Zoo Pilsen

Zoo Pilsen Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide – Plzeň, Czech Republic

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: The Legacy and Importance of Zoo Pilsen

Nestled in the Lochotín district, just north of the Plzeň city center, Zoo Pilsen (Zoologická a botanická zahrada města Plzně) stands as a beacon of conservation, education, and recreation. Since its founding in 1926, the zoo has evolved from modest beginnings into one of the Czech Republic’s premier zoological and botanical gardens. Covering over 21 hectares, it boasts more than 1,200 animal species and numerous botanical exhibits organized by zoogeographical regions—including Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, Madagascar, and Australia.

Zoo Pilsen’s mission extends beyond showcasing biodiversity; it plays an integral role in international conservation projects, particularly for endangered species such as the Lord Derby eland and the Blue-eyed black lemur. Through its ex-situ breeding programs and ecological education, the zoo has become a cultural institution and a center for wildlife preservation.

Strategically located and easily accessible by public transport—including a dedicated seasonal “Zoo Train”—Zoo Pilsen welcomes visitors of all ages, offering modern amenities, themed attractions like the DinoPark, and a holistic nature experience. This guide provides all essential details on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, facilities, historical context, and nearby Plzeň attractions to ensure a memorable visit (Zoo Pilsen Official Site; Plzeň Guide).

Introduction
Visiting Hours & Ticket Information
Accessibility & Visitor Facilities
Main Attractions & Themed Exhibits
Conservation & Education Initiatives
Historical Overview
Getting There: Travel & Parking Tips
Nearby Plzeň Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary & Visitor Tips
References

Visiting Hours & Ticket Information

Zoo Pilsen operates every day of the year, including holidays.
Visiting hours vary seasonally:

Summer (April–October): 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Winter (November–March): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
DinoPark (April–October only): Opening hours align with the main zoo.

Admission Prices (2025):

Adults: 220 CZK
Children (3–15 years), Students, Seniors: 160 CZK
Family Ticket: 720 CZK
Combined Zoo + DinoPark Ticket: Discounted rates available in season
Special Zoo Train: 50 CZK per person (ages 3+)

Tickets are available at the main entrance or online via the official Zoo Pilsen website.

Tip: Purchase tickets online to avoid queues, especially during weekends and holidays.

Accessibility & Visitor Facilities

Zoo Pilsen is designed for visitor comfort and accessibility:

Wheelchair & Stroller Access: Paved and gravel paths throughout, with some hilly terrain. Stroller rentals are available.
Restrooms & Baby Changing: Located at multiple points across the grounds.
Dining: Several cafes, kiosks, and picnic areas; menus are primarily in Czech, with some English/German available.
Souvenirs: Gift shops near the entrance and within the zoo.
Shelters & Benches: Indoor pavilions and shaded benches provide respite in all weather conditions.
Multilingual Signage: Most animal information boards are in Czech, English, and German.

Note: Pets are not allowed in the zoo.

Main Attractions & Themed Exhibits

Animal & Botanical Highlights

Over 7,000 animals from 1,200+ species, including lions, giraffes, tigers, rhinos, kangaroos, bears, penguins, and more.
Botanical Garden: Features a Japanese Meditation Garden, the Evolution of Plants trail, and labeled flora throughout the grounds.

Themed Zones by Continent

Africa: Lions, zebras, antelopes, monkeys in savannah-style enclosures.
Asia: Bactrian camels, Asian primates, themed landscaping.
Europe: Brown bears, wolves, bison in wooded hillside habitats.
Americas: Llamas, cougars, and other native fauna.
Australia & Madagascar: Kangaroos, emus, lemurs, and rare maki species (the zoo maintains European studbooks for some lemurs).

Lüftnerka Farm

A favorite for families, featuring domestic animals (goats, sheep, pigs, horses, poultry) and interactive agricultural exhibits.

DinoPark (April–October)

A separate, ticketed area with animatronic dinosaurs, interactive displays, and a 3D cinema for all ages.

Special Programs

Commentated feedings and animal encounters (weekends, holidays)
Workshops, educational trails, and events for school groups and families

(en.wikipedia.org; plzenguide.com; prague-info.info)

Conservation & Education Initiatives

Zoo Pilsen is a leader in global and local conservation:

Lord Derby Eland: Partners with Derbianus CSAW to protect this critically endangered antelope in Senegal.
Madagascar Projects: Supports Blue-eyed Black Lemur conservation via the AEECL and the Sahamalaza reserve.
Southeast Asia: Funds fieldwork for the rare saola and supports Komodo dragon breeding in Indonesia.
European Endangered Species Programs (EEP): Participates in approximately 40 EEPs, breeding and caring for rare species.
Public Engagement: Hosts themed days, workshops, and collaborates with universities for research and student training.

(https://zooplzen.cz/en/we-support/outside-the-borders/)

Historical Overview

1926: Founded by the IRIS Association, initially in Doudlevce.
1953–1963: Relocated and expanded to Lochotín, introducing modern enclosures.
1981: Merged with the city’s botanical garden.
1996–Present: Adopted a bio-park model, grouping animals by continent for a more natural, educational experience.

(zoos.mono.net; Plzeň Guide)

Getting There: Travel & Parking Tips

Address: Pod Vinicemi 9, 301 00 Plzeň, Czech Republic
By Public Transport:

Tram 1: From Plzeň main station to Lékařská fakulta stop; approx. 1 km walk to the main entrance.
Zoo Train (seasonal): Line 76 from Republic Square to the zoo entrance; 50 CZK per person.
Bus: Several routes stop at “Zoologická zahrada.”

By Car:
Parking available near the entrance (around 80 CZK/day); spaces fill quickly on weekends.

By Bicycle:
Bike-friendly paths lead to the zoo, with racks available onsite.

(visitplzen.eu; prag-infos.de)

Nearby Plzeň Attractions

DinoPark: Family-friendly dinosaur adventure adjacent to the zoo.
Pilsner Urquell Brewery: The birthplace of the world-famous lager.
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral: Iconic Gothic landmark in Republic Square.
Techmania Science Center: Interactive science museum suitable for all ages.
Plzeň Old Town: Easily reachable by tram or the zoo train.

(plzenguide.com)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are tickets available online?
A: Yes, purchase via the official website.

Q: Is the zoo accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
A: Most areas are accessible, though some slopes may require assistance.

Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: No, pets are not permitted.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, for personal use. Professional shoots require approval.

Q: Can I bring my own food?
A: Picnics are allowed in designated areas.

Q: How long should I plan for a visit?
A: At least 3–4 hours for the zoo alone; a full day if including DinoPark.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, check the website for schedules and booking options.

Summary & Visitor Tips

Zoo Pilsen is more than a traditional zoo—it is a vibrant center for conservation, education, and cultural enrichment. Visitors are treated to a seamless blend of animal and botanical exhibits, modern facilities, and accessible paths. Its proximity to other Plzeň attractions makes it a cornerstone of any visit to the city.

Tips for Your Visit:

Buy tickets online and arrive early to avoid crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes for hilly terrain.
Consider combining your visit with DinoPark or nearby Plzeň sights.
Support conservation initiatives through donations or participation in special programs.

For up-to-date details on hours, events, and accessibility, always refer to the official Zoo Pilsen website, and consider downloading the Audiala app for interactive guides and updates.