Visit the Schönbrunn Zoo
in Vienna
Founded in 1752, this UNESCO-listed site is the world's oldest active zoo. It combines the imperial splendor of Francis I with modern habitats ranging from the Arctic to the Tropics, featuring over 700 species including giant pandas.
Ticket options
Prices and conditions
Schönbrunn Zoo: Skip The Line Admission Ticket
From 29 €.
Visit the oldest zoo in the world in an atmospheric UNESCO-listed setting.
Vienna Family Fun: Schönbrunn Zoo + House of Music
From 47,50 €.
See the oldest zoo and try an interactive sound experience at House of Music!.
Vienna: Tirolerhof and Schönbrunn Zoo Train Transfer
From 3 €.
Enjoy an easy, stress-free ride to Tirolerhof.
What visitors say
Thousands of visitors have already booked their visit: reviews and testimonials
★ 4.6/5 · 12 reviews collected directly from visitors and moderated by Visit Tickets
"We visited with our kids, and the panoramic train was a real highlight. The enclosures are huge, especially the Tirolerhof, where the elephants roam freely. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and the park’s imperial atmosphere really transported us away from the city."
"Arriving exactly at 9:00 AM to avoid the crowds is the best advice you can get. We got to watch the pandas in a peaceful setting from the terrace of the imperial pavilion. The view of the castle in the background is absolutely stunning for photos."
"The zoo is splendid and historic, but be prepared for a lot of walking. The Vogelhaus is superb, though the queue at the main entrance was a bit long on this sunny weekend. It’s definitely worth the visit despite the physical effort."
"Thanks to the Vienna Pass, entry was free, which made the visit even more enjoyable. I spent an hour in the Wüstenhaus, fascinated by the desert reptiles. The lighting there is very well thought out, and the explanations are clear."
"The concept is excellent, but I got lost several times due to the lack of a detailed map. The €29 price tag is fair, but it was stiflingly hot inside the Aquarien-Terrarienhaus. A lovely discovery despite a few minor logistical annoyances."
"A gem of cultural heritage. Knowing that it is the oldest active zoo in the world adds a unique dimension to the visit. Modern facilities like the tropical habitats contrast beautifully with the baroque architecture of the surrounding palace."
"The original menagerie, inspired by Versailles, offers a very particular atmosphere. My only regret is that the koala feeding schedules are hard to keep track of without checking the app in real-time. Otherwise, everything is perfect."
"Ideal for a family day out. The playgrounds are well-placed, and the contact zoo delighted my daughters. The staff were very approachable and happy to answer all their questions about the animals and the routes to take."
"I had read that you should check out the combined Castle + Zoo tickets, and it was worth it. Access to sensitive areas like the covered aviary was smooth. It was a remarkable cultural and natural experience, far superior to other European zoos."
"The site is vast and beautiful, but secondary entrances like the one at the Tirolerhof can be confusing. We arrived via the Hietzing/Palmenhaus entrance, which turned out to be the most reliable. The landscapes are fit for a painting."
"The 2002 commemorative 5 euro coin is a funny anecdote, but what really impressed me was the presence of Panda Fu Long (the first born in Europe). Seeing these giants in such a historic setting is unforgettable for any nature lover."
"Great value for money for the experience offered. The combined ticket allowed us to visit the castle as well. Only downside: traffic between the pools and the aviaries can get crowded in the afternoon. Best to go early in the morning."
Practical info
Everything you need to plan your visit
Address
1130 Vienna, Austria
Wien
District 10 · Metro: Hietzing (Line U4) or Schönbrunn (Lines U4, tram 10/60), 5 to 10 min walk depending on the chosen entrance.
Opening Hours
Hours vary by season; occasional winter closures may apply. Please check exact dates before your visit.
Fares
Vienna Family Fun: Schönbrunn Zoo + House of Music : From 47,50 €
Vienna: Tirolerhof and Schönbrunn Zoo Train Transfer : From 3 €
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Free child entry based on age (check variants). .
Visit Duration
Photos
Audience
Accessibility
PMR
Main route accessible by wheelchair with adapted facilities.
Family
Ideal for families with children thanks to the animations and the little train.
Audio guide
French, English, Spanish, German
Weather in Vienna
Current conditions and forecast to plan your visit
Discover Schönbrunn Zoo
The Imperial Heritage of 1752
A continuous history of conservation and prestige in Vienna.
1752
Year of foundation
700+
Animal species
5€
Commemorative coin
7
European zoos with koalas
Founded in 1752 by Emperor Francis I, Schönbrunn Zoo is the world's oldest zoo still in operation. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it now houses 700 species, including giant pandas and koalas. Managed by a private company since 1992 and led by Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck since 2020, this site combines historical heritage with modern, animal-friendly facilities.
History and heritage status
Founded on July 31, 1752, the Schönbrunn Zoo is the world's oldest zoo still in operation. Initially reserved for the privileged, it was opened to the Viennese public for free in 1779, 27 years after its creation. This exceptional longevity has earned it the title of a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its historical role in the evolution of European zoology.
The original menagerie, built on the model of Versailles, has evolved considerably. In 1926, the term 'menagerie' was abandoned in favor of 'Tiergarten Schönbrunn'. The transition to republican control in 1919 marks a major shift, leading to current management by a specialized private entity, ensuring a modern approach while respecting the Imperial heritage of Marie-Thérèse.
In 2002, Austria minted a silver commemorative coin worth 5 euros to celebrate the zoo's 250th anniversary. This symbolic gesture underscores the site's cultural importance. Today, the coexistence of historical structures and new habitats reflects a fascinating duality: a place where the history of 1752 dialogues with contemporary scientific standards of conservation.
Emblematic fauna and modern habitats
The zoo currently houses the giant panda pair Yang Yang (female) and Lang Hui (male), as well as their cub Fu Hu. Although Lang Hui passed away in December 2016, the presence of these animals remains central. The site is one of only seven European zoos to host koalas, a rarity that attracts enthusiasts of Australian wildlife in this Viennese setting.
Habitats range from the Arctic to the Tropics, offering controlled environments for diverse species. The Desert House offers a striking contrast to the outdoor landscape, while the Panoramatrain allows you to cover the park's large distances. These modern infrastructures meet the biological needs of the animals, supporting captive breeding programs essential to the survival of certain species.
Scientific research is active here, particularly for large herbivores and primates. Visitors can observe climbing structures and spacious pools designed for animal welfare. This scientific approach, led by Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck, transforms the visit into a deep educational experience, far beyond simple family entertainment, attracting specialists and biology enthusiasts.
Logistics, access, and combined tickets
It is crucial to understand that the zoo is a distinct attraction from the Schönbrunn Palace, although they share the same grounds. A palace ticket does not automatically grant access to the zoo. Combined tickets exist but are subject to strict validity conditions; it is recommended to check their specific availability before purchase to optimize your budget and time.
Access is available through several entrances: the main one near the Palm House, Tirolerhof, and behind the Neptune Fountain. The latter two may be closed in bad weather. Entry via the Neptune Fountain leads directly to the Rhino Park, a strategic point to start your visit. With the Vienna Pass, you scan your badge at the turnstiles to enter directly, bypassing the ticket office.
Hours vary by season, with possible winter closures. Exact feeding dates, especially for the pandas, change regularly. It is therefore imperative to consult the official schedule before booking. This operational flexibility, managed by Schönbrunner Tiergarten - GesmbH, requires careful preparation to fully enjoy key moments like animal feeding.
What awaits you
A living heritage from 1752 to today
Tips for visiting the Schönbrunn Zoo
Insider tips
Castle + Zoo combo tickets
Always check the availability of combo tickets, as they are subject to strict validity conditions. They often allow savings on the total price but require precise planning of your visit slots.
Variable seasonal hours
Never assume uninterrupted year-round opening. Hours vary by season, and winter closures can affect certain entrances like the Neptune Fountain. Check the official calendar before you go.
Feeding schedule tracking
Exact feeding dates, especially for the Giant Pandas, change according to the seasons and the animals present. Use the official app or website to check the updated daily program in real time.
Strategic entrance selection
The main Hietzing/Palmenhaus entrance is the most reliable, while those at Tirolerhof and the Neptune Fountain may be closed in bad weather. Prefer the main access to guarantee entry to the full circuit.
Avoid peak hours
Arrive right at opening at 09:00 to enjoy the quiet enclosures before the influx of school groups. Feeding times attract many visitors, so position yourself early to get a clear view of the animals.
Weather preparation
Some secondary accesses may be closed due to inclement weather, so check the forecasts before choosing your entry point. The main circuit generally remains open, but outdoor paths can become slippery in the rain.
Ideal photo spots
The imperial pavilion terrace offers a perfect view of the Panda enclosure, allowing photos with the castle in the background. It's the ideal spot to capture the duality between historical heritage and modern animal life.
Budget optimization
If you already have a Vienna PASS, zoo entry is included, representing significant savings on the standard rate. Always compare the cost of a single ticket with that of a multi-day pass if you are staying several days in Vienna.
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Little-known anecdotes
The oldest active zoo
Founded in 1752, it is the only zoo in the world to have maintained this continuous age without major interruption. This longevity makes it an essential pillar of European modern zoology history.
Unique collection piece
To celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2002, Austria minted a silver 5 euro coin specifically dedicated to the zoo. This gesture symbolizes the cultural importance of this site in the collective memory of Austria.
First panda born in Europe
Fu Long, born in 2007, was the first giant panda born by natural insemination on the European continent. His birth marked a major turning point in the conservation programs run by the Viennese zoo.
Versailles heritage
The original menagerie, opened by Francis I in 1752, was built on the model of the Royal Menagerie of Versailles. It became public in 1779, anchoring the site in the Viennese imperial tradition.
Koala rarity
The Schönbrunn Zoo is one of seven European zoos to house koalas. This exceptional presence attracts many visitors fascinated by these Australian marsupials and their specific enclosures.
Late public opening
Reserved for the privileged until 1779, the menagerie only became freely accessible to the Viennese public 27 years after its initial creation. This slowness reflects the social evolution of the imperial era.
Incorporating the Schönbrunn Zoo into your trip to Vienna
Three itineraries depending on available time
Imperial & Animal Essentials
- 09:00: Enter via Neptune Fountain to head directly to the rhinoceros park.
- 10:30: Visit the Giant Panda enclosure (check the exact feeding time on site).
- 12:00: Explore the Desert House and tropical habitats to observe exotic wildlife.
- 13:30: Walk towards the main Hietzing/Palmenhaus entrance for the final exit.
Full Day at Schönbrunn
- 08:30: Visit Schönbrunn Palace (a combined ticket is recommended to optimize time).
- 11:00: Transfer to the Zoo via the main Hietzing/Palmenhaus entrance located near the Palmenhaus.
- 13:00: Light lunch followed by a visit to Tirolerhof and discovery of Koalas, rare in Europe.
- 15:00: Explore the Arctic zones and large herbivores before closing time.
Cultural & Natural Immersion
- Day 1 morning: In-depth visit of the Imperial Castle and its historical gardens.
- Day 1 afternoon: Focus at the Zoo on large herbivores and modern enclosures such as giraffes.
- Day 2 morning: Early wake-up to witness the feeding of the Giant Pandas right after opening.
- Day 2 afternoon: Exploration of the Arctic zones and a calm return through the Schönbrunn Park.
Vienna City Card: 24, 48, 72 hours or 7 days of public transport + discounts
The Vienna PASS is an all-inclusive tourist pass that allows you to discover the many facets of Vienna.
From 19 €
See also
More must-see experiences in Vienna
Interactive map
Find the attraction and nearby places to visit
Near Schönbrunn Zoo
Make time to explore the surrounding area
Schönbrunn Palace
5 min walk
UNESCO-listed imperial residence, sharing grounds with the zoo for a total historical immersion.
Schönbrunn Park
On-site
Vast baroque park offering peaceful walks between royal avenues and flower gardens.
Palm House
2 min walk
Iconic tropical greenhouse located just next to the zoo's main entrance, rich in exotic flora.
Gloriette
15 min walk
Panoramic belvedere overlooking Vienna, ideal for a photo stop after the animal tour.
Restaurant Tirolerhof
5 min walk
Traditional Austrian inn offering local specialties near the zoo entrance.
U4 Hietzing Station
10 min walk
Main underground station serving the area, making access from central Vienna easy.
How to get to Schönbrunn Zoo
Estimated travel times from the main points in the city
Metro : Hadikgasse (8 min walk) Bus : Tiroler Gasse (4 min walk)
- From West Station 3,1 km → 13 min
- From Vienna Main train station (Südtiroler Platz) 5,2 km → 19 min
- From Vienna Airport 20,8 km → 56 min
- From Schönbrunn 1,3 km → 9 min
- From Wien Mitte-Landstraße 6,6 km → 22 min
- From West Station 3,1 km → 20 min
- From Vienna Main train station (Südtiroler Platz) 5,2 km → 29 min
- From Vienna Airport 20,8 km → 91 min
- From Schönbrunn 1,3 km → 13 min
- From Wien Mitte-Landstraße 6,6 km → 35 min
- From West Station 3,1 km → 13 min
- From Vienna Main train station (Südtiroler Platz) 5,2 km → 20 min
- From Vienna Airport 20,8 km → 72 min
- From Schönbrunn 1,3 km → 7 min
- From Wien Mitte-Landstraße 6,6 km → 25 min
- From West Station 3,1 km → 16 min
- From Vienna Main train station (Südtiroler Platz) 5,2 km → 26 min
- From Vienna Airport 20,8 km → 98 min
- From Schönbrunn 1,3 km → 8 min
- From Wien Mitte-Landstraße 6,6 km → 33 min
- From Schönbrunn 1,3 km → 17 min
Accommodation
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Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before your visit
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Practical Info
Accessibility
Schönbrunn Zoo on video
A preview of this exceptional place before your visit
Schönbrunn Zoo in pictures
See what to expect during your visit
Schönbrunn Zoo vs other major European zoos
Quick comparison with other major sites
| Schönbrunn Zoo | Berlin Zoo | Paris Zoological Park | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year founded | 1752 | 1844 | 1854 |
| UNESCO status | Yes | No | No |
| Indicative adult price | 29 € | 26 € | 24 € |
| Recommended visit duration | 3-4 hours | 3-4 hours | 3-4 hours |
| Particularity | World's oldest active zoo | Great gorilla pool | Integrated aquarium |
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