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Zoos & aquariums

Melbourne Zoo

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Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo

This facility houses a diverse range of animal species, allowing visitors to observe wildlife from various continents in a controlled environment. It is primarily visited by families and those interested in zoology and animal conservation.

Getting There

The zoo is located north of the city centre. Visitors can reach it via public transport, typically using a combination of train and tram. The journey from the central business district generally takes between 20 and 30 minutes depending on the mode of transport.

Suggested Duration

To walk through the various themed zones and observe the animals, allow approximately 3 to 5 hours. This timeframe allows for a steady pace without rushing through the exhibits.

When to Visit

Visiting during the early morning is recommended to see animals when they are most active. The site can get crowded during school holidays and on weekends. Like most outdoor attractions in Melbourne, the experience varies by season, with spring and autumn offering more moderate temperatures for walking.

Nearby Attractions

Due to its location, the zoo can be combined with other sites in the northern part of the city. Nearby points of interest include:

  • Queen Victoria Market (2.5km)
  • Melbourne Museum (2.7km)
  • Museums Victoria (2.7km)
  • Royal Exhibition Building (2.8km)

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 Melbourne Zoo

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Melbourne Zoo Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Queen Victoria Market

Shopping & districts

Queen Victoria Market

Melbourne's oldest market, standing since the 1850s. Visitors can browse affordable souvenirs, fruit, and clothing, and a night market runs on Wednesday evenings.

2.5 km away

Melbourne Museum

Museums & galleries

Melbourne Museum

Melbourne Museum is located within Carlton Gardens in Melbourne, Australia. It's a good spot to visit as part of a walk through the expansive gardens.

2.7 km away

Museums Victoria

Museums & galleries

Museums Victoria

Museums Victoria is a network that runs Melbourne Museum, the Immigration Museum, Scienceworks, and more. It also includes the Royal Exhibition Building, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a wide range of exhibitions to explore.

2.7 km away

Royal Exhibition Building

Parks & gardens

Royal Exhibition Building

The Royal Exhibition Building is a European-style structure set in Melbourne's Carlton Gardens, ranked among Australia's oldest Western-style buildings. It's now part of Museums Victoria's collection and its largest exhibit, making it well worth visiting together with the museum.

2.8 km away

Carlton Gardens

Zoos & aquariums

Carlton Gardens

Carlton Gardens is a garden near central Melbourne, a great place for a relaxed walk in the city. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, it also lets you enjoy landscaping of real historical value.

2.8 km away

Flagstaff Gardens

Parks & gardens

Flagstaff Gardens

Flagstaff Gardens is a historic park right in the middle of Melbourne, the city's oldest and one of its most popular spots. Office workers, residents, and travelers alike enjoy stopping by for a break.

2.9 km away