Information
Landmark: Zagreb ZooCity: Zagreb
Country: Croatia
Continent: Europe
Zagreb Zoo, Zagreb, Croatia, Europe
Overview
Tucked inside the leafy calm of Maksimir Park, Zagreb Zoo (Croatian: Zoološki vrt grada Zagreba) draws families and animal lovers alike, who pause to watch lions stretch in the sun.Opened in 1925, it ranks among the oldest zoos in southeastern Europe and houses everything from bright-feathered parrots to roaming native deer.The zoo sprawls over 7 hectares, blending hands‑on exhibits, conservation work, and playful attractions like a brightly painted carousel, drawing both locals and tourists year‑round.The zoo houses more than 275 species and 2,200 animals, from sleek, endangered snow leopards to familiar local owls.You’ll find plenty to see here-majestic lions, sleek leopards, and elusive lynxes draw crowds, while lively monkeys, chattering baboons, and rare gibbons swing through roomy enclosures.Brown bears lumber in the shade, and red pandas doze in the trees.A splash of pink from the flamingo lagoon catches the eye, and high above, eagles and owls watch from their perches.Parrots flash their bright feathers and mimic visitors with surprising accuracy.In the reptile house, pythons coil lazily beside native European lizards, and frogs and salamanders thrive in a carefully kept habitat.The aquarium shimmers with tropical fish, and penguins waddle to the delight of children and adults alike.Throughout it all, the zoo works to protect endangered species, including the snow leopard, red panda, and Balkan lynx.The Tropical House stays warm and humid year-round, sheltering reptiles, amphibians, and lush tropical plants, with flashes of color from parrots and dart frogs.In the African Savannah, zebras graze beside nimble antelopes while meerkats stand watch.The Educational Center invites visitors to explore hands-on exhibits and join workshops on conservation, ecosystems, and biodiversity.At the Children’s Zoo, kids can feed goats, pet rabbits, and hear the soft cluck of chickens.Each spring, the Butterfly Garden bursts into life with winged patterns drifting through sunlight.Zagreb Zoo also runs breeding programs for endangered species and partners with international groups to protect wildlife.As a proud member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, the zoo works to protect Croatia’s native wildlife, including the elusive Balkan lynx and the shy European pond turtle.Families will find plenty to enjoy here-children can climb and play in shaded playgrounds, read colorful educational boards, and watch feeding demonstrations up close.Interactive shows bring visitors face-to-face with animals during scheduled feeding times, keeper talks, and special encounters.When it’s time for a break, cafés and snack bars offer coffee, cold drinks, and light meals, while the gift shop sells animal-themed souvenirs and eco-friendly keepsakes.You’ll find the zoo in Maksimir Park, about three kilometers east of the city center, open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM in summer and until 5:00 PM in winter, with adult tickets priced at approximately...Entry is 40–50 HRK, with discounts for children, students, and seniors, plus family packages if you’re visiting together.Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the lions stretch and the monkeys chatter most.Wear comfortable shoes-the paths are long-and dress for the weather, since most exhibits are outdoors.Afterward, wander into Maksimir Park for a picnic, a stroll by the lake, or a boat ride.Nearby, you can explore the park’s leafy trails, the serene Mirogoj Cemetery, or hop a short tram ride to Zagreb’s bustling center.Opened in 1925 with just three foxes and two owls, the zoo grew to host stars like “King,” a beloved lion, and now offers engaging programs that teach kids about biodiversity and conservation-all within the green heart of Maksimir Park.Whether you’re with family, sharing it with someone special, or exploring on your own, it promises a day you won’t forget in one of Zagreb’s calmest, most inviting spots, where the air smells faintly of pine.
