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.

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

Dublin 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, Dublin 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 Dublin and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Phoenix Park, Dublin Castle, St Stephen's Green, St Patrick's Cathedral, and Guinness Storehouse.

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

Experience the best of both worlds in Dublin, 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 Ireland!

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 Dublin. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Dublin Zoo, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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 tour that features this popular zoo in Dublin is highly recommended. As one of Ireland's most iconic attractions, Dublin 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 Dublin Zoo starting at just 32 EUR below.

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.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Dublin Zoo and other top attractions in Dublin than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Dublin include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Dublin Zoo's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Dublin 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 Ireland.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Dublin Zoo and Ireland'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 Dublin Airport and the city of Dublin, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Ireland 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 Dublin and beyond.

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

Discover the best hotels for visiting Dublin Zoo below.

Aside from Dublin Zoo, Dublin 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 Dublin, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Phoenix Park, Dublin Castle, and St Stephen's Green.

Phoenix Park is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Dublin, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Phoenix Park is Dublin 8, Ireland.

Another appreciated attraction in Dublin is Dublin Castle. Like Phoenix Park, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 31,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Dame St, Dublin 2, Co. Dublin, Ireland.

St Stephen's Green is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Dublin. This park and top attraction in Dublin has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland.

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