About this activity
Editor's Note
Let’s be honest: most city zoos are just "occupancy fillers" for tourists who ran out of ideas, but ARTIS is a different beast entirely. While the industry is obsessed with chasing the highest RevPAR through flashy, over-the-top attractions, this place reminds us that soul still matters in travel. It’s the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, sitting right on the canals, and it doesn't feel like a corporate theme park. I’ve seen enough "animal experiences" to know when a lead is just a marketing gimmick, but ARTIS manages to balance its historical weight with a genuine focus on conservation. It’s a bit of a slap in the face to those modern, concrete jungles that lack any botanical character. If you’re tired of the typical tourist traps in Amsterdam, this is where you actually find some breathing room—though I still think they could charge more for that Planetarium view.
About the Tour
Step into a world where history meets nature. Located just five minutes from the city center, ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo isn't just a collection of animals; it’s a sprawling historic park that has served as a sanctuary in the heart of the city since 1838. As you walk along the canals, you'll encounter giraffes and elephants framed by 19th-century architecture and lush greenery.
Wildlife and Conservation From the jaguars of the Pampa to the endangered species that call this park home, every exhibit is designed to educate. You'll meet tapirs, capybaras, and a diverse range of birds. Don't miss the Butterfly Pavilion, where thousands of wings create a living kaleidoscope around you. It’s an essential reminder of why protecting these habitats is vital for our planet's future.
Beyond the Animals Your entry ticket unlocks more than just the zoo grounds:
- The Planetarium: Take a seat for an immersive journey through the stars. It’s a profound look at our tiny place in the immense universe.
- Botanical Gardens: Wander through a diverse collection of trees and plants that make ARTIS one of the most beautiful city parks in Europe.
- Zookeeper Presentations: Check the daily schedule to hear directly from the experts about the sea lions and Asian elephants.
- Sustainable Dining: Refuel at one of the on-site vegetarian restaurants that focus on local, conscious eating.
Special Event: Night at the Zoo If you are visiting in December or January, you can't miss the "Night at the Zoo" sessions. These exclusive evenings (select dates: Dec 13, 20, 21, 27, 28 and Jan 2, 3, 4) allow you to see the park in a whole new light. Literally. Put on some night vision gogles and see which predators come to life after the sun goes down. It starts with a special show at the Planetarium before you head out into the dark.
Pro Tip: If you want the full experience, grab a combined ticket to visit ARTIS-Micropia (the world’s only microbe museum) or the ARTIS-Groote Museum to see how all life on Earth is interconnected.
Highlights
- Visit one of the five oldest zoos in the world, in the heart of Amsterdam
- Experience ARTIS in the dark during 8 exclusive evenings in December and January
- Only a 5 minutes walk from city center and located on the historic canals
- See Asian elephants, jaguars, Western lowland gorillas and giraffes
- Travel through space in the ARTIS-Planetarium (included)
Know before you go
- Children under the age of 3 can enter for free
- Children's balance bikes are currently not allowed in ARTIS
- Wheelchairs are available, reservation is not required
- Opening hours: (during ARTIS Summer Nights at saturdays from 4 pm till 9 pm)
- 1 November until 28 February: 9 am - 5 pm
- 1 March until 31 October: 9 am - 6 pm
- 24 December 9 am - 5 pm
- 25 December 9 am - 5 pm
- 26 December 9 am - 5 pm
- 31 December 9 am - 4 pm
- 1 January 10 am - 5 pm