Thing to do
Viktualienmarkt
Munich's year-round open-air food market beside Marienplatz, on its site since 1807, with more than 100 traders, a maypole and a beer garden.
Tierpark Hellabrunn
Munich's zoo on the banks of the Isar, opened in 1911 and organised by continent since 1928, with around 500 species across 40 hectares.
At a glance
- Type
- Zoo
- Area
- Thalkirchen, Munich, Germany
- Official site
- hellabrunn.de
Good to know
- Two entrances
- Parking
- Family friendly
- Open every day
Why we recommend it
Tierpark Hellabrunn is Munich's zoo, set in about 40 hectares of woodland and meadows on the right bank of the Isar in the south of the city. It first opened in 1911, closed in 1922 during the inflation crisis and reopened in 1928, when it was laid out according to a geographical plan with animals grouped by continent. The zoo describes itself as the first geo-zoo in the world, and the idea still shapes a visit today.
Around 500 species live here. The Elephant House, first built in 1914, was renovated between 2011 and 2016 and is one of the historic buildings on the site. In the Jungle House you can see gorillas and chimpanzees, giraffes can be watched behind glass in the Savannah House, and the aquarium and the Polarium add marine and polar species. Paths wind through the riverside woods, so much of the walk feels more like a park than a city zoo.
The zoo is a good choice for families, and also for anyone who wants a few hours outdoors away from the old town. Plan at least three to four hours to cover the main areas without rushing, and wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds are large. On sunny weekends and during school holidays it gets busy, so arrive at opening time if you can.
Opening hours change with the seasons. In winter the zoo opens from 9:00 to 17:00 and in summer from 9:00 to 18:00, and it is open every day of the year, with shorter hours on 24 and 31 December. There are two entrances: the Isar entrance, about three minutes' walk from the U3 station Thalkirchen (Tierpark), and the Flamingo entrance, directly at the bus 52 terminus Tierpark (Alemannenstraße). Note that the U3 between Sendlinger Tor and Implerstraße is replaced by buses until 28 November, so check the route before you travel. Bus 52 runs from Marienplatz and Sendlinger Tor, and tram 25 to Tiroler Platz leaves a walk of about 15 minutes to the Flamingo entrance.
Parking near both entrances is limited and charged, so public transport is the easier option, particularly at weekends. After your visit, the Isar riverbanks and Flaucher area just north of the zoo are popular for walks and summer barbecues.
Tierpark Hellabrunn FAQs
What are Hellabrunn's opening hours?
In winter from 9:00 to 17:00 and in summer from 9:00 to 18:00, every day of the year. On 24 and 31 December it closes at 16:00.
How do I get to Tierpark Hellabrunn?
Take the U3 to Thalkirchen (Tierpark) for the Isar entrance, or bus 52 to Tierpark (Alemannenstraße) for the Flamingo entrance.
How big is the zoo?
About 40 hectares, with around 500 species.
How long should I allow?
At least three to four hours to see the main areas.
Is there parking?
Yes, at both entrances, but spaces are limited and charged. Public transport is recommended.
What is a geo-zoo?
A zoo where animals are grouped by continent. Hellabrunn has followed this plan since 1928.
Is Hellabrunn good for children?
Yes. It is a popular family outing, and the large grounds give children plenty of space.
When was the zoo founded?
It first opened in 1911 and reopened in 1928 after closing during the inflation crisis.