Zagreb Zoo

The zoo opened in 1925 inside Maksimir, the public park laid out from 1794 that was itself one of the first of its kind in this part of Europe, starting with a few animals around the park lakes. It grew through the twentieth century in the way most European zoos did, with small enclosures that would not be built now, and it has spent the last two decades rebuilding: newer sections for big cats, primates and African species have replaced older cages, and the zoo participates in European breeding programmes. Progress is uneven and some older enclosures remain, which is the honest state of it. The park around is worth the visit on its own.

What you actually see

• A zoo in a park from 1794 - Maksimir, itself an early public park.
• Opened in 1925 - around the park's lakes.
• Rebuilding in stages - newer enclosures replacing old cages.
• European breeding programmes - the zoo's conservation role.

When to go

April to October, when animals are outside and the park is at its best. Half a day.

Honest expectations

Some older enclosures are still small and visitors who care about that will notice. Building work is often in progress somewhere. It is busy at weekends with families. Maksimir park itself is free and open separately.

Nearby

Maksimir park surrounds it; the Dinamo stadium is across the road.