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Cologne Zoological Garden

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Cologne Zoological Garden

Cologne Zoological Garden

Located in Cologne, Germany, this facility is one of the country's oldest zoos. It houses more than 850 animal species and includes an integrated aquarium. Visitors go here to see a wide variety of wildlife and learn about the zoo's programs for conserving endangered species.

Getting There

The zoo is accessible from Cologne city centre via public transportation, including the KVB tram and bus networks. The journey typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes depending on the starting point and traffic conditions.

Duration of Visit

Due to the size of the grounds and the inclusion of the aquarium, visitors should allow at least 4 to 6 hours to explore the exhibits thoroughly.

When to Visit

The zoo is open year-round, though animal activity varies by season. It often becomes crowded during weekends, public holidays, and school vacation periods. Arriving shortly after opening can help avoid the largest crowds.

Nearby Attractions

The zoo is situated close to several other points of interest, making it easy to combine visits:

  • Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln: 0.1km
  • Colonia-Haus: 0.7km
  • St. Kunibert's Church: 1.5km
  • Mülheim Bridge: 1.7km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Cologne Zoological Garden

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Cologne Zoological Garden Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln

Zoos & aquariums

Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln

This botanical garden sits right next to Cologne Zoo, with well-tended flower beds and gardens perfect for a stroll. Being close to the city center, it's a nice spot to relax for a while.

0.1 km away
Colonia-Haus

Views & landmarks

Colonia-Haus

This 45-story residential tower rises in Cologne's Riehl district and was Germany's tallest apartment building when completed in 1973. With more than 300 homes, it's a striking part of the city's skyline.

0.7 km away
St. Kunibert's Church

Temples & religious sites

St. Kunibert's Church

The last of Cologne's twelve Romanesque churches to be built, it was consecrated in 1247, the year before construction began on the Gothic Cologne Cathedral. In 1998, Pope John Paul II designated it a minor basilica.

1.5 km away
Mülheim Bridge

Views & landmarks

Mülheim Bridge

A suspension bridge spanning the Rhine in Cologne, completed in 1929, destroyed during the war, and rebuilt in the early 1950s. It connects the Riehl and Mülheim districts and makes for a pleasant crossing with river views.

1.7 km away
Basilica of St. Ursula, Cologne

Temples & religious sites

Basilica of St. Ursula, Cologne

This basilica was built on the site of an ancient Roman burial ground and is linked to the legend of St. Ursula and the 11,000 martyrs. As one of Cologne's Romanesque churches, it also houses an ornate reliquary chamber decorated with bones.

1.9 km away
Hohenzollern Bridge

Views & landmarks

Hohenzollern Bridge

This bridge spans the Rhine in Cologne, Germany. Destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt, it is now open only to trains and pedestrians.

2.0 km away