Quick Picks for Your Pilsen Adventure

Before we dive into the details, here are some fast recommendations. These picks help you prioritize your time. The complex is large, so planning is vital.

• Best Overall: The African Savannah for its wide-open spaces and giraffes.
• Best for Kids: DinoPark Plzeň for the life-size moving dinosaurs.
• Best for Rainy Days: The Tropical Pavilion and Madagascar House.
• Best Free Activity: Walking through the botanical sections of the zoo.

If you have more time in the city, check out other best attractions in Plzeň. There is much more to see beyond the zoo gates.

10 Highlights: Zoo Plzeň and DinoPark Practical Guide

This Zoo Plzeň and DinoPark practical guide highlights the best spots to visit. Use this list to map out your route. Each item offers a unique experience for visitors.

1. Name: African Savannah Type: sight Why go: This is one of the largest enclosures in the zoo. You can see giraffes, zebras, and ostriches living together. It feels like a real safari. Best for: Families and photographers. Where: Central part of the zoo. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo ticket. Getting there: Follow the main path from the entrance. Tip: Visit during the morning feeding times for the best views.
2. Name: DinoPark Plzeň Models Type: experience Why go: See dozens of life-size dinosaur models in a wooded setting. Many models move and make sounds. It is an immersive prehistoric world. Best for: Children and dinosaur fans. Where: Upper plateau connected to the zoo. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Combined ticket or separate entry. Getting there: Take the path uphill from the zoo or the separate DinoPark entrance. Tip: Don't miss the giant Argentinosaurus model.
3. Name: Lüftnerka Old Bohemian Farm Type: experience Why go: This is a restored 19th-century farmstead. It features domestic animals like goats, sheep, and horses. You can see traditional Czech rural life. Best for: Toddlers and history buffs. Where: Near the zoo center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo ticket. Getting there: Follow signs for the "Statková" area. Tip: Kids can often pet the friendly goats here.
4. Name: Japanese Garden Shōwa-en Type: nature Why go: This is the only authentic Japanese garden in the Czech Republic. It offers a peaceful retreat with stone lanterns and water features. It was designed by Japanese experts. Best for: Relaxation and quiet moments. Where: Northern edge of the zoo. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo ticket. Getting there: Walk past the bear enclosures toward the edge. Tip: Visit in spring for beautiful blossoms.
5. Name: Madagascar Pavilion Type: sight Why go: This indoor exhibit features lemurs and other rare species from the island. You can walk through the enclosure with the lemurs. It is a very close-up experience. Best for: Animal lovers. Where: Near the main entrance. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo ticket. Getting there: Located shortly after the ticket gates. Tip: Keep your bags closed as lemurs are very curious.
6. Name: The Amazonian Pavilion Type: sight Why go: Experience the heat and humidity of a South American rainforest. You will see monkeys, colorful birds, and reptiles. The lush plants create a great atmosphere. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Lower section of the zoo. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo ticket. Getting there: Accessible via the main lower loop. Tip: Wear layers as it is very warm inside.
7. Name: DinoPark 3D Cinema Type: activity Why go: Watch a short film about prehistoric life in 3D. The film is usually around 10 to 15 minutes long. It is included in your DinoPark ticket. Best for: A break from walking. Where: Inside the DinoPark area. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in DinoPark ticket. Getting there: Follow the signs within DinoPark. Tip: Check the showtimes as soon as you arrive.
8. Name: The Wolf Enclosure Type: sight Why go: This is a large, naturalistic area for a pack of wolves. You can observe them from an elevated wooden walkway. It provides a safe and clear view. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: Upper forest section. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo ticket. Getting there: Hike up the forest trails toward the DinoPark. Tip: Be quiet to increase your chances of seeing the wolves active.
9. Name: Prehistoric Playground Type: activity Why go: A themed play area for children within DinoPark. It includes climbing frames and a paleontological pit. Kids can dig for dinosaur bones. Best for: Active children. Where: DinoPark center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in DinoPark ticket. Getting there: Central location in the DinoPark woods. Tip: Bring a change of clothes if your kids like digging in the sand.
10. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: day trip Why go: This interactive museum is perfect for families. It is located near the city center. It features science experiments and a planetarium. Best for: Education and fun. Where: U Planetária 2969/1, Plzeň. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Separate admission fee. Getting there: Short drive or bus ride from the zoo. Tip: Read a full Techmania Science Center family review before going.

Essential Planning for Zoo Plzeň and DinoPark

A successful trip requires some basic planning. The zoo and DinoPark are open year-round. However, DinoPark usually closes during the winter months. Check the Visit Plzeň website for current hours. We recommend arriving early to avoid the largest crowds.

You can buy tickets for the zoo alone or a combined ticket. The combined ticket is better value if you want to see both. Prices are reasonable for a full day of entertainment. Expect to spend at least five hours to see everything. Many families spend the entire day here.

Food options are available throughout the park. You will find small kiosks and larger restaurants. Most serve traditional Czech snacks like fried cheese or sausages. You can also bring your own picnic. There are many benches and grassy areas for resting.

The terrain is hilly in some sections. Strollers are allowed, but be prepared for some uphill walking. Most paths are paved or well-maintained gravel. If you need a break from walking, the zoo train runs during the summer. It connects the lower and upper parts of the park.

How to Get to the Zoo and DinoPark

Reaching the zoo is easy from the city center. You can take tram number 4 or 1. Get off at the "Lékařská fakulta" or "Severka" stops. From there, it is a short walk to the entrance. Check the City of Plzeň portal for transport schedules.

If you are driving, there is a large parking lot. It is located right at the main entrance. Parking fees are usually charged by the day. During peak summer weekends, the lot can fill up fast. Try to arrive before 10:00 AM on Saturdays.

You can also walk from Republic Square. The walk takes about 20 to 30 minutes. It follows the river and is quite pleasant. This is a great way to see more of the city. After your visit, you might enjoy the Puppet Museum in Plzeň nearby.