The Alpenzoo sits at about 750 metres on the slope below the Hungerburg plateau, which makes it the highest zoo in Europe, and it has a clear and appealing focus: only the animals of the Alps. Around 2,000 animals of some 150 species live across four hectares of terraced enclosures, so you can see creatures that are almost impossible to spot in the wild, such as ibex, chamois, red deer, wild boar, brown bears, wolves, lynx and otters. Birds are a highlight, with golden eagles, owls and the huge bearded vultures that have been reintroduced to the Alps, and an aquarium shows the trout and char of cold mountain waters. The paths zigzag up the hillside, with views over the city to the peaks on the far side of the valley. In winter most animals remain on view, though marmots, reptiles and amphibians are hibernating. This page links to the Tiqets combined ticket for the zoo and the Hungerburgbahn, sold by the funicular operator.
How to visit: the zoo opens every day of the year, from 9:00 to 17:00 from November to March and until 18:00 in summer. The combined ticket includes a round trip on the Hungerburgbahn from the Congress station to the Alpenzoo stop, zoo admission and the Cable Railway Museum. Bus W runs from the Marktplatz in the old town directly to the zoo, and you can also walk up in about twenty minutes from the centre. There is a small paid car park, but it fills on busy days.
What to expect in November 2026: the zoo stays open throughout, but the Hungerburgbahn is closed for maintenance from 2 to 19 November 2026 with the other Nordkette lifts, so during that window take bus W or walk, and use the funicular from 20 November. Dogs are not allowed, except registered assistance dogs. The slope is steep in places, so pushchairs work but take effort.
Making the most of it: come at opening time, when the animals are most active and feeding is under way, and work your way uphill. Allow two hours. On a clear day, combine it with the Nordkette: the Top of Innsbruck PLUS ticket covers both.
What to expect
The experience
A hillside walk past terraced enclosures of Alpine mammals, birds of prey and mountain fish, with views over the city.
Best time
Opening time, when the animals are most active, on a dry day.
How long
About two hours, plus the funicular or bus ride.
Tips
From 2 to 19 November 2026 the Hungerburgbahn is closed, so take bus W from the Marktplatz instead.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and nature lovers who want to see ibex, bears and bearded vultures up close.
- Families
- The best family attraction in the city: compact, varied and open every day of the year.
- Couples
- Pair it with a ride up the Nordkette on the same ticket for a mountain day from the city.
- Pair with
- The Nordkette cable cars from the Hungerburg, a short ride further up.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
Is the Alpenzoo open in winter?+
Yes, it is open every day of the year, from 9:00 to 17:00 from November to March. Most animals are on view, except hibernating marmots, reptiles and amphibians.
How do I get to the Alpenzoo?+
Take the Hungerburgbahn to the Alpenzoo stop, bus W from the Marktplatz, or walk up in about twenty minutes from the old town. From 2 to 19 November 2026 the funicular is closed, so use the bus.
What does the combined ticket include?+
A Hungerburgbahn round trip between the Altstadt and Alpenzoo stations, zoo admission and the Cable Railway Museum. Food and drink are not included.
Can I bring my dog?+
No, dogs are not allowed in the Alpenzoo. Registered assistance dogs are the only exception.
What animals can I see?+
Around 150 Alpine species, including ibex, chamois, brown bears, wolves, lynx, golden eagles and bearded vultures. There is also an aquarium of mountain fish.
