Schönbrunn Zoo travel guide

The Tiergarten Schönbrunn, or the Vienna Zoo, has a rich history that dates back to 1752, making it the world's oldest continuously operating zoo.

Commissioned by Holy Roman Emperor Francis I, it was initially a private menagerie for the imperial family. In 1779, it was opened to the public and was the site of significant scientific breakthroughs, such as the first successful elephant insemination in 1906.

During World War II, the zoo suffered extensive damage, but it was rebuilt and expanded in the subsequent years. In 2002, the zoo's Rainforest House was opened, followed by the polarium in 2004 and the orangery in 2009.

Today, the Tiergarten Schönbrunn is a modern and scientifically administered zoo, which also serves an educational role, teaching the public about the importance of animal species and nature conservation.

One of the most extraordinary characteristics of Tiergarten Schönbrunn is its age. As the world's oldest continuously operating zoo, founded in 1752, the place is a living testament to the evolution of animal conservation. Another fascinating aspect is its location within the grounds of the illustrious Schönbrunn Palace, providing a unique blend of cultural and natural history. The zoo is well-known for its commitment to ethological animal keeping, focusing on species-appropriate and natural habitats. It's also home to a wide range of species, including some rare ones like the Giant Panda and the Siberian Tiger. The zoo's Rainforest House, allows visitors to experience a tropical rainforest's atmosphere, complete with free-flying birds and free-roaming monkeys. The Polarium, another distinctive feature, provides a home for polar bears and penguins with conditions that mimic their natural habitats. Lastly, the interactive 'ORANG.erie' offers an immersive experience into the lives of orangutans, promoting understanding and conservation efforts for these endangered species.

Located in the dynamic Hietzing, the popular Schönbrunn Zoo is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Vienna or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Austria.

Vienna is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Vienna offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Vienna and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Belvedere Palace, Schönbrunn Palace Park, and Hofburg.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Vienna has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Vienna, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Austria!

Schönbrunn Zoo is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Vienna, Austria. If you're flying in, Vienna International Airport is approximately 13.6 miles (21.9 km) away from Vienna. From there, you can easily reach Schönbrunn Zoo by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Vienna, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Schönbrunn Zoo, which is located 3.7 miles (5.9 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Schönbrunn Zoo, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Maxingstraße 13b, 1130 Wien, Austria.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Schönbrunn Zoo!

The best time to explore Tiergarten Schönbrunn, one of the oldest zoos in the world, is during the late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October). During these months, the weather in Vienna is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities and animal viewing. The zoo is less crowded compared to the summer months, allowing you to enjoy the exhibits at a leisurely pace. Additionally, the lush vegetation of the zoo is in full bloom during these periods, enhancing the overall aesthetic experience. Special events, like the 'Zoo Experience Night' in summer and 'Polar Bear Swim' in winter, add unique charm to the visit. However, these events attract more visitors, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid large crowds. Remember, the zoo is open every day of the year, so you can choose a time that suits your schedule best. For a truly memorable experience, consider visiting early in the morning when the animals are most active.

To truly enjoy your visit to Schönbrunn Zoo, joining a tour that features this popular zoo in Vienna is highly recommended. As one of Austria's most iconic attractions, Schönbrunn Zoo draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Schönbrunn Zoo starting at just 31 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Schönbrunn Zoo and other top attractions in Vienna than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Vienna include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Schönbrunn Zoo's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Schönbrunn Zoo and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind zoo in Austria.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Schönbrunn Zoo and Austria's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Vienna International Airport and the city of Vienna, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Austria cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Vienna and beyond.

Conveniently explore Schönbrunn Zoo and plenty more captivating attractions in Vienna by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Schönbrunn Zoo and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Vienna has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Schönbrunn Zoo below.

Aside from Schönbrunn Zoo, Vienna is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Vienna, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and Belvedere Palace.

Schönbrunn Palace is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Vienna, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 140,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Schönbrunn Palace is Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria.

Another appreciated attraction in Vienna is St. Stephen's Cathedral. Like Schönbrunn Palace, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 100,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Austria.

Belvedere Palace is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Vienna. This museum and top attraction in Vienna has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 67,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Vienna below.