The Vienna Zoo is undoubtedly one of the most beloved places in the city and one of the most popular attractions it has to offer. The zoo complex is located in the Schönbrunn complex, next to the famous Schönbrunn Palace, so you can combine a visit to the zoo with a visit to the royal palace.
Watch some of the animals at the Schönbrunn Zoo:
What’s special about the Vienna Zoo?
Like every corner of Vienna, this attraction also has an interesting story. It all began at the behest of Emperor Franz Stephan, who was a nature lover. A private complex with animal cages was built for him. This complex was built in 1752 and had about 13 separate cages for the various animals, with a pavilion in the center where the emperor could sit and enjoy watching the animals during his breakfast.
The animal cages were separated by high walls, and on the side facing the central pavilion, they were enclosed by fences that allowed the emperor to observe the animals. Each cage had a water well and a shelter for the animals. In the eastern part of the complex, there is a two-story building that served as the residence for the zookeepers, and behind it was a pond for waterfowl.
The initial collection of animals at Schönbrunn came from the animal complex that was at the Belvedere Palace. The number of exotic animals grew as a result of various purchases and gifts given to the emperor.
The opening of the gardens in 1779 also included free entry to the animal complex. Emperor Joseph II continued to expand the animal collection, but poor care led to the death of animals on a regular basis. During the 19th century, many animals were added to the complex, and additional cages were built. Among the animals there were elephants, camels, kangaroos, giraffes, and more.
At the end of the 19th century, the animal complex became a zoo. The cage walls were removed and replaced with fences to make it easier to observe the animals, and the garden continued to expand. In 1914, there were no less than 3,470 different animals in the Schönbrunn Zoo.
Today, about 8,500 animals live in the zoo, and it is in fact the central zoo of the city of Vienna. It is an important and beloved attraction that draws many visitors throughout the year. Sometimes during busy periods, you can see long queues for entry to the zoo.
Purchase tickets online for fast-track entry to the Schönbrunn Zoo.
Essential Information for Visiting the Vienna Zoo
Opening Hours:
The zoo is open every day of the year.
- January: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- February: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- March: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- April – September: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- October: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- November – December: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Prices:
- Adult – €27
- Children and teenagers (6-19) – €15.50
- Children under 6 – Free
Purchase tickets online for fast-track entry to the Schönbrunn Zoo.
Address: Maxingstraße 13b, 1130 Wien, Österreich
How to get to the zoo by public transport?
The zoo is located near the Hietzing Gate (Hietzinger Tor). Take the green line, U4, and get off at the Hietzing station. Alternatively, you can arrive by tram: lines 10, 58, 60, or by bus lines 51A, 56A, 58A.
From there, it’s a few minutes’ walk to enter the Schönbrunn complex through the Hietzing Gate.
Map:
Interested in other attractions near the zoo? Read comprehensive information about all the attractions in the wonderful Schönbrunn Palace complex.
