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#5 out of 76 in Vienna

Experience the best of Schönbrunn Zoo

Enter the Baroque-style zoo, Schönbrunn Zoo, which is also the oldest in the world, and discover the natural world in all its rich diversity. Schönbrunn Zoo is home to a varied species of animals and birds, here everybody aims to promote conservation and biodiversity. Watch many of the animals at feeding time, and find out fascinating facts in the process!
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5,625 travellers from around the world love this
Slide 1 of 12, Siberian tiger resting on a log at Schönbrunn Zoo, Vienna.
Siberian tiger resting on a log at Schönbrunn Zoo, Vienna.

Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-The-Line Ticket

Explore at your pace

  • Enjoy swift entry to Schönbrunn Zoo and explore diverse species across its 17 hectares including Siberian tigers and koalas.

  • Encounter Schönbrunn's stars, the giant pandas, a unique sighting as they reside in only a few of zoos worldwide.

  • Your ticket also offers access to fascinating animal houses, from a rainforest habitat to an aquarium terrarium.

  • Get the chance to observe many of the animals during their feeding sessions at the zoo.

  • Fun fact: The zoo was originally founded in 1752 as an imperial menagerie by Emperor Franz I Stephan of Lorraine, Maria Theresa’s husband.

More details

  • Enjoy swift entry to Schönbrunn Zoo and explore diverse species across its 17 hectares including Siberian tigers and koalas.

  • Encounter Schönbrunn's stars, the giant pandas, a unique sighting as they reside in only a few of zoos worldwide.

  • Your ticket also offers access to fascinating animal houses, from a rainforest habitat to an aquarium terrarium.

  • Get the chance to observe many of the animals during their feeding sessions at the zoo.

  • Fun fact: The zoo was originally founded in 1752 as an imperial menagerie by Emperor Franz I Stephan of Lorraine, Maria Theresa’s husband.

from
€29
Slide 1 of 9, Belvedere Castle in Vienna with Flexi Pass logo in foreground.
Belvedere Castle in Vienna with Flexi Pass logo in foreground.

Vienna Flexi Pass: Choose 2/3/4/5 Attractions

Explore at your pace

  • Choose 2/3/4/5 attractions from a 60+ list and save up to 30% on costs with this hassle-free, multi-attraction city pass.

  • Beyond top sightseeing spots, you can also ride on cruises, explore offbeat museums, set off on guided tours & much more with this pass in hand.

  • Activate your digital pass the first time you use it. Visit popular sights like the Schönbrunn Palace & Upper Belvedere, and explore hidden gems like the Maze Schönbrunn & more.

More details

  • Choose 2/3/4/5 attractions from a 60+ list and save up to 30% on costs with this hassle-free, multi-attraction city pass.

  • Beyond top sightseeing spots, you can also ride on cruises, explore offbeat museums, set off on guided tours & much more with this pass in hand.

  • Activate your digital pass the first time you use it. Visit popular sights like the Schönbrunn Palace & Upper Belvedere, and explore hidden gems like the Maze Schönbrunn & more.

from
€59
Slide 1 of 9, Courtyard of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and people feeding giraffes at a zoo.
Courtyard of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and people feeding giraffes at a zoo.

Combo (Save 5%): Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour + Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-the-Line Tickets

Explore at your pace

  • Save time and money with two top Vienna experiences in one day, both within the same historic palace grounds.

  • Skip the long queues at Schönbrunn Palace and explore 22 opulent staterooms once home to the Habsburgs.

  • Join a 2.5-hour guided tour through the palace interiors, then stroll the manicured Baroque gardens and courtyards.

  • Walk just 10 minutes to Schönbrunn Zoo, the world’s oldest, and head straight inside with priority entry.

  • See over 700 animal species, from giant pandas and Siberian tigers to rare tropical birds.

More details

  • Save time and money with two top Vienna experiences in one day, both within the same historic palace grounds.

  • Skip the long queues at Schönbrunn Palace and explore 22 opulent staterooms once home to the Habsburgs.

  • Join a 2.5-hour guided tour through the palace interiors, then stroll the manicured Baroque gardens and courtyards.

  • Walk just 10 minutes to Schönbrunn Zoo, the world’s oldest, and head straight inside with priority entry.

  • See over 700 animal species, from giant pandas and Siberian tigers to rare tropical birds.

from Original price€84
€79.80

5% off

Slide 1 of 9, Desert House entrance at Schönbrunn Zoo with cactus sculpture and yellow facade.
Desert House entrance at Schönbrunn Zoo with cactus sculpture and yellow facade.

Desert House Skip-the-Line Ticket at Schönbrunn Zoo

Extended validity
Explore at your pace

  • Embrace the allure of desert life without the scorching heat, right in the heart of Vienna at the Desert House with unique flora and fauna.

  • Skip the queues and kick-start your adventure! From nibble fish to rattlesnakes and naked mole rats, get up close with a host of desert-dwelling creatures.

  • Marvel at the cuttings from the world’s oldest pot plant, and walk amid cacti and succulents, discover 'living fossils' like bearded lizards.

  • Walk through desert landscapes of Central America to Madagascar, and unearth desert secrets, from the chirping red fodies to the radiated tortoises.

  • Fun fact: The Garra rufa fish or ‘nibble fish’ at the Desert House, famous for their gentle nibbling on visitors' fingers, are also popular in some spas for providing a unique form of exfoliation.

More details

  • Embrace the allure of desert life without the scorching heat, right in the heart of Vienna at the Desert House with unique flora and fauna.

  • Skip the queues and kick-start your adventure! From nibble fish to rattlesnakes and naked mole rats, get up close with a host of desert-dwelling creatures.

  • Marvel at the cuttings from the world’s oldest pot plant, and walk amid cacti and succulents, discover 'living fossils' like bearded lizards.

  • Walk through desert landscapes of Central America to Madagascar, and unearth desert secrets, from the chirping red fodies to the radiated tortoises.

  • Fun fact: The Garra rufa fish or ‘nibble fish’ at the Desert House, famous for their gentle nibbling on visitors' fingers, are also popular in some spas for providing a unique form of exfoliation.

from
€9
Slide 1 of 9, Giraffes at Schönbrunn Zoo and Vienna sightseeing train.
Giraffes at Schönbrunn Zoo and Vienna sightseeing train.

Combo (Save 8%): Schönbrunn Zoo + Schönbrunn Palace Panorama Train Ride Tickets

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • Get skip-the-line access to the world's oldest zoo, Schönbrunn, and discover 600 species across its grounds, including the rare giant pandas.

  • As a champion for conservation efforts, Schonbrunn Zoo is home to many endangered species such as Siberian tigers, orangutans, and African elephants.

  • Board a panoramic train for a 45-minute ride through Schönbrunn Palace Park and learn about the sights with an audio guide in your own language.

  • Navigate through nine notable sections of Schönbrunn Park on your joyride, and check out the Obelisk Fountain, Gloriette, and the Zoo Palm House.

More details

  • Get skip-the-line access to the world's oldest zoo, Schönbrunn, and discover 600 species across its grounds, including the rare giant pandas.

  • As a champion for conservation efforts, Schonbrunn Zoo is home to many endangered species such as Siberian tigers, orangutans, and African elephants.

  • Board a panoramic train for a 45-minute ride through Schönbrunn Palace Park and learn about the sights with an audio guide in your own language.

  • Navigate through nine notable sections of Schönbrunn Park on your joyride, and check out the Obelisk Fountain, Gloriette, and the Zoo Palm House.

from Original price€46
€42.32

8% off

Slide 1 of 11, Vienna hop-on hop-off bus and tiger at Schönbrunn Zoo.
Vienna hop-on hop-off bus and tiger at Schönbrunn Zoo.

Combo (Save 15%): Vienna Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-The-Line Tickets

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • Enjoy skip-the-line entry to Schönbrunn Zoo, and meet about 700 species, including giant pandas, Siberian tigers, giraffes, and more.

  • Your ticket also offers access to a diverse range of animal houses and habitats like rainforests, aquariums, and polariums.

  • Take in Vienna’s highlights like the Hundertwasser House, Danube Island, and Museums Quartier, with a 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off tour along 23 sights.

  • Hop on a bus every 20 to 30 minutes, learn exciting facts about the city from a multilingual audio guide, and set off on 2 digital walking tours.

More details

  • Enjoy skip-the-line entry to Schönbrunn Zoo, and meet about 700 species, including giant pandas, Siberian tigers, giraffes, and more.

  • Your ticket also offers access to a diverse range of animal houses and habitats like rainforests, aquariums, and polariums.

  • Take in Vienna’s highlights like the Hundertwasser House, Danube Island, and Museums Quartier, with a 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off tour along 23 sights.

  • Hop on a bus every 20 to 30 minutes, learn exciting facts about the city from a multilingual audio guide, and set off on 2 digital walking tours.

from Original price€66
€56.15

15% off

Slide 1 of 12, Upper Belvedere Palace in Vienna with gardens and fountain in foreground.
Upper Belvedere Palace in Vienna with gardens and fountain in foreground.

MegaPass Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace Guided Tour, City Walks & eSIM

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • The Vienna MegaPass lets you explore a curated list of the city's top experiences over 7 consecutive days.

  • Dive into the history of Schönbrunn Palace & its Gardens with a guide, and enjoy free entry to the Sisi Museum.

  • Join a audio guided walking tours through Vienna’s city center and Hofburg Imperial District, taking in key squares and landmarks with local insights.

  • Stay connected with a 1GB eSIM data plan, avail local discounts up to 10%, and browse through digital city guides.

  • Upgrade if you'd like to ride around town on a 24-hour Hop-on Hop-off bus tour and take in the city from a fresh perspective.

More details

  • The Vienna MegaPass lets you explore a curated list of the city's top experiences over 7 consecutive days.

  • Dive into the history of Schönbrunn Palace & its Gardens with a guide, and enjoy free entry to the Sisi Museum.

  • Join a audio guided walking tours through Vienna’s city center and Hofburg Imperial District, taking in key squares and landmarks with local insights.

  • Stay connected with a 1GB eSIM data plan, avail local discounts up to 10%, and browse through digital city guides.

  • Upgrade if you'd like to ride around town on a 24-hour Hop-on Hop-off bus tour and take in the city from a fresh perspective.

from
€110
Slide 1 of 9, Wustenhaus and glass house in Vienna with surrounding gardens.
Wustenhaus and glass house in Vienna with surrounding gardens.

Combo (Save 5%): Schönbrunn Zoo + Desert House Skip-the-Line Tickets

Explore at your pace
  • Save time and enjoy skip-the-line entry to both Schönbrunn Zoo and the Desert House with this convenient combo ticket.
  • Explore Schönbrunn Zoo’s 17 hectares, home to Siberian tigers, koalas, and rare giant pandas seen in few zoos worldwide.
  • Step into the Desert House to discover unique flora, cacti, and desert creatures, from nibble fish to bearded lizards and rattlesnakes.
  • Stroll through recreated desert landscapes, spotting living fossils, chirping red fodies, and radiated tortoises along the way.
More details
  • Save time and enjoy skip-the-line entry to both Schönbrunn Zoo and the Desert House with this convenient combo ticket.
  • Explore Schönbrunn Zoo’s 17 hectares, home to Siberian tigers, koalas, and rare giant pandas seen in few zoos worldwide.
  • Step into the Desert House to discover unique flora, cacti, and desert creatures, from nibble fish to bearded lizards and rattlesnakes.
  • Stroll through recreated desert landscapes, spotting living fossils, chirping red fodies, and radiated tortoises along the way.
from Original price€38
€36.10

5% off

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Opt for skip-the-line tickets as Schönbrunn Zoo receives more than 2 million guests a year. Entry queues can be long no matter what time of day or season, and skip-the-line tickets will help you spend less time waiting and more time exploring. Most times, online purchases also include better ticket deals.

To avoid crowds, visit mid-week. Early morning visits increase your chance of spotting animals as many are early risers and energetic then. Feeding times are also special; try to watch the sea lions being fed. A plan detailing feeding hours and open hours is available at the entrance. Keep an eye on the viewing time of various enclosures too to not miss out on any.

Schönbrunn Zoo is part of the a complex which comprises the impressive Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens. Combined tickets to the palace and the zoo ensure hassle-free access. We also recommend getting tickets to the Desert House and the Palm House for a more holistic experience.

Did we mention that the Schönbrunn complex is huge? Hop on the Panorama Train to cover much of this estate from the comfort of your seat. The train transfers you from the Elephant House to the Tirolerhof. There are nine stops on the way and the train is wheel-chair and pushchair accessible.

Wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated as the zoo is best explored on foot. Respect the animals and do not feed them. Make sure your kids are always under your supervision.

Similar things to do in Vienna

About Schönbrunn Zoo

The oldest zoo in operation in the world, Schönbrunn Zoo, is a sprawling park with a collection of 700 animal species and several immersive exhibits. Plan a perfect day out in the company of diverse flora and fauna, a serene atmosphere, delicious food, and many learning opportunities at the Schonbrunn Zoo. 

AddressMaxingstraße 13b, 1130 Wien, Austria
Also known asVienna Zoo
Year opened1752
Founded byEmperor Franz I
Visitors per year2000000
Unesco status1996

Did you know?

The oldest zoo in operation in the world, Schönbrunn Zoo, was the brainchild of Emperor Franz I, Maria Theresa’s husband. What started as a menagerie adjacent to the summer residence of the Habsburgs, flourished into a full-fledged zoo with royal patronage. The zoo’s royal origins are evident from the grand architecture that flawlessly blends with its modern amenities.

While almost 700 animal species call the zoo their home, the Giant Pandas are extremely popular. The zoo is distinguished as one of the 27 zoos in the world to be entrusted with the endangered Giant Pandas and it continues to be vital in their conservation.

World War I and II adversely affected the zoo. Only 400 animals survived World War I. A polar bear was shot dead by a soldier, who stated the reason upon arrest that “he (bear) gets 10 kilograms of meat every day while I have to go hungry.” Aerial bombing during World War II left thousands of animals dead.

The Schönbrunn Zoo remains crucial in the conservation of many endangered species like the Giant Pandas, Northern bald ibis, Northern river terrapin, Polar bears, Barbary apes, Brasilian tapirs, Pond turtles, and Bearded vultures. It is the only zoo in Europe to successfully breed the endangered northern rockhopper penguins.

The zoo’s first giraffe came as a gift from the Viceroy of Egypt in 1828. Interestingly, the giraffe’s arrival triggered a craze that inspired clothes, shoes, perfume, play, hairstyles, and even a pastry called Giraffeln. This, however, was short-lived and ended with the death of the giraffe in less than a year.

Why visit Schönbrunn Zoo?

Rich history

The oldest zoo in the world and a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Schönbrunn Zoo came to be with royal patronage. The zoo blends an imperial past with a technologically advanced present in its architecture and operations and is a testimony to Austrian imperial history.

Home to nearly 700 species of wildlife

While spotting almost 700 species in their natural state is reason enough to visit the zoo, your experience will be more holistic with immersive exhibits like the Rainforest House, Polarium, and more which simulate native habitats. 

Educational experience

You learn a lot on the go at Schönbrunn Zoo. There are many interactive exhibits and informative signage to deepen your understanding of the animal world.

Entertainment for all ages

Kids will be thrilled to catch the animals in action. The petting zoo and farm are not only pure fun but also deepen the connection between nature and humans. You can also hop on board the Panorama Train with your family.

Conservation efforts

The zoo’s involvement in global conservation initiatives including breeding programs will make you appreciate its existence even more. It is home to many endangered species and conducts active research to strengthen its population and counteract the dire effects of climate change. 

Highlights

Giant Pandas

The Giant Pandas are an absolute must-visit. One of the 27 zoos in the world to have these extremely cute Giant Pandas, the zoo has also successfully bred them, thereby taking part in its conservation efforts. You won’t tire of seeing the dorky antics of these extremely popular and peaceful zoo residents.

Rainforest

Explore a tropical indoor jungle right in the heart of Vienna, at the Rainforest House. Ingenious engineering ensures that Southeast Asian flora and fauna can thrive in this glass house. In addition to housing several animals like northern river terrapin, Asian small-clawed otters, and flying foxes, there is even a bat cave here!

Polarium

The icy polar world at the Polarium welcomes you to watch the rockhopper penguins and king penguins go about their daily lives. Outside, catch the sea lions spraying water at the visitors. The nearby Polar Bear facility has a large pool that offers views of the Polar Bears swimming. 

Aquarium

Colorful fishes including piranhas, endangered gigantic arapaima, and a coral reef with a diverse array of Indo-Pacific aquatic species make the Aquarium an interesting place. If you are traveling with kids, do not miss the aquarium tunnels where the fishes seem just within your grasp.

Panorama Train

Given the area of the park, a good way to move around Schönbrunn Park would be to catch a ride on the Panorama Train. Operating regularly from 10 AM to 6 PM, the train passes through the zoo at the Emperor’s Breakfast Pavilion, the Elephant House, and the Tirolerhof. This is especially ideal for those who are time-constrained or have difficulty walking. You need to purchase separate tickets for the train. 

Nature Discovery Trail

This trail is a unique experience to understand native Austrian wildlife better. At the aquariums, you observe native fishes like brook trout and pike at close quarters. Next, it's a thrilling walk on a 160-meter-high treetop trail, with great birdwatching opportunities and impressive views of the Schönbrunn Palace. Then, you can spot amphibians like adders, salamanders, and some deadly snakes at the open-air terrariums. 

ORANG.erie

The intelligent Orangutans, humans' closest animal relatives, can be seen chilling in the ORANG.erie. At the adjacent Café Atelier Nonja, the reproductions of the paintings by Nonja, a female orangutan, are displayed. Take a coffee break here with direct views of the apes. 

Elephant House

The majestic yet gentle Elephants stroll about in the large Elephant House. We recommend visiting during the shower routine and feeding sessions when it is an absolute delight to watch these social animals. 

Petting Zoo

If you are traveling with kids, check out the petting zoo with rabbits, pygmy goats, and Ouessant sheep. Not only is this fun and thrilling for the little ones, but it is also an educational activity.

Plan your visit

Main entrance

Main entrance

The main entrance of the zoo is on the west side of the Schönbrunn complex, a short walk from the U4 underground station Hietzing. This station is also a stop on Tram lines 10 and 60. This park entrance has a bus stop (Am Platz), served by the 56A, 56B, 58A, and 58B buses.

Tirolerhof entrance

Tirolerhof entrance

This entrance is ideal for those driving to the zoo as it is near the parking lot on the Seckendorff-Gudent-Weg. Using this park entrance entails a bit of walking to the zoo enclosures. 

Palace entrance

Palace entrance

If you are visiting the zoo after checking out the Schönbrunn Palace, head towards the hill and stick to the right side of the landscaped gardens. Beyond the entrance to the maze and on the right side of the Neptune Fountain, is the Schonbrunn Zoo entrance. It is signposted, so don’t worry about getting lost. 

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What our guests say

Vibeke S

Solo
3 weeks ago
Very happy with the guided tour inside the castle and the garden. Our guide Celine was excellent! We were told the stories of the rooms and the people residing in the castle, the women and their stories- -a true insiders view and understanding elevated the walk through the rooms. Celine had good control of the group, even if other people entered the rooms and it became a bit crowded at times. I would absolutely recommend Celine as your guide and the company arranging the tours!

Combo: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour + Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-the-Line Tickets

Daniel M

Couple
Sep 2026
We were very satisfied. We found the meeting point right away. Our guide Christian was there well ahead of time and gave us a warm welcome. You could really tell that, as a Viennese, he is passionate about his city's history. Even before we looked at the magnificent rooms in the palace, we received interesting and valuable information from him about the history of the palace and the history of the Habsburgs. There was also plenty to see and talk about in both the palace and the gardens. Inside the palace, everyone was given headphones for audio amplification so that we could hear Christian's explanations clearly at all times. The fast-track entry also worked great, bypassing the long queue of other visitors.

Combo: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour + Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-the-Line Tickets

Marion N

Germany
Couple
Sep 2026
It was a great experience on the bus 🚌. Whenever we wanted to see the sights, we got off. Through the headphones, we listened to the history of the city; we already knew a lot of it, but there were still some interesting things to learn. When we wanted to go on, we just hopped on the next bus and kept going.

Combo: Vienna Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-The-Line Tickets

Manuela S

Austria
Family
Sep 2026

+1 more

A beautiful tour of Vienna. For the first time on a Hop on Hop Off tour, the headphones were great, and the sound quality and clarity were excellent.

Combo: Vienna Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-The-Line Tickets

Krystian S

Group
Aug 2026
I live close to Wroclaw ZOO, which is one of the biggest in the world (in number of species) so I had a big expectations and I did not dissapoint. Main point was for me the Pandas. Except this You have wonderfull an opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with your animal residents. We also really enjoyed the additional architectural touches that reflect the age of the Vienna facility. You’re really doing a great job!

Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-The-Line Ticket

Doru D

Family
Aug 2026

+7 more

Everything went well; the guide spoke excellent English, and in addition to the tour of the palace, he also showed us part of the gardens. The directions to the meeting place were a bit vague; we looked for the flag for a good few minutes before realizing there wasn’t one...

Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-The-Line Ticket

Nicov E

Romania
Couple
3 weeks ago
Meh support . Couldn't enter the zoo, had to buy new tickets at the line. The code was invalid. Had a fight îți my wife, lost 60 euros. They told me to send a photo of the freshly bought tickets for refund . I sent, and I have no reply from them.

Combo: Schönbrunn Zoo + Schönbrunn Palace Panorama Train Ride Tickets

Joan S

United States
Couple
3 weeks ago
The zoo is wonderful! It had been quite some time since we'd been to a zoo and this was a delight - excellent place. Even got to see the giant panda! And a koala! But as many Austrian signs say, "No kangaroos in Austria" - and not even at the zoo! The train ride helped us understand where things are - and how huge the area is. The area in front of the Palace was a mess, with a horse show being set up. Couldn't even see the Palace from the front - sad given the beauty of the building. So the train did help os orient ourselves to the whole place.

Combo: Schönbrunn Zoo + Schönbrunn Palace Panorama Train Ride Tickets

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