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Berlin Zoo

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Berlin Zoo (Germany)

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Highlights of 2026

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The Berlin Zoological Garden opened in 1844, making it the oldest and most species-rich zoo in Germany. On an area of approximately 33 hectares in Berlin's Tiergarten, around 20,000 animals from over 1,200 species are kept today. Architectural highlights include the pagoda-style Elephant Gate, which is one of the city's most photographed landmarks. A special focus is placed on the breeding and protection of endangered species, such as Giant Pandas, for which a modern enclosure was constructed. The adjacent Berlin Aquarium houses an impressive variety of fish, reptiles, and amphibians across three floors. Historically, the zoo played a central role in scientific animal husbandry and is closely linked to the history of the city of Berlin. Millions of people visit the facility annually to explore extensive enclosures like the Hippo House. The zoo also makes significant global contributions to species conservation programs.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-104914182120151051
Rain mm533841295357815848485047

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Berlin Zoo is a vast zoo that can be fully explored on foot. All areas are open to visitors, including the aquarium and the great ape house.
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Typical hours
The zoo is typically open daily from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm, closing earlier in winter. Last admission is usually one hour before closing.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the zoo, but without flash in the animal houses. Professional shoots require a permit.
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Time needed
A visit takes on average three to four hours. If you want to see the aquarium and all animal houses, plan a full day.
Combine with
Combine your zoo visit with the nearby Tierpark Berlin or the Botanical Garden. Charlottenburg Palace and Kurfürstendamm are also close by.
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Getting there
The zoo is located in central Berlin at Zoologischer Garten station. It is excellently accessible by U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and bus; parking is limited.
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Insider tip
Visit the zoo early in the morning when the animals are most active. A combo ticket for zoo and aquarium saves time and money.

Geography

Coordinates
52.50830, 13.33770

Facts

  • Opened on August 1, 1844.
  • Houses approximately 20,000 animals across over 1,200 species.
  • The Berlin Aquarium was opened in 1913.
  • The zoo survived WWII with only 91 surviving animals.
  • Knut, the famous polar bear, was born here in 2006.
  • First hippo house in the world with underwater observation.

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Sights in the town Berlin Zoo (10)

Snowy Owl

Snowy owl at Berlin Zoo, white plumage, lives in the Arctic, here in an aviary.

Brillenkauz

Spectacled owl, an owl species from South America, with distinctive facial feathers.

Gänsegeier

Griffon vulture, large bird of prey with light brown plumage, in the zoo's aviary.

Berlin Zoo

Germany's oldest zoo, opened in 1844, houses over 20,000 animals on 35 hectares.

🕒 Oct 28-Feb 25 Mo-Su,PH 09:00-16:30; Feb 26-Mar 24 Mo-Su,PH 0💶

Galerie SLP

Gallery for contemporary photography and art, with rotating exhibitions.

Studio183

Art gallery and event space for exhibitions and cultural events.

Aquarium Berlin

Large aquarium at Berlin Zoo, featuring fish, reptiles, and amphibians from around the world.

Museum of Photography🏛 museum

Museum of photography near the zoo, collection on the history of photography and Helmut Newton.

Helmut Newton Foundation🏛 museum

Foundation with a permanent exhibition of the works of photographer Helmut Newton.

Lichtensteinbrücke

Bridge in Berlin, connecting the zoo to the Tiergarten park, named after the painter.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Berlin Zoo the oldest in Germany?
Yes, it opened in 1844, making it the oldest and most species-rich zoo in the country.
Are there giant pandas there?
Berlin Zoo is home to the only giant pandas in Germany, housed in the modern Panda Garden.
Can I buy a combined ticket with the Aquarium?
Yes, discounted combined tickets are available for visiting both the Zoo and the adjacent Berlin Aquarium.
What is the best way to get to the zoo?
The 'Bahnhof Zoologischer Garten' station is a major transport hub for S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and buses.
Are handcarts available for rent?
Yes, handcarts can be rented for the day at the Löwentor and Elefantentor entrances.
Berlin Zoo: where is it located?
Berlin Zoo is located in Berlin, Germany.
Berlin Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Snowy Owl, Brillenkauz, Gänsegeier.
Berlin Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Berlin Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
The Berlin Zoological Garden opened in 1844, making it the oldest and most species-rich zoo in Germany.
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