ARTIS travel guide

Artis, officially known as Natura Artis Magistra, is a historic zoo located in the heart of Amsterdam. Founded in 1838, it's the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and one of the oldest in Europe. The park was established by three men: Gerard Westerman, J.W.H. Werlemann, and J.J. Wijsmuller, known as the 'Three Ws'.

The name 'Artis' is derived from the Latin phrase 'Natura Artis Magistra', meaning 'Nature is the teacher of art'. Over the years, Artis has grown to include an aquarium, a planetarium, a geological museum, a zoological museum, and a botanical garden, making it not just a zoo, but a comprehensive center for wildlife and nature education.

In the 19th century, Artis was a symbol of modernity with its unique combination of leisure, education, and scientific research. Today, it remains an iconic attraction, inviting visitors to explore the wonders of nature, history, and culture in Amsterdam.

Artis, the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, is known for its diverse range of species and distinctively designed enclosures. It's the only place in Amsterdam where you can see elephants, giraffes, orangutans, and zebras all in one place. The zoo also houses a unique aquarium that was built in 1882, where visitors can view marine life from the Amsterdam canal. Artis sets itself apart with its emphasis on the natural habitats of animals. The enclosures are designed to resemble the animals' natural habitats as closely as possible, providing an immersive experience for visitors.

In addition to the animal exhibits, Artis is home to the Artis Planetarium, where visitors can explore the mysteries of the universe through high-tech presentations. The zoo's botanical garden, filled with thousands of plants from all over the world, is another unique feature. The garden also houses the historic Ledenlokalen building, which is now used for educational purposes. Artis is not just a zoo but a centre for education and conservation, hosting regular lectures, exhibitions, and other events to raise awareness about biodiversity and environmental issues.

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

Amsterdam 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, Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, Vondelpark, and Dam Square.

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

Experience the best of both worlds in Amsterdam, 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 the Netherlands!

ARTIS is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. If you're flying in, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is approximately 7.6 miles (12.2 km) away from Amsterdam. From there, you can easily reach ARTIS by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Amsterdam, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach ARTIS, which is located 1.1 miles (1.7 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to ARTIS, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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

The best time to explore Artis, Amsterdam's splendid zoo, is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this period, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor exploration of the extensive park. The zoo's flora is in full bloom, making the gardens exceptionally beautiful. The longer daylight hours also mean you can enjoy the zoo's attractions for a longer time. Special events, like the mesmerizing 'Artis at Twilight' in the summer, where the zoo stays open till late evening, provide a unique visitor experience. Notably, visiting on weekdays in these months helps avoid larger crowds common on weekends and holidays. For a quieter visit, consider the months of May and September. While the weather is slightly chillier, the zoo is less crowded, and you can take your time exploring the exhibits. Regardless of when you choose to visit, every season brings unique sights and experiences at Artis.

With a rental car, discovering the popular ARTIS and the Netherlands'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 Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and the city of Amsterdam, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in the Netherlands 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 Amsterdam and beyond.

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

Discover the best hotels for visiting ARTIS below.

Aside from ARTIS, Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House.

Rijksmuseum is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Amsterdam, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 93,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Rijksmuseum is Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Another appreciated attraction in Amsterdam is Van Gogh Museum. Like Rijksmuseum, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 86,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Anne Frank House is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Amsterdam. This museum and top attraction in Amsterdam has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 65,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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