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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
Medium
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? It is moderately priced, offering a reasonable mid-range European experience. Visitors can expect to pay around 4.00 EUR for a cappuccino, 6.00 EUR for a domestic beer, and 24.00 EUR for a standard main meal. These Human Verified prices show that while it is not a budget destination, smart planning keeps costs manageable. Use the data table below to calculate your specific daily budget based on your travel style. With TravelingWiz's Human Verified data, a typical traveler should expect to spend around $216 USD per day for a mid-range trip in Rotterdam Zoo. Click the Trip Cost Calculator button below the table to work out your personal budget for this trip.
Currency icon

LOCAL CURRENCY​:

Euro (EUR)
Price level icon
Medium
Credit cards and debit cards are universally accepted at Rotterdam Zoo, making cash virtually unnecessary for visitors.

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

Local: 40
Euro (EUR)
≈ 46 USD

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

Travel Style
Euro (EUR)
≈ USD ($)
Budget
105
121
Mid-range
190
219
Comfort
420
483

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 tickets online in advance to secure the lowest tier pricing (Category A) and avoid gate surcharges.
  • • Bring your own food and drinks, as the zoo allows outside picnic items, saving you high restaurant markups.
  • • Use the RET metro to Blijdorp station instead of paying the expensive €12.50 zoo parking fee.
  • • Consider a Rotterdam Welcome Card if you plan to visit other city attractions, which offers transit and entry discounts.

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.

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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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From boutique hotels to local apartments—compare thousands of options and find the perfect stay in the best neighborhood.

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Visa Services

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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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