Amsterdam: ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo Entry Ticket

Discover the ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo, one of the five oldest zoos in the world, located right in the heart of Amsterdam. With an entry ticket, visitors gain access to a lush, green oasis where endangered animals from around the world are cared for in spacious, well-maintained enclosures. The typical visit lasts around 2.5 hours, making it an ideal outing whether you want a quick exploration or a relaxed day of animal encounters.

The zoo’s location is unbeatable — just a 5-minute walk from the city center and along historic canals, blending urban charm with wildlife wonder. A key highlight is the ARTIS-Planetarium, where admission is included, offering a fascinating journey through space and the universe. For visitors seeking a special experience, Night at the Zoo events during eight exclusive evenings in December and January offer a unique chance to see animals active at night through night vision goggles and enjoy a live show in the planetarium.

While the zoo is modern, spacious, and beautifully designed, it’s also highly praised for the well-cared-for animals, friendly facilities, and variety of species, making it a top choice for families, animal lovers, and those wanting a relaxed day in nature. The ticket prices are reasonable for the extensive attractions, with options to explore additional sites like ARTIS-Micropia and ARTIS-Groote Museum if desired.

Key Points

• Historic Location: The zoo is in central Amsterdam, only 5 minutes on foot from the city center.
• Wide Range of Animals: Expect to see Asian elephants, jaguars, gorillas, giraffes, and more in large enclosures.
• Included Space Experience: The ARTIS-Planetarium offers a journey through space, included with the ticket.
• Special Night Events: Night at the Zoo occurs during 8 exclusive evenings in December and January, with night vision animal spotting and a live planetarium show.
• Family-Friendly: The zoo features vegetarian restaurants, kiddie carts, and free entry for children under 3.
• Good Value: The entry ticket covers 2.5 hours to a full day, with wheelchair access and flexible cancellation options.

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Exploring ARTIS’ Prime Location in Amsterdam

The ARTIS zoo sits amid historic canals and city sights, making it a convenient addition to any day in Amsterdam. Its proximity to the city center allows visitors to combine a cultural walk through the city with a wildlife adventure. The surroundings include monuments, botanical gardens, and relaxing cafes, ideal for a leisurely break during the visit.

The meeting point is situated at coordinates 52.36662673950195, 4.918898105621338, with options depending on the booked activity. It’s accessible and easy to find, making entry smooth for groups and individuals alike.

Discovering the Animal Exhibits and Enclosures

The zoo hosts several key animal attractions worth noting. The Asian elephants and giraffes are among the most popular, with views along the historic canals adding a picturesque backdrop. Visitors also see jaguars, tapirs, capybaras, and other species native to the Pampa region.

The animal enclosures are notably large and well cared for, with reviews highlighting how animals appear happy and relaxed. Visitors can expect to observe sea lions, gorillas, and exotic reptiles, with many animals actively visible, especially when visiting during less crowded hours.

Unique Night at the Zoo Experience

The Night at the Zoo event transforms the experience into something truly special. Attendees start with a live show at the Planetarium, exploring the immensity of space and the universe. Following this, the zoo is open in the dark, allowing visitors to spot animals using night vision goggles — a rare opportunity to see creatures that are more active at night.

These evening openings take place on 13, 20, 21, 27, and 28 December 2025, and 2, 3, 4 January 2026. The event offers a different perspective on the zoo, combining educational entertainment with a peaceful nocturnal atmosphere.

The ARTIS-Planetarium and Space Adventures

Included with every ticket is entry to the ARTIS-Planetarium, which offers an immersive journey through space. Visitors can enjoy shows about stars, planets, and our place in the universe, making it an excellent stop for those interested in astronomy. The planetarium features free lockers for belongings, and the shows are suitable for all ages.

The space experience complements the zoo’s focus on nature and science, creating a well-rounded visit. Visitors appreciate how the planetarium guides explain complex topics in an accessible way, adding a learning dimension to the trip.

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Attractions Beyond the Animals

The zoo’s grounds include the Butterfly Pavilion, where the fluttering wings of many butterfly species create a lively, colorful environment. The botanical gardens, monuments, and relaxing cafes provide additional spots to unwind.

Visitors can also explore ARTIS-Micropia, dedicated to the world of microbes, and the ARTIS-Groote Museum, which explores the interconnectedness of all life. These sites are accessible with a combined ticket, offering a richer understanding of biology and ecology.

Accessibility and Practical Tips for Visitors

The ARTIS zoo is wheelchair accessible, with no reservation needed for wheelchairs. Children under 3 years old enter for free, and children’s balance bikes are currently not allowed. During summer nights on Saturdays, the zoo is open from 4 pm to 9 pm, providing an evening alternative.

The opening hours vary seasonally: 9 am to 5 pm from November to February, and 9 am to 6 pm from March to October. On public holidays, the zoo opens from 9 am with closing times adjusted for festive days.

Practical Advice and Visitor Facilities

The zoo offers plenty of places to eat, with vegetarian restaurants and cafés available throughout the grounds. Kiddie carts are provided for younger children, making exploration easier. The entrance fee is considered reasonable given the extensive exhibits and animal care standards.

Visitors are encouraged to check the daily schedule for zookeeper presentations, which include sea lions and Asian elephants, providing opportunities for learning and engagement. The self-guided experience is complemented by informative signs at each exhibit.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Pets are not allowed inside the zoo, and smoking is prohibited to maintain a safe environment for animals and visitors. The environment is clean, well-maintained, and peaceful, with plenty of space for animals and visitors alike.

The zoo’s management emphasizes animal welfare, with large, naturalistic enclosures that help keep animals happy and healthy. The reviews frequently praise how well-cared-for the animals appear, adding confidence in the commitment to conservation and education.

Final Thoughts on the ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo

The ARTIS zoo balances a historic setting with modern exhibits and professional animal care. Its central location, combined with extensive animal collections and space-themed attractions, makes it a worthy destination for families and animal enthusiasts alike.

The night events add a special twist to the visit, providing a unique perspective on nocturnal animal behaviors. The included planetarium shows enhance the educational experience, especially for those interested in space.

While admission prices are reasonable, visitors should plan their visit to maximize the time—whether in the daytime or during an evening event—to enjoy all the zoo has to offer. Overall, ARTIS Amsterdam remains a top-quality zoo with impressive facilities, friendly staff, and beautiful surroundings that make it a must-visit in Amsterdam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ARTIS zoo suitable for young children?
Yes. Children under 3 enter free, and facilities like kiddie carts and family-friendly restaurants make it easy to explore with little ones.

Can I visit the planetarium with my ticket?
Absolutely. The ARTIS-Planetarium is included in the entry price, offering captivating shows about stars and planets.

What are the hours during winter?
From November 1 to February 28, the zoo is open from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended hours on Saturdays during summer nights.

Are there special evening events?
Yes, during eight exclusive evenings in December and January, the zoo hosts Night at the Zoo, with animal spotting with night vision goggles and live planetarium shows.

How accessible is the zoo?
The zoo is wheelchair accessible and easy to navigate, with no reservation needed for wheelchairs.

Would you recommend this visit?
Definitely. The combination of historic charm, animal diversity, and educational attractions offers a compelling experience for all ages.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby