Zoo Zürich Zurich
Explore diverse species in expansive, naturalistic habitats, including the immersive Masoala Rainforest Hall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Zoo Zürich Zurich
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse species in expansive, naturalistic habitats, including the immersive Masoala Rainforest Hall.
"One of the best zoos in Europe with sprawling enclosures and a unique tropical hall."
🎯 Beat the Ticket Queue
Book tickets online in advance to skip the long lines, especially on busy days.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large and spread out; be prepared for a lot of walking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Masoala Rainforest Hall
Tropical Hall
Step into a lush, humid world with exotic plants and free-roaming animals. A true escape!
Snow Leopard Cubs
Big Cat Area (check availability)
Witness the adorable and rare snow leopard cubs in their spacious, naturalistic habitat.
Penguin Parade
Penguin Enclosure
A charming daily spectacle where penguins waddle and play, especially delightful in cooler weather.
Children's Zoo (Kinderzoo)
Kinderzoo Area
Interactive fun for kids, with opportunities to get up close with and even pet some friendly animals.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save Time
Weather & Animal Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Ticket Queue
Book tickets online in advance to skip the long lines, especially on busy days.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large and spread out; be prepared for a lot of walking.
📱 Download the Zoo App
Get a real-time map and information on feeding times and events.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Save money and stay hydrated. Consider picnic spots for a budget-friendly meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Ticket Queue
Book tickets online in advance to skip the long lines, especially on busy days.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is large and spread out; be prepared for a lot of walking.
📱 Download the Zoo App
Get a real-time map and information on feeding times and events.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Save money and stay hydrated. Consider picnic spots for a budget-friendly meal.
🐧 Don't Miss the Parade
The daily penguin parade is a must-see, especially in winter!
🐘 Check Animal Schedules
Some animals may not be visible due to weather or enclosure renovations; check online.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Zurich Zoo for its spacious, naturalistic animal enclosures and the variety of species, including rare snow leopard cubs. The Masoala Hall is a standout attraction. However, some find that many animals are not visible, leading to disappointment, and the zoo can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and during peak season. Parking is also noted as a significant downside.
"This was one of the best zoos I've seen in Europe. They have a wide variety of animals, including baby snow leopards. Very cool! They also had penguins. The place also had plenty of places to eat and relax, as well as many bathrooms. Definitely recommend."
Michael C. Delapena
"It was a huge zoo with lots of cool stuff. Loved that the animals had sprawling enclosures. But many of the animals were nowhere to be found, with no explanation or signage. We'd walk a mile+ with the kids to see the lions or gorillas and discover they're not there that day??
It was also incredibly crowded. We went on a random Wednesday day in August and the line to buy tickets for anyone who hadn't bought online was very long."
shell
"The zoo itself is nice and well maintained, but be prepared for a lot of walking — it’s quite spread out. Unfortunately, on the day we visited, many animals were not outside, probably due to the rainy weather, which is understandable.
The biggest downside was the parking really not ideal. I’d definitely recommend coming early or, even better, taking public transport if you can. 🅿️
Overall, a decent experience, but best enjoyed on a dry day and with a bit of planning."
A. Still
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Zurich Zoo is easily accessible via public transport. Take Tram 6 directly to the 'Zoo' stop. If you have a Zurich Card, public transport is included.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be limited and expensive. Many visitors recommend using public transport to avoid parking hassles.
The Zurich Card provides free public transport and discounts on various attractions, but typically does not include zoo admission itself. It's best to check the current benefits.
From Zurich Airport, take a train to Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main station), then transfer to Tram 6 directly to the zoo. The journey is about 30-40 minutes.
The zoo is generally well-maintained and accessible, with paved paths. However, some areas might be hilly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for adults, children, and concessions. It's recommended to check the official Zurich Zoo website for the most up-to-date pricing. Booking online can sometimes offer savings.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the zoo entrance, but expect potentially long queues, especially during peak times. Booking online is highly recommended to save time.
Yes, the zoo offers family tickets and discounts for groups. An annual pass (Jahreskarte) can be very cost-effective for frequent visitors, with family passes available.
Opening hours vary seasonally. Generally, the zoo is open daily, but it's best to check the official website for current hours, especially during holidays or off-season.
Yes, there are special experiences like giraffe feeding and lorikeet feeding, which require separate tickets and have limited availability. Book these in advance if possible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the snow leopards, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and the animals within the Masoala Rainforest Hall. The penguin parade is also a popular attraction. 
To see most of the zoo properly, plan for at least 3-4 hours, especially if visiting with children. Some visitors spend up to 5 hours.
Yes, there are several restaurants and snack bars within the zoo, offering various options. Some have playgrounds for children.
The Masoala Hall is a large, humid tropical biodome replicating a Madagascar rainforest. It houses diverse flora and fauna, including free-roaming animals.
The zoo often hosts special events, educational programs, and animal feeding demonstrations. Check their website for the latest schedule.
📸 📸 Photography
The Masoala Hall offers unique, lush backdrops. The spacious enclosures for animals like snow leopards and elephants provide great photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid using flash, especially in indoor exhibits.
While general photography is permitted, professional shoots or commercial use may require special permission. Always respect signage and staff instructions.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing distant animals. A wide-angle lens can be great for the Masoala Hall's immersive environment.
Yes, the giraffe feeding experience offers close-up photo opportunities, but tickets are limited and sell out quickly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
To make the day smoother, bring snacks and drinks, or utilize the zoo's restaurants. The zoo app can help you navigate and find feeding times, keeping little ones entertained. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds and potential meltdowns.
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The spacious, naturalistic enclosures for animals like snow leopards and elephants are ideal for capturing compelling shots. +1 Remember to check the zoo's schedule for animal activity and consider visiting during the 'golden hours' (early morning or late afternoon) for softer light. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Zurich Zoo with Kids
Beyond the animals, the zoo provides amenities like playgrounds and family-friendly restaurants. Consider downloading the zoo's app for a map and to track feeding times, which can help structure your visit and keep children engaged. The Masoala Hall offers a unique indoor adventure, perfect for escaping the weather or simply exploring a different ecosystem.
Pro-tip: Look into family annual passes if you plan on visiting multiple times, as they can offer significant savings. Also, check for any special children's events or activities that might be happening during your visit.
Maximizing Your Visit: Tips from Locals & Frequent Visitors
Beyond just seeing animals, engaging with the zoo's schedule is key. Checking the feeding times and special events online before your visit can significantly enhance your experience. The daily penguin parade is a beloved ritual, particularly during the colder months, offering a charming spectacle.
For those interested in specific experiences like giraffe feeding, it's essential to book these limited tickets well in advance. If you miss out, consider the lorikeet feeding as an alternative, which is often more accessible and equally enjoyable.
Understanding Zurich's Zoo Pricing & Value
Look out for potential discounts through local banks or insurance providers like ZKB or Mobiliar, which have offered 20% off in the past.
When considering the price, remember that Zurich Zoo is a large, well-maintained facility with extensive enclosures and a commitment to animal welfare. The Masoala Hall, for instance, offers a unique, immersive experience that is hard to find elsewhere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit