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Innsbruck Alpine Zoo

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Innsbruck Alpine Zoo, situated at the foot of the Nordkette mountain range, is Europe's highest themed zoo, located at an elevation of 750 metres above sea level. Founded on September 22, 1962, by zoologist Hans Psenner, it focuses specifically on the indigenous wildlife of the Alpine region. Across its five-hectare site, the facility houses approximately 2,000 animals from 150 different species, including Alpine ibex, brown bears, otters, and rare birds such as the bearded vulture. The zoo plays a vital role in international conservation breeding programs and was instrumental in the successful reintroduction of the ibex and the bearded vulture into the Alps. Enclosures are meticulously designed to mimic natural mountain habitats, providing visitors with insights into the ecological dynamics of high-altitude fauna. Beyond its educational mission, the park functions as a research centre for the biology of Alpine species. It remains open to the public year-round and is directly accessible from Innsbruck city centre via the Hungerburg funicular railway.

Location: Tyrol, Austria
Top sights: Red fox · Theresienkirche · Das kleine Seilbahnmuseum
Nearby: Rum (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-4	-3	1	6	10	14	15	15	11	7	2	-3
Rain mm	83	65	81	84	149	175	172	185	119	91	70	74

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The Alpine Zoo is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September when most animals are active in outdoor enclosures. In winter some species hibernate, but the snowy landscapes offer a special charm.

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Best time of day

Feeding times vary, so visiting in the morning is worthwhile as animals are usually fed and most active then. Early afternoon many animals rest, but the afternoon hours can allow for calmer observations.

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Etiquette

Please do not feed the animals, as the food is often unsuitable and can cause health issues. Keep a proper distance from the enclosures and avoid loud shouting or tapping on the glass.

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What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the zoo is located on a hill with some inclines. Binoculars can be useful for detailed observation of animals from a distance, especially in larger enclosures.

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Getting there

The Alpine Zoo in Innsbruck is easily reachable by public transport; the „Alpenzoo” bus stop is right at the entrance. Parking is limited, so traveling by bus or train is recommended.

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What to expect

Some animals hide in the back areas of their enclosures, so it may take a while to spot them. On hot days many species retreat to shade, requiring patience for quiet observation.

Geography

Coordinates

47.28440, 11.39690

Facts

Located at an elevation of 750 metres above sea level.
Founded in 1962 by the zoologist Hans Psenner.
Home to roughly 2,000 animals from 150 Alpine species.
Features the world's only cold-water aquarium for Alpine fish.
Successfully released over 100 bearded vultures since 1980.
The total area of the zoo covers approximately 5 hectares.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Innsbruck2 km · SExplore →

Ambras Castle4 km · SEExplore →

Rum4 km · EExplore →

Völs6 km · SWExplore →

Hall in Tirol8 km · EExplore →

Absam9 km · EExplore →

Zirl12 km · WExplore →

Wattens15 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Innsbruck Alpine Zoo (10)

Red fox

Red fox at the Alpine Zoo Innsbruck, shows typical behavior of the native predator.

Theresienkirche

Parish church in Innsbruck, dedicated to Saint Theresa of Avila.

Das kleine Seilbahnmuseum🏛 museum

Museum in Austria, shows the history and technology of cable cars.

🌐 nordkette.com💶

badger

Badger at the Alpine Zoo Innsbruck, nocturnal animal in a naturalistic enclosure.

vulture

Vulture at the Alpine Zoo Innsbruck, bird of prey with an impressive wingspan.

Alpenzoo

Zoo in Austria, specialized in alpine animals, located in Innsbruck.

Hungerturm

Ruins of a medieval tower in Innsbruck, likely used as a prison.

Weiherburg🏰 castle

Castle in Innsbruck, former noble residence, now a museum.

Museum Weiherburg🏛 museum

Museum in Weiherburg Castle in Innsbruck, displays historical collections.

Sophien-Ruhe

Viewpoint in Innsbruck, named after Archduchess Sophie, gives a view of the city.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about the Alpenzoo?

It is one of the highest zoos in Europe and showcases alpine animal species.

How do you reach the zoo from Innsbruck?

Best reached via the Hungerburgbahn funicular or bus (line W).

Are dogs allowed in the zoo?

No, dogs are not allowed in the zoo for safety reasons.

How much time do you need for a visit?

You should plan for about 2 to 3 hours for the entire zoo.

Are there discounts for families?

Yes, there are special combination tickets and family passes available.

Innsbruck Alpine Zoo: where is it located?

Innsbruck Alpine Zoo is located in Tyrol, Austria.

Innsbruck Alpine Zoo: what is there to see?

Highlights include Red fox, Theresienkirche, Das kleine Seilbahnmuseum.

Innsbruck Alpine Zoo: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Innsbruck Alpine Zoo: why is it worth visiting?

The Innsbruck Alpine Zoo, situated at the foot of the Nordkette mountain range, is Europe's highest themed zoo, located at an elevation of 750 metres above sea level.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →