a vibrant underwater world with diverse marine life, including sharks and starfish. Learn fascinating facts about their feeding habits!

Arctic & Antarctic Worlds
Arctic/Antarctic zones
Witness the majestic white bear in its naturalistic habitat – a truly mesmerizing and powerful sight.

Asian & African Habitats
Various themed zones
Explore diverse landscapes and get up close to a wide array of animals from continents far and wide.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Check Animal Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Easier access and saves time at the entrance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large, so be prepared for a lot of walking!
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
At least 4 hours needed to see most of the zoo.
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Great opportunities for photos, especially of the white bear.
Poes & Norbu Jr. in Diergaarde Blijdorp Rotterdam
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Easier access and saves time at the entrance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large, so be prepared for a lot of walking!
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
At least 4 hours needed to see most of the zoo.
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Great opportunities for photos, especially of the white bear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diergaarde Blijdorp is widely praised as a large, beautifully designed zoo with naturalistic habitats that care for animals well. Visitors highlight the impressive Oceania aquarium and the mesmerizing white bear as major attractions. While the zoo is extensive and requires ample time, it's considered a worthwhile and interesting visit for couples and families alike.
"Great Zoo! The zoo was bigger than i expected, to get through it we walked around from 11:00 till 17:00. A big sealife area is present with lots of different types of animals. Then you have themes all around the park with animals there based on where they live in the world, recommended for couples and families!"
Brent Vliegen
"Interesting visit for this zoo and equirium.
It is so big Zoo, require at least 4 hours to discover it. Recommended if you will visit Rotterdam.
Buy tickets online will be easier to access from the official website."
Khalil Alsaboori
"Rotterdam Zoo is a beautifully designed, peaceful place where animals are cared for in naturalistic habitats. One unforgettable moment for me was seeing a majestic white bear — calm, powerful, and mesmerizing. It made the visit truly special."
ana geguchadze
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Diergaarde Blijdorp is easily accessible by public transport. You can take tram 7 from Rotterdam Centraal Station directly to the zoo entrance. If you're driving, there is parking available, though it can get busy.
Yes, the zoo is located relatively close to the city center and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists visiting Rotterdam.
Absolutely! Tram 7 is a convenient option from Rotterdam Centraal. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
There is a parking lot available at Diergaarde Blijdorp. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, as it can fill up quickly.
The zoo is well-signposted within Rotterdam, and using a navigation app on your phone will also guide you directly to the entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to buy your tickets online from the official Diergaarde Blijdorp website. This ensures easier access and often saves you time queuing at the ticket counter.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Diergaarde Blijdorp website for the most current opening and closing times for your planned visit date.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or groups. Check the zoo's official website or look for promotions from local partners.
Yes, pre-booked tickets, especially those purchased online, allow for smooth entry. You'll typically scan a QR code or present your ticket at the gate.
Purchasing tickets online in advance is the most effective way to avoid queues. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekdays, can also help.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that it takes at least 4 to 6 hours to fully explore the zoo and its various exhibits, including the Oceania aquarium.
The Oceania aquarium is a major highlight, as is the Arctic/Antarctic section featuring the white bear. The diverse Asian and African habitats are also highly recommended.
Absolutely! The zoo is designed to be engaging for all ages, with spacious enclosures and educational elements. There's also a kids' playground.
In many areas, you can get quite close to the animals, allowing for a more immersive experience. The naturalistic habitats are designed to showcase animals in a way that feels authentic.
It's always a good idea to check the official Diergaarde Blijdorp website for any temporary exhibits, special events, or keeper talks that might be scheduled during your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and snack bars located throughout the zoo offering a variety of food options, from quick snacks to full meals.
Generally, bringing your own food and non-alcoholic beverages is permitted. However, it's always good to check the zoo's specific policy on their website.
The dining options typically include typical zoo fare like fries, burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as some healthier choices.
Most food outlets at popular attractions like Diergaarde Blijdorp offer vegetarian options, and often vegan choices are available too. It's best to inquire at the specific eatery.
Food prices at zoos can be on the higher side compared to outside. Bringing some of your own snacks can help manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
The naturalistic enclosures offer great opportunities. The white bear, the diverse marine life in the Oceania aquarium, and the various themed zones provide unique photo backdrops.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check for signage.
A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing animals at varying distances. A wide-angle lens can be great for the enclosures and the aquarium.
Yes, with patience and the right timing, you can capture excellent photos. The naturalistic habitats often provide good lighting and backgrounds.
The majestic white bear is a standout subject. The colorful fish in the Oceania aquarium and the playful primates are also excellent photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, plan for at least half a day. Pack snacks and drinks, or utilize the on-site dining options. Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as there's a lot of ground to cover. The zoo's layout is generally easy to navigate, making it a stress-free outing for parents.
couples
Consider visiting during the week to enjoy a more intimate atmosphere. The zoo's naturalistic settings provide a romantic backdrop, and the opportunity to observe animals together can lead to engaging conversations and shared memories. It's a perfect blend of education and leisure for a couple's day trip.
Budget Travelers
Focus on the free attractions within the zoo, such as the main animal enclosures and the educational displays. Prioritize which areas you most want to see if time is limited, ensuring you get the most out of your admission fee. Walking is the primary mode of transport within the zoo, so comfortable shoes are key to maximizing your exploration without additional costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Oceania Aquarium
One of the memorable aspects highlighted by visitors is learning about the unique biological processes, such as a starfish pushing its stomach out to eat. This level of detail makes the aquarium not just visually stunning but also highly informative. It's a section that can easily captivate visitors for a significant portion of their visit.
To make the most of your aquarium experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours if possible, as it can get crowded. Take your time to read the information panels, which offer valuable context about the species on display and their conservation status.
The Majestic White Bear
Seeing the white bear is often cited as a highlight that makes the visit truly special. The spacious enclosure provides ample room for the bear to roam, and visitors can observe its behavior in a setting that mimics its natural environment. This thoughtful design contributes to both the animal's welfare and the visitor's experience.
When visiting the Arctic and Antarctic zones, remember to be patient. Animals are most active at certain times of the day, and observing them in a calm, natural state often yields the most rewarding sightings. Photography here can be particularly striking, capturing the bear's imposing presence against its habitat.
Planning Your Visit: Time and Logistics
To streamline your entry and avoid potential queues, booking tickets online from the official website is a highly recommended tip from frequent visitors. This simple step ensures a smoother start to your zoo adventure. Furthermore, wearing comfortable shoes is essential, as you'll be doing a considerable amount of walking across the expansive grounds.
Consider visiting on weekdays during the morning to experience fewer crowds and potentially see the animals when they are most active. While Friday afternoons are noted as being less busy than weekends, weekdays generally offer a more tranquil experience, allowing for better observation and photography opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit