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Cologne zoo opening hours | Best time to visit, duation, & more

Today

Open 09:00–17:00

Last Admission

16:30

Cologne Zoo

Cologne or Koeln Zoo is open daily from 9am - 6pm (March - October) and 9am -5pm (November - February).

Mar 1 TO Oct 31 Timings

Days (Mar 1 TO Oct 31)

TIMINGSLast Admission
Monday 09:00–18:00 17:30
Tuesday 09:00–18:00 17:30
Wednesday 09:00–18:00 17:30
Thursday 09:00–18:00 17:30
Friday 09:00–18:00 17:30
Saturday 09:00–18:00 17:30
Sunday 09:00–18:00 17:30
Cologne Zoo

Petting enclosure timings:

  • Saturdays and Sundays: 1:30pm to 5:30pm

Christmas eve and new years' eve timings: 9am - 2pm

Last entry to Koelner zoo is 30 minutes before closing time.

Animal houses close 15 minutes before closing time.




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Best time to visit the Cologne Zoo

Weekday vs Weekend

  • If you're looking for a serene zoo experience, weekdays, particularly Mondays and Tuesdays, are your best bet. These days usually offer a tranquil ambiance with fewer visitors, giving you ample space and time to enjoy the exhibits at your own pace. 
  • Weekends, especially Saturdays, are bustling with families and crowds, leading to longer lines and more hustle and bustle. 

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant
Crowded
Very Crowded

Peak season vs low season

  • Spring and summer are the peak seasons, and for good reason. The weather during these months is generally pleasant, with longer daylight hours allowing for extended exploration. You'll also have more opportunities to see animals basking in the sunshine and playing in their outdoor habitats.
  • During the low season, which typically spans late fall to early spring, you'll encounter fewer tourists and may even benefit from discounted admission rates. While the weather might be chillier, the zoo's indoor exhibits provide shelter from the cold, ensuring an enjoyable visit regardless of the season.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season
Moderate Season
Peak Season

How long should you spend at Cologne Zoo?

Koeln zoo

Frequently asked questions about Cologne zoo opening hours

Is there a recommended time to arrive to avoid large crowds?

It is best to arrive early in the morning when Cologne Zoo opens at 9am to avoid large crowds at Cologne Zoo. This allows you to explore the exhibits before the peak visiting hours around late morning and early afternoon. Weekdays, especially outside school holidays, are also less crowded than weekends.

Are there any off-peak hours or days with fewer visitors?

Yes, visiting the zoo on weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tends to be less crowded than weekends. Off-peak hours are generally early morning at opening (9am) and late afternoon before closing. Avoid public holidays and school vacation periods if you prefer a quieter experience.

Does the Clogne Zoo opening hours vary by season or during holidays?

Yes, Cologne Zoo operates with seasonal hours. The zoo is open from 9am to 6pm during summer from March to October. During the winter months, November to February, the zoo closes an hour earlier at m5p. On special holidays like Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, the zoo operates with shorter hours, from 9am to 2pm.

How long does the average visitor spend at Koelner Zoo?

The average visitor typically spends between three to four hours at Koelner Zoo. This duration allows enough time to explore the wide variety of animal exhibits, attend feeding shows, and enjoy interactive activities without feeling rushed. However, if you wish to delve deeper into specific areas or take leisurely breaks, you can spend more time at the zoo.

Is there a time limit on my visit to Koelner Zoo? How long does a visit take?

There is no specific time limit on your visit to Cologne Zoo, allowing you to enjoy your time at your own pace. On average, a visit takes about three to four hours, but you can spend a full day if you wish to participate in all activities and thoroughly explore every exhibit.

What's the best time to visit for optimal weather conditions?

Plan your visit in spring (April-June) or autumn (September-October) for the best weather at Koeln Zoo. The temperatures are mild and perfect for exploring the zoo comfortably. While summer is also a good time to visit, it's usually warmer and more crowded. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, avoid the peak summer months.