Discover Budapest Zoo & botanical garden: a family favorite in the heart of Hungary

Planning a family trip to Hungary? Don’t miss the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden, one of Europe’s oldest and most charming zoos—located just steps away from the iconic Heroes’ Square, near Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Museum of Fine Arts, Capital of Circus of Budapest and the vibrant City Park (Városliget) with the ice skating ring/boat riding lake. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, teens, or simply young-at-heart, this 18-hectare zoo offers an unforgettable blend of animals, nature, and education right in the heart of the city. Plan 3-4 hours for the visit, with kids, it can be a whole day.

Why visit Budapest Zoo?

Budapest Zoo is a happy place!

Zoos tend to have a precarious reputation. Keeping animals captive has been a debate forever: on the one hand, these wild animals are deprived of their right to live in their natural habitat; on the other, it’s the safest option for many endangered species.

The Budapest Zoo is not just a place to see animals—it’s a living museum on a more than 18-hectare area, botanical garden, educational space, and playground all rolled into one. Open since 1866, it’s among the oldest zoos in the world and has grown into one of Hungary’s most visited attractions, with over 1.1 million guests annually. This is not your average zoo. Interesting facts, that the zoo is home to over 850 animal species, from  elephants to Komodo dragons, flamingos, giraffes, rhinoceros and even glow-in-the-dark scorpions. You’ll find everything from large predators to rare birds, reptiles, and playful monkeys.

Top sights: Budapest Zoo menagerie

The Ape House

Watch intelligent chimpanzees, majestic gorillas, and curious orangutans in one of the most popular areas of the zoo.

The Elephant House

Don’t miss Samú, the elephant calf born in April 2021, as he splashes around or plays with his family.

Big Cats & More

Lions, tigers, leopards, and snow leopards roam in habitats that simulate their natural environments. Recently, two tigers were born. 

Venom & Nocturnal House

A walk-through exhibit showcasing venomous reptiles and nocturnal creatures in an eerie, darkened setting—thrilling for older kids and adults.

Themed Animal Houses

From the Australian House with kangaroos to the Madagascar House with lemurs, each region-themed pavilion offers an immersive look into animals’ habitats around the globe.

Botanical  garden is a treasure trove in the Zoo

Animals are not the only creatures you can admire at the zoo in Budapest. As the name suggests, the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is also a plant lover’s paradise with about 2000 different plant species, subspecies, and varieties as well. Stroll under century-old trees, visit the Palm House filled with tropical plants like banana trees and palms, or find peace in the Japanese Garden within the zoo, especially stunning during cherry blossom season.

Must-see kid-friendly fun & educational attractions

• Huge playground for all ages; so if marveling at the magnificent animals isn’t enough to tire them out, you’ll know where to take them.
• Magic Mountain: A massive, artificial hill housing 16 indoor exhibition halls featuring dinosaurs, sea life, space, and ancient humans for mainly educational purposes
• Interactive tablets and a zoo mobile app help families explore the grounds, check feeding times, and find their way
• Scheduled feeding shows for lions, elephants, seals, and more—kids love these!
• “Night of Zoos”: A late-summer evening walk event where you can explore the zoo after dark

Special activities and evening walks at Budapest Zoo

The Budapest Zoo offers dozens of special activities in the “Be there!” Experience Programs besides seeing wild animals. There are fixed feeding times every day for many animals, such as the gorillas, lions, and crocodiles, as well as playful shows with seals and elephants.
If you’d like to see some nocturnal activity, visit the venue on special days for Evening Walks in the Zoo. The Evening Walks start at 6.30 pm on certain days.
The zoo also started an adoption program 20 years ago, which is basically a protégé program where, in exchange for fully or partially covering the costs of a particular animal, you can become a foster parent on paper – so, no, you can’t take a kangaroo home for real, unfortunately.
As a modern, 21st-century business, Budapest Zoo is doing its best to keep up with the trends, so it developed its own mobile app, which comes in handy when you’re feeling lost in the vast area or trying to figure out when the anteaters are being fed. The zoo’s newly installed interactive tablets also serve the same purpose throughout the place!

Conservation and ethics

While zookeepers worldwide often face questions about ethics, Budapest Zoo has made major strides in conservation, breeding program for endangered species, and modernizing enclosures. Each animal’s habitat is designed to mimic its natural environment, and most areas are constantly being updated. Some species, like polar bears, are being gradually relocated to better-suited homes due to Hungary’s climate limitations.

Ticket info & discounts (2025)

• Adults: 5,500 HUF (~$14)
• Children (ages 2–14): 3,900 HUF (~$10)
• Family packages and group discounts are available
• Budapest Card holders receive 25% off

Buy tickets online to avoid lines during busy summer weekends!

Opening hours

• Open to the public daily, including national holidays
• Typical hours:
  • Weekdays: 9 AM – 6 PM (summer)
  • Weekends: 9 AM – 7 PM (summer)
• Last entry is 30–60 minutes before closing
• Always check the official website for current opening times, especially in winter

Getting there

• By Metro: Take M1 (Millennium Underground) to Széchenyi-fürdő stop, then walk 3–5 minutes
• By trolleybus: Lines 72 or 75 to Állatkerti krt (körút).
• By tram: Tram line 1, than walk 8 minutes
• By Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Get off at Heroes’ Square, then walk through City Park

Near Budapest Zoo family-friendly hotels

Looking for a place to stay? Budapest offers a wide range of accommodation options—from luxury hotels with family suites near City Park to budget-friendly apartments with kitchens. Many hotels in the VII. and VI. districts are within walking distance or a short metro ride away.

Need ideas? Check out our list of family-friendly hotels in Budapest and budget travel tips for your stay.

Tips for tourists

• Currency: Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Credit cards are widely accepted.
• Language: English is spoken at the ticket office and by most staff.
• Wi-Fi & App: Free Zoo Wi-Fi available; download the official Budapest Zoo app for maps, feeding times, and show schedules.
• Accessibility: Most paths are stroller- and wheelchair-accessible; accessible restrooms available.
• Food: Cafés and snack stalls inside the zoo. Bringing your snacks or lunch is allowed, and there are picnic areas throughout the zoo.
• Rest Areas: Plenty of shaded spots and benches to take breaks.
• Souvenirs: A well-stocked gift shop near the exit.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re an animal lover, a parent looking for a fun day out, or a tourist wanting to explore more of Budapest’s City Park, the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is a must-see in all seasons. The Art Nouveau unique atmosphere is a perfect mix of education, conservation, and fun, it’s more than just a zoo—it’s an experience that will make your Budapest trip truly unforgettable.

FAQ

Everything you need to know

Opened to the public in 1866, the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the oldest zoos in the world. Named after János Xántus, its first director and a renowned ethnographer, the zoo quickly became a beloved cultural heritage site in the heart of the city. The park’s location in City Park, near the burial site of King Béla III, gives it both historical and symbolic significance.

Many of the zoo’s iconic buildings reflect the Art Nouveau style of the early 20th century. Architect Kós Károly, one of Hungary’s most important cultural figures, designed several animal houses, including the main entrance, which remains a city landmark to this day. The zoo endured serious damage during the bombing of World War II, with many buildings and animal enclosures destroyed. Fortunately, it was rebuilt and restored—some structures even with help from Eiffel-engineered techniques—and continues to blend historic charm with modern zoological care.

Over the years, it has expanded and adapted to modern standards, focusing on the conservation of species and biodiversity.From endangered species to architectural treasures, the Budapest Zoo is a fascinating blend of nature, history, and Hungarian identity.

What attractions can I find at Budapest Zoo?

The Budapest Zoo features a wide range of attractions, including the famous elephant and giraffe enclosures, the elephant house, and the beautiful palm house. Visitors can also explore the various animal enclosures and experience the zoo’s commitment to conservation and education. The zoo’s landscape is also enriched by the adjacent city park, providing a scenic backdrop for an enjoyable visit.

How can I reach the Budapest Zoo?

You can easily reach the Budapest Zoo via public transportation, as it is located near major tram and bus lines. The nearest tram stop is usually a short distance away, making it convenient for visitors coming from different parts of the city of Budapest. Additionally, if you are staying in the city, walking is a great option to enjoy an evening walk through the park.

What are the opening hours of the Budapest Zoo?

The opening hours of the Budapest Zoo vary throughout the year, typically opening around 9 AM and closing around 5 PM during the winter months, and extending to 7 PM in the summer. It’s advisable to check the zoo’s official website for the most current opening hours and any special events that may be taking place.

Is the Budapest Zoo suitable for children?

Absolutely! The Budapest Zoo is designed to be family-friendly, with many exhibits and activities that are engaging for children. Kids can learn about various species through interactive displays and educational programs. Additionally, there are areas for play and relaxation to ensure that families have an enjoyable visit.

If you are interested in family friendly water parks in Budapest, check out our collection here.