19 Best Zoos in Europe for Families (+ 2 Safari Parks!)

We love travelling as a family and finding experiences that are both meaningful and manageable for our kids.

Zoos can be surprisingly great days out, especially with our youngest, who craves free running space. While we always prefer seeing wildlife in natural habitats, sometimes a zoo is the next best thing.

So in this guide, we’ve gathered the best zoos in Europe so that you can plan a visit that actually works for your family.

1. Pairi Daiza, Belgium 

Pairi Daizi in Belgium was voted “the best zoo in Europe” and “the most beautiful zoo in the Benelux”! Oh and it also has 3 stars in the Michelin Guide. It goes without saying that a visit to Pairi Daiza is definitely a good idea! 

(And as someone living only 40 minutes away, my family goes there about once a month, so I know what I’m talking about 😊)

This 65-hectare domain is the biggest zoo in Belgium and has no less than 7000 animals that you can pay a visit to. It’s also one of the largest zoos in Europe.

Their most famous inhabitants are the giant pandas, it’s the first and only zoo in Belgium where you can see them and it’s one of the only zoos with pandas in Europe. 

The entire domain is beautifully decorated and well-maintained, making it not only a nice trip to see animals but also a great place to walk around and enjoy the surroundings. 

You’ll have a hard time seeing everything on a single day visit (especially with the opening of the world’s largest greenhouse Edenya in February 2026)

If you have the budget, I can totally recommend staying the night. The most special rooms offer an exclusive view over the animals. 

We’re a big fan of the full moon lodges. These little hobbit houses have a large window overlooking the play domain of the wolves and the bears. But you can also book a room watching the polar bears, the tigers, the farm animals, or the overwater bungalows in Edenya.

Make sure to book accommodation well upfront, because the resorts runs at 100% occupancy!

The zoo is open from 10:00 to at least 18:00 every day (they close for 5 weeks in January/February though). You can find Pairi Daiza near the Cambron-Casteau train station on the Ath-Mons line! Tickets for 12 years old and above cost €43, and kids between 4 and 11 years old pay €37. Children under 3 years old get free access, while visitors over 60 years old get a discounted rate of €41. You can also get a season pass (Membership Card) that you can use for the full year! For more details about their tickets and resort, visit Pairi Daiza’s website. 

2. Colchester Zoo, UK 

Colchester Zoo in Essex, UK is a great zoo in Europe. It’s home to over 180 species. The zoo is divided into 36 different areas.

One of the most impressive exhibits is ‘Kingdom of the Wild’. This large outdoor paddock has giraffes, ostriches, rhinos, zebras, and great kudu’s all living together, similar to how they would in the African savanna.

There are also additional elephant and giraffe feeding experiences for an additional cost which goes towards the zoo’s operational fund. These are limited and act as part of the animal’s enrichment and regular diet. 

Chimpanzee Lookout and Rajang’s Forest are two other awesome exhibits that have recently been renovated. 

The Colchester Zoo is ethical, meeting the standards of the Zoo Licensing Act. It is also part of EAZA (European Associations of Zoos and Aquaria) which focuses on education, conservation, and research. 

It’s part of multiple breeding programmes and has its charity ‘Action For The Wild’ which supports conservation projects worldwide, including the UmPhafa Reserve in South Africa. 

An average visit can take between 4 to 6 hours to see everything at a leisurely pace. There’s a large parking area, playgrounds, gift shop, restaurants, and food kiosks. 

Contributed by Kylie from Essex Explored 

Get tickets to Colchester Zoo for only €26.93! The zoo opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4:30 PM on weekdays, and at 5:00 PM on weekends. If you want to go back inside the zoo again on the same day, get the wristband at the exit. 

3. Salzburg Zoo, Austria 

One of the best zoos in the world is located in the Austrian city of Salzburg: Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn. 

This zoo can look back on a long history, because already in the 15th century this was a game park of the prince archbishops. 

The complex with the castle, the fountains, and the zoo was then completed in 1619. 

During a visit, you will discover about 1,500 animals and 150 species of animals from different continents. 

Beautiful and a real highlight is the Africa part, a savannah-like complex with a lion house. 

In Eurasia, you will be amazed by alpine ibexes and brown bears, in America you will find sloths and even lowland tapirs, and in Australia under Parma wallabies await you. 

What is also special is the size of the zoo. On an area of 14 hectares the animals are offered a lot of space, and also the enclosures are rather open. 

The effort is to create a natural habitat, such as alluvial landscapes, rocks, and steppes, which is also felt by the visitor. 

Half a day at the zoo is almost too little, especially if you want to visit the different feeding times. It’s best to plan a whole day at Salzburg Zoo. 

Contributed by Martina from Places of Juma 

An adult ticket to Salzburg Zoo costs €17,00, while visitors ages 15 to 19 only need to pay €11. For kids 4 to 14 years old, their tickets only cost €7. If you stay in Salzburg for at least 24 hours, adults can get the Salzburg Card for €35 (low season)/€38 (high season), and children ages 6–15 for €17.50 (longer stays offer more discounts!). The card gives free or discounted access to over 20 attractions, including the Salzburg Zoo.

4. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, UK 

In the heart of the Cotswolds, in England, you’ll find Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. A half-day visit provides a varied experience of a safari park drive and a walking tour.

Most of the animals roam freely in large moated enclosures centered around a beautiful Gothic Style Manor House. The lack of fencing allows you to enjoy non-obtrusive observation.  

Accented with pristine flower borders and manicured gardens, the Bradwell Grove Estate is reminiscent of nearby Sudeley Castle, without the animals. Animal species include the typical lions, giraffes, rhinos, and zebras.

However, the park has more unusual small mammals such as wolverines, mongooses, lemurs, meerkats, and red pandas.  

In recent years, the wildlife park has contributed to conserving some endangered species. Of its over 250 animal varieties, 40 of them are rare. Its Madagascar exhibit features some endangered lemur breeds.

Some of these breeds are part of breeding programs to prevent declining numbers.  

In 2013, the park formed the Cotswold Wildlife Park Conservation Trust. The charity aims to protect animals and their endangered terrains.

Money raised from various sources helps fund their park’s endangered habitats and supports causes that preserve natural environments.  

For over 50 years, park visitors have enjoyed one of the largest collections of reptiles in the United Kingdom. A park favorite, the giant tortoises greet guests on the lawns in front of the manor house.  

Contributed by Karen from Forever Karen 

The Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens open from 10 am to 4 or 6 pm. Ticket prices start at £80.00 for adults , while tickets for children ages 3 to 16 years old and seniors 65 and over only cost £57.00. If going with a family of 4 people, you can choose the family ticket for £260.00, which covers 2 adults and 2 children. For additional access for a child in the family ticket, you need to add £52.00 at the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens website. 

5. Copenhagen Zoo, Denmark 

Copenhagen Zoo or Zoologisk Have Kobenhavn, is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and is one of the Denmark’s most visited attractions. With over 4000 animals, Copenhagen Zoo is a must-visit if you’re in the area.  

The Zoo is really easy to get to; you can either take the M3 metro to Frederiksberg Alle and walk another 20 minutes to the Zoo or the 7A bus route to Zoologist Have (Roskildevej) which drops you right outside the gates. Both methods cost roughly 24 DK for a one-way ticket.  

The zoo is divided into two parts and separated by the main road Roskildevej. The larger part of the zoo and the main entrance is to the north whilst the section is located to the south. 

Geniusly, the zoo has installed an underground passageway to allow easy access to both parks. 

Easily one of the best animals to see are the two giant pandas currently on loan from China. Divided in separate enclosures, these amazing animals are fascinating to watch.

However, seeing the Polar bears, kangaroos and sloths is also undoubtedly another highlight of the park!  

Despite some recent controversy, Copenhagen Zoo is considered very ethical and the animals have ample space to roam. With 9 main exhibits spanning over 11 hectares, it is recommended to spend a full day exploring the different areas.

The zoo has a couple of restaurants and multiple stands selling hot food and drinks to keep you going throughout your visit.  

Contributed by Leah from Alex and Leah on Tour 

The Copenhagen Zoo is typically open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM during peak summer, with tickets costing only €33.40! Opening hours may change by season, so it’s best to check the official website for the latest details. You can also choose the Copenhagen City Pass to enjoy discounted and free passes to 89 attractions and transportation systems, including the Copenhagen Zoo.  

6. Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland 

Famous for its giant pandas, the 82-acre Edinburgh Zoo is easily one of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids with around 2,500 animals making their homes here, including rare and endangered species.

It also has Europe’s largest outdoor penguin pool, and (when social distancing restrictions permit), the penguins themselves can waddle out for the daily parade, always a highlight for visitors.  

You’ll find plenty of other family favourites, too, from lemurs and chimps to lions, tigers, koalas, and Malayan sun bears, plus a new giraffe habitat that opened in the summer of 2021.

Along with daily keeper talks, there are often extra activities and events taking place too, such as the temporary dinosaur walk-through.  

You’ll need at least half a day to explore, but you could fill a full day without any effort.  

Buses run regularly from Edinburgh city centre to the zoo in the suburb of Corstorphine (plus limited parking and a family-friendly hotel right next door), which also has more space than many city zoos.  

The animals’ welfare was key in its original design, while ethical practices have often been ahead of their time too.

Elephant rides were an option for kids in its early days at the start of the 20th century, but the zoo stopped keeping elephants in captivity in 1988 and now has a sculpture helping to raise awareness and funds for elephant conservation, among other projects worldwide.  

Contributed by Cathy from Mummy Travels 

Prices for 1 adult Edinburgh Zoo ticket cost £30.00, while seniors and students with ID can access the zoo for only £27.00 per ticket. Tickets for children have a discounted price of £22.50. With the Edinburgh: 24-Hour or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour, you get an unlimited pass to bus rides from Bright Bus Tours’ stop in St Andrew Square, additional discounts, and a bus ride to the Edinburgh Zoo! 

7. Skansen Zoo Stockholm, Sweden 

One of the most unique zoos to visit in Europe is Skansen Zoo in Stockholm. This open-air museum is not only a great place to see various animals but also to learn about Swedish history. From African species to domestic pets, this zoo is a perfect choice for a family day out in Stockholm. 

Skansen Zoo is a huge site and it feels more like a town than a typical zoo. It is the oldest open-air museum in the world with interesting Nordic buildings and great views of Stockholm.

On the site, you can visit Skansen Aquarium where you will see tropical fishes or lemurs that are running around the building freely. 

It is a great place to see animals from close up and take amazing pictures with them. Just make sure to spend at least 2 hours in the zoo as there is much more to explore.

From admiring Brown Bear, Otters, and Reindeer to enjoying a great meal in one of the zoo’s restaurants, visiting Skansen Zoo in Stockholm will be an unforgettable experience.  

Contributed by Paulina from Ukeveryday 

Pay only €22.48 Skansen: Open-Air Museum and Nordic Zoo tickets for ages 16 and above! Seniors and students get discounted ticket prices of €17.65, while Admission for children (0–15 years) is now free, though they still require a pre-booked free ticket. Entry to the Skansen Aquarium must be purchased separately on-site. As of 2026, prices are approximately €11.22 (adults) and €5.61 (children). Ticket prices vary depending on the season and are lowest online. You can buy tickets at Skansen’s entrances at a slightly higher price.

8. Beluga Whale Sanctuary, Iceland 

The Beluga Whale Sanctuary is located on the small island called Vestmannaeyjar which is part of the Westman Islands. The sanctuary is currently home to two beluga whales named Little White and Little Grey.

Both whales have been held in captivity in a Chinese amusement park and dolphinarium located in Shanghai. When Merlin Entertainments purchased the aquarium, they decided to create a new sanctuary in Iceland to give the animals more space in a natural environment.

Together with the Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC), the Beluga Whale Sanctuary was born. After traveling by plane for almost 6,000 miles, both Beluga whales are currently swimming in a sea pen sanctuary.

In the visitors center you can visit a small museum about the project, an aquarium with native marine life, holding pens (here is where the beluga’s go if the weather is bad), and a few adorable puffins! 

Did you know that puffins are a native bird species in Iceland? All the money that is raised from ticket sales is used to provide the best care possible for all the animals that are part of the sanctuary.

The average spending time at the sanctuary is 2 hours. You can purchase a normal ticket for 3,560 ISK (5% less if you book online) or combine your visit with a whale boat tour to the sea pen, ranging from 9,900 ISK to over 15,000 ISK, depending on the provider and season. 

Contributed by Niels from Whale Watching Iceland 

If you’d like to see whales in the wild, book a whale tour from Reykjavik, Akureyri, and Husavik! The Classic tour costs at least €95.70 to €101.95 for 3 hours, while the VIP tour, lasting 2 hours, starts at €122 to €190. 

9. Dublin Zoo, Ireland 

Dublin Zoo is a beautiful attraction in Ireland’s capital and one of the best things to do in Phoenix Park.

It opened to the public in 1840 after the London zoo donated a number of animals. With 28 hectares, the grounds of Dublin Zoo attract over 1 million visitors every year, and for good reasons as it’s one of the top zoos in Europe.  

The zoo is a lovely escape from the city and features some of the most stunning exotic animals in the world. The zoo is divided by regions of the world including the African Savanna, the Family Farm, and the Wolves in the Woods. 

One of the zoo highlights is the Orangutans’ habitats. These beautiful animals are hosted on large grounds with lots of polls to climb. They can even climb and cross right above the visitor’s path for everyone’s pleasure!

Another highlight is the elephant feeding time. It is not rare to see baby elephants at Dublin zoo so keep your eyes open! 

The zoo is a registered charity and places a big emphasis on the conservation of biodiversity and the welfare of the animals. The zoo collaborates with other zoos and institutions to ensure their staff is best trained and animals are best taken care of.

The animals have large enclosed spaces and there are no photo options with animals.  

The visit takes about a short day and sometimes a full day if you want to take your time. As the zoo is located in Phoenix Park, you can prolong your experience with wild animals by checking out the wild deer in the park after leaving the zoo.  

Contributed by Mary from Be Right Back 

Regular tickets for adults online start at €22.50, while children under 3 years are free of entry (But a pre-booked ticket is still required). For children 3 to 15 years old, tickets cost €17.00, and senior tickets cost €17.50. You can visit the Dublin Zoo website for more ticket prices for families and groups.  

10. Karlsruhe Zoo, Germany 

Karlsruhe zoological gardens is well worth a visit, being one of the oldest zoos in Germany, established in 1865. An Institution member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) it’s an organization dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats.

The zoo is actively involved in local and global conservation projects for endangered species and the preservation of habitats. 

It’s located within easy walking distance of the city center, just north of the central railway station. The zoo is incorporated within the municipal gardens, offering many themed garden sections complementary to an extensive selection of animal enclosures. A map of the zoo allows for easy navigation. 

The zoo is home to some 250 species presented in themed sections mimicking the habitats of each species. The Water Habitat showcases penguins, seals, and sea lions, with polar bears next door in the Tundra Habitat.  

Three large African savanna enclosures exhibit both large and small representative species from Africa’s animal kingdom. The Himalayan Mountains exhibit was established to house the Snow Leopards, with the zoo being part of Europe’s Snow Leopard breeding program. 

When planning your visit to the zoo, allow at least half a day to enjoy the gardens and the zoo. Enjoy a unique perspective of the zoo in one of the gondoletta, connecting the north and south water areas with a canal (40min return).

Enjoy the gardens with a picnic lunch or dine at the café or waffle kiosk on site. 

Contributed by Jeanine from Let’s go a Wandering 

Karlsruhe Zoo day tickets cost €15.00, while children ages 6 to 15 get a discounted price of €6.50. The zoo’s annual tickets are affordable too, costing only €60.00 for adults and €26.00 for children. Visit their website for more information about their day and annual ticket prices.  

11. Berlin Zoo, Germany 

Berlin actually has two zoos – one in the west and one in the east – but the Berlin Zoological Garden in the western side of the city is one of the most popular zoos in Europe. It’s also the oldest zoo in Germany. 

The Eastern zoo, Tierpark Zoo, is the biggest zoo in Europe. With more than 20,000 animals from over 1,000 species, the Berlin Zoo has the biggest variety of species of any zoo in the world. 

This is definitely an impressive place to visit if you’re interested in animals. The Berlin Zoo is also home to Germany’s only giant pandas. 

Aside from pandas, you can also see elephants, zebras, giraffes, penguins, flamingos, kiwis, tigers, and many other animals from around the world, including local species. The Berlin also has an aquarium where you can see all kinds of fish and other sea creatures, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. 

The animals come first at the Berlin Zoo, and conservation is very important here. The zoo works to protect endangered species and reintroduce certain animals back into their normal habitat.

For example, European bison and bearded vultures have been successfully released into the wild in several places. They’re also trying to protect and reintroduce the Vietnamese pheasant into its natural habitat where it is believed to be extinct. 

The Berlin Zoological Garden should definitely be on your Berlin bucket list, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Plan on spending at least a couple of hours wandering around to see the different animals, and check feeding schedules ahead of time.

The zoo has a detailed map so you can plan your route to different sections, such as the elephant area, primate area, penguin area, etc. 

The closest transport station is the Zoo station, which can be reached on the U1, U9, and several Sbahn lines and regional train lines. 

Contributed by Ali from Berlin Travel Tips 

Dublin Zoo tickets cost €22.50 for adults, while children ages 4 to 15 cost €17.00. Children under 4 years old get free access (But a free pre-booked ticket is still required for entry). Dublin Zoo is open from 9 am to 6:00 pm.

12. Bioparc, Valencia 

Bioparc is one of the most impressive zoos in the world and can definitely count as one of Europe’s best zoos. As one of the best things to do in Valencia, Spain, this zoo is all about being respectful towards the animals.

Bioparc is built around the concept of zoo immersion, and while visiting it, you’ll feel more like you’re visiting a safari than a traditional zoo. 

While you are perfectly safe walking the alleys, the animals have plenty of space to roam around as well. There are no cages and no fences, instead, all borders between habitats are natural, like streams of water. The park is divided into four habits — Madagascar, Ecuatorial forest, Savanna, and the wetlands. 

The cutest inhabitants and everyone’s favorite are the lemurs. But it’s quite possible the elephants, giraffes and the gorillas will steal your heart as well. 

With over 100.000 sqm and more than 800 animals to see, you can visit Bioparc in a minimum of two hours. But you might be quite tempted to spend the whole day. 

Contributed by Laura from Travelers Universe 

The Bioparc is open from 10 am to 8 pm, and adults ages 13 to 64 can enter the park for €29.50. Tickets for seniors get a discounted price of €23.50, while children 4 to 12 years old can get their tickets for €23.50. You can also get affordable Bioparc tickets for groups and families. Prices vary depending on the season.

13. Lagos Zoo, Portugal 

Lagos Zoo is situated in a quiet area 8 km outside of the town of Lagos, one of the most popular beach towns in the Algarve region of Portugal. Over 140 animal and bird species from 5 continents can be found in Lagos Zoo. 

The zoo is divided into different zones each representing a region e.g. Australia, Africa, tropics, etc. Mammals and most birds are kept in open-plan enclosures surrounded by trees that provide shade and create a natural environment.

Enclosures have enough space for animals to roam around. No photos with animals are available. 

During the summer season from 1st April to 30th September, there is a sandy beach and a kids pool at the zoo near the rocky pool with African penguins.

A visit to the zoo is one of the not-to-miss things to do in Lagos for travellers with children. One needs 2-3 hours to visit the zoo.

There is a restaurant, a picnic area, a playground, and a souvenir shop inside the zoo. It’s open daily from 10 am to 7 pm (5 pm in winter). 

Lagos Zoo is a member of the EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquariums). It takes part in several conservation projects among them Hornbill Conservation Project in Thailand and India, Primate Rehabilitation Centre in Congo, and the Cotton Top Tamarin Conservation Club in Colombia.  

Contributed by Alya from Algarve Family 

Lagos Zoo takes you on an outdoor zoo adventure with adult tickets costing €17.00, available for visitors ages 12 to 64. Children 4 to 11 years old and seniors ages 65 and above can enter with tickets costing €12.01 and €15.00, respectively. 

14. Fota Wildlife Park, Ireland 

Fota Wildlife Park in Cork is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations, and it is easy to see why. 

The park is home to over 140 native and exotic animals, including red pandas, lions, and giraffes. 

You’ll start out with the Cheetahs directly outside the main entrance and continue through the Asian Sanctuary to the Tiger Forest followed by the adorable Red Pandas. 

You’ll then come to the lake where you can buy food for the ducks. After this, it’s monkeys, gibbons, kangaroos, and more. Plus a good playground and an ice cream kiosk (of course!). 

Animal welfare is a top priority at Fota Wildlife Park, and the staff works hard to ensure that all of the animals are healthy and happy. 

The animals at Fota Wildlife Park are well-cared for and have ample space to roam – spread across 100 acres. There are opportunities throughout the warmer months to see the animals being fed – with feeding times a day on offer. 

Fota is best enjoyed on a dry day as you will be spending most of your time outside (be sure to wear good walking shoes). 

Current restrictions mean a one-way system is in place through the park. It’s well-signposted and easy to follow. 

The cafes on site are reasonably priced and the coffee is surprisingly good. 

If you drive, you’ll need to pay a €3 parking charge. This entitles you to access Fota House and Gardens which are adjacent to the wildlife park and worth exploring if the sun is out. 

Allow up to 3 hours to enjoy the park, although you could squeeze it into 2 hours if you were really pushed. 

Contributed by Emma from Our Spanish Life 

FOTA Wildlife Park entry tickets cost €22.50 for adults, while children under 16 years old only need to pay €15.60. Students and seniors get a discounted ticket price of €16.50. Toddlers up to 36 months are free of entry. They also offer affordable family ticket prices, ranging from €65.50 to €81.00.

15. Wroclaw Zoo, Poland 

Wroclaw Zoo is the oldest (and largest) zoo in Poland, and it hosts more than 10,000 animals. It’s located in the central part of the city, right in front of Centennial Hall. There’s a large parking lot available near the Hall, if you arrive by car. One thing to 

keep in mind: Wroclaw Zoo gets very crowded on the weekends, with long entrance queues, so be prepared to spend the whole day here. 

Inside, you’ll find 1,132 animal species, including monkeys, giraffes, rhinos, kangaroos, wolves, flamingos, and many more.

The zoo is conveniently divided into sections: the Africarium (which includes the fauna of Africa, and a breathtaking underwater tunnel), the aquarium, the terrarium, and a few pavilions (with monkeys, birds, elephants, and other animals). 

It’s recommended to check the map in advance and make a plan of what you’d like to see because once you’re inside, time flies very fast. 

Wroclaw Zoo’s visiting terms allow taking photos of the animals, but without a flash. 

Animals here are kept in good conditions, very close to their natural habitats. Aside from being fun, the Wroclaw Zoo teaches people about animals and has a successful breeding program that helps protect species that are in danger of going extinct. 

Wroclaw Zoo is open all year round, including holidays: Mon-Thu: 9:00 – 17:00; Fri-Sun, and holidays: 9:00-18:00. You can buy the tickets online (the recommended option) or at the cash desk (the queues are usually very long). A regular ticket costs 69 PLN. 

Contributed by Leslie from Backpackers Thailand 

Regular tickets to the Wroclaw Zoo cost 69 zł, while students only need to pay 59 zł. You can also book group and family tickets on their website. If you want private transportation to and from the zoo, choose the Wroclaw: Zoo with Private Transport and Tickets.

16. Prague Zoo, Czechia

It’s one of those places that stays with you after you leave. You can see right away why Prague Zoo ranks in the global top 10. It is large and well organized, with nearly 5,000 animals.

The zoo is known for breeding endangered species, and that shows in how the spaces are designed. It feels like a real conservation space, but it is still easy and enjoyable to visit.

The zoo is built on a hillside, so expect a lot of walking up and down. It’s not flat at all. The different levels give you new views as you move through the zoo, which keeps it interesting.

One of my favorite spots was the Indonesian Jungle pavilion. It feels like a real rainforest with warm, humid air and jungle sounds. There’s a big waterfall, thick greenery, and animals like Sumatran orangutans, gibbons, macaques, and leaf monkeys all around

The Komodo dragon is a standout, huge and powerful, and you might also see Chinese pangolins, binturongs, and nocturnal animals like flying foxes. Birds fly freely, and there are aquariums with more than 40 fish species.

The layout feels like an adventure. You walk along winding paths, through cave-like corridors, and up to viewing terraces. Sometimes there is mist or light rain from the system they use, which adds to the jungle feel.

Strollers may not be allowed inside, and bats do fly freely here. Take your time. This is a space meant to be experienced slowly.

The zoo opens daily at 9:00 AM, with closing times changing by season. Ticket offices and entrances close earlier than the zoo, so it’s best to check the official website before visiting. The main ticket office closes at 3:30 PM. The southern entrance closes at 2:00 PM on weekdays and 3:30 PM on weekends.

A few things to note before you go. The information center is closed for renovations. Until March 2026, the Bororo Reserve playground, the Terrarium, and Ball’s Pyramid are closed.

The fur seal exhibit is closed every Friday for pool cleaning, or on Thursday if Friday is a public holiday. The children’s tram is also temporarily out of service.

Prague Zoo entry tickets cost at least 330 CZK for adults. Children ages 3 to 15, and students pay 250 CZK, seniors aged 70 and above pay 1 CZK. Dogs are 150 CZK. A family ticket costs 1,000 CZK. Show a valid ID for a birthday discount. An annual pass is also available. Parking on site costs 300 CZK per day.

17. Chester Zoo, England

If you’re planning a zoo day in England, Chester Zoo is one of those places you can’t miss. It’s the most visited wildlife attraction in Britain, and once you get there, you’ll see why.

The place is huge. It covers 130 acres and has over 37,000 animals from more than 500 species. You’ll need a full day to see it all, so if you’re planning your England trip, give this one a proper time slot, not just a quick stop.

Chester Zoo is really well organized. It’s not just big for the sake of being big. It’s known worldwide for conservation, and you can feel that when you walk around.

The Heart of Africa is one of the biggest areas. It is open and spacious. You can see giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and painted dogs in one area.

Monsoon Forest feels very different; it is warm and humid inside. It is the largest tropical biodome in the UK. You can see orangutans, gharials, and birds flying above you.

The Lazy River boat ride helps if your feet are tired. You pass different habitats and may see animals like the Visayan warty pig.

The snow leopard habitat is popular in 2026 because of the cub born in late 2025. It can get busy, but if you wait, you will likely see them move around. Fruit Bat Forest is a dark walk-through area with bats flying freely.

The zoo opens every day at 10:00 AM, and closing times vary with the season, so it’s best to check ahead. I always suggest arriving close to opening time. It is quieter, and you have more energy to explore the larger areas first.

They offer free entry for carers, which is a big help for many families. There’s free mobility scooter hire if someone in your group needs it, which really helps on such a big site.

They also have sensory guides and BSL signs in different spots, making it easier for everyone to enjoy. One thing I always tell people is to book tickets online before they go. It can save you up to 20 percent, which is a nice bonus.

Chester Zoo Parking is free on-site. Adult tickets start at around £28 to £37, Children (3-15) £25.00-£28.00, Toddler (1-2) £2.50, and family tickets can save up to £41 for groups, which is really handy if you’re visiting with kids. Prices change by date, so if you can be flexible, check a few options.

18. Zooparc de Beauval, France

If you’re heading to France and love animals, you’ve got to check out Zooparc de Beauval. It is one of the five best zoos in the world. The park is very large and has about 35,000 animals from 800 different species.

That’s a lot to see, so you’ll definitely need time to explore. I’d say at least five hours if you want to enjoy it properly. And honestly, it feels more like a wildlife world than a regular zoo.

In 2026, the zoo opened new sections. Les Terres Rouges is an Australian bush area; It is the first place in France to see Southern hairy-nosed wombats, plus Tasmanian devils, red kangaroos, and wallabies moving around in semi-freedom.

Another new area is Bucolia, an educational farm that focuses on endangered domestic breeds and includes Les Roches Vives, a large water play area with geysers and fountains, which is perfect if you have kids who love getting wet and exploring.

Getting around the park is really easy with Le Nuage de Beauval, the silent cable car. It’s included in your ticket, and you get 360° views as you travel between the north and south sections. It’s a nice break if your feet get tired.

If you’re staying overnight, the park has four themed hotels. I’ve only visited the photos, but Les Jardins de Beauval is Balinese style, and Les Pagodes de Beauval has a Chinese theme.

Dining is easy too. There are 16 options inside the park, from quick snacks to full buffets like Le Yasuni. Just keep in mind that picnics aren’t allowed inside, but you can eat in the designated areas outside.

I found the Beauval App really useful. It shows a real-time map, show schedules, and even gives info on the animals with something called “ZoodioGuides.” It makes navigating all 46 hectares way less stressful.

One thing I loved about Beauval is how much they care about conservation. Every visit helps support the Beauval Nature association, which funds over 70 conservation and research programs worldwide. They even turn animal waste into electricity and heat for the greenhouses using their biogas plant.

You can also do a full-day private tour to Zooparc de Beauval with a chauffeur, travel in comfort, and make stops along the way from Paris. From personal experience, one day is not enough. Two days make the visit far more enjoyable and less rushed.

Also, a heads-up: the park will be closed on October 10 and 11, 2026, for a private event, so you’ll want to skip those days.

Zooparc de Beauval is open daily from 9:00 AM until dusk, so you have plenty of time to explore. Tickets for visitors aged 11 and up are43€, and children aged 3 to 10 are 36€. And people with reduced mobility pay a little less: 38€ for adults and 31€ for kids. Children under 3 get in free. Tickets are valid for a full year, so you have some flexibility if your plans change.

19. Royal Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem, Netherlands

Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem, Netherlands, is one of those places you just have to see. It’s huge, 45 hectares, and every area feels like a real habitat. The zoo is best known for its aardvarks, which are its official symbol, but there’s so much more to explore.

The Burger Zoo has been around since 1913, and with over 10,000 animals from 500 species, it’s one of the biggest zoos in the country. There are both indoor and outdoor areas, and the way they recreate each ecosystem is really impressive.

You can walk through a rainforest, a desert, or a savanna and feel like you’ve actually traveled far from the city.

My favorite is Burgers’ Bush, a 1.5-hectare indoor rainforest. Inside, it’s warm and humid, with waterfalls, lots of green plants, and animals like birds, lizards, and fruit bats roaming around. You really feel like you’re in the tropics.

If you’re into safari animals, Burgers’ Safari is amazing. It’s a big African savannah where giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and cheetahs roam.

And for Southeast Asian wildlife, Burgers’ Rimba has Sumatran tigers, Malayan sun bears, gibbons, and pythons in a rainforest-like outdoor area. They’ve also added some rare animals, like the bowmouth guitarfish in the Ocean and coppery titi monkeys in the Mangrove.

On top of that, there’s a temporary display with 17 giant moving dinosaurs throughout the park. It’s a fun surprise, especially if you have kids or if you’re a dinosaur fan like me.

You notice the climate changes fast. The Bush is hot and humid. The Ocean is cool and dark. You feel it on your skin. That makes the experience more real.

There are themed restaurants like Bush Restaurant and Park Restaurant, and big playgrounds for kids, including Burgers’ Avonturenland and the indoor Kids Jungle.

If you’re visiting before mid-2026, the Desert is under renovation. There will be new animals, new enclosures, and a new entrance and exit, but Desert Restaurant will be removed, and the rocky desert route will be a bit bigger.

Royal Burgers’ Zoo opens daily at 9:00 AM, closing at 5 PM in winter and 6 PM in summer. Tickets for adults (10 and up) cost €29.10, for kids 4–9 €25.50, and kids under four go free. Parking tickets cost €9.

BONUS: The Best Safari Parks in Europe 

Serengeti Park, Germany 

Besides the Karlsruhe Zoo, you may also want to go on a wildlife tour at Germany’s Serengeti Park! 

Located in Hodenhagen, the whole family can get up close with tigers, bison, zebras, and more animals found in Africa. With over 200 hectares of land, the Serengeti Park in Germany is still considered the biggest safari park in Europe! 

You can use your own vehicle to ride through the park or join other tourists and families on the safari bus! Serengeti Park also has many attractions, such as the Jungle Safari to meet 200 species of monkeys and the Petting Safari to cuddle and help feed donkeys, goats, and even alpacas. 

The safari park also holds the best facilities to breed white rhinos, elephants, and other species of animals! The fun does not end with meeting and exploring animals. The whole family can spend the rest of the day riding a roller coaster, trying the rope course, and experiencing more than 40 rides and shows! 

Serengeti Park charges a parking fee of €5.50 per vehicle, and adult tickets cost €49.50. Ticket prices for people with disabilities vary by classification, with free entry for some categories. Accompanying persons are charged €32.50. The 1-hour guided bus tour costs €7.50 per person (ages 3+). Children under 3 ride free.

Beekse Bergen, The Netherlands 

When you reach the Netherlands, be sure to include Beekse Bergen in your itinerary too! 

It is the largest animal park in the country, so it may take more than a day for the whole family to experience all the attractions.

There are 4 ways to discover the park:

• Walking safari: like a regular zoo, this lets you walk around independently through the park.
• Car safari: you drive your own car through a designated part of the park. We absolutely loved this, especially when one of the giraffes felt the need to lick my father-in-law’s car (which had a sky window).  
• Bus safari: if you came by public transport or you just don’t want to drive your own car, the car safari can be done as a group tour offered by the park as well.
• Boat safari: offers a unique view of the animals, plus you’ll learn lots about the storks that nest in the park.

One thing you shouldn’t miss on your trip to the safari park is the Birds of Prey Show. The whole family can sit back and learn about these fascinating birds while they fly up close.  

Another sight to see is the animals feeding time. Rangers will tell you about chimpanzees, elephants, and other animals’ eating habits and favorite food. Plus, you also get to be close to them as rangers feed them just along the safari trail! 

Oh and don’t hesitate to stay over at the resort. The little cottages are located in a separate part of the park, not accessible by day visitors. Nothing beats sitting on your front porch and watching the zebras, ostriches, giraffes, lions, sea lions, and other animals!

The safari park day ticket starts from €29.50 for guests 12 years old and up, while tickets for children 3 to 11 only cost €26.50. Children under 3 years old get a free pass to the safari park.  

More questions?

Wrapping up the best zoos in Europe 

So, what do you think? Have you visited any of these popular zoos in Europe? Let us know your experiences!