Frankfurt Zoo opened in 1858 and is among the oldest zoos in Germany, with a long tradition of conservation work and a lasting association with the zoologist Bernhard Grzimek, who directed it in the decades after the war and whose name is on the street where the zoo stands. It lies east of the city centre at Bernhard-Grzimek-Allee 1, close to the Ostend district, and it is easy to reach by public transport. The zoo's motto speaks of experiencing animals while preserving nature, and the collection reflects it, with great apes such as gorillas and bonobos, Humboldt penguins, bongos, many fish and reptile species and a range of smaller and more unusual animals such as prehensile-tailed porcupines. Several of the older animal houses are being renovated, which is why the zoo runs a sponsorship scheme and why the experience mixes historic buildings with modern enclosures. Tickets can be bought online to enter faster, and the zoo's site has maps of the houses and the current opening hours. Plan three to four hours for a relaxed visit, more if you have children who want to see everything.
Why visit
A city break is often heavy on museums and churches, and a zoo is the easiest way to give children, and plenty of adults, a different kind of day. Frankfurt's zoo is compact enough to cover on foot without feeling rushed, and the indoor houses for apes, fish and other animals make it a useful option when the weather is poor, which in the colder months is a real advantage. The great ape houses are the heart of the collection for many visitors, and the penguin enclosure is a favourite with younger children.
Practicalities
Buy tickets in advance through the zoo's site to skip the box office line, and check the opening hours for the season, because the closing time changes between summer and winter. Wear comfortable shoes, bring layers, and plan a break at one of the cafes inside, since food prices are typical for a zoo.
Strollers are useful, but some of the older paths and houses are narrow, so be patient on busy weekends and school holidays. If you have a Frankfurt visitor card, check whether it offers any entry discount before buying, because the zoo lists the pass on its ticket pages.
Pairing it
The zoo is east of the centre, so you can combine it with the Ostend district, the Osthafen riverside walk and the European Central Bank area, or ride back toward the old town for lunch at the Kleinmarkthalle. For a full family day in Frankfurt, pair it with the Senckenberg Museum or the Palmengarten rather than another museum, so that the day alternates between indoor and outdoor. Keep in mind that renovation work means that some houses may be closed or temporarily changed, so treat the website as the source for what is open when you go.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk through outdoor enclosures and indoor animal houses, with cafes and play areas for children.
Best time
A weekday morning on a dry day for the quietest paths, or any weather if you focus on the indoor houses.
How long
Three to four hours for a relaxed visit.
Tips
Buy tickets online, check the seasonal opening hours, and expect some older houses to be under renovation.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with children who want an easy, animal-focused day away from museums.
- Families
- Excellent for all ages, with indoor houses for wet days and space to let children set the pace.
- Couples
- A relaxed afternoon walk, best on a quiet weekday when the paths are calm.
- Pair with
- The Senckenberg Museum, the Palmengarten or the Ostend riverside.
- Time needed
- Three to four hours.
Good questions
How do I get to Frankfurt Zoo?+
It is east of the centre at Bernhard-Grzimek-Allee 1 and is reached by public transport. Check the zoo's directions page for the current best route from your hotel.
Can I buy tickets online?+
Yes, the zoo offers day tickets online so you can enter faster. Check its ticket pages for the categories and for how the Frankfurt visitor pass is treated.
What animals can I see?+
The collection includes gorillas, bonobos, Humboldt penguins, bongos, fish, reptiles and smaller species such as prehensile-tailed porcupines.
Is it open in winter?+
Yes, the zoo stays open through the year with seasonal opening hours, and the indoor houses make it a workable winter outing. Check the hours page before you go.
How long should I allow?+
Three to four hours suits most visitors, and a little longer with young children who want to linger at the apes and penguins.
