Cologne Zoo and Aquarium Entry Ticket

Cologne Zoo: one of the oldest zoos in Germany

Cologne Zoo opened in 1860 in the district of Riehl, north of the city centre, and is one of the oldest zoos in the country. Its grounds mix old trees, ponds and modern enclosures, and it shelters more than 10,000 animals from about 850 species, from large mammals to birds, reptiles and insects.

A day at Cologne Zoo suits all ages. The paths are wide and shaded, there are playgrounds and places to rest, and the layout lets you follow a loop or pick the animals you want to see first. Some animal houses may be under renovation, so check the zoo's notices on the day.

Elephant park, Hippodom and rainforest hall

The elephant park covers about two hectares and lets the herd of Asian elephants roam, bathe and interact. The Hippodom recreates an African river with hippos, Nile crocodiles and sitatunga antelope that you can watch from above and through underwater glass.

The rainforest hall is a warm, humid indoor world of Central and South American animals, with sloths, howler monkeys, piranhas and free-flying tropical birds. The Amur tiger enclosure gives you a close look at one of the largest big cats. These are usually the highlights of a Cologne Zoo visit.

The aquarium and the Clemenshof farm

Your ticket also includes access to the Cologne Aquarium, which is next to the zoo. Its tanks show fish, reptiles and other water animals, and it makes a cool, quiet break in the middle of a hot day. Check the visiting times on the day, because the aquarium may close earlier than the zoo grounds.

The Clemenshof is a replica of a traditional farm with native breeds. Children can pet the goats and sheep only, and feeding animals is not allowed. It is the favourite stop for younger visitors and a chance to learn how farm animals live.

Opening hours, tickets and how to get to Cologne Zoo

This is the summer ticket, valid from March to October, and the zoo opens from 9:00 to 18:00, with last entry at 17:30 and animal houses closing at about the same time. Winter hours are shorter and not covered by this ticket. Children aged four to twelve have their own category, and children up to twelve must be accompanied by an adult.

To get to Cologne Zoo, take a tram to the Zoo/Flora stop, or ride the Rhine cable car, which ends close to the zoo. The best time to visit is at opening on a weekday, before the crowds arrive. Bikes, scooters, drones and dogs are not allowed, except assistance dogs, and wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge if you reserve in advance.