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Schönbrunn Zoo: A Living Legacy of Wildlife and History

Explore the world's oldest zoo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over 700 animal species in Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace gardens.

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Schönbrunn Zoo, the world's oldest continuously operating zoo, is a captivating blend of baroque architecture and modern conservation. Home to over 700 animal species within the Schönbrunn Palace gardens, it offers a unique glimpse into wildlife from around the globe, attracting over 2 million visitors annually.

A brief summary to Schönbrunn Zoo

  • Monday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the animals.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo covers a large area and requires a lot of walking.
  • Check the feeding schedule to witness the animals' feeding times and learn interesting facts.
  • Take advantage of the Schönbrunn Panorama Train to explore the vast Schönbrunn Palace grounds and get a different perspective of the zoo.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Vienna's city center, take the U4 subway line to either the Hietzing or Schönbrunn station. From Hietzing station, follow the signs to the Hietzinger Tor entrance, a short walk through the park. From Schönbrunn station, walk through the Schönbrunn Palace gardens towards the Neptune Fountain and the zoo entrance. A single public transport ticket costs €2.40.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Vienna. A taxi ride from the city center to Schönbrunn Zoo typically costs between €13 and €17 and takes approximately 15 minutes. Note that fares may vary depending on traffic and time of day.

  • Car

    If driving, there are several parking options near Schönbrunn Zoo. A large paid car park is located on Schönbrunner Schloßstraße, opposite the Orangerie. Another car park is located at Seckendorff-Gudent-Weg, near the Tirolerhof entrance. Parking costs vary, and a two-hour short-stay parking zone is in effect throughout Vienna from Monday to Friday. Parking permits must be purchased in advance from a tobacconist or online.

Unlock the Best of Schönbrunn Zoo

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Discover more about Schönbrunn Zoo

Established in 1752 as an imperial menagerie by Emperor Franz I Stephan, Schönbrunn Zoo has evolved from a royal pastime to a leading center for animal conservation and education. As part of the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the zoo seamlessly blends historical architecture with modern animal habitats. The baroque buildings, including the central Imperial Pavilion, provide a unique backdrop to the diverse collection of animals. Spanning 17 hectares, the zoo is home to over 700 species from around the world. From giant pandas and Siberian tigers to African elephants and playful meerkats, the zoo offers a fascinating glimpse into diverse ecosystems. Naturalistic enclosures mimic the animals' native habitats, promoting their well-being and encouraging natural behaviors. Visitors can observe feeding times and participate in guided tours to learn more about the animals and conservation efforts. Schönbrunn Zoo is committed to conservation and participates in European Endangered Species Programmes (EEPs). The zoo has achieved several milestones, including the first birth of an elephant in captivity in 1906 and successful natural breeding of giant pandas. The zoo also supports reintroduction projects, such as the Ural owl reintroduction in Austria. With its rich history, diverse animal collection, and commitment to conservation, Schönbrunn Zoo offers a memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

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