As one of the three most visited attractions in Amsterdam, Artis Royal Zoo is sure to impress with its combination of animals and atmosphere. Founded in 1838 as a members-only establishment, the zoo later opened its doors to the public; Since then, it has become a favorite destination for both families and individuals, with more than 1.2 million visitors each year. The zoo still retains much of its historic architecture, from the Wolvenhuis (House of the Wolf) and Masmanhuisje (now the ibis residence), which predate the zoo, to the phenomenal and purpose-built Aquarium, considered one of the most wonderful monuments in the zoo. .
Yet despite its historicity, tireless improvements to the zoo have kept it in line with modern standards.
Visiting Artis Royal Zoo
The monumental zoo is home to 900 species on its vast 14 hectares (35 acres), each of which is more spectacular than the last. The diversity of species is extraordinary, from the camels that captivate visitors just a few steps beyond the majestic entrance of the zoo, to the crocodiles that lurk and the lemurs that frolic in the confines of the terrain. A daily schedule of events enhances zoo visits, from information sessions with zookeepers to shows at the planetarium. Baby animals are advertised with much fanfare on the zoo’s website so visitors can keep up with the latest births, but be aware that some don’t make their public debut until several months later.
The special enclosures are dedicated to reptiles, fish, insects and butterflies.
Zoo visitors can choose to spend a day in Plantage, the neighborhood where Artis is located, to make the most of the must-see attractions in the surrounding area, such as the Hortus Botanicus (Botanical Garden), which once contained the herbs and medicinal plants that the Dutch East India Company returned from the colonies; the acclaimed Verzetsmuseum (Museum of the Dutch Resistance), a tribute to Dutch civilians who struggled to resist the Nazi occupation; the Tropenmuseum (Museum of the Tropics), where families can discover exotic arts and cultures; and the old Jewish quarter , a testament to the Jewish community and its contribution to Amsterdam.
Read more about the Plantage on Amsterdam Travel.
Tip: Skip the mediocre zoo meals and head out to lunch – each Artis ticket is a one-day pass that allows repeat entries for visitors who have their hands stamped with the zoo’s re-entry stamp, so visitors can run through the restaurants of the Plantage. I recommend Burger Meester, located just down the street at Plantage Kerklaan 37, for an outstanding lunch of gourmet meat or vegetarian burgers and salads.
Artis Royal Zoo Visitor Information
Plantation Kerklaan 38-40
1018 CZ Amsterdam
Admission fees
Tickets are available at the entrance or at the online box office.
- Normal ticket (10-64 years): € 21.50.
- Children (3-9 years): € 18.00
- Children under 3 years: free
Go there
- Tram : Tram 9 from Amsterdam Central Station and Tram 14 from Dam stop, near Artis Zoo; Exit at the Plantage Kerklaan stop.
