Zoos & aquariums
Barcelona Zoo
Barcelona Zoo
Located in the heart of the city, this facility houses approximately 7,500 animals representing around 400 different species. Visitors go here to observe a wide variety of wildlife in an urban setting. The zoo was previously known for Snowflake, a rare white gorilla.
Getting There
The zoo is accessible from the city centre via the Barcelona metro system or local bus lines. Depending on your starting point in the centre, the journey typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
Duration of Visit
To walk through the exhibits and observe the animals at a steady pace, allow approximately 3 to 5 hours. The total time depends on how many of the specific species sections you choose to explore in detail.
When to Visit
Visiting during the early morning is recommended to avoid the largest crowds and to see animals when they are often more active. The site gets crowded during school holiday periods and summer weekends. Spring and autumn offer more moderate temperatures for walking the grounds.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its location, the zoo can be combined with several other sites within walking distance:
- Parc de la Ciutadella (0.3km): A large city park adjacent to the zoo.
- Torre Mapfre (0.5km): One of the city's tallest skyscrapers.
- Castle of the Three Dragons (0.7km): A historic architectural site.
- Museu de la Xocolata (0.8km): A museum dedicated to chocolate.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors