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Zagreb Zoo

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Zagreb Zoo is located within the historic Maksimir Park, which dates back over 200 years, in the eastern part of the Croatian capital. It was founded on June 27, 1925, by engineer Mijo Filipović, making it one of the oldest zoological gardens in Southeastern Europe. Initially starting with only a few animals on a small island, the zoo now occupies approximately 7 hectares of land, including parts of the Maksimir lakes. The collection includes more than 350 animal species and about 7,000 individuals from all continents. In recent years, the zoo has undergone extensive modernization, resulting in new enclosures for African lions, red pandas, and a state-of-the-art education center. As a member of EAZA and WAZA, it participates in numerous international breeding programs for endangered species.

Location: Croatia
Top sights: Mongolian horse;Persian onager · African lion · Grey wolf
Nearby: Velika Gorica (13 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-1	1	6	11	16	20	23	22	17	11	6	1
Rain mm	52	60	59	62	92	86	82	83	107	83	80	63

📋 Practical info

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Best season

Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather for exploring the zoo and adjacent park. Summer can be busy, but mornings are cooler and less crowded; winter visits are possible, with indoor exhibits for tropical species.

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Best time of day

Early morning right after opening sees animals most active, especially the big cats and primates. Late afternoon feedings can be a highlight for many visitors; avoid midday heat when many animals rest.

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Etiquette

Stay on marked paths and do not feed the animals, as their diets are carefully controlled. Keep noise levels low to avoid stressing the zoo’s residents; flash photography is often discouraged near glass enclosures.

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What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the zoo covers a large area in Maksimir Park. Binoculars are useful for observing aviaries and large enclosures; bring water and sun protection on sunny days.

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Getting there

The zoo is located within Maksimir Park, easily reachable by tram from central Zagreb. Parking is available near the park entrance, but public transport is recommended; cycling paths connect the park to the city center.

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What to expect

While a zoo guarantees sightings, some animals may be hidden in their shelters. Move slowly and revisit enclosures later if needed; mornings are generally more rewarding for active animals.

Geography

Coordinates

45.82400, 16.02100

Facts

The zoo officially opened its doors on June 27, 1925.
The total area of the zoological garden is approximately 7 hectares.
There are currently about 370 different animal species on display.
The total animal population in the zoo exceeds 7,000 individuals.
The institution has been a member of EAZA since 1993.
Maksimir Park, where the zoo is located, was established in 1794.

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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 Zagreb Zoo (10)

Mongolian horse;Persian onager

Mongolian horse and Persian onager, two hoofed species at Zagreb Zoo.

African lion

African lion, a big cat at Zagreb Zoo, kept in a naturalistic enclosure.

Grey wolf

Grey wolf, European subspecies, living at Zagreb Zoo.

Zoološki vrt grada Zagreba

Zagreb City Zoo, opened in 1925, houses many animal species.

🌐 zoo.hr🕒 Jan,Nov,Dec 09:00-16:00; Feb 09:00-17:00; Mar,Oct 09:00-18:0💶

Zbirka skulptura akademskog kipara Zlatka Zlatića

Sculpture collection of academic sculptor Zlatko Zlatić, displayed at Zagreb Zoo.

kapelica svetog Jurja

Chapel of Saint George, a small church in Zagreb, Croatia.

Sokolska mogila

Sokolska mogila, a burial mound in Croatia, located within the zoo.

Ljetnikovac biskupa Haulika🏰 castle

Summer residence of Bishop Haulik, a mansion in Zagreb, Croatia.

crkva svetog Jeronima

Church of Saint Jerome, a church building in Zagreb, Croatia.

Novi ljetnikovac biskupa Haulika🏰 castle

New summer residence of Bishop Haulik, a mansion in Zagreb, Croatia.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What are the zoo's opening hours?

The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM; closing times vary depending on the season.

Where is the zoo located in Zagreb?

It is located in Maksimir Park, east of the city center, reachable by trams 4, 5, 7, 11, and 12.

Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?

Yes, most of the grounds are flat and well-accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

Are there public animal feedings?

Yes, there are daily commented feedings for seals, sea lions, and other animals.

Can you bring your own food?

Yes, there are picnic areas, but also a restaurant and cafes within the zoo.

Zagreb Zoo: where is it located?

Zagreb Zoo is located in Croatia.

Zagreb Zoo: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mongolian horse;Persian onager, African lion, Grey wolf.

Zagreb Zoo: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Zagreb Zoo: why is it worth visiting?

The Zagreb Zoo is located within the historic Maksimir Park, which dates back over 200 years, in the eastern part of the Croatian capital.

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