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Zoo · Roterdã, Holanda Meridional
Diergaarde Blijdorp
One of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands, covering 34 hectares organized by world regions and with a large aquarium, the Oceanium. It is just a few minutes from Rotterdam Centraal.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Diergaarde Blijdorp
Diergaarde Blijdorp was founded in 1857 and has been located in the Blijdorp district in north Rotterdam since 1940. The park covers 34 hectares, divided into world regions: Asia, Africa, the Americas, Oceania and the polar areas.
The Oceanium, a large aquarium, features a tunnel that takes you beneath sharks, rays and schools of fish, as well as penguins and sea lions. In the Asian section there are elephants and a Chinese garden; in the African section, giraffes and hippos.
Several buildings and the landscaping of the zoo, designed by architect Sybold van Ravesteyn in the 1930s, are national monuments. The zoo takes part in European breeding programs for endangered species.
It is a full-day outing for visitors with children, with cafés, play areas and paths that make a complete circuit.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 3 to 5 hours.
Best time
Weekdays outside of Dutch school holidays. Young animals are born in spring and summer; in winter, the Oceanium takes up much of the visit.
How to get there
About a 15–20 minute walk from Rotterdam Centraal, or by bus to the entrance. There are two entrances, one on each side of the park.
Tip
Buy tickets online. Start with the Oceanium if you arrive early, when the tunnel is still empty.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Diergaarde Blijdorp
Is the Rotterdam zoo far from the center?
No, it's about a 15 to 20-minute walk from Rotterdam Centraal.
What is the Oceanium?
The zoo's large aquarium, featuring an underwater tunnel, sharks, rays, penguins and sea lions.
How much time should you allocate for the zoo?
To see the main attractions, about 3 hours; with children, the whole day.