The ZOO Vienna (Tiergarten Schönbrunn) was founded as early as 1752 as an imperial menagerie and is thus the oldest zoological garden in the world. Despite its small area, it definitely has a lot to offer. The ancient atmosphere, architecturally interesting pavilions, a huge number of animals from all continents, but especially the rare giant pandas are the biggest attraction. The reason why you should definitely not miss this ZOO when visiting Vienna.
Top family friendly hotels in Austria >>
In harmony with nature
The Zoo Vienna Zoo is located in the beautiful surroundings of the extensive park of the Baroque Schönbrunn Palace. It belongs to the most modern and most beautiful facilities of this type in Europe and in the world. The animals have enough space, they live in complete harmony with nature, their enclosures are very generously designed.
In addition to the modern pavilions, the visitor’s eye will also be caught by the old baroque buildings, from which the atmosphere of ancient times breathes upon you. Modern pavilions are combined with historical buildings tastefully, non-violently and with feeling. Everything seems completely natural and harmonious.
Find the best accommodation in Vienna >>
Cute panda bears
You will find about 700 species of animals in the ZOO, so you can be sure that you will also see animals that you have never seen before. In addition to relatively common species such as felines, sea lions, bears, elephants, you will also see rare, critically endangered species, e.g. koalas, orangutans, as well as the biggest blockbuster of the Zoo Vienna, a pair of giant pandas, which were loaned to the garden from as far away as China. These cute, black and white teddy bears belong to the most endangered animal species in the world, but they are doing very well in the Zoo Vienna. They even managed to raise panda cubs here, which were conceived naturally, which is completely unique.
Other attractions in the Vienna Zoo
In addition to pavilions with animals, the garden also offers other attractions, such as a huge greenhouse with an exotic rainforest, a giraffe park, an area with orangutans, a tropical greenhouse with butterflies and birds that fly freely, a coral reef, but also a polararium with penguins and sea lions. Above all, children will be delighted by the underwater tunnel, where they can watch strange fish swimming directly above their heads. Commented feeding of the animals even takes place in two languages, German and English. It is not only interesting, but also funny, so be sure not to miss it.
What else to do in Vienna with kids? >>
Schönbrunn Gardens
After visiting the ZOO Vienna, be sure not to miss the adjacent Schönbrunn Gardens. On an area of 160 hectares, there is a beautiful park with lots of greenery. Especially in spring, when all the flower beds bloom, walking through the park is literally a feast for the eyes. There are several fountains in the gardens, the most beautiful of which is probably the Neptunbrunnen, or Neptune’s Fountain, which is truly spectacular. The fountain is located directly opposite Schönbrunn Palace and depicts scenes from Greek mythology. You can walk through the entire park or take advantage of the unique opportunity to take a ride on a diesel-powered train, the so-called Schönbrunn Panorama Railway. The entire route has nine stations, it takes you, among other things, through the entire zoo, the journey time is approximately 50 minutes.
