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Schönbrunn Zoo: A Living Legacy of Wildlife and History

Explore the world's oldest zoo, a UNESCO site in Vienna, blending baroque charm with incredible wildlife encounters and conservation.

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Schönbrunn Zoo, or Tiergarten Schönbrunn, in Vienna, Austria, isn't just a zoo; it's a historical landmark. Established in 1752, it holds the title of the world's oldest continuously operating zoo and is a UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled within the Schönbrunn Palace gardens. Home to over 700 animal species, it offers a blend of baroque architecture and modern conservation efforts.

A brief summary to Schönbrunn Zoo

  • Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to skip potential queues, especially during weekends and summer.
  • Arrive early in the morning to see the animals when they are most active.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the entire zoo requires a lot of walking.
  • Check the feeding schedule to witness captivating animal feeding sessions.
  • Take advantage of the zoo train to rest your feet and enjoy a different perspective of the park.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most convenient way to reach Schönbrunn Zoo is via the U4 subway line to either the 'Schönbrunn' or 'Hietzing' station. From Hietzing station, follow the signs for a short walk to the Hietzinger Tor entrance. Tram lines 10, 52, and 60 also stop at Schloss Schönbrunn. A single Vienna public transport ticket costs €2.40.

  • Walking

    From Schönbrunn Palace, walk towards the Gloriette and follow the path along the right edge of the gardens. An entrance to the zoo is located near the Neptune Fountain at the bottom of the hill. Follow the signs to the zoo entrance. This is approximately a 15-20 minute walk through the palace gardens.

  • Car

    If driving, use Seckendorff-Gudent-Weg, 1130 Wien as your destination. A public car park is available, but spaces are limited. Parking costs vary, and a two-hour short-stay parking zone is enforced on weekdays; purchase permits in advance from tobacconists or online. Be aware that the path from the car park to the main zoo area is steep and may not be suitable for wheelchair users.

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Discover more about Schönbrunn Zoo

Schönbrunn Zoo, known locally as Tiergarten Schönbrunn, offers a unique blend of wildlife observation and historical immersion. Founded in 1752 as an imperial menagerie by Emperor Franz I, husband of Maria Theresa, it opened to the public in 1779, marking the beginning of its long history as a public zoo. Today, it stands as the world's oldest zoo still in operation and has been recognized as the best zoo in Europe multiple times. Located within the sprawling Schönbrunn Palace gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the zoo spans 17 hectares and houses over 700 species. The zoo's baroque architecture, including the central pavilion built in 1759 (now a restaurant), provides a unique backdrop to the animal enclosures. Schönbrunn Zoo is committed to conservation and education. It participates in European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP) and has achieved success in breeding endangered species. The zoo is home to a diverse range of animals, including giant pandas, Siberian tigers, African elephants, and numerous bird and reptile species. Visitors can explore various animal houses and habitats, such as the aquarium, terrarium, Polarium (for penguins and polar bears), and the Tirolerhof, which showcases rare Austrian livestock breeds. Feeding sessions and guided tours offer engaging experiences for all ages. The zoo's historical significance is interwoven with its modern approach to animal care and conservation, making it a must-see attraction in Vienna.

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