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Osijek Zoo

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Osijek Zoo, situated on the left bank of the Drava River, is the largest zoo in Croatia by land area. Established in 1955, it occupies a spacious 28-hectare site, which allows for animals to be kept in relatively large and naturalistic enclosures compared to many older European zoos. The collection includes about 100 different animal species and over 600 individuals, with a notable focus on large carnivores and ungulates. Its riverside location provides a tranquil, park-like atmosphere, and it is uniquely accessible from the city center via a traditional river ferry called a 'kompa'. In recent years, the zoo has been modernized to meet international animal welfare standards, featuring new habitats for giraffes and hyenas. As a major regional institution, it plays a key role in environmental education and biodiversity conservation.

Location: Croatia
Top sights: Dvorac Pejačević · Zgrada Solarskog ureda · Stakleni vidikovac
Nearby: Kopački Rit (15 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	0	2	7	12	17	22	24	24	18	13	7	1
Rain mm	46	48	47	50	81	83	61	57	62	57	50	47

📋 Practical info

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Best season

Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for a visit, when animals are generally more active. Summer can be hot, but the zoo's shade trees and riverside location provide some relief, while winter visits are possible though some species may be in heated enclosures.

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Best time of day

Early morning hours, right around opening time, typically see the freshest animal activity. Late afternoon can also be productive as keepers often feed animals then, drawing them out of hiding.

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Etiquette

Visitors must remain on designated paths and never feed any animals, as human food harms their health. Keep a respectful silence near enclosures to avoid stressing the animals, and do not use flash photography.

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What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the zoo covers a large area on the Drava's left bank. Bring binoculars for distant enclosures and a water bottle for hydration on warm days; a light rain jacket can be useful for sudden showers.

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Getting there

The zoo is easily reachable by car from downtown Osijek, with parking available nearby. Public buses also serve the area, with a short walk from the nearest stop; cycling along the Drava riverbank is another option.

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What to expect

Unlike a safari, a zoo guarantees animal sightings, but patience is still needed for shy species. Move slowly between enclosures and revisit favorites later in the day; mornings are generally more rewarding for active animals.

Geography

Coordinates

45.56500, 18.66200

Facts

The Osijek Zoo was officially opened in 1955.
The total area of the zoo is approximately 28 hectares.
There are about 100 different animal species housed in the zoo.
The total animal population exceeds 600 individuals.
A modern giraffe enclosure was completed and opened in 2007.
The zoo is accessible from the city via a unique river ferry (kompa).

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul1 km · SEExplore →

Kandit Confectionery2 km · SExplore →

Osijek3 km · SEExplore →

Podunavlje Agricultural Center12 km · NEExplore →

KopaÄki Rit13 km · NEExplore →

Kopački Rit15 km · EExplore →

Valpovo22 km · NWExplore →

Beli Manastir24 km · NExplore →

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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Sights in the town Osijek Zoo (10)

Dvorac Pejačević🏰 castle

Dvorac Pejačević is a manor house in Osijek, Croatia, a historic building from the 19th century.

Zgrada Solarskog ureda

Zgrada Solarskog ureda is a manor in Osijek, its exact history is not documented.

Stakleni vidikovac

Stakleni vidikovac is a viewpoint in Osijek, offering a view of the surroundings.

Zoo vrt Osijek

Zoo vrt Osijek is a zoo in Osijek, housing animals from various regions.

🌐 zoo-osijek.hr

Kapela sv. Roka

Kapela sv. Roka is a chapel in Osijek, Croatia, a place of worship.

konkatedrala svetog Petra i Pavla

konkatedrala svetog Petra i Pavla is a co-cathedral in Osijek, Croatia, an important church.

Županijska palača🏰 castle

Županijska palača is a public administration building in Osijek, seat of the county.

Palača Normann🏰 castle

Palača Normann is a government building in Osijek, Croatia, from the 18th century.

Hrvatsko narodno kazalište u Osijeku

Hrvatsko narodno kazalište u Osijeku is a theatre in Osijek, Croatia, with regular performances.

Crkva sv. Jakova

Crkva sv. Jakova is a convent with church in Croatia, a religious site.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How large is Osijek Zoo?

At about 11 hectares, it is the largest zoo in Croatia by area.

How do you reach the zoo from the city?

You can take the Kompa ferry across the Drava or reach the zoo by bike/car.

Which animals are the main attraction?

Particularly the large enclosures for tigers, lions, and giraffes are popular.

Is there an aquarium in the zoo?

Yes, there is a terrarium and aquarium building with various fish and reptile species.

Is the zoo open year-round?

Yes, the zoo is open daily, including weekends and holidays.

Osijek Zoo: where is it located?

Osijek Zoo is located in Croatia.

Osijek Zoo: what is there to see?

Highlights include Dvorac Pejačević, Zgrada Solarskog ureda, Stakleni vidikovac.

Osijek Zoo: when is the best time to visit?