Dublin Zoo travel guide

Dublin Zoo, nestled in the heart of Dublin's Phoenix Park, is one of Ireland's most popular attractions. Established in 1831 by the Zoological Society of London, it is the fourth oldest zoo in the world and has a rich history.

Initially, the zoo was created as a private scientific society, stocked with animals from London Zoo. Its mission was to promote a knowledge of the 'animal kingdom' and its importance to the public.

The zoo opened to the public in 1839, and by the 1850s, it included a reptile house, a lion's den, and a monkey house. The zoo continued to expand throughout the 20th century, introducing new species and improving animal habitats.

Today, Dublin Zoo is a world-class facility dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity, providing a safe and naturalistic habitat for over 400 animals. It is deeply involved in international breeding programmes for endangered species and continues to inspire awe and wonderment in its visitors.

Discover Dublin Zoo, a prime feature of Dublin, in the vibrant Dublin. Dublin Zoo is situated at Phoenix park, Saint James, Dublin, D08 AC98, Ireland, just a short distance from Irish National War Memorial Gardens and Phoenix Park, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Dublin Zoo, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Dublin, a city in Ireland rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Dublin to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Dublin Zoo. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Dublin travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Dublin Zoo is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Dublin, Ireland. If you're flying in, Dublin Airport is approximately 4.7 miles (7.5 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Dublin Zoo by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Dublin, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Dublin Zoo, which is located 2 miles (3.2 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Phoenix park, Saint James, Dublin, D08 AC98, Ireland.

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

To truly enjoy your visit to Dublin Zoo, joining a guided tour of this renowned zoo in Dublin is highly recommended. As one of Ireland's most iconic attractions, Dublin Zoo draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Dublin, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Dublin Zoo starting at just 32 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

The best time to explore Dublin Zoo is during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when the weather is generally warmer and all the animals are active. The zoo opens at 9:30 AM daily, and an early start is recommended to avoid the mid-day crowds and to experience the animals at their liveliest. Keep an eye out for special events such as the 'Wild Lights' lantern festival in autumn and 'Zoorassic World' that bring a unique charm to the zoo experience. Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends, giving you more space and time to enjoy each exhibit. However, if you're visiting in the off-peak season (October to March), ensure to check the zoo's website for updated opening times as they may vary. Regardless of the season, Dublin Zoo offers a remarkable experience for wildlife enthusiasts all year round.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Dublin Zoo, perfectly planned travel packages to Dublin make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Dublin, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Dublin Zoo.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic zoo in Ireland.

Upon arriving at Dublin Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Dublin.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Dublin.

Choosing the right accommodation near Dublin Zoo from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Dublin can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Dublin Zoo, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Dublin Zoo, Dublin boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to park, the top attractions in Dublin offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Dublin is Phoenix Park, located at Dublin 8, Ireland. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Dublin Castle is worth seeing when you're in Dublin. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Dame St, Dublin 2, Co. Dublin, Ireland.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to St Stephen's Green completes any trip to Dublin. This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Dublin below to discover even more incredible places to explore.