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Skansen Zoo

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Skansen Zoo is an integral part of Skansen, the world's oldest open-air museum, located on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm. It was founded in 1891 by Artur Hazelius with the aim of preserving Swedish culture and nature for future generations. The zoo focuses primarily on native Scandinavian fauna, housing species such as brown bears, wolves, wolverines, moose, and reindeer. Another important area is the preservation of old Swedish domestic animal breeds, which are displayed at the museum's historical farmsteads. For children, "Lill-Skansen" has interactive experiences with smaller animals and educational programs on natural history. Skansen plays a central role in national breeding programs to conserve endangered species in Sweden. The combination of historical architecture and living nature makes the zoo one of Stockholm's most visited attractions. Annually, over 1.3 million people visit the entire Skansen grounds, with the zoo remaining a major draw. The facility also provides panoramic views over the Swedish capital.

Location: Sweden
Top sights: Beckholmssundet · Bläckfisken · Kvasten
Nearby: Lidingö (5 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	-3	-3	0	5	11	15	18	17	13	7	3	-1
Rain mm	47	40	39	37	50	78	70	72	55	63	61	54

📋 Practical info

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Best season

Skansen Zoo in Stockholm is open year-round, but spring and summer offer the most activity. Animals are outdoors and plants are in bloom.

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Best time of day

Early morning animals are especially lively and there are fewer visitors. In the afternoon, you can often watch feedings which occur at various times.

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Etiquette

Please do not feed the animals as it disrupts their natural diet. Stay on designated paths and obey warning signs.

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What to bring

Binoculars are useful for observing animals in the natural enclosures. Comfortable shoes are recommended as the open-air museum grounds are extensive.

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Getting there

Skansen is located on Djurgården island in Stockholm, easily reachable by public transport. Tram line 7 and several buses stop right at the entrance.

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What to expect

As Skansen is also a popular attraction, it can be crowded especially on weekends. Come early in the morning for a quieter experience.

Geography

Coordinates

59.32000, 18.10000

Facts

Founded in 1891 by Artur Hazelius.
Part of the world's oldest open-air museum.
Focuses primarily on native Scandinavian fauna.
Attracts over 1.3 million visitors annually.
Important site for preserving old domestic breeds.
Central player in national species conservation programs.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Skansen<1 km · NExplore →

Sofia Church1 km · SWExplore →

Gamla Stan2 km · WExplore →

Avicii Arena3 km · SExplore →

Nacka4 km · EExplore →

Lidingö5 km · NEExplore →

Bergius Botanical Garden6 km · NWExplore →

Aspudden6 km · WExplore →

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Sights in the town Skansen Zoo (10)

Beckholmssundet

Strait between Djurgården and Beckholmen in Stockholm, Sweden.

Bläckfisken

Attraction at the Gröna Lund amusement park.

Kvasten

Roller coaster at Gröna Lund amusement park in Stockholm, Sweden.

Blå Tåget

Amusement ride at Gröna Lund, Sweden.

Gröna Lund

Amusement park in Stockholm, Sweden.

🌐 gronalund.com

Djurgårdskyrkan

Church on Djurgården in Stockholm, Sweden.

Teatern Gröna Lund

Building in Stockholm Municipality, Stockholm County, Sweden.

Snus and Match Museum🏛 museum

Museum on industrial and cultural heritage of snus and matches in Stockholm, Sweden.

Cirkus

Theatre and concert venue in Stockholm, Sweden.

Restauration Gubbhyllan🏛 museum

Museum in Stockholm with historical exhibits.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What animals live in the Skansen Zoo?

The zoo mainly features Scandinavian wildlife such as bears, wolves, wolverines, and moose.

Are there exotic animals there too?

Yes, in the Skansen Aquarium you can find monkeys, reptiles, spiders, and other exotic species.

Is zoo admission included in the Skansen ticket?

Viewing the Nordic animals is included, but the Skansen Aquarium requires a separate admission fee.

Can children feed the animals?

Feeding wild animals is strictly forbidden, but contact with domestic animals is possible at the 'Lill-Skansen' petting zoo.

When are the animals fed?

There are daily public feeding times for seals, reindeer, and other species, posted at the entrance.

Skansen Zoo: where is it located?

Skansen Zoo is located in Sweden.

Skansen Zoo: what is there to see?

Highlights include Beckholmssundet, Bläckfisken, Kvasten.

Skansen Zoo: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Skansen Zoo: why is it worth visiting?

Skansen Zoo is an integral part of Skansen, the world's oldest open-air museum, located on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm.

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