Rotterdam Zoo Blijdorp (Diergaarde Blijdorp) is one of the oldest and largest zoos in the Netherlands. With up to 1.5 million visitors each year, it’s no surprise that the zoo is one of Rotterdam’s top attractions.
In this article, we’ll share tips to help you plan your visit. You’ll learn about the must-see animals, opening hours, parking, tickets and other practical advice for the current season.
- Province
- South Holland
- Address
- Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam
- Best Time to Visit
- Weekday mornings are the quietest
- Visit Duration
- At least 6 hours
- Opening Hours
- Daily 9 am to 6 pm (exceptions apply)
Contents
What to Expect at Blijdorp
Blijdorp Zoo is one of those zoos that is absolutely worth visiting. It’s not only one of the largest and oldest zoos in the Netherlands, but also one of the most thoughtfully designed. Spanning over 26 hectares and home to 5,600 different species of animals and plants, there’s a lot to see and do here.
One of the features that makes this zoo stand out is its division into continents. You can explore Asia, Europe, Africa, the Riviera Hall, South America and North America all in one day.
The zoo has gone to great lengths to recreate the animals’ natural habitats, ensuring they live in harmony with ecosystems similar to their own. This concept is comparable to the eco-displays at Burger’s Zoo Arnhem, another popular zoo in the Netherlands.
Is it worth visiting?
Go if…
- You live in Rotterdam or are staying for multiple days
- You’re travelling with children
- You enjoy zoos and animals
Skip if…
- You only have one day in Rotterdam
- You’re visiting during peak season and dislike crowds
Popular Animals & Highlights at Rotterdam Zoo
Rotterdam zoo is home to nearly over 5,600 different animal and plant species from across the globe. Despite the large number of animals to see, there are some animals that are everyone’s darling. Below are the highlights and animals that you should not miss out on during your visit.
Oceanium
The Oceanium is undoubtedly one of the highlights at Blijdorp Zoo. The glass-covered path is like visiting an underwater world! The huge aquarium is home to countless fish species in all sizes and colors. The giant aquarium is a mesmerizing experience, providing a wonderful glimpse into the vibrant underwater life.
Elephants
The elephant family is among Blijdorp Zoo’s most beloved residents. Currently, the family includes three adult elephants and their adorable babies. Over the decades, many elephant calves have been born here. The first was Bernhardine, born in 1984, marking a milestone as the first elephant ever born in a Dutch zoo.
What sets Rotterdam Zoo apart is its dedication to sharing the stories of its animals. Many animals, like Irma the elephant, have names and unique histories. You can find detailed information about them, including their ages and how to identify them, on the zoo’s website. For elephant enthusiasts, the zoo has installed webcams at their enclosure, so you can follow the herd’s activities online.
Gorillas
From charming baby elephants to spirited gorillas, some animals have gained national fame. In 2007, the gorilla Bokito made headlines after escaping his enclosure, prompting an evacuation of the zoo. Bokito was eventually returned safely, and the zoo built a five-meter-high wall around the enclosure to prevent future escapes. The incident even led to the Dutch coining the term “bokitoproof”, which became the word of the year in 2007.
After a long life and popularity at Zoo Blijdorp, Bokito the gorilla died on 4th April 2023 at the age of 27. Despite the loss, the gorillas remain a highlight at Rotterdam zoo.
Giraffes
Giraffes hold a special place in the zoo. In fact, two reticulated giraffes have been part of the zoo’s logo since 1941. Their large enclosure includes a wooden bridge, allowing visitors to see the giraffes at eye level – a truly unique experience.
Blijdorp is also home to the Okapi, a rare species of giraffe that resembles a mix of a horse and a zebra. You can find them in the central African jungle area.
If you’d like to see more exotic animals, don’t miss the Gelada baboons from Ethiopia, known for the distinctive red marks on their chests. Additionally, the zoo features lions, tigers, rhinoceroses and many more, allowing you to see “The Big Five” in a single visit. Looking for something playful? The meerkats (stokstaartjes) are always a crowd favorite.
Animal Feedings & Activities
Animal feedings are a highlight of any visit to Diergaarde Blijdorp. Scheduled activities like animal feedings occur daily, giving you a chance to observe the animals up close during mealtime. Additionally, you can watch zookeepers care for the animals. One memorable moment during my visit was seeing elephants joyfully playing during a refreshing shower on a hot summer day.
Activities for Children
Blijdorp Zoo is an excellent destination for families with children. Beyond animal watching, kids will enjoy two large playgrounds – one indoor and one outdoor. Biotopia, the indoor playground, lets young children run, climb and learn about which animals live together in different habitats. Meanwhile, the Oewanja Kid Jungle, the outdoor playground, boasts a four-story climbing area. Kids can scale an African-style tower and glide down for a thrilling adventure.
Admission & Tickets
Rotterdam Zoo tickets are available for purchase online or on site, at the day of your visit. As of 2026, tickets are €29.50 for adults and €24.50 for children aged 3 to 12. Kids under 3 get in for free. These prices are valid for weekdays. Weekend tickets are slightly more expensive.
We recommend you purchase your ticket online so you don’t have to queue on site.
Opening Hours
Rotterdam Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during summer time, and until 5 p.m. during winter time. The zoo is open 7 days a week, including public holidays. There are only four days a year where opening hours vary from the regular schedule:
- On Sinterklaas (5th December): from 9 a.m to 4 p.m.
- Christmas Eve (24th December): from 9 a.m to 4 p.m.
- New Year’s Eve (31st December): from 9 a.m to 4 p.m.
- New Year (1st January): from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.
How Much Time at Blijdorp
With thousands of animals living at the zoo, it really never gets boring at Blijdorp. Many locals, including some of my former neighbors, visit this zoo at least once a month.
You can easily spend a full day at Blijdorp Zoo. I recommend planning at least 6 hours to explore the main sections of the zoo. If it’s your first visit or you don’t come often, it’s best to arrive early in the morning when the zoo is quieter. The afternoons, especially on weekends, tend to be busier.
Kitty’s Tip
If you only have a few hours to spare at Blijdorp, it makes sense to have a look at the zoo’s map and select specific sections and activities (e.g. animal feedings) that you’d like to experience. Because Blijdorp takes up most of a day, I wouldn’t combine it with other sights on a day trip. If you only have one day in the city, follow our Rotterdam day trip itinerary instead and save the zoo for a longer stay.
How to Get There
The zoo is conveniently accessible by both car and public transport.
How to Get There
By Car
Take the Blijdorp exit on the A20, follow signs to Blijdorplaan. Parking (P1) costs €12.50/day. Address: Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam.
By Public Transport
Metro lines D or E to Blijdorp station (1 stop from Rotterdam Centraal). Bus 44 stops at Diergaarde Blijdorp. Enter via Van Aerssenlaan 49.
By Foot
About 1 km (±15 min) walk from Rotterdam Centraal. Use the entrance on Van Aerssenlaan 49.
Parking Tip
During peak times, P1 fills fast. Use P2 (under A13) or street parking on Horvathweg or Van Aerssenlaan / Bentincklaan near Sparta Stadium.
Car & Parking
If you’re driving, take the Blijdorp exit on the A20. From there, the route to Blijdorplaan is clearly marked, making it easy to find your way. The zoo has a large car park located near the western entrance, where parking day tickets cost €12.50 (as of 2026). Parking tickets can be purchased on site.
For navigation, use the following address: Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam, Netherlands
Peak season tip: During busy times, the main parking lot (P1) may fill up quickly. In this case, you can use the additional parking area (P2) located under the A13 driveway. Alternatively, parking is available along Horvathweg or Van Aerssenlaan / Bentincklaan, near Sparta Stadium.
Public Transport
The easiest way to reach Blijdorp Zoo by public transport is by metro. The Blijdorp Metro Station is within walking distance of the zoo’s entrance. Metro lines D and E both stop at Blijdorp, and the trip from Rotterdam Centraal Station to Blijdorp takes just a couple of minutes (one stop).
If you’re traveling by bus, take bus line 44 and get off at the Diergaarde Blijdorp stop. From there, use the entrance at Van Aerssenlaan 49.
Alternatively, you can walk to the zoo from Rotterdam Centraal Station. The walk is about 1 km (approximately 15 minutes). However, since you’ll likely be walking a lot during your visit to Blijdorp, you might prefer to take the metro or bus. If you do choose to walk from the city center, use the entrance on Van Aerssenlaan 49.
Dogs
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed at Blijdorp Zoo, and there are no kennels available on-site. The only exception is for assistance dogs. If you plan to visit with an assistance dog, please contact the zoo in advance, as certain restrictions apply.
Food and Drinks
There are plenty of cafes and restaurants inside the zoo where you can purchase snacks, drinks and meals. There are also several food trucks and coffee spots located throughout the zoo.
Discover more of Rotterdam
Visiting Blijdorp as part of a city trip? Explore my complete Rotterdam travel guide for the best sights, practical tips and more ideas for your stay.
Share Your Thoughts & Questions!
Have you ever been to Rotterdam Zoo or are you planning to visit soon? Share your experience and questions in the comments section down the page. We’d love to hear from you!
