Berlin: Tickets for the Tierpark in East Berlin - Who Should Visit?

Berlin: Tickets for the Tierpark in East Berlin

Imagine seeing giraffes eye to eye, spotting snow leopards high in the Himalayas, or watching tigers prowl through lush jungles—all in a single day. That’s what a ticket to Tierpark Berlin promises. Located just 15 minutes from Alexanderplatz, this sprawling zoo covers 160 hectares and boasts a variety of habitats that make it an ideal choice for families, animal lovers, and curious travelers alike. For $24 per person, you’ll gain access to Europe’s largest zoo, with the added bonus of a special dinosaur exhibition running until fall 2025.

Among the features that really stand out are the new Africa Savannah, where you’ll walk among zebras, gazelles, and giraffes at eye level, and the free electric train that makes exploring this vast park manageable and fun. Plus, the dinosaur display—with life-sized T. Rex and Triceratops—adds a unique twist that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.

A potential consideration? The sheer size of the park means it’s best suited for those prepared for a lot of walking or planning to utilize the electric train. Also, keep in mind that food, drinks, and souvenirs are not included**, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy them on-site. This experience suits visitors who want an authentic, family-friendly day out in Berlin, especially those eager to see a broad spectrum of animals and an impressive new exhibit.

Key Points

Berlin: Tickets for the Tierpark in East Berlin - Key Points

  • Vast Size: At 160 hectares, it’s Europe’s largest zoo, offering a wide variety of habitats and animals.
  • Unique Exhibits: The Africa Savannah and dinosaur exhibition provide memorable highlights.
  • Convenient Access: Only 15 minutes from Alexanderplatz, with free electric train rides inside the park.
  • Family Friendly: Plenty of engaging activities like the petting zoo and bird of prey shows.
  • Value for Money: For $24, you get a full day of diverse animal encounters, making it a good deal.
  • Limited Food Options: Food and souvenirs are not included, so plan accordingly.
You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Tierpark Berlin

Berlin: Tickets for the Tierpark in East Berlin - An In-Depth Look at Tierpark Berlin

When we say Europe’s largest zoo, it’s no exaggeration. The Tierpark Berlin covers a sprawling 160 hectares, which means you’ll want to plan your day carefully. Unlike smaller zoos, this one offers the kind of space and diversity that allows animals to roam more freely, providing a more authentic experience for visitors. It’s situated in East Berlin, easily accessible from central locations, and offers a peaceful environment away from the hustle of city streets.

What to Expect from Your Visit

Upon arrival, you’ll find two main entrances: the Bärenschaufenster (near U-Bahn station Tierpark on U5) and the Schloss entrance (served by tram lines M17, 27, and 37). Both provide parking options for a small fee of €5, so if you’re driving, parking’s straightforward.

Once inside, your ticket grants access to the entire park—no need to worry about extra charges for attractions. You might choose to start with the free electric train—a clever way to cover the distance between major sections of the park without exhausting yourself. We loved how the train whisks visitors from the entrance to various stations, making this vast space manageable for families with young children or those less inclined to long walks.

The Animal Exhibits

The main highlights are the diverse habitats and the chance to see animals in life-like settings:

  • Jungle Enclosures: Walk through the South East Asian jungle where tigers leap through tall grass, and Asian elephants lounge peacefully.
  • Himalayan Heights: Snow leopards and takins are kept in environments mimicking their natural cold mountain ranges, giving visitors a glimpse into their world.
  • Vari Forest: For a more intimate experience, the walk-through Vari Forest lets you experience bird-of-prey shows and bird encounters where the sky above is filled with circling raptors.
  • Africa Savannah: Opened in 2024, this new zone is a true highlight. Featuring zebras, ostriches, and wildebeests among striking rocky formations, it feels like a mini safari. The giraffe walkway is a standout—gazing into those gentle eyes at eye level is a gentle reminder of the wonder of nature.

Family and Kid-Friendly Activities

Kids tend to love the petting zoo, where they can get close to domesticated animals, and the flight show with birds of prey is a soaring success. Parents will appreciate the fresh air and the chance to relax while children are entertained. The park’s landscape invites peaceful picnics, but remember that food and drinks are not included—you might want to bring your own or buy on-site.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Dinosaur Exhibition (Until Fall 2025)

This special exhibit adds a fun, educational element to your visit. Life-sized models of T. Rex, Triceratops, and other dinosaurs create an engaging prehistoric world. It’s ideal for curious children and those interested in natural history, giving a sense of what Earth might have looked like millions of years ago.

Value and Practical Tips

For $24, this ticket offers full access to a day full of discovery. Compared to other attractions in Berlin, it provides a lot of bang for your buck—especially given the size and variety of exhibits. Keep in mind that food, souvenirs, and guided tours are extra, so plan to bring snacks or purchase meals inside the park.

The last entry times vary depending on the season, but generally, you should plan to arrive early if you want to see everything. For instance, in warmer months (March 25 to September 22), last admission is 1.5 hours before closing at 6:30 pm, giving you a decent window to explore.

Reviews and Authentic Experiences

While most reviews are positive, one visitor, Frank, shared, “Helaas stonden wij bij een andere dierentuin dus deze tickets voor niets gekocht”—meaning they ended up at the wrong zoo. It’s a reminder to double-check the location, especially since there’s also a Zoo in West Berlin.

Other reviews praise the wide array of animals and the well-maintained exhibits, but some note that the size of the park requires good walking shoes and a bit of planning. The new Africa Savannah has been particularly well-received, with visitors commenting on how natural and immersive it feels.

Who Should Visit?

Berlin: Tickets for the Tierpark in East Berlin - Who Should Visit?

This experience is perfect for families, animal enthusiasts, and travelers wanting a day filled with variety. If you’re seeking a zoo that’s more than just a collection of enclosures—where you can see animals in habitats that mimic their natural environment—Tierpark Berlin is a good pick. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy walking and exploring expansive outdoor spaces, as well as those interested in seeing a broad range of species in one place.

Final Thoughts

Berlin: Tickets for the Tierpark in East Berlin - Final Thoughts

Visiting Tierpark Berlin offers a chance to see a huge diversity of animals without the crowds and commercial feel of some other zoos. It’s a thoughtful blend of naturalistic habitats, engaging exhibits like the dinosaur display, and family-friendly activities. The price point of $24 makes it accessible for most travelers looking for a full day of adventure.

While it’s quite large, the inclusion of the electric train helps make the experience more comfortable, and the new Africa Savannah is a wonderful addition that elevates the visit. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring snacks, and check the closing times to make the most of your day.

This is a solid choice for travelers who want a genuine, educational, and fun encounter with nature—especially if you’re traveling with children or animal lovers eager to see extraordinary species in a naturalistic setting.

FAQ

Berlin: Tickets for the Tierpark in East Berlin - FAQ

Is this ticket valid for a full day?
Yes, your ticket is valid for one full day, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Just be mindful of the last entry times depending on the season.

Can I skip the line at the entrance?
Yes, your ticket includes skip-the-ticket-line access, saving you time, especially during busy periods.

Are guided tours included?
No, guided tours are not included with this ticket. You’re free to explore on your own or join any on-site guided options if available separately.

Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the exhibits.

Can I bring my dog?
Only dogs on a short leash are permitted inside. Other pets are not allowed.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, personal medication, and perhaps some snacks—remember, food and drinks are not included.

How do I get there?
The main entrances are near U-Bahn station Tierpark (U5) or tram lines M17, 27, 37, with parking available at both entrances for €5.

Is there an age limit?
The ticket is suitable for all ages; children will especially enjoy the petting zoo and dinosaur exhibit.

What is the best time to visit?
Arrive early to make the most of your day, especially during warmer months when the park stays open until 6:30 pm.

Visiting Tierpark Berlin is a rewarding experience if you’re after a day of natural beauty, animal encounters, and family fun. It’s a great way to step outside Berlin’s urban scene and reconnect with wildlife in a setting that’s both educational and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: