Berlin Zoo Houses Thousands of Species Since 1844 Founding

On the western edge of the Tiergarten park, close to the busy Zoologischer Garten station, sits one of Berlin's most enduring attractions. The Berlin Zoological Garden, known simply as Zoo Berlin, opened in 1844 and is widely described as the oldest zoo in Germany. Over more than a century and a half it has grown into one of the most species-rich zoos in the world, home to a very large number of animals across a wide range of species.

The zoo's central location is part of its appeal. Unlike many modern animal parks built on the outskirts of cities, Zoo Berlin is embedded in the urban fabric, a short walk from the shopping streets around the Kurfuerstendamm and directly served by the S-Bahn and U-Bahn. That makes it an easy half-day outing rather than an expedition, and it remains a firm favourite with families.

Attached to the zoo is the Aquarium Berlin, a separate building housing fish, reptiles and amphibians, which can be visited on its own ticket or in combination with the zoo. Together they offer a broad experience under one visit, and the zoo has historically drawn particular attention for individual animals that have captured public affection over the years.

As with any large zoo, the institution's work extends beyond public display to conservation and breeding programmes, themes the zoo highlights in how it presents itself. For visitors, though, the practical draws are the variety of animals and the setting on the edge of one of the city's great parks, which makes it easy to combine a visit with a walk in the Tiergarten.

Admission charges apply, with combined tickets available for the zoo and aquarium and reduced rates for children and other groups. Opening hours are seasonal. Current prices, opening times and visitor information are published on the zoo's official website.