Discover the Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg Combo Ticket in Innsbruck
If you’re looking for a day that combines wildlife, mountain scenery, and a touch of urban charm, this combi entrance ticket to Innsbruck’s Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg funicular hits the mark. For just $26 per person, you’ll get access to more than 2000 animals and a scenic ride up to Europe’s highest situated zoo at 750 meters above sea level. The experience is designed to be flexible—you can hop on the Hungerburg funicular, which is included in your ticket, and enjoy stunning views of Innsbruck from above.
We love how this combo ticket makes it easy to combine wildlife viewing with spectacular mountain panoramas. The funicular ride itself is a highlight, offering a unique perspective as you soar above the rooftops of Innsbruck, revealing the city’s charming mix of old town and alpine backdrop. Plus, the Alpine Zoo’s focus on native mountain animals makes it a truly authentic experience—great for families and curious travelers alike.
One thing to keep in mind is that walking is involved—both at the zoo and on the scenic routes—and since the zoo is built into the mountain terrain, be prepared for some uphill stretches. This experience suits those who enjoy a bit of outdoor activity and want a memorable view combined with a glimpse of local wildlife.
If you love nature, scenic rides, and family-friendly adventures, this tour offers great value and plenty of opportunities for authentic moments in Innsbruck.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Affordable price for both zoo entry and scenic funicular ride.
- High-altitude zoo featuring animals uniquely adapted to alpine environments.
- Stunning mountain views from the Hungerburg funicular.
- Family-friendly with accessible pathways and enclosures.
- Authentic alpine experience with a focus on native species.
- Small group operation enhances the personal experience and flexibility.
What Makes This Experience Stand Out
This combo ticket is a smart choice for travelers wanting to combine wildlife, spectacular views, and urban charm in one outing. The Alpine Zoo is special because it emphasizes animals native to the Alps, like lynx, wolves, and bears, giving a sense of regional authenticity. Many reviewers highlight how close you can get to the animals—some noting that they enjoyed seeing wolves “very energetic” and otters putting on a show, which makes for engaging wildlife spotting.
The Hungerburg funicular is more than just a way to get to the zoo; it’s a sightseeing experience in itself. The architecture of the funicular is considered quite unique, and the ride offers sweeping views over Innsbruck and the Nordkette mountains. Visitors have praised the ride’s intervals of every 15 minutes, so you’re not waiting long, and the easy transfer from the city center makes this a very accessible outing.
We also appreciate the value for money—the ticket includes transport that would be costly if purchased separately, plus the entrance fee. Many past visitors found this to be a cost-effective way to enjoy a full day of outdoor activity and wildlife viewing, with some noting that the enclosures use the natural landscape, making the animals feel less confined and more at home.
A Detailed Look at the Itinerary
The journey begins at Innsbruck’s Altstadt (Old Town) Station, a lively hub full of history and charm. From there, the seven-minute ride on the Hungerburg funicular whisks you away to the zoo’s doorstep, offering panoramic views as you ascend. Along the way, you’ll get a peek at Innsbruck from above, with outstanding vistas that you’ll want to snap and remember.
Once you arrive at the Alpine Zoo, you’re just a few steps from the entrance. The zoo itself is designed for walkability, with many animals housed in enclosures that blend into the mountain landscape. Visitors frequently mention how quiet and peaceful the surroundings are, making it easy to focus on the animals and their behaviors.
Highlights include the chance to see more than 150 species, including eagles, lynx, wolves, bears, and fish. Many reviews note the enclosures are well-maintained, allowing you to get close enough to appreciate the animals without feeling like you’re intruding. Some visitors specifically mention their luck during feeding times, which gives an extra dimension to the visit.
After exploring the zoo, the short one-minute transfer takes you back down to the funicular. A quick break or photo stop along the way offers scenic views, perfect for capturing memories of your day. The scenic routes and mountain vistas make this part of the experience memorable—many reviewers say it’s “the highlight of their trip” to Innsbruck.
The return trip brings you back to Innsbruck’s city center, making it easy to continue exploring or relax at a local café.
Authentic Wildlife Encounters and Scenic Views
What sets this tour apart from typical zoos or sightseeing rides is the emphasis on native species and alpine landscapes. The animals you see are species that naturally inhabit the region, providing a more meaningful encounter with the local environment. One reviewer mentioned that they enjoyed “getting very close to some of the animals,” like petting sheep and cows, which adds a gentle, farmyard feel to the experience.
The scenic ride on the Hungerburg funicular is more than just a means of transportation; it’s an aesthetic journey. The architecture of the funicular is described as “very special,” and the views of Innsbruck, the mountains, and the valley are breathtaking—perfect for those who appreciate a good photo opportunity.
Many visitors comment that uphill walking is involved at the zoo, and some note that it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of mobility. Still, the well-maintained pathways and accessible enclosures make it manageable even for families with kids or older travelers.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value for Money
At $26, this combo ticket offers solid value, especially considering the cost of separate transportation and admission fees. Reviews repeatedly point out that transport costs alone could be prohibitive, so including both in one ticket makes this experience very cost-effective. The opportunity to see unique alpine animals up close, combined with the scenic funicular ride, adds a lot to the overall value.
Keep in mind that parking isn’t included, so if you’re driving, you’ll need to budget for parking fees, but the proximity of public transportation makes this less of an issue for most visitors.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for families, given its kid-friendly layout and opportunity to see animals up close. Nature lovers will appreciate the focus on alpine species and scenic views. It’s also a good pick for casual travelers wanting to combine wildlife, culture, and mountain panoramas without complex logistics. If you prefer guided tours with commentary, keep in mind this is a self-guided experience, but the small group size helps maintain a personal feel.
The Sum Up
This Combi Entrance Ticket to the Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg funicular offers a well-balanced, value-packed day in Innsbruck. The combination of native wildlife, spectacular mountain vistas, and an easy-to-navigate itinerary makes it suitable for a wide range of travelers. It’s particularly attractive for those who want authentic animal encounters without the crowds, and to see the city from above while enjoying a scenic ride.
The small group size and flexible schedule mean you won’t feel rushed, and you can tailor your visit to your pace. The cost is reasonable considering the transport and admission included, making it a smart choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a taste of the mountains with a side of local fauna.
If you love outdoor adventures, scenic views, and animals, this experience will be a highlight of your Innsbruck visit. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, be prepared for some uphill walking, and keep your camera ready—you’ll be glad you did.
FAQ
How long is the total experience?
You can enjoy the zoo and funicular ride within a flexible day, but most visitors spend around 3-4 hours exploring and taking photos.
Is the ticket valid for multiple rides?
No, the ticket is valid for a one-time round trip on the Hungerburg funicular and admission to the zoo, for one day only.
Are the enclosures suitable for children?
Yes, the zoo is very family-friendly, with many enclosures designed for easy viewing and some with play areas for kids.
Can I buy the ticket on the day of my visit?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your planning.
Are guided tours included?
No, this is a self-guided experience. However, the small group setting allows for personalized visits, and the scenic ride is self-explanatory.
What about accessibility?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the funicular runs regularly, but some walking on uneven terrain at the zoo may require some mobility considerations.
Is pets allowed?
No, dogs and pets are not permitted during this experience, so plan accordingly.
Whether you’re after close encounters with alpine animals, breathtaking mountain views, or just a fun day out in Innsbruck, this combo ticket provides a practical, enjoyable, and memorable experience.
You can check availability for your dates here: