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Rotterdam Zoo

Rotterdam Zoo

Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp)

Rotterdam Zoo Overview & Key Highlights

Rotterdam Zoo, also known as Diergaarde Blijdorp, was selected as one of Europe's most beautiful zoos! The naturalistic living spaces of animals from around the world will take any visitor on an expedition. In the zoo, you'll find tigers, elephants, sea lions, red pandas, gorillas, and many more. You can also go "underwater" in the Oceanium, where you'll meet many marine and coastal animals, including sharks, sea otters, puffins, penguins, and more. Another great attraction as part of your visit will be the Amazonica, filled with butterflies. If you still have some strength left or need a mid-day break, pay a visit to the excellent family park, Plaswijckpark, which features boat and train rides, an adventure playground, plus a petting zoo.

Rotterdam Zoo Travel Guide: Logistics & In-Depth Tips

With its stunningly recreated habitats and focus on conservation, Diergaarde Blijdorp is a must-visit attraction in Rotterdam.

Reasons to Visit:

  • Interactive and spacious exhibits like the Oceanium and Amazonica butterfly house.
  • The zoo is home to over 560 species, including some rare and endangered animals.
  • Family-friendly with a focus on conservation and education.
  • Voted as one of Europe's most beautiful zoos!

 

Things to Avoid:

  • Visiting during peak times without a ticket booked in advance, as it can get crowded.
  • Feeding animals or disturbing the wildlife; follow the zoo’s guidelines.

 

Accessibility Level: High

Rotterdam Zoo is highly accessible, with wheelchair-friendly pathways, accessible restrooms, and rental wheelchairs available. The zoo also offers sensory-friendly maps and guidance for visitors with special needs.

Address:

Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam, Netherlands

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Basic Info

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COUNTRY & Region

Netherlands,
Europe

ACCESSIBILITY LEVEL​

High
Currency icon

LOCAL CURRENCY​

Euro (EUR)
Price level icon
High
Safety Level icon

SAFETY LEVEL

Duration icon

Recommended Duration

• 3-5 hours (Half a day)
• Full day

Electricity

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Electricity

220-240V, 
50Hz
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Plug Type

• Type C (Round pin)
• Type F (Two round pins with earth clips)
Plug types
Click To View Plug Types
Rotterdam Zoo is part of our
Accessible Travel collection

Activities To Do In Rotterdam Zoo

Best Time To Visit Rotterdam Zoo

The best months to visit Rotterdam Zoo are April to October for optimal weather and full access to outdoor exhibits.

  • Spring (April to June): Enjoy vibrant spring blooms in the zoo’s botanical gardens, and the animals are more active as temperatures are mild.
  • Summer (July to August): Full accessibility to outdoor and water exhibits, though it’s a peak season with larger crowds.
  • Autumn (September to October): Cooler temperatures with fewer visitors. Ideal for exploring without intense summer heat.

Average Temperatures Per Month

Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.

Safety Level icon

Safety Level

Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp) is a highly secure, family-friendly destination with minimal safety risks. While standard national travel advisories advise routine vigilance in major European public spaces and transport hubs, the zoo environment itself is exceptionally safe. Keep basic track of personal belongings, particularly in busy dining areas and popular exhibit viewing points, to prevent minor pickpocketing.

The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.

Emergency Numbers

Police: 112 (Universal) / 0900-8844
Ambulance: 112 (Universal)

No internet needed • Includes local translations • Free for TravelingWiz readers

Spoken Languages

The official language is Dutch, but English and German are commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Learn The Language

  • Hello – Hallo
  • Thank you – Dank je wel
  • Goodbye – Tot ziens
  • Please – Alsjeblieft
  • Where is…? – Waar is…?
  • How much? – Hoeveel kost het?
  • Yes – Ja
  • No – Nee
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Trip Cost & Budgeting for Rotterdam Zoo, 2026

Everything you need to know about money while traveling
Is Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp) expensive for tourists in 2026? While visiting Rotterdam and its premier zoo sits on the higher side of European travel costs, intelligent budgeting keeps expenses manageable. Based on Human Verified prices, expect to pay around 3.80 EUR for a cappuccino, 5.00 EUR for a domestic beer, and 25 EUR for a mid-range meal. Use the data table below to calculate your specific daily budget based on your travel style.
Currency icon

LOCAL CURRENCY​:

Euro (EUR)
Price level icon
High
Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Rotterdam, and many vendors no longer accept cash.

Per person, per day – pocket cash for small purchases.

Local: 19
Euro (EUR)
≈ 22 USD

Full daily spend estimation (accommodation, food, transportation, attractions).

Travel Style
Euro (EUR)
≈ USD ($)
Budget
100
116
Mid-range
185
215
Comfort
410
476

The Prices, Daily costs, and calculator results are estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on season, booking timing, personal spending habits, and currency fluctuations. TravelingWiz cannot be held responsible for discrepancies between these estimates and your final trip expenses.

  • • Buy Rotterdam Zoo tickets online in advance to secure dated discounts and skip the entrance queue.
  • • Utilize OV-pay or a Rotterdam Welcome Card for discounted public transport and bundled attraction admissions.
  • • Bring your own lunch and water to the zoo, as food options inside theme parks carry higher price tags.
  • • Rent a city bicycle to travel between central Rotterdam, hotels, and the zoo cheaply and conveniently.

Pre-Order Tickets

Avoid disappointment when tickets sell out — and skip the long lines by booking online in advance. You’ll often save up to 20% too.
Save up to 20%

Travel Discounts & Coupons

Save on hotels, attractions, transport, and gear — find verified discounts for smarter travel spending.
Verified Coupons

What To Pack

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, as the zoo is large and requires a lot of walking. A small backpack with water, snacks, and a camera for photos of the wildlife and exhibits is also recommended. Sunscreen and a hat are useful for outdoor areas, especially in summer.

Categories: Preparation | General | Business & Efficiency
Sea lions swimming gracefully near the water's edge during a feeding and training demonstration at the zoo.
Catch daily animal feedings and keeper talks at Rotterdam Zoo by tracking the live dynamic schedule...
Categories: Traveling | General
An underwater aquarium tunnel filled with clear blue water, swimming sharks, and rays viewed from below.
Avoid indoor crowds at Rotterdam Zoo by visiting the Oceanium and Amazonica butterfly dome early or...
Categories: Transportation | Preparation | General
The grand historic entrance building of Rotterdam Zoo framed by green trees and visitors strolling into the park.
Maximize your visit to Rotterdam Zoo by picking the best entrance gate based on your arrival...

Recommended Itineraries for Traveling to Rotterdam Zoo

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Maya, the human travel expert at TravelingWiz, offering curated, non-AI expertise

Maya’s Final Checklist for Rotterdam Zoo

Logistics shouldn’t be the focus of your trip—the experience should. I’ve hand-vetted these essential partners to ensure your arrival, stay, and exploration are as smooth as an Athenian breeze.

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FAQs

Rotterdam Zoo is open daily. During the winter season, hours are typically 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and during the summer season, the zoo stays open until 6:00 PM.
Yes, parking is available on-site at parking lot P1. The fee is €12.50 per day (€8.50 for season ticket holders). Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.
Yes, visitors can bring their own food, but there are also many on-site cafes and food stands.
No, pets are not permitted in the zoo to ensure the safety of animals and visitors alike.
Yes, guided tours are available and can provide in-depth information about the zoo’s animals and conservation efforts. Tours cost €7.50 per person, in addition to a valid entrance ticket.

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