Berlin Zoo is one of the most highly rated in the world, and gives visitors an excellent opportunity to experience some of the world’s most exotic animals in very attractive and pleasing settings. Known in German as the Zoologischer Garten, the Berlin Zoo is a vast expanse of 34 hectares within the picturesque Tiergarten Park within the city centre. This is home to thousands of animals from every corner of the earth that will thrill visitors of all ages.

The Berlin Zoo first opened in 1844 and, like many other sites from across the city, was largely destroyed as a result of the Second World War. Today, the Berlin Zoo is home to one of Europe’s great zoological gardens, as well as over 18,000 animals from 1500 species.

One of the most photographed structures in Berlin sits just within the entrance to the complex. The Elephant Gate is one of two entries to the main zoo, but is particularly notable for its pagoda-style archway that contributes to the exquisite architectural heritage of the city.

Animals within the Berlin Zoo are housed in areas intended to most closely resemble their natural habitat. The ecosystems replicated within the Berlin Zoo include the African savannah and Australian outback. A variety of animals of all shapes and sizes live within the zoo, and among the most loved and popular are giant pandas, penguins, elephants, lions, meerkats, wolves and hippos. The zoo also features a walkthrough aviary which contains many exotic and dramatic birds from every corner of the planet.

Elsewhere within the zoo is housed the symbolic animal of Berlin—the brown bear, part of a collection of bears in an enclosure that always attracts a lot of visitors. Feeding time is particularly popular, and bears are one of the animals that you can see being fed: a truly remarkable experience. Both children and adults can help feed the animals. If you have the time, you can also take in the Berlin Aquarium, which is located right next to the zoo, with over 250 tanks displaying tropical and native fish, crocodiles, sharks and insects.

Berlin Zoo is located in the southern section of the Tiergarten and is easily accessible by public transport. It is open every day, but hours vary depending upon season.