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Cologne Zoo tickets
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
- Enjoy a memorable family day out with Cologne Zoo tickets, to see over 850 different wildlife species and learn about conservation efforts.
- Delight in an up-close interaction with Asian elephants at the large Elephant Park, and see its youngest elephant, born in June 2023.
- Visit exhibits like the Hippodom, a recreated African river environment, and a real piece of Southeast Asian rainforest in the Rainforest House.
- Step back in time at the Clemenshof, a traditional farmyard. Meet heritage breed animals, and let the kids pet goats and sheep on the weekends.
- Cologne Zoo's aquarium offers a dive into aquatic wonders, from ancient lungfish and electric elephant fish to the ecosystems of coral reefs.
- Enjoy a memorable family day out with Cologne Zoo tickets, to see over 850 different wildlife species and learn about conservation efforts.
- Delight in an up-close interaction with Asian elephants at the large Elephant Park, and see its youngest elephant, born in June 2023.
- Visit exhibits like the Hippodom, a recreated African river environment, and a real piece of Southeast Asian rainforest in the Rainforest House.
- Step back in time at the Clemenshof, a traditional farmyard. Meet heritage breed animals, and let the kids pet goats and sheep on the weekends.
- Cologne Zoo's aquarium offers a dive into aquatic wonders, from ancient lungfish and electric elephant fish to the ecosystems of coral reefs.
Inclusions
- Entry to Cologne Zoo and Aquarium
- Tip: See the lively energy during animal feeding times, particularly at the Hippodom and the baboon enclosure. Check the zoo's app for the schedule.
- Children under the age of 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Guide dogs with a valid permit are welcome at the venue.
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.3
66 ratings
37
19
7
1
2
Guests from United Kingdom, United States, Chile and over 6 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Weinzierl
Jun 2025Verified booking
The space, the well cared for animals and the environment.
View original review in Spanish
Jack
May 2025Verified booking
Good variety of animals and the elephants were great. But why so many ducks and aquatic birds. Definitely a bird watchers paradise.
Anchirinah
May 2025Verified booking
I enjoyed seeing the racoons and capybara
Elke
May 2025Verified booking
I am looking forward to the new building in the giraffe area
View original review in German
Carina
May 2025Verified booking
Andrea
May 2025Verified booking
Rita
May 2025Verified booking
Bernd
May 2025Verified booking
Melike
May 2025Verified booking
Godart
Apr 2025Verified booking
Johnen,
Apr 2025Verified booking
Carsten
Apr 2025Verified booking
Bernadette
Dec 2024Verified booking
Sherin
Dec 2024Verified booking
Iestyn
Dec 2024Verified booking
Bernd
Oct 2024Verified booking
Brigitte
Oct 2024Verified booking
Jan
Oct 2024Verified booking
Tina
Oct 2024Verified booking
Anika
Oct 2024Verified booking
Anita
Aug 2024Verified booking
The zoo was just great, we were there several years ago and were positively surprised how everything has changed. Due to the warm weather we unfortunately couldn't visit the upper floor of the aquarium as the humidity was very high, but otherwise everything was perfect!
View original review in German
Simeon
Aug 2024Verified booking
Ameisenbär Affen jeglicher Art Bis auf die Restaurants diese sind überteuert wie sonst etwas Dennoch ein Erlebnis was man sich nicht entgehen lassen sollte
Nickels-Conrardy
Sep 2024Verified booking
The whole park was very well maintained, I liked it very much, the people were also nice, all in all we spent a wonderful day.
View original review in German
Birgit
Aug 2024Verified booking
Booking the tickets was very easy and we avoided long queues. We particularly like Cologne Zoo because the enclosures for the animals are spacious and the animals also have the opportunity to retreat. The many playgrounds for children make a visit an entertaining affair. Everything is very well maintained, there is no garbage lying around and the paths to the individual stations are well documented.
View original review in German
Dietmar
Aug 2024Verified booking
The grounds are very appealing to visitors. My nine-year-old son also gratefully accepted the playgrounds. Shorter waiting times would be desirable in the restaurants. But that would be complaining at the highest level.
View original review in German
Sightseeing Cruises
Combo: Cologne Zoo + 1-Hour Panorama Cologne Cruise with Audio Guide
from
€41
- Enjoy a cost-effective combo journey to the rich wildlife of Cologne Zoo and a scenic 1-hour panorama river cruise in Cologne.
- Immerse in Cologne Zoo's diverse offerings with over 850 species, including Asian elephants, Nile crocodiles, and playful primates.
- Experience the zoo's meaningful conservation works, explore the aquarium with about 70 tanks, and learn about wildlife at the Rainforest Hall.
- Embark on a picturesque Rhine River cruise, spot majestic landmarks like Cologne Cathedral, and hear about Cologne’s history with an audio guide.
- Marvel at the city's architectural brilliance from the water, including the Lindt Chocolate Museum and the Hohenzollern Bridge, known for its thousands of love locks.
- Enjoy a cost-effective combo journey to the rich wildlife of Cologne Zoo and a scenic 1-hour panorama river cruise in Cologne.
- Immerse in Cologne Zoo's diverse offerings with over 850 species, including Asian elephants, Nile crocodiles, and playful primates.
- Experience the zoo's meaningful conservation works, explore the aquarium with about 70 tanks, and learn about wildlife at the Rainforest Hall.
- Embark on a picturesque Rhine River cruise, spot majestic landmarks like Cologne Cathedral, and hear about Cologne’s history with an audio guide.
- Marvel at the city's architectural brilliance from the water, including the Lindt Chocolate Museum and the Hohenzollern Bridge, known for its thousands of love locks.
Inclusions
Cologne Zoo
- Entry to Cologne Zoo & Aquarium: Summer/Winter (optional)
Cologne City Cruise
- 1-hour panorama cruise
- Audio guide in English & German (on smartphone)
Cologne Zoo
- Tip: Save some time to visit the zoo shop - you might find a quirky souvenir that you wouldn't be able to get anywhere else.
- Keep in mind that drones, balls, frisbees, balloons, bicycles, scooters, roller skates, inline skates, and skateboards are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Ramps and elevators are available at the venue for easy access.
- Guide dogs with a valid permit are welcome at the venue.
- Facilities: Restaurants, parking, restrooms, and changing rooms.
- Children aged 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Cologne City Cruise
- Tip: Time your cruise to coincide with sunset for the most stunning views.
- Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility, Free WiFi.
- Baggage, pets, and guide dogs are allowed.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.2
404 ratings
168
172
42
10
12
Guests from United Kingdom, United States, Austria and over 21 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Sabine
Jun 2025Verified booking
Everything went very smoothly, from booking to disembarkation. The panorama ship was beautiful and the stories about Cologne were easy to understand. I could have spent the whole day on board. We were thrilled. However, it would be nice if you could pay with Paypal. Thank you for the wonderful experience, we will certainly do this more often.
View original review in German
Chantal
Jun 2025Verified booking
Funny, friendly staff. Good atmosphere. All information was easy to hear over the loudspeakers. Very clean. We felt comfortable.
View original review in German
Corina
Jul 2025Verified booking
Everything was good and it was very nice
View original review in German
Weinzierl
Jun 2025Verified booking
The space, the well cared for animals and the environment.
View original review in Spanish
Daniela
Jun 2025Verified booking
The ride was nice and the staff very friendly. Unfortunately, the tape with the explanations was set so quietly that you could hardly understand anything and that was very unfortunate and annoying
View original review in German
Jack
May 2025Verified booking
Good variety of animals and the elephants were great. But why so many ducks and aquatic birds. Definitely a bird watchers paradise.
Anja
May 2025Verified booking
The one-hour trip on the Rheinfantasie was very nice, but it would have been very helpful if there had been explanations on the upper deck about the individual sights. Unfortunately, these were completely missing, which was a shame for those not familiar with the area. Otherwise a very nice ship for this short tour.
View original review in German
Graham
May 2025Verified booking
Good trip although couldn't hear the commentary. Ticket experience was poor as email directed me to queue at the ticket counter, and not to use the qr code directly, which was hidden away. So wasted time and got frustrated in queue.
Jacob-Gämlich,
Apr 2025Verified booking
The service on the ship was good. The description of the sights was backed up with historical data. It was fun.
View original review in German
Sofia
Jul 2025Verified booking
It was interesting and you got to see a lot of the city. I liked it a lot
View original review in German
Andreas
Jul 2025Verified booking
The fresh breeze and the relaxed swell
View original review in German
Rebecca
Jul 2025Verified booking
It was nice to ride and hear facts.
Shafik
Jul 2025Verified booking
A wonderful boat trip with a great view - absolutely recommendable!
View original review in German
Anchirinah
May 2025Verified booking
I enjoyed seeing the racoons and capybara
Yuri
May 2025Verified booking
Fresh air on the deck, food and drinks.
Colin
May 2025Verified booking
Lovely cruise to see highlights of Cologne
Monika
May 2025Verified booking
Very friendly staff, beautiful cruise
View original review in German
Gabriele
May 2025Verified booking
Punctuality of the ship, friendliness of the staff. Only the prices for drinks are quite high.
View original review in German
Andreas
May 2025Verified booking
I was delighted with Crew
View original review in German
Chiang
May 2025Verified booking
Steady ship and good food and drink services
Elke
May 2025Verified booking
I am looking forward to the new building in the giraffe area
View original review in German
Sabine
May 2025Verified booking
Nice little round trip with very friendly staff.
View original review in German
Denise
Apr 2025Verified booking
Loved the cruise but a little hard to fear the audio
Esther
Apr 2025Verified booking
Once inside the boat everything went very well. Nice ride and good service.
View original review in Spanish
Magali
Apr 2025Verified booking
Informative without being overwhelmed by information. Seen a lot. Gladly again.
View original review in German
CologneCologne Zoo
Why visit the Cologne Zoo?
- Diverse wildlife: Home to over 10,000 animals across 800 species, the Cologne zoological garden provides an extensive look at wildlife from all corners of the globe, including rare and endangered species.
- Unique exhibits: Features like the Aquarium, Rainforest House, and Elephant Park provide visitors with an up-close and personal experience with wildlife in meticulously recreated habitats.
- Feeding shows: One of the highlights of a visit to Cologne Zoo is the daily feeding shows, which provide an entertaining and educational experience for all ages. Watch zookeepers feed various animals, including lions, penguins, and sea lions while learning fascinating facts about each species' diet and behavior.
- Exhibitions and lectures: Koeln Zoo hosts special environmental exhibitions and lectures to educate visitors about pressing ecological issues and promote conservation awareness. Keep an eye on the zoo's event calendar for upcoming exhibitions and lectures during your visit.
- Family-friendly: Cologne Zoo is designed with families in mind. The zoo’s layout is easy to navigate, with plenty of rest areas, playgrounds, and dining options, ensuring a comfortable visit for families with young children.
Your Cologne Zoo ticket options
If you are short on time
Go for: Entry tickets
Duration: 1 hour
Guide: No
- The entry ticket provides access to explore the Kolner Zoo, including special exhibits and interactive displays.
- It is designed for families with discounted rates for children and is an economical choice for a day out with the kids.
Recommended ticket: Cologne Zoo Tickets
If you want to explore beyond
Go for: Combo tickets
Duration: 2-3 hours
Guide: Audio guide for the cruise
- Enjoy a day at the zoo followed by a scenic cruise along the Rhine River, providing a unique perspective of Cologne's landmarks.
- Save 5% for added value and avoid the hassle of purchasing separate tickets.
Recommended ticket: Combo (Save 5%): Cologne Zoo + 1-Hour Panorama Cologne Cruise with Audio Guide
What to see at Cologne Zoo?
Aquarium
The aquarium houses an extensive collection of marine life, from tropical fish to intricate coral reefs. With 70 geographically arranged aquariums, you can see paradisiacal, anemones, colorful fish, starfish, corals, crabs, mussels, and more.
Elephant Park
This is one of the largest elephant parks in Europe, with a habitat that mimics the natural environment of elephants, offering a close-up look at the majestic creatures and their social behaviors and interactions.
Terrarium
Explore a world of reptiles and amphibians in the terrarium. This exhibit features snakes, lizards, frogs, and insects in carefully designed habitats that replicate their natural environments, offering a close-up view of these fascinating creatures.
Rainforest House
Immerse yourself in the lush, humid environment of the rainforest. This exhibit is teeming with exotic plants, birds, bizarre flying foxes, rare lizards, and insects, providing a vivid depiction of one of the world's most diverse ecosystems.
Baboon Rock
Watch baboons of all ages in action on Baboon Rock, an expansive enclosure designed to stimulate their natural behaviors. The exhibit offers plenty of opportunities to observe their social interactions and playful antics.
Clemenshof
Clemenshof is a delightful farm-themed area where visitors can interact with domestic animals like goats, pigs, and chickens. It provides a charming glimpse into rural life and traditional farming practices.
Madagascar House
See Madagascar island's extraordinary wildlife, such as lemurs and chameleons. Fans of the 'Madagascar' movie will especially appreciate seeing these fascinating creatures up close, reminiscent of the beloved characters like King Julien, the lemur.
Air Show
Step into the mesmerizing world of winged wonders at the Air Show exhibit. Marvel at the graceful flight of exotic birds like Black Kites and Bald Eagles as they soar overhead, showcasing their aerial prowess.
Hippodoma
Step into the Hippodoma to see the vibrant life of African rivers. This exhibit features hippos, Nile crocodiles, and colorful birds in a spacious setting, showcasing the biodiversity of African waterways.
Meerkats
Meet the endearing meerkats, the charismatic stars of the savannah. Observe their playful antics and social interactions as they scamper across their sandy habitat, keeping a watchful eye out for predators.
Jungle House
Home to nine species of monkeys, large and small, the Jungle House provides a sanctuary for endangered primates. Here, these remarkable creatures thrive in expansive enclosures, mirroring their natural habitats. Marvel at the playful antics of monkeys as they frolic within their family groups.
Petting Enclosure
For a hands-on experience, head to the Petting Enclosure located within the farmhouse area. Open on Saturdays and Sundays from 1:30pm to 5:30pm, this interactive exhibit allows you to stroke a fluffy bunny, feed a hungry goat, or cuddle a friendly sheep.
Plan your visit to the Cologne Zoo
Timings
Location
Facilities
Accessibility
Rules
Tips
Dining
Stay
Nearby
General timings:
- March - October: 9am - 6pm daily
- November - February: 9am -5pm daily
- Last entry: 30 minutes before closing time
Petting enclosure timings:
- Saturdays and Sundays: 1:30pm to 5:30pm
Best time to visit: Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends, so if you can swing a visit during the week, you'll find it much more serene, especially in the morning or early afternoon. But if weekends are your only option, aim to get there early to avoid the crowds and enjoy your time to the fullest.
Address: Riehler Str. 173, 50735 Köln, Germany
Find on map
Getting there:
- By subway: Line 18 from Main Station
Nearest subway stop: Zoo/Flora transit stop - By bus: Bus line 140 from Ebertplatz
Nearest bus stop: Zoo/Flora transit stop - By car: Cologne Zoo is 17.6 km from Cologne Bonn Airport
Nearest parking: Cologne Zoo parking
- Restaurants
- Paid parking
- Restrooms
- Free wheelchair rentals
- Changing rooms
- Kids play areas
- ZooShops
- Handcart rentals
- Wheelchair and stroller-friendly: The zoo is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ramps and elevators throughout the park to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers.
- Free wheelchair rentals: The zoo offers a limited number of wheelchairs for use free of charge. Please reserve one in advance by calling on 0221 / 778 51 14.
- Guide dogs are allowed: Visitors with guide dogs are welcome with a valid permit, ensuring that visually impaired guests can navigate the zoo comfortably.
- Prohibited items at Cologne Zoo include balls, frisbees, balloons, drones, scooters, bicycles, roller skates, and skateboards.
- Pets are not allowed in Cologne Zoo, so it's best to leave your furry friends at home.
- Children aged 12 years and under are required to be accompanied by an adult.
- Smoking is only permitted in designated areas on the zoo premises.
- Alcohol is strictly not allowed inside the zoo.
- Photography for personal use is allowed inside the Cologne Zoological Garden, but commercial photography requires prior written consent.
- Arrive ahead of the rush: Beat the crowds by getting to the zoo early in the morning right when it opens at 9am, especially on busy days like weekends and holidays.
- Plan your path: Since the zoo is pretty vast, pick up a map when you arrive and chart out your course. That way, you can be sure to catch sight of all your favorite animals.
- Bring some cash: Carry some local currency or your preferred payment method for things like meals, souvenirs, and other treats not included in your ticket.
- Rent a handcart: If you have young children, consider renting a handcart available at the entrances for 5 euros.
- Flamingos Restaurant: Located near the main entrance of the zoo, this restaurant offers a small selection of ready-to-eat dishes. You can enjoy tasty Wurst, tomato pasta, and pulled pork here. However, be prepared for higher prices, likely due to its prime location within the zoo.
- Ristorante Piccola Sardegna: Situated by the river, this restaurant boasts a fantastic location and a friendly staff. The portions are generous, and the food is exceptionally fresh and delicious. The pizzas are enormous, and the steak and tiramisu are highly recommended.
- Restaurant Weissenburg: Nestled among lovely cherry trees, this quaint and inviting restaurant sets the scene for a delightful get-together. The dishes are crafted from fresh ingredients, ensuring every bite is a treat. The welcoming staff further enhances the enjoyable dining experience, making it a place you'll want to return to again and again.
- Museum Ludwig: Museum Ludwig is your ticket to a world of modern and contemporary art. Dive into the works of renowned artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein. From avant-garde masterpieces to thought-provoking exhibitions, this museum is a vibrant hotspot for art enthusiasts.
- Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom): Prepare to be awestruck by the Cologne Cathedral, a true gem of Gothic architecture. Its towering spires and intricate details are sure to leave you speechless. And for the brave souls, don't miss the chance to climb its 533 steps for a breathtaking view of the city!
- Rheinpark: For a dose of nature's tranquility, head to Rheinpark. This riverside oasis offers the perfect escape with its lush greenery and serene atmosphere. Whether you fancy a stroll, a riverside picnic, or a paddleboat adventure, Rheinpark is the place to be.
- Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum): Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of cocoa and chocolate, from bean to bar. Marvel at chocolate sculptures and indulge in delicious samples along the way. It's a delightful experience that promises to please visitors of all ages!
Frequently asked questions about Cologne Zoo tickets
How much does a Cologne Zoo ticket cost?
The starting price of a Cologne Zoo ticket is .
Is the Cologne Zoo free for children? How much does it cost for a child ticket?
No, the Cologne Zoo is not free for children. However, tickets for children are generally priced at 50% less than adult tickets. This makes it an affordable outing for families with young children.
What are some must-see features or exhibits at Cologne Zoo?
Some must-see features at Cologne or Koeln Zoo include the Elephant Park (one of the largest elephant enclosures in Europe), Hippodom (a unique exhibit where you can observe hippos both above and below water), Rainforest House (home to a variety of tropical species in a lush, jungle-like setting), and more. You can also see feeding shows and go to the petting enclosures to get up close to the beautiful animals in the zoo.
Is first aid or medical assistance available at Cologne Zoo?
Yes, first aid and medical assistance are available on-site. There are designated first aid stations, and staff members are trained to handle emergencies.
Is there parking available near the Cologne Zoological Garden?
Yes, there is paid parking available near the Cologne Zoo. The parking lot is located close to the entrance, providing convenient access for those driving to the zoo.
Are there rest areas or lounges inside for visitors to relax?
Yes, there are plenty of rest areas and lounges throughout Cologne Zoo. These areas provide a comfortable spot to take a break and enjoy the surroundings.
Are there any combined tickets with other nearby attractions?
Yes! You can get combined tickets for a great day out in Cologne. A popular choice is the combo ticket that includes entry to the Cologne Zoo and a one-hour panorama cruise on the Rhine River with an audio guide. This way, you can enjoy the diverse wildlife at the zoo and then unwind on a scenic river cruise, soaking in the stunning views of Cologne.
Can I use my Cologne Zoo ticket more than once?
No, standard Kolner Zoo tickets are valid for a single entry only. Once you exit the zoo, re-entry is not permitted without purchasing a new ticket.
Are there cafes and gift shops at Cologne Zoo?
Absolutely! Cologne or Koeln Zoo has several cozy cafes and delightful gift shops. The cafes serve a variety of snacks, meals, and drinks, perfect for taking a break during your visit. The gift shops are filled with charming souvenirs and adorable soft toys.