Driving and Parking at Plzeň Zoo

Driving to the zoo is a popular choice for families. The main parking lot is located on the street called Pod Vinicemi. This lot is right next to the lower entrance of the zoo. You will find it easily by following the brown tourist signs. In 2026, expect to pay between 50 and 100 CZK for a full day of parking. Always keep some small coins or a payment card ready for the machines.

During sunny weekends, these spots fill up very quickly. We recommend arriving before 10:00 AM to secure a space. If the main lot is full, there is an overflow area nearby. However, the walk from the overflow lot is slightly longer. You can check the Visit Plzeň website for real-time updates on local traffic. Avoid parking on the grass or in residential zones to prevent fines.

• Before you go checklist:
• Check your GPS for the Pod Vinicemi address.
• Ensure you have a contactless payment card.
• Pack comfortable walking shoes for the hills.
• Download a local parking app if available.

Using Plzeň Public Transport to the Zoo

Public transport is a reliable and cheap way to reach the zoo. The most frequent option is Tram Line 4. This line connects the main train station and the city center to the zoo area. You should get off at the Lékařská fakulta stop. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to the zoo entrance. The path is well-marked but involves a slight incline.

Tickets for the tram are easy to buy. You can tap your credit card on the yellow terminals inside the tram. A basic ticket usually costs around 22 to 30 CZK. This is often cheaper than paying for parking. You can find more details on the Plzeň Region official site regarding regional transport links. Using the tram avoids the hassle of finding a parking spot on busy days.

If you are coming from further away, check the bus schedules. Several bus lines stop near the botanical garden entrance. This entrance is at the top of the hill. It is a great option if you want to walk downhill through the zoo. Make sure to check the Plzeň Zoo and DinoPark entrance fee prices before you arrive at the gate.

Step-by-Step Guide for Arrival

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth arrival at the zoo. This process works for both drivers and those using public transport.

1. Choose Transport: Decide between a car or the tram based on your group size. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: 0 CZK. Where: Your accommodation. Common mistake: Not checking the weather before deciding.
2. Navigate to the Area: Use a GPS for Pod Vinicemi or head to the Tram 4 stop. Time: 15–30 minutes. Cost: 22–100 CZK. Where: Plzeň city streets. Common mistake: Driving into the pedestrian-only zones in the city center.
3. Secure Parking or Ticket: Pay at the machine or tap your card on the tram. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: 30–100 CZK. Where: Parking meter or tram terminal. Common mistake: Forgetting to display a paper parking ticket if required.
4. Enter the Gate: Walk to the main entrance and present your ticket. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Variable. Where: Zoo main gate. Common mistake: Waiting in the ticket line when you could buy online.
5. Start Your Visit: Begin exploring the exhibits near the entrance. Time: 3–5 hours. Cost: Variable. Where: Zoo grounds. Common mistake: Missing the DinoPark section because it has a separate entrance fee.

If you are visiting Plzeň Zoo and botanical garden with kids, the tram is often more fun for them. It allows you to see the city sights along the way.

Decision Guide: Car or Tram?

Choosing the right transport depends on your specific needs. Use this simple guide to make the best choice for your trip. If you have a car and arrive early, the main parking lot is very convenient. It allows you to store extra gear or snacks in the vehicle. This is best for families with very small children or strollers.

If you are staying in the city center, the tram is the better choice. It removes the stress of traffic and searching for a spot. It is also the most eco-friendly way to travel. If you are on a tight budget, the tram is significantly cheaper than daily parking fees. For those visiting during public holidays, we strongly recommend public transport to avoid the crowded lots.

Troubleshooting and Common Issues

Even with a plan, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to solve them. If the main parking lot is full, look for the secondary lot near the amphitheater. It is a short walk away but usually has space. If the ticket machine in the parking lot is broken, look for another one nearby or use a mobile payment app.

• Parking lot is full: Head to the Rychtářka parking garage and take the tram.
• Tram ticket machine fails: Use your contactless bank card directly on the tram.
• Lost in the park: Use the digital maps found at every major intersection.
• Stroller access: Stick to the paved paths as some forest trails are steep.
• Language barrier: Most staff speak basic English, but have a translation app ready.
• Missing the last tram: Trams run late, but check the schedule for the final departure.