Other
ARTIS Royal Zoo
One of Europe's oldest zoos, with a historic park, aquarium and planetarium.
Photo: Beksaa Bike / Google
- Area
- Plantage
- Type
- Other
About the experience
ARTIS is one of the oldest zoos in Europe, opened in 1838, and far more than an animal park — it's a leafy 19th-century estate of monumental buildings, old trees and gardens in the Plantage, complete with an aquarium and a planetarium.
What to see
Alongside the animals you'll find the historic aquarium, the planetarium and the ARTIS-Groote Museum exploring life and nature.
The grounds themselves — statues, ponds and grand old trees — make for a lovely wander, and it pairs easily with the neighbouring Hortus Botanicus.
Good to know
It's in the Plantage, a 20-minute walk or a short tram ride east of Central Station. Allow a half-day, especially with children.
Book online at busy times, and check the website for the planetarium and feeding times.
The name ARTIS comes from the Latin phrase Natura Artis Magistra, meaning ‘nature is the teacher of art and science’. Founded as a zoological society, it grew out of a desire to study the natural world and share that knowledge. That background helps explain why ARTIS feels different from a collection of animal enclosures: observation and curiosity are central to its identity, with education and conservation now important parts of its work.
A visit works best at an unhurried pace, leaving time to watch animal behaviour rather than simply moving between exhibits. For a different perspective on the natural world, neighbouring ARTIS-Micropia focuses on microbes, the organisms usually invisible to the naked eye. Beyond ARTIS, the Plantage offers cafés and quieter streets for a break. The nearby Dutch Resistance Museum makes a contrasting cultural stop, though its subject deserves time and attention rather than a rushed visit.
Photo gallery
Photo: Thessaloniki / Google · Photo: Radek Sys / Google · Photo: yuri vigliotti / Google · Photo: Thessaloniki / Google · Photo: Roy Bijlsma / Google
Tips from locals
Arrive at opening (9:00) to have the paths and enclosures almost to yourself.
Bring a picnic — the garden-like grounds are made for it, and food options inside are limited.
Save Micropia for mid-afternoon, when its queues dip.
On Thursday evenings the Groote Museum stays open late.
Did you know?
Founded in 1838, ARTIS is the Netherlands' oldest zoo — and one of the five oldest in the world.
It doubles as a botanical garden, with 26 national monuments on its grounds.
Its 19th-century Planetarium is included with a zoo ticket.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Booking through the official ARTIS website is a sensible option, particularly during busy periods. Check there for current prices, availability and entry conditions.
Does a zoo ticket also cover ARTIS-Micropia and the ARTIS-Groote Museum?
Do not assume these museums are included with zoo admission. Check the official website for the coverage of your chosen ticket and any combination options.
Is ARTIS suitable for visitors with limited mobility?
ARTIS provides accessibility information for visitors using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Check the official website for routes, facilities and any arrangements for borrowing a wheelchair before your visit.
Can I get something to eat during my visit?
There are food and drink outlets within ARTIS, and cafés in the surrounding Plantage neighbourhood. Check the official website for current options and dietary information.
How can I check which attractions are accessible during my visit?
Consult the official ARTIS website for current opening hours, maintenance notices and access information for individual attractions. Check the programme too if you want to attend a planetarium presentation.