Beautiful view of ARTIS
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ARTIS

Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Beautiful view of ARTIS

Flowers unfurl through the morning mist, peacocks cry in the distance, and sunlight stitches airy patterns through ancient trees. Amid the song of birds and shuffle of families unfolds ARTIS, an Amsterdam icon where nature and city life blend in charming, everyday surprise. More than a zoo, ARTIS pulses with history, curiosity, and the gentle promise of wonder for every visitor—whether swept into the quiet hum of the planetarium or pausing to watch an elephant wade at sunrise.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
27 EUR
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Contact Information

Location
Address
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
Phone
Website

Planning your visit

Before setting out to ARTIS, a bit of preparation makes the experience far smoother. The park, nestled in Amsterdam’s verdant Plantage neighborhood, draws both locals and travelers throughout the year. While weekends are lively, seeing the gardens and animal habitats during quieter hours transforms an ordinary visit into a private stroll beneath ancient oaks. Save time by booking tickets online and consider arriving early in the day—when animals are most active and crowds haven’t gathered yet.

  • Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn offer mild weather and blooming gardens. For fewer crowds, weekday mornings are ideal.
  • How to get there: Tram lines 14 and 19 stop a short walk away at Artis stop. Biking from central Amsterdam takes about 15 minutes. Limited paid parking is available nearby.
  • Accessibility: Paths are mostly flat and wheelchair-friendly. Stroller rental available at the entrance. Family restrooms and shaded benches dot the park.
  • Average visit duration: 3–4 hours for highlights; up to a full day if exploring all the gardens, museums, and playgrounds.

Must see stuff

The grounds of ARTIS unfold in a tapestry of themed habitats, historic buildings, and small worlds crafted for different species—and the people observing them. Every corner seems designed for both discovery and daydreams. Some exhibits, like the historic Aquarium or the Butterfly Pavilion brimming with impossible colors, have captivated generations. Others, like the leafy Savanna with its open viewings, feel freshly surprising no matter how many times one returns.

  • The Aquarium: Housed in a monumental 19th-century building, its deep tanks allow close-up views of exotic fish, coral reefs, and even Amsterdam canal life.
  • Savanna habitat: Giraffes roam alongside zebras and springboks, often inches from lush paths where visitors stroll and linger.
  • Micropia: This one-of-a-kind microbe museum (separate ticket) reveals invisible life through innovative exhibits. Kids and adults find equal delight here.
  • Butterfly Pavilion: Step inside for tropical warmth and the sight of hundreds of free-flying butterflies perched on flowers or fruit.
  • Photography spots: Snap the stately lion statues by the entrance, or catch golden hour by the canal bridge with the flamingos in frame.
  • History: Opened in 1838, ARTIS is one of the oldest zoos in Europe, with listed buildings and garden paths that whisper stories of centuries past.

Tips for your visit

Time seems to drift differently within ARTIS, but small preparations ensure a smoother visit. Some exhibits, like the planetarium or Lemur Island, can draw clusters of school groups during midday. Cafés tend to fill quickly during weekends, so picnicking in shady nooks is a popular, wise choice (and allowed in most outdoor areas). For those hoping to linger, shaded benches and calm corners offer respite from both noise and weather. While most paths are easy to walk, an extra bottle of water helps on warm afternoons. A final note—keep voices low near animal habitats and respect posted signs, as the gardens are truly shared space for people and wildlife alike.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Arrive before 10 am or late afternoon after the school rush. Weekdays outside holidays are quieter.
  • What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, refillable water bottle, hat for sunny days, camera or binoculars. Dressing in layers helps with shifting weather.
  • Local etiquette: Picnics are welcome in outdoor areas. Do not feed the animals, and avoid flash photography in the Butterfly Pavilion and Aquarium.
  • Safety and comfort: Mind open water around the canals with young children. Maps are available at the entrance and in the ARTIS app for easy navigation.