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Diergaarde Blijdorp

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Diergaarde Blijdorp (Netherlands)

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Diergaarde Blijdorp, also known as the Rotterdam Zoo, is one of the oldest and most significant zoological gardens in the Netherlands. Originally founded in 1857 in the city center, the zoo was moved to its current location in the Blijdorp district following the 1940 bombing of Rotterdam. The new complex was designed by architect Sybold van Ravesteyn and is now almost entirely designated as a national monument. A standout feature is the Oceanium, opened in 2000, which is a massive underwater world featuring a glass tunnel where visitors can see sharks and rays swimming overhead. The zoo is divided into geographical themes such as Africa, Asia, and North America, providing immersive experiences of different global ecosystems. Blijdorp is internationally respected for its contributions to conservation programs and its commitment to creating naturalistic habitats for its animals.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C446913161818161285
Rain mm776655385662788770798185

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
Open year-round, but the Oceanium and tropical halls are especially worth visiting on cool or rainy days. Spring and summer see the outdoor exhibits at their finest.
🌅
Best time of day
Feeding times in the Oceanium are often late morning; then fish and penguins are especially active. Early morning provides quieter conditions in busy areas.
📜
Etiquette
Flash photography is prohibited in the Oceanium and tropical halls as it disturbs animals. Please do not throw coins or objects into the pools.
🎒
What to bring
Binoculars can be useful for viewing birds in the large aviary up close. Don't forget a waterproof jacket as the tropical hall is humid.
🧭
Getting there
Diergaarde Blijdorp is located in Rotterdam, well accessible by tram and bus. The zoo has its own parking lot but it is limited.
🦌
What to expect
Allow plenty of time, especially for the Oceanium with its many underwater exhibits. Weekends can be very crowded, but the modern enclosures offer many seating areas to linger.

Geography

Coordinates
51.93280, 4.45640

Facts

  • Diergaarde Blijdorp was founded on May 18, 1857
  • The zoo covers an area of approximately 26 hectares
  • The Oceanium contains over 8 million liters of seawater
  • There are 21 national monuments designed by Sybold van Ravesteyn on the site
  • The zoo receives approximately 1.5 million visitors annually
  • Bokito the gorilla became world-famous after escaping his enclosure in 2007

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Rotterdam Central StationRotterdam Central Station1 km · SEExplore →
Van Nelle Factory RotterdamVan Nelle Factory Rotterdam1 km · WExplore →
Bergse PlasBergse Plas2 km · NEExplore →
Rotterdam The Hague AirportRotterdam The Hague Airport3 km · NWExplore →
Euromast RotterdamEuromast Rotterdam3 km · SEExplore →
HillegersbergHillegersberg4 km · NEExplore →
SchiedamSchiedam4 km · SWExplore →
Arboretum TrompenburgArboretum Trompenburg5 km · SEExplore →

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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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Diergaarde Blijdorp (10)

Vroesenbrug

Bridge in Rotterdam, connecting neighborhoods near Vroesenpark.

Vroesenpark🌳 park

Park in Rotterdam with old trees, playgrounds, and grassy areas.

Spoorbrug Noorderkanaal

Railway bridge in Rotterdam, crossing the Noorderkanaal.

Statenbrug

Bridge in Rotterdam, spanning the river Rotte.

Red panda

Enclosure at Blijdorp Zoo featuring red pandas, known for their reddish-brown fur.

Tufted deer

Habitat for tufted deer at Blijdorp Zoo, recognized by the tuft on their head.

Indian rhino

Spacious enclosure for Indian rhinoceroses at Blijdorp Zoo.

Prinsekerk

Church building in Rotterdam, built in the 20th century, used by the Protestant community.

Michaëlkerk

Church building in Rotterdam, serving the Catholic community.

Houweling Telecom Museum🏛 museum

Museum in the Netherlands showcasing the history of telecommunications.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Oceanium?
A huge underwater tunnel where you can see sharks and rays.
Are there polar bears there?
Yes, the zoo is known for its successful polar bear breeding program.
Can you buy tickets online?
Yes, online tickets are often cheaper and help avoid queues.
How do you get to the zoo?
It is just a few minutes by bus or on foot from Rotterdam Central Station.
Is there an indoor playground?
Yes, there is a large covered play area for children.
Diergaarde Blijdorp: where is it located?
Diergaarde Blijdorp is located in South Holland, Netherlands.
Diergaarde Blijdorp: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vroesenbrug, Vroesenpark, Spoorbrug Noorderkanaal.
Diergaarde Blijdorp: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Diergaarde Blijdorp: why is it worth visiting?
Diergaarde Blijdorp, also known as the Rotterdam Zoo, is one of the oldest and most significant zoological gardens in the Netherlands.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

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Leiden City Hall has an impressive Renaissance facade.
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Lisse is the heart of the Dutch bulb-growing region and the proud home of the Keukenhof gardens.
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The world's largest flower garden, showcasing millions of tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils every spring.