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.

Discover Artis, a prime feature of Amsterdam, in the vibrant Amsterdam. Artis is situated at Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands, just a short distance from Micropia and Wereldmuseum Amsterdam, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Artis, 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 Amsterdam, a city in the Netherlands rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

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

Artis is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Amsterdam, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is approximately 7.6 miles (12.2 km) away from the city center. 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 (1.8 km) from the city center. 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 everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Amsterdam, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Artis.

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

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

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

Choosing the right accommodation near Artis from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Amsterdam can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Artis, 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 Artis, Amsterdam boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to museum, the top attractions in Amsterdam offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Amsterdam is Rijksmuseum, located at Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands. This well-known museum enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Van Gogh Museum is worth seeing when you're in Amsterdam. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Anne Frank House completes any trip to Amsterdam. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands, 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 Amsterdam below to discover even more incredible places to explore.