The zoo is one of the great classics of family visits and you will not be disappointed by the one in Athens. Attica Zoological Park is like the great zoological parks: a place of discovery and wonder, for young and old.
A zoo in permanent evolution
The zoo was founded in 2000 by a dynamic and passionate Frenchman, Jean-Jacques Lesueur. The Attica Zoo is the one and only park in Greecee. At , it was originally a bird park, to which were added over the years, farm animals, protected species found in Greece and Europe, but also a wide variety of animals of the savannah and a large pool for dolphins.
Today, there are more than 300 different species that can be observed in the zoo (lions, black panthers, anaconda, komodo dragon, elephants and so many others!) The zoological park is also strongly involved in reintroducing certain protected species into their natural environment. There are always many projects to develop the park, welcome newanimals, develop the spaces and offer new services.
Three reasons to enjoy the zoological park in Athens
First of all, because it is very nicely landscaped: trees, shrubs and buildings are perfectly integrated into the landscape. In addition, the paths we take are shaded and flowered.
Secondly, because the cages, aviaries and enclosures faithfully reproduce the ecosystems of the animals while allowing a very good visibility. Signs written in Greek and English offer simple, useful explanations of each species. Ask before you walk through the park about show times, presentations and feedings (dolphins, reptiles, bears, elephants, penguins, lemurs, birds of prey).
Finally, because it offers pleasant living spaces.
- A cafeteria/restaurant overlooking a large green space where children can play freely without fear.
- A playground
- An inspiring store to make beautiful gifts that children are sure to love.
Live an “experience” at the Athens Zoo
We often know the zoo for its park and its animals but it also offers many other possibilities that go far beyond the simple visit.
- Zoo camps: Summer camps for children aged 6-12 years old. A great experience for little animal lovers.
- From educational programs to learn more about the way of life of animals, their natural environment. Depending on the age, the zoo offers videos, exchanges, games and artistic activities. The children discover the other side of the coin. Thus, they get closer to the dolphins, provide care or feed certain animals. A tailor-made program is also offered to schools.
- Unique experiences to discover the birds of prey. Sessions range from 1.5 hours to 3 hours to learn about the world of falconry: the birds, the history and the techniques.
- For birthdays : offer your child a unique party that he will remember for a long time
Our Best Of
We are faithful visitors to this beautiful zoo and we often go there with our children, their friends, cousins and friends passing through. Here is a selection (co-written with our children) of our favorites:
- Wild animals: lions, cheetahs, panthers, tigers…. that are no longer confused thanks to the clear and illustrated explanations. The children love the jeep in front of the lion cage, which gives themthe impression of being on safari.
- The dolphin education program: fascinating to see them evolve up close, to witness their intelligence and their ease in jumping and diving.
- The reptiles: the crocodiles that we think are still asleep and all those snakes that we fear but love so much.
- The monkeys: their acrobatics and grimaces make us laugh a lot and their resemblance to the human species is disturbing.
- The large aviaries: where you have the impression of being in the middle of nature.
- The forest of lemurs: we enter an enclosed space where lemurs jump freely from side to side, coming from time to time to land on the shoulder of children.
When to go to the zoo?
For those in transit, the proximity of the airport (15 minutes by cab) makes it an ideal stopover. The whole family can relax here before heading off to other destinations.
For those who are in trip to Athens, it is also a playful visit that will undoubtedly appeal to children but also to parents.
Finally, for residents of Athens, the zoological park is a must-see. Summer or winter, the place is pleasant. If you come regularly, opt for the annual subscription which allows you to discover and rediscover all the secrets of this great zoo at your own pace.
Practical info
- Address: At Yalou Spata, Athina 190 04, Greece – HERE on the map
- Open daily from 9am to sunset (approx. 4.30pm in winter, 7pm in summer). Entrance to the zoo closes one hour before closing time.
- Website
- Admission: Adults 21€ / Children 3 to 12: 16€ / Free for children under 3. Family pack: 64€ (for 4), 76€ (for 5)…
How to get there?
- By bus: Number 319 (from Doukisis Plakentias Station – line 2) every 35 minutes.
- By cab, with ΤΑΧΙPLON (special price for zoo visitors – call 18222): from Doukissis Plakentias metro station (14€, approx. 10 minutes), from central Athens (35€, approx. 30 minutes), from the airport (20€, approx. 10 minutes)
- By car, the zoo is located next to Mc Arthur Glenn. The easiest way is to take the Attiki Odos towards Rafina. GPS coordinates: 37.9890184, 23.910875
Advertorial by Sophie B.
Updated on April 4, 2024
