Top Things to Do at Plzeň Zoo and Botanical Garden

This complex is huge and offers a mix of education and fun. You should plan to spend at least half a day here. The paths can be steep, so wear comfortable shoes. Here are the top highlights for families visiting the zoo and botanical sections.

• Best overall: DinoPark Plzeň
• Best for nature: The Japanese Garden
• Best for small kids: Farmhouse Lüftnerka
• Best rainy-day: The Tropical Pavilion

1. Name: DinoPark Plzeň Type: experience Why go: See life-sized robotic dinosaurs in a wooded setting. It is educational and very exciting for children. Best for: School-aged children and dinosaur fans. Where: Northern edge of the zoo complex. Time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Cost: Usually requires a combo ticket or separate entry. Getting there: Walk through the zoo or use the separate northern entrance. Tip: Don't miss the 3D cinema included in the price.
2. Name: Farmhouse Lüftnerka Type: experience Why go: This is a traditional Czech farm setting with domestic animals. Kids can see goats, sheep, and chickens up close. Best for: Toddlers and young children. Where: Central part of the zoo. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in standard admission. Getting there: Follow the signs from the main entrance. Tip: There is a small shop here selling local snacks and honey.
3. Name: The Japanese Garden Type: nature Why go: It is one of the few authentic Japanese gardens in Europe. It offers a peaceful break from the busy animal exhibits. Best for: Parents and photography enthusiasts. Where: Botanical garden section. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in standard admission. Getting there: Located near the upper part of the botanical garden. Tip: Visit in spring to see the blossoms or autumn for the colors.
4. Name: Giraffe and Zebra Pavilion Type: sight Why go: See these majestic African animals in a large, open enclosure. It is one of the most iconic views in the zoo. Best for: All ages. Where: Near the lower entrance. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in standard admission. Getting there: Short walk from the main gate. Tip: Check the schedule for afternoon feeding times.
5. Name: The Tropical Pavilion Type: indoor Why go: Experience the heat of the rainforest and see reptiles and tropical birds. It is a great place to warm up in winter. Best for: Reptile lovers. Where: Near the center of the zoo. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in standard admission. Getting there: Easily accessible from the main paths. Tip: It is very humid inside, so be ready to shed a layer of clothing.
6. Name: Lemur Island Type: animal encounter Why go: You can watch lemurs playing on their own private island. They are very active and fun to watch. Best for: Families with energetic kids. Where: Near the water features in the lower zoo. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in standard admission. Getting there: Follow the path along the stream. Tip: Keep your camera ready for their jumps.
7. Name: The Mediterranean Greenhouse Type: botanical Why go: See exotic plants from the Mediterranean region in a beautiful glass structure. It is a highlight of the botanical section. Best for: Plant lovers. Where: Botanical garden area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in standard admission. Getting there: Located in the upper section of the park. Tip: This is a very quiet area if the zoo feels too crowded.
8. Name: The African Savannah Type: viewpoint Why go: This large area mimics the African plains with several species living together. It provides a great sense of scale. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Upper part of the zoo. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Included in standard admission. Getting there: Requires a bit of a climb up the hill. Tip: Use the wooden viewing platforms for the best photos.
9. Name: The Children's Playground Type: activity Why go: Let the kids burn off some energy on the climbing frames and slides. It is a well-maintained and safe area. Best for: Active kids needing a break. Where: Near the main restaurant. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central location near the food stalls. Tip: Grab a coffee nearby while the kids play.

Essential Tips for Visiting Plzeň Zoo with Kids

Planning your logistics is key when visiting Plzeň Zoo and DinoPark with family. The site is quite large and hilly. You should consider bringing a stroller for younger children. Many paths are paved, but some are steep.

Check the entrance fee prices before you arrive. Family tickets are usually available and offer a good discount. In 2026, prices may vary by season, so check the official website. Buying tickets online can help you avoid long queues at the gate.

For transport, you can use the local tram or drive. There is parking available, but it fills up fast on weekends. Read more about parking and public transport to plan your arrival. The tram is often the easiest way to reach the entrance from the city center.

Nearby Family Attractions in Plzeň

Plzeň has many other things to offer families. If you have extra time, explore the city center. It is full of history and fun activities. You can find many top attractions in Plzeň within a short distance of the zoo.

1. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: experience Why go: A massive interactive museum with hundreds of hands-on exhibits. It is perfect for curious minds. Best for: Rainy days and older kids. Where: Near the main train station. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Separate admission fee. Getting there: Take a short bus or tram ride from the center. Tip: Check the showtimes for the planetarium.
2. Name: St. Bartholomew's Cathedral Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: Climb the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic for amazing views. You can see the whole city and beyond. Best for: Brave kids and active families. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Located in the very heart of the city. Tip: There are many stairs, so it is not suitable for strollers.

You can find more information on the Visit Plzeň official tourism site. For science lovers, the Techmania Science Center is a must-visit. These spots make Plzeň a great multi-day destination for families.