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The 20 Best Zoos in Europe 

Europe is home to some of the most ethical, beautiful and interesting zoos in the whole world! As there are so many to choose from, it can be hard to know which ones should be at the top of your bucket list!

Being such a lover of zoos, I tried visiting as many as possible during my two months travelling Europe. I’ve also studied Zoo Biology before travelling, I was lucky enough to get to visit a large number of zoos in the UK as part of my studies. 

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best zoos in Europe that offer not only an unforgettable animal experience but also a chance for visitors to learn about conservation efforts and support important causes. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, these top-rated zoos are sure to leave you with lasting memories.

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1. Chester Zoo, UK – My favourite zoo in Europe

Chester zoo

Location: Chester, England

Size: 128 acres

Must see: Discover Rainforests talk 

Price: £29.54 for adults and £22.72 for a child ticket.

Starting off strong we have one of my favourite zoos in Europe, Chester Zoo! 

Chester Zoo is the most visited zoo in the UK, welcoming over 2 million visitors every year! They are run by the North of England Zoological Society (NEZS) which was set up by the zoo’s founder in the 1930s.

Chester Zoo’s mission is to prevent extinction, and if you check out their latest news section, you can see just how many rare and endangered new animals are born at the zoo every month.  

With 35,000 animals, you will not struggle to find things to see at Chester Zoo! If you are a fan of the tv show The Secret Life of the Zoo, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour and meet some of the stars of the show! 

Where to stay for Chester Zoo 

I would recommend staying at the Mill Hotel & Spa as it is located near Chester Station. From Chester Station, you can easily get a bus straight to the Zoo entrance. 

2. Vienna Zoo, Austria – Europe’s Oldest Zoo

Panda in Europes oldest zoo

Location: Vienna, Austria

Size: 42 acre

Must see: The giant pandas!

Price: 26 euros for adults and 15 euros for a child ticket. Children under 6 go free!

Vienna Zoo has over 750 different species, ranging from elephants and giraffes to penguins and meerkats. You can spend hours wandering around and admiring all the fascinating creatures they have on display. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see some of them up close during feeding times or special events.

But it’s not just about the animals as the zoo itself is a stunning place to visit. Located in the heart of Schoenbrunn Palace Gardens, it boasts breathtaking views of Vienna’s skyline and is surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll or running around with your kids (or both), there’s no shortage of beautiful spots to explore. If you need a break from all that walking around, there are plenty of great cafes and restaurants around the park where you can grab a bite to eat or relax with a drink while enjoying the scenery. 

Of course, no trip to any zoo would be complete without souvenirs! The gift shop at Vienna Zoo has everything from stuffed animals to t-shirts and mugs featuring your favourite furry (or scaly) friends. Make sure to pick up something special before heading home!

Where to stay for Vienna Zoo 

When we visited Vienna, it was part of our 2 month backpacking trip so we opted to stay in Wombats City Hostel and take the bus to the palace grounds. If you have a bit more money to spend, Austria Trend Hotel is only a short walk away from the zoo!

3. Pairi Daiza, Belgium – The most unique zoo in Europe

Unique zoo in europe

Location: Brugelett, Belgium

Size: 65 acre

Must see: The Last Frontier

Price: Adults 39 euros, children below 12, 33 euros

It’s a zoo and botanical garden located in Belgium that is home to over 7,000 animals from around the world. Let me tell you, this place is not your average zoo. The attention to detail and care for the animals are truly impressive. 

You can watch majestic elephants bathe in a stunning Asian temple setting, or see adorable red pandas climb trees in their Chinese garden habitat. Also, don’t even get me started on the incredible bird aviaries as it’s like stepping into another world. 

But it’s not just about the animals at Pairi Daiza – the botanical gardens are equally as breathtaking. Meander through lush greenery and colourful flowers from every corner of the globe, and feel transported to different continents with each new section. If all that wasn’t enough, there are also fun shows and performances throughout the day featuring talented animals like sea lions and birds of prey. 

Overall, I highly recommend checking out Pairi Daiza if you are looking for things to do in Belgium or after a unique animal experience. It’s truly a magical place where nature meets culture in perfect harmony.

Where to stay for Pairi Daiza

We were on a pretty strict budget when we visited Pairi Daiza so we actually went on a day trip from Brussels. However, since falling in love with the zoo, it is a dream of ours to one day stay at the Pairi Daiza Resort!

4. Berlin Zoological Garden, Germany – Europe’s Largest Zoo

Europe's largest zoo

Location: Berlin, Germany

Size: 86.5 acre

Must see: Rainforest house

Price: Adults 23.50 euros, and children 12 euros for entrance to both the zoo and aquarium.

If you’re ever in Berlin, you absolutely have to visit the Berlin Zoo! This place is a haven for all sorts of creatures big and small. 

First off, let’s talk about the elephants. They are seriously majestic beasts with personalities to match. Watching them roam around their enclosure is truly a sight to behold. Then there are the big cats – lions, tigers and leopards oh my! These gorgeous predators will leave you in awe with their sheer power and grace. 

But it’s not just about the big guys as the zoo has an amazing variety of smaller animals too. From meerkats to monkeys, there’s always something cute and cuddly to see. If you’re into birds, prepare to be blown away by the aviary. You can walk through this huge dome and see all kinds of exotic feathered friends up close. 

The Berlin Zoo is also home to some rare species that you won’t find anywhere else in Germany. For example, they have a pair of giant pandas that are absolutely adorable, and surprisingly active!. 

Even if you’re not a huge animal lover, this place is still worth checking out just for its beautiful grounds alone. The park surrounding the zoo is expansive and lush, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or picnic. So what are you waiting for? Grab your camera and head on over to Berlin Zoo. Trust us when we say it’ll be an unforgettable experience!

Where to stay for Berlin Zoo

Hotel Zoo Berlin is only a 10-minute walk away from the zoo so is an ideal spot to stay in if you are visiting purely for the zoo! During our Berlin trip, we stayed in St Christopher’s Alexanderplatz. The public transport system in Berlin is one of the best in the world, so you won’t struggle to get to the zoo from anywhere in Berlin.

5. Paignton Zoo, UK

Location: Paignton, England

Size: 80 acre

Must see: The Ape Centre

Price: Adults £18.55 and children £13.90

Paignton Zoo is one of the best zoos in the UK! 

They have everything from majestic lions to mischievous monkeys. You’ll get up close and personal with tigers, gorillas, giraffes, and even some exotic birds. Don’t forget to stop by the aquarium to see some mesmerizing sea creatures. 

The zoo is spread over 80 acres of lush greenery so it’s perfect for a family day out or just a relaxing stroll with your friends. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out their high ropes course which will give you an aerial view of the park!

If you’re peckish throughout your visit then don’t worry. There are plenty of options available from burgers and chips to ice cream and candy floss. If that wasn’t enough already, they also have events throughout the year like Halloween-themed activities or Christmas light displays. 

Overall, Paignton Zoo is definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in Devon. It’s not only entertaining but also educational as it supports various conservation projects around the world. So what are you waiting for?

Where to stay for Paignton Zoo

There is a Premier Inn on Paignton seafront which would be an ideal spot to stay in to visit Paignton Zoo. However, if you are looking for more of a city trip, Paignton Zoo is very accessible from both Exeter and Plymouth.

6. Prague Zoo, Czech Republic 

Location: Prague, Czech Republic

Size: 140 acre

Must see: African House

Price: Adults CZK250 and children CZK200

If you’ve never been to Prague Zoo, you’re missing out on one of the best zoos in Europe! Let me tell you, this place is huge. It’s home to over 6,000 animals from all over the world. You can see everything from pandas and elephants to penguins and crocodiles. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some adorable baby animals. 

One of my favourite parts of the zoo is the Africa exhibit. You can walk through a replica of an African village and see lions, zebras, giraffes and more up close. It’s like going on an African safari without leaving Prague! But it’s not just about seeing the animals here, there are also plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. You can take a ride on a mini train around the zoo or hop on a cable car for panoramic views of Prague. 

Let’s not forget about the food! There are tons of cafes and restaurants throughout the zoo serving up delicious Czech cuisine like goulash and dumplings.

Overall, I highly recommend checking out Prague Zoo if you’re ever in town. It’s great for families, animal lovers or anyone looking for a fun day out in nature. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there’s lots of walking involved!

Where to stay for Prague Zoo

Apartmány Vinice Salabka is very highly rated and is only 650 yards from Prague Zoo! During our time in Prague, we stayed in Prague Dream Hostel so if you are travelling Europe on a budget, it might be worth checking out!

7. Yorkshire Wildlife Park, UK 

Location: Doncaster, England

Size: 250 acre

Must see: The hyenas and polar bears

Price: Adults £23.99 and Children £19.99

If you’re looking for a wild adventure, look no further than Yorkshire Wildlife Park

This place is the real deal when it comes to getting up close and personal with some amazing animals. First off, let’s talk about the stars of the show, the lions. These majestic creatures will leave you in awe as they strut their stuff around their enclosure. You can even catch them lounging on top of their rock formations or playing with each other like big kittens. 

But that’s not all as there’s are also tigers, bears, and even polar bears! The polar bear enclosure is particularly impressive thanks to its sheer size and it has lots of water for them to swim around in (and boy do these guys love to swim).  If you’re more into smaller critters, don’t worry as YWP has got you covered. There are meerkats scurrying around their burrows, otters sliding down slides into pools of water, and lemurs chilling out in trees. 

One thing I really appreciate about YWP is its commitment to conservation efforts. They work closely with various organizations to help protect endangered species and promote sustainable living practices. 

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun day out that also supports animal welfare causes, Yorkshire Wildlife Park should definitely be on your list. Trust me – seeing these incredible animals up close will leave a lasting impression on you.

Where to stay for Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Yorkshire Wildlife Park actually has some accommodation options located nearby! Park up your camper, pitch your own tent or rent one of their awesome bell tents for a glamping experience, just a short walk from the zoo entrance.

8. Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland

Photo credit: Plain2Plane.com

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Size: 82 acres

Must see: Penguins rock

Price: Adults £24.25 and Children £16.80

Edinburgh Zoo is a world-renowned zoological park located in the heart of Scotland’s capital city. Founded in 1913, the zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the globe and attracts more than half a million visitors annually. 

One of the main attractions at Edinburgh Zoo is its giant pandas. Tian Tian (Sweetie) and Yang Guang (Sunshine) arrived at the zoo in 2011 on loan from China, and they have since become beloved by visitors and staff alike. The pandas live in a specially designed enclosure that features an indoor habitat as well as outdoor gardens where they can roam and play. 

In addition to the pandas, Edinburgh Zoo boasts a wide variety of other animals, including lions, tigers, zebras, penguins, monkeys, reptiles, and more. Many of these species are endangered or threatened in their natural habitats, so the zoo plays an important role in conservation efforts. 

Visitors to Edinburgh Zoo can take part in a range of experiences such as animal encounters with penguins or lemurs. There are also feeding times for many animals throughout the day where you can learn about their diet while watching them eat. 

Edinburgh Zoo also offers educational programs for schools and groups that focus on wildlife conservation and ecology. These programs aim to inspire future generations to protect our planet’s biodiversity. 

The zoo is set within stunning landscaped grounds which offer breathtaking views across Edinburgh’s city centre making it possible for visitors to enjoy nature without leaving town! There are tonnes of things to do in Edinburgh, but we highly recommend making a visit to the zoo!

Where to stay for Edinburgh Zoo

When I visited Ediburgh Zoo, I stayed at the nearby Holiday Inn and loved it! It was affordable, clean and even had an indoor pool!

9. Copenhagen Zoo, Denmark

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Location: Copenhagen, Denmark

Size: 27 acres

Must see:

Price: Adults DK209 and Children under 11 DK119

You’re missing out on one of the coolest places in Denmark if you’ve never been to Copenhagen Zoo!

This zoo is like no other as it’s full of amazing animals from all around the world. The first thing you’ll notice when you get to Copenhagen Zoo is how big it is. There are over 4,000 animals and more than 240 different species here! From lions and tigers to monkeys and giraffes, there’s something for everyone. 

One of my favourite parts of the zoo is the Arctic Ring. It’s a huge area where you can see polar bears swimming around in their natural habitat. And if that wasn’t enough, there are also seals and walruses chilling out nearby! 

Another must-see attraction at Copenhagen Zoo is the Elephant House. This amazing building was designed by famous architect Norman Foster and it’s home to some seriously impressive elephants. You can watch them play and interact with each other, it’s truly a sight to behold. 

If you’re into reptiles, make sure you check out the Crocodile House too. It’s filled with snakes, lizards, turtles, and of course, crocodiles! You’ll even get to see some baby crocs hatching from their eggs. 

Overall, Copenhagen Zoo is an awesome place for animal lovers of all ages. Whether you’re visiting with family or friends or just want to spend some time alone with nature, this place won’t disappoint! So why not give it a go next time you’re in town?

Where to stay for Copenhagen Zoo

We stayed in CityHub Copenhagen when we visited, mainly because we wanted to try out a pod hotel! We got the bus to the zoo from out hotel.

10. Whipsnade Zoo, UK

Location: Bedfordshire, England

Size: 600 acres

Must see: The Great Whipsnade Railway

Price: Adults £27.73 and Children £18.05

Whipsnade Zoo is one of the largest and most popular zoos in the UK. 

Located in Bedfordshire, it covers an area of 600 acres and is home to over 3,500 animals from more than 200 different species. The zoo was opened in 1931 by the Zoological Society of London with the aim of creating a conservation centre for endangered species. 

Today, Whipsnade Zoo is still committed to conservation efforts and has several ongoing projects aimed at protecting endangered animals both locally and globally. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of animals at Whipsnade Zoo including elephants, rhinos, lions, tigers, gorillas, penguins, meerkats and many more. 

One of the highlights of the zoo is its collection of rare and exotic birds which includes flamingos, pelicans and owls. In addition to animal exhibits, there are also plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy such as educational talks on animal behaviour and feeding times where visitors can watch keepers interact with the animals up close. 

Whipsnade Zoo also offers unique experiences such as overnight stays in its Lookout Lodge where guests can spend a night surrounded by some of their favourite animals. 

The zoo also has several playgrounds for children including an indoor soft play area called Hullabazoo where kids can burn off some energy while learning about wildlife. 

Overall, Whipsnade Zoo offers a fun-filled day out for families with plenty to see and do. Its commitment to conservation makes it not only an enjoyable attraction but also an important part of protecting endangered species.

Where to stay for Whipsnade Zoo 

We would recommend staying in London and buying a ticket that includes transport!

11. Rotterdam Zoo, The Netherlands

Location: Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Size: 64 acres

Must see: The Chinese Garden and baby elephants!

Price: Adults 25 euros and Children 20 euros

Rotterdam Zoo, also known as Diergaarde Blijdorp, is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists in the Netherlands. 

With over 1.5 million visitors annually, it is one of the largest zoos in the country. The zoo was first opened in 1857 and has since undergone many renovations and expansions to become what it is today. It features a wide variety of animals from all around the world including lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, gorillas, penguins and much more. 

One of the unique features of Rotterdam Zoo is its Oceanium exhibit which showcases marine life from different regions such as Europe’s North Sea and the Caribbean. Visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and other fish species.

Apart from animal exhibits, there are also several playgrounds for children to enjoy as well as various food stands throughout the park offering snacks like ice cream and traditional Dutch treats. 

Rotterdam Zoo places great emphasis on conservation efforts and participates in breeding programs to preserve endangered species such as Indian rhinoceroses and red pandas. The zoo also supports wildlife conservation projects globally through its charitable foundation called Stichting Wildlife. 

Overall, Rotterdam Zoo provides an educational yet fun experience for people of all ages interested in learning about different animals and their habitats while supporting important conservation initiatives.

Where to stay for Rotterdam Zoo

We would recommend staying at Sparks Hostel, they have a mixture of really nice dorms and private rooms and are only a little over a mile away from Rotterdam Zoo. If you are looking to stay a bit closer and want to spend a bit more, Van der Valk Hotel Rotterdam – Blijdorp is only 250 yards away!

12. Basel Zoo, Switzerland

Photo credit: honesttravelstories.com

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Size: 32 acres

Must see: The penguin parade

Price: Adults 21-65 CHF21 Young people 16-20 CHF15 and Children 6-16 CHF10

If you’re ever in Switzerland, don’t miss out on a visit to Basel Zoo – it’s seriously awesome. 

First of all, the zoo is home to over 600 species of animals from all around the world. You’ll get to see everything from majestic African elephants and playful meerkats to cheeky penguins and cute little lemurs. 

One thing that sets Basel Zoo apart is their commitment to conservation and sustainability. They work hard to provide a healthy environment for their animals while also educating visitors about ways we can protect our planet. 

But let’s be real, the best part of any zoo visit is getting up close and personal with the animals. At Basel Zoo, you can feed giraffes from a raised platform or watch sea lions frolicking in their pool. If you’re feeling brave (or crazy), you can even walk through an enclosure with free-roaming monkeys! 

Not only does Basel Zoo have amazing animal exhibits, but they also offer plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. From guided tours to special events like night safaris and behind-the-scenes experiences, there’s always something new and exciting happening at this fun-filled attraction. 

So if you’re looking for a way to fill your time in Basel, Switzerland, head straight to Basel Zoo, it’s guaranteed to be a roaring good time!

Where to stay for Basel Zoo

ibis Basel Bahnhof is a great budget hotel option, located only four minutes away from Basel’s main train station and only 300 yards away from Basel Zoological Garden.

13. Dublin Zoo, Ireland  

Photo by abackpackersworld.com

Location: Dublin, Ireland

Size: 69 acres

Must see: The gorillas

Price: Adults from 19 euros to 21.40 and children 14 euros to 16.50

Dublin Zoo is located in the heart of Phoenix Park, Dublin, Ireland. It is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in Europe, attracting visitors from all over the world. 

The zoo was first opened in 1831 and has since grown to become a major tourist attraction. At Dublin Zoo, you can discover some of the most fascinating animals from around the world. From big cats like lions and tigers to penguins, kangaroos, elephants, giraffes and many more. 

The zoo’s habitats are designed to replicate each animal’s natural habitat as closely as possible so visitors can get a sense of what life is like for these incredible creatures. One of the main attractions at Dublin Zoo is its gorilla troop which features several adult males along with females and their offspring living together in a large social group. Visitors can watch them interact with each other as they play or simply relax in their outdoor enclosures. 

Dublin Zoo also offers visitors an opportunity to get up close with some of its residents through various interactive experiences such as feeding times or behind-the-scenes tours where you can meet keepers who care for these amazing animals every day. 

The zoo places great emphasis on conservation efforts both locally and internationally through collaborations with organisations such as WWF (World Wildlife Fund) & ZSL (Zoological Society of London), helping protect endangered species under threat from habitat loss or poaching. 

Overall, visiting Dublin Zoo provides an unforgettable experience for adults and children alike that combines education about wildlife conservation efforts with a fun-filled day out among some of our planet’s most fascinating creatures!

Where to stay for Dublin Zoo

Dublin has great transport links so you can easily stay in the city and take public transport to the zoo! We opted for the Generator Hostel for our trip as we were after some budget-friendly accommodation in Dublin.

14. Highland Wildlife Park, Scotland 

Location: Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

Size: 260 acres

Must see: The European Grey Wolves

Price: Adults £20.95 and children £15.75

Highland Wildlife Park is a world-renowned wildlife park located in the Scottish Highlands. It covers an area of 105 hectares and is home to over 200 animals from around the world. The park was opened in 1972 and has since then become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland. 

The Highland Wildlife Park is divided into several zones that feature different habitats, including tundra, forest, and mountain ranges. Visitors can explore these zones on foot or by taking a guided tour on one of the park’s safari buses. 

One of the main attractions at Highland Wildlife Park is its collection of rare species such as Amur tigers, snow leopards, and red pandas. Additionally, visitors can see other native animals like reindeer, otters, and Scottish wildcats. A highlight for many visitors is getting up close with the park’s resident polar bears, Victoria and Arktos, who have their own enclosure complete with a swimming pool. 

There are also daily feeding sessions where visitors can watch as keepers feed some of the animals while explaining about their diet and behaviour. 

Highland Wildlife Park offers plenty of activities for children too, including a playground, face painting station, and interactive exhibits where kids can learn more about conservation efforts being made to protect endangered species around the world. 

Overall, Highland Wildlife Park provides an unforgettable day out for families looking to experience nature up close while learning about conservation efforts being made to protect endangered species worldwide.

Where to stay for Highland Wildlife Park

When I visited Highland Wildlife Park, I actually stayed in an awesome wigwam Airbnb but unfortunately it doesn’t seem to be available anymore. Shetland Cottage Kincraig is located directly next to Highland Wildlife Park and scenery looks absolutely stunning! Its definitely on our list for our next visit!

15. Bioparc, Valencia

Photo credit: Valencia Revealed

Location: Valencia, Spain

Size: 25 acres

Must see: The gorilla feeding

Price: Adults 26.90 euros and children 21 euros

Bioparc, Valencia, is a unique and innovative zoo that is located in eastern Spain.

This zoo is different from traditional zoos because it focuses on creating natural habitats for animals and promoting conservation efforts. The park covers an area of 100,000 square meters and houses more than 4,000 animals from over 250 species. These species include gorillas, lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, lemurs, meerkats and many others. 

One of the major highlights of Bioparc is its design. The park has been designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals living in it. For instance, visitors can walk through dense forests where they will see gorillas swinging from trees just like they would in their natural habitat. In addition to offering visitors an immersive experience with wildlife surrounded by flora representatives of each environment such as savannahs or equatorial forests.

Bioparc Valencia also offers educational programs for children as well as adults. These programs are aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues such as climate change and wildlife conservation. 

Bioparc Valencia also places a strong emphasis on animal welfare. The zoo’s staff works hard to ensure that all animals are given appropriate care and living conditions suitable for their needs. They also have veterinary services available to treat any sick or injured animals within the park. 

Overall, Bioparc Valencia is a great place to visit if you are interested in experiencing nature up close while learning more about wildlife conservation efforts around the world!

Where to stay for Bioparc

Aparthotel is very highly rated and is located just 800 yards from Bioparc Valencia!

16. Dartmoor Zoo, UK

Location: Devon, England

Size: 30 acres

Must see:

Price: Adults £15.70 and children £11.50

Dartmoor Zoo, located in Devon, England, is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with a variety of animals from all around the world. 

The zoo was originally founded in 1968 by Ellis Daw and has since undergone many changes over the years. One of the most notable features of Dartmoor Zoo is its commitment to animal welfare. The zoo is home to over 75 different species of animals, including big cats such as tigers and lions, primates like chimpanzees and baboons, birds such as owls and eagles, reptiles like snakes and lizards, and many more. 

All of these animals are well-cared for by the zoo’s experienced staff who work tirelessly to ensure their health and happiness. In addition to providing a safe haven for endangered species that require care or rehabilitation after being rescued from illegal trafficking or abuse situations, Dartmoor Zoo also offers educational programs aimed at teaching visitors about conservation efforts around the world. 

These programs include guided tours led by knowledgeable staff members who provide insight into each animal’s individual needs and behaviours while also discussing broader issues related to wildlife conservation. 

Visitors can also enjoy several interactive experiences at Dartmoor Zoo. For example, guests can book “Animal Encounters” which offer opportunities to meet some of the zoo’s resident creatures up close! 

Guests can also hand-feed lemurs or interact with meerkats during daily scheduled events while learning about their natural habitats. Dartmoor Zoo is an excellent place for families looking for a fun day out spent exploring nature while learning about important 

Where to stay for Dartmoor Zoo

For a “camping trip live no other” why not try Dartmoor’s Rore and Snore? Enjoy a twilight tour and then pitch up your tent in the heart of the zoo! Tickets include your tour, campfire, camping supplies, your park entry the next day as well as breakfast and a bbq dinner!

17. Jersey Zoo, Jersey

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Location: Jersey, The Island of Jersey

Size: 32 acres

Must see: The keeper talks

Price: Adults £18 and children £14

Jersey Zoo, located on the beautiful Channel Island of Jersey, is a world-renowned conservation centre that has been dedicated to saving some of the rarest species on Earth for over 60 years. 

Founded in 1959 by Gerald Durrell, a British naturalist and author who was passionate about preserving endangered animals, Jersey Zoo continues to be at the forefront of wildlife conservation efforts. 

One of the key aspects that sets Jersey Zoo apart is its focus on breeding programs for endangered species. The zoo’s expert team help to breed animals like gorillas, orangutans, and lemurs in captivity before reintroducing them to their natural habitats. They also work closely with other zoos and conservation organizations around the world to share knowledge and resources in order to further advance conservation efforts. 

Visitors can see these incredible animal ambassadors up close through interactive exhibits like Ape Encounter or Lemur Encounter which allows visitors to get up close with these amazing animals while learning more about their habits and behaviours. 

Beyond its impressive collection of animals, Jersey Zoo is also home to an array of beautifully landscaped gardens that provide a tranquil setting for visitors looking for a peaceful retreat from city life. The zoo’s botanical gardens feature over 30 acres of stunning plants from all over the world including orchids, ferns and cacti. 

The zoo’s mission extends beyond just protecting individual species. It aims to inspire people everywhere to care about wildlife by educating visitors about conservation issues affecting our planet today. Through interactive displays and education programs aimed at children as well as adults alike; spreading awareness among everyone regarding how they can contribute towards  

Where to stay for Jersey Zoo

Jersey Zoo has both hostel and glamping options available on-site so you can wake up surrounded by nature and the sounds of the animals around you.

18. ZooParc de Beauval, France – The most beautiful zoo in Europe

Location: Centre-Val de Loire, France

Size:

Must see: The Odysee of the Sea Lions

Price: Adults 34 euros and children 27 euros

ZooParc de Beauval is a world-renowned zoo located in Saint-Aignan, France. It covers an area of 40 hectares and is home to over 10,000 animals from around the world. The zoo was founded in 1980 by Françoise Delord and her husband Jacques. Since its inception, ZooParc de Beauval has been dedicated to conservation and education. 

The park actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species such as giant pandas, manatees, and white tigers. One of the main attractions of ZooParc de Beauval is its collection of giant pandas. The park is one of only a few places outside China where these animals can be seen. 

Visitors can observe them in their specially designed habitat which includes bamboo forests and water features. Another popular exhibit at ZooParc de Beauval is the African Savannah. This area features giraffes, zebras, rhinos, lions, cheetahs, and other iconic African species living together in a naturalistic environment. The park also has several immersive exhibits that allow visitors to get up close with animals such as lemurs and kangaroos. There are also daily shows featuring birds of prey and sea lions. 

In addition to its animal exhibits, ZooParc de Beauval offers a range of amenities for visitors including restaurants, gift shops, playgrounds, and even a hotel on site. 

Overall, ZooParc de Beauval offers an unforgettable experience for animal lovers young and old. 

Where to stay for ZooParc de Beauval

ZooParc de Beauval have a range of accommodations to pick from suitable for all different budgets! Their hotels are named after and decorated by countries or continents like China, Indonesia and Mexico! If we were to visit again, we would opt for the Indonesia Beauval Gardens which is only a 5-minute walk from the zoo and is complete with a bar, restaurant pool and spa!

19. Polar Park, Norway 

Location: Bardu in Troms county, Norway.

Size: 270 acres

Must see: the wolves

Price: Adults 315NOK and children 250NOK

Polar Park is a unique and exciting destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. 

Located in the Arctic region of Northern Norway, it is home to a diverse range of animals including wolves, lynx, arctic foxes, musk oxen, reindeer, elk and bears. 

At Polar Park, visitors can experience close encounters with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The park offers various guided tours such as the Wolf Visit tour where visitors get to meet some of the resident wolves up close and learn about their behaviour. 

For those seeking an even more immersive experience, there are options to stay overnight at Polar Park. Guests can choose from several accommodation options such as cabins or glamping tents that offer stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.

Aside from its animal attractions, Polar Park Norway also boasts breathtaking scenery with its rugged mountains and crystal clear lakes. Visitors can take leisurely hikes through the park’s many trails while enjoying spectacular views along the way. 

Polar Park Norway is committed to conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species in their natural habitats. By visiting this unique destination visitors not only have an opportunity to learn about these amazing animals but also contribute towards their preservation.

Overall, if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable adventure amidst pristine wilderness then Polar Park Norway is definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list!

Where to stay for Polar Park

Polar Park has a range of accommodation options nearby to check out, everything from camping, glamping, hostels and luxury hotels.

20. Hagenbeck Tierpark, Germany

Location: Hamburg, Germany

Size: 62 acres

Must see: Their tropical aquarium

Price: Adults 45 euros and children 33 euros for combined zoo and aquarium tickets.

Hagenbeck Tierpark is a well-known zoo located in Hamburg, Germany. Founded in 1907 by Carl Hagenbeck, the park spans over 25 hectares and is home to over 1,850 animals from around the world. 

One of the unique features of Hagenbeck Tierpark is its open-air enclosures that allow visitors to get up close and personal with many of the animals. 

Visitors can explore themed areas such as Tropical Aquariums, Arctic Tundra, and Jungle Trail. They can also take part in various experiences like feeding penguins or taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo’s animal hospital. 

Hagenbeck Tierpark takes pride in its commitment to conservation efforts and has been actively involved in breeding programs for endangered species like white rhinos, snow leopards, and orangutans. The park also supports various research projects aimed at studying animal behaviour and improving their quality of life. 

Apart from being an educational destination for families and school groups, Hagenbeck Tierpark offers entertainment programs throughout the year. During the Halloween season, visitors can enjoy spooky-themed events while during Christmas time there are special displays set up around the park featuring festive lights.

Overall, Hagenbeck Tierpark provides an unforgettable experience for all ages with its diverse range of animals and interactive exhibits that promote education about wildlife conservation efforts.

Where to stay for Hamburg Zoo

When we visited Hamburg, we stayed at Hamburg Generator but if you want to stay right next to the zoo, we would recommend Lindner Park Hotel, you can even get discounted tickets with your stay!

FAQs about the best zoos in Europe

What is the most ethical zoo in Europe?

I have personally never been to a zoo in Europe that I would consider unethical but that is all down to personal opinion. I loved Highland Wildlife Park in Scotland as it had the largest enclosures I had ever seen animals in and it never felt overcrowded.

What is the biggest zoo in Europe?

Tierpark Berlin (or Berlin Zoo) is the largest zoo in Europe.

Where is the best zoo in Europe?

A lot of people rate Vienna Zoo as the best zoo in Europe, but I personally LOVE both Chester Zoo and Praia Daiza!

Are zoos ethical?

That would need to be a whole other article in itself as the answer is pretty complicated, so much so I wrote my college thesis on it! However, all the zoos in Europe do great work towards the conservation of animals and follow strict guidelines.

There you have it, our guide for the best zoos in Europe. Europe offers some of the best zoos in the world that are perfect for family vacations or solo adventures. 

Whether you’re interested in seeing rare and exotic animals up close, learning about conservation efforts, or just spending a day surrounded by nature, there’s a zoo in Europe that will meet your needs. 

From the vast expanses of Tierpark Berlin to the intimate setting of Bioparc Valencia, each zoo offers unique experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. So why not add one (or more) of these amazing zoos to your travel bucket list and see what Europe has to offer?

Have you been to any of the zoos listed or wish to recommend any more? Let us know in the comment section below!

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3 Comments

  1. Beekse Bergen in Hilvarenbeek and Burgers Zoo in Arnhem are way better than the Rotterdam zoo, even Artis in Amsterdam is better even though it’s not very big.

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