When travelling to Poland, families increasingly choose longer routes instead of limiting themselves to just one stop, because this country truly deserves exploration. We visit Poland many times every year, so we genuinely have plenty of places to recommend. This time, we are sharing one of the most engaging topics for trips with children: zoos. In this article, discover the best zoos in Poland that have left wonderful impressions on many families.
Modern, updated, and designed with impressive exhibits and spaces for both children and adults. While zoos once served as short stops along the way, today they often become full-day destinations. Therefore, travel and discover the best zoos in Poland. The zoos in Lodz, Wroclaw, Gdansk, Krakow, Warsaw, and Poznan offer experiences that surprise even those who believe they have already seen everything. From breathtaking underwater tunnels and Africa-themed complexes to cozy, child-friendly areas filled with hundreds of animal species, this is only the beginning of what you can experience while travelling through Poland with children.
Discover the best zoos in Poland
Lodz zoo
The Lodz zoo is currently the largest zoo in Poland and one of the largest zoos in Europe. At the end of 2023, the zoo completed a major reconstruction together with the Orientarium. As a result, it became one of the most modern zoos in Europe.
The Lodz zoo houses 3,350 animals representing 554 different species. Here you can see elephants, sharks, bears, rays, rare lions, Sumatran orangutans, and crocodiles.
The true highlight of the zoo is the Orientarium, which defines its modern identity. Although we have visited many zoos around the world, the Lodz Orientarium left a particularly strong impression on us. The space divides into four sections. The first section focuses on elephants. The second section features otters, tapirs, and macaques. The third section introduces the Oceanic zone. The fourth section presents crocodiles, orangutans, gibbons, and many other species.
The Orientarium also includes the longest underwater tunnel in Poland, stretching 26 metres. Inside, visitors can observe more than 1,300 fish species, as well as sharks, rays, and other remarkable aquatic animals. In addition, a massive panoramic aquarium window allows extended viewing. You can easily spend hours watching the underwater life. Meanwhile, children can enjoy a playful slide nearby.
You can read our full Lodz zoo review in the article – Lodz zoo with children.
When visiting Lodz, we also recommend:
- Lodz water park
- Hopa Lupa amusement park
- Lodz science centre
- EC1 exhibition for children “Element Street”
Wroclaw zoo
The Wroclaw zoo was established in 1865, when the city still belonged to the Kingdom of Prussia. It is not only the oldest zoo in Poland, but also the largest one. Across a 33-hectare area, visitors can explore 1,100 animal species. In total, more than 14,000 animals live here. These animals come from Africa, North and South America, Asia, and Australia. Therefore, we strongly recommend purchasing tickets in advance.
In 2014, the zoo introduced the Africarium. This unique complex combines African ecosystems with aquarium environments. Because of its innovative concept, the Africarium became a globally recognised attraction.
Visitors can explore several themed zones. The Red Sea zone features coral reefs and dozens of colourful fish species. The East Africa zone presents hippos swimming in a vast aquatic habitat. The Mozambique Channel zone offers an 18-metre acrylic tunnel. While walking through it, visitors can admire turtles, rays, and sharks. The Congo River zone showcases crocodiles and manatees. Finally, the Skeleton Coast zone displays jellyfish and other fascinating marine creatures.
As visitors move through the Africarium, they experience both jungle and underwater environments. Consequently, this pavilion consistently ranks among the top attractions in Poland.
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Gdansk zoo
The Gdansk zoo is located on the outskirts of the city. If you are travelling without a car, you can reach it by bus 179. The zoo operates throughout the entire year. Some animals live outdoors, while others stay in indoor areas. It is one of the largest zoos in Poland, covering approximately 120 hectares. For that reason, it is worth dedicating at least half a day to your visit.
The zoo houses animals from every continent, including species that are rarely seen in the wild today. Here you will encounter elephants, giraffes, hippos, monkeys, seals, pumas, penguins, zebras, kangaroos, flamingos, goats, deer, and numerous bird species. Naturally, lions remain one of the main attractions.
For younger visitors, the zoo features a “Small zoo.” In this area, children can observe animals up close, touch them, and even feed them. In addition, families can try the ropes course, take a retro train ride, or enjoy horseback riding. The zoo also offers many rest areas, which makes breaks easy and comfortable.
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Krakow zoo
The Krakow zoo houses around 260 species and approximately 1,500 animals. The territory covers nearly 17 hectares. The zoo is surrounded by the Wolski Forest. Therefore, visitors can enjoy both animal exhibits and a pleasant natural setting.
Here you can see elephants, lions, tigers, snow leopards, giraffes, penguins, pygmy hippos, lynxes, camels, birds, and monkeys. Children especially enjoy the mini zoo area, where they can observe animals from a very close distance.
Although the zoo is not very large, the layout feels convenient and easy to navigate. Visitors can comfortably spend two to three hours here, or even half a day. However, it is important to note that the parking area is located about one kilometre from the entrance. Therefore, if possible, it is practical to drop off passengers near the entrance before parking.
You can also purchase tickets that include hotel transfers.
More details can be found in the article “Krakow with Children: Exploring the Energylandia Park and Zoo”.
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Poznan zoo
The Poznan zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Poland. Interestingly, Poznan operates two zoos: the Old Zoo and the New Zoo. The Old Zoo functions as a smaller historical site near the city centre. Meanwhile, most animals live in the New Zoo, which is located in a large forested area approximately seven kilometres away.
The New Zoo covers more than 100 hectares. It focuses on spacious and naturalistic habitats. Visitors can see elephants, tigers, rhinos, wolves, lynxes, bears, camels, meerkats, birds, and many other species. The elephant enclosure stands out as one of the most modern in Poland.
The zoo also features themed pavilions, forest walking paths, playgrounds for children, and a small train that helps visitors explore the territory. Since the zoo is quite large, comfortable footwear is highly recommended.
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Warsaw zoo
The Warsaw zoo is located in the city centre, in the Praga district near the Vistula River. Visitors can easily reach it by public transport or even on foot from the Old Town. It is one of the most visited zoos in Poland. Across a 40-hectare territory, more than 4,000 animals representing about 500 species live here.
The zoo offers multiple themed areas, including the elephant zone, monkey house, reptile pavilion, aquarium, insectarium, bird buildings, and a contact area for children. Young visitors often pay special attention to the white tiger, lions, cheetahs, bears, penguins, and sea lions. The paths are stroller-friendly. In addition, shaded rest areas provide extra comfort during the visit.
An important part of the zoo’s identity is its history. During World War II, the zoo keepers’ family hid more than 300 Jewish people. This remarkable story later became known worldwide through the book and film “The Zookeeper’s Wife.”
Warsaw with children – is our prepared guide covering attractions and activities in the Polish capital. Moreover, you will find full information about the best places to shop in Warsaw in the guide “Shopping in Warsaw: stores and outlets”.
If you are looking for where to stay in the Polish capital, our prepared article about the best hotels and apartments in Warsaw will be useful.
When visiting Warsaw, we also recommend:
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