Copenhagen Zoo is in Frederiksberg, at Roskildevej 32, a short bus ride from the city centre. Founded in 1859, it is one of Europe’s oldest zoos and has animals from around the world, including pandas, elephants, polar bears and kangaroos. The Elephant House, designed by Sir Norman Foster, and the Arctic Ring are among its notable areas. Families can also visit the children’s zoo, playground and designated animal-interaction areas. Come in spring or summer to see more animals outdoors, and allow several hours to explore.
A zoo with a long history
Copenhagen Zoo opened in 1859, founded by ornithologist Niels Kjærbølling. Its first collection was small, with animals including eagles, chickens, a seal and a turtle. Today, the zoo has animals from across the world and is a longstanding part of Frederiksberg, between Frederiksberg Gardens and Søndermarken.
The grounds are large enough to make a visit feel like a substantial outing. Visitors can follow paths between animal areas, pause at places to sit and take breaks at cafés and food outlets. The zoo also has a gift shop, though its selection has been described as limited. Families can plan time for the children’s areas as well as the animal exhibits.
Elephants, pandas and Arctic animals
The Elephant House is one of the zoo’s best-known buildings. Designed by Sir Norman Foster, it has a pool deep enough for elephants to submerge their bodies. The elephants are a key reason to visit, and can sometimes be seen from Frederiksberg Gardens outside the zoo.
The Arctic Ring is another major exhibit, with polar bears and seals. Other animals visitors look for include pandas, penguins, kangaroos, lions and chimpanzees. The zoo also has a rainforest area and habitats representing different parts of the world. Animal activity and visibility can differ by season; more animals are outdoors in spring and summer.
A wooden observation tower dating from 1905 gives views over the zoo, the surrounding parkland and the city. Reaching the top involves climbing many steps, so it may not suit everyone.
A visit with children
The children’s zoo and playground give families space to break up time among the exhibits. At designated areas, children can get close to farm animals such as goats, cows and sheep. Animal feedings are another way to add structure to the visit; check the zoo’s information on the day for current schedules.
The zoo is accessible by bus: route 7A from the city centre stops outside and takes roughly 15 minutes. A visit can take three hours or more, and allowing four to six hours gives time for the exhibits and children’s play areas. Spring or summer is a practical choice if seeing animals outside is a priority. Copenhagen Card holders can check whether their card covers admission and transport for their visit.
Häufige Fragen
How long should you spend at Copenhagen Zoo?
Allow about four to six hours to explore the animal areas and children’s play spaces. Some visits take around three hours.
How do you get to Copenhagen Zoo from the city centre?
Bus 7A stops outside the zoo and takes roughly 15 minutes from the city centre.
When is a good time to visit Copenhagen Zoo?
Spring or summer is a good choice if you want to see more animals outdoors.
What are Copenhagen Zoo’s main highlights?
The Elephant House, designed by Sir Norman Foster, the Arctic Ring with polar bears and seals, and animals such as pandas and kangaroos are among the highlights.
