Park & nature
Zoo Basel
René BolliSome booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
Zoo Basel, affectionately known as 'Zolli' by locals, is Switzerland's oldest and most beloved zoo, a beautifully maintained park in the heart of Basel that's renowned for its conservation work and breeding programmes. Home to thousands of animals across spacious, naturalistic enclosures, its highlights include the elephants, big cats, gorillas and other great apes, a large modern Ozeanium-style aquarium and vivarium with penguins, and a children's petting area. Set among mature trees and gardens, it's a relaxed, leafy day out right in the city.
It's a major family attraction and a source of civic pride, consistently rated among Europe's best zoos. Centrally located and easily reached by tram, it makes an easy half-day. Go early to see the animals at their most active, and don't miss the ape house and the aquarium-vivarium.
Don't miss
- Elephants, big cats, and great apes
- The aquarium-vivarium with penguins and reptiles
- Spacious, naturalistic enclosures
- Strong conservation and breeding programmes
- A leafy central-city park setting
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Zoo Basel
You can visit on your own (paid entry; book online or at the gate). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inThe Best of Basel’s Hidden Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour4.4★ · 33 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →
Most bookedStories of Basel's Old Town4.4★ · 210 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$32 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleSwiss Experience: Chocolate Tasting and City Tour of Basel5★ · 25 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$110 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Go in the morning to see the animals at their most active.
- Don't miss the ape house and the aquarium-vivarium with penguins.
- It's central, a tram drops you right at the gate.
- A great family half-day, leafy and relaxed in the heart of the city.
A bit of history
Founded in 1874, Zoo Basel is the oldest zoo in Switzerland and one of the most respected in Europe, known for pioneering breeding programmes (including early success breeding Indian rhinos and other species) and a strong conservation mission.
Common questions
What's special about Zoo Basel?
It's Switzerland's oldest zoo (since 1874) and among Europe's most respected, known for its conservation and breeding programmes, spacious enclosures, and a leafy central-city setting.
What are the highlights?
The elephants, big cats, and great apes, plus the aquarium-vivarium with penguins and reptiles, and a children's petting area.
How do I get there?
It's central, a tram runs directly to Zoo Basel, and it's a short walk from the SBB train station.
How long should I plan?
About half a day; mornings are best for active animals and smaller crowds.
More attractions in Basel