A zoo by the river
Hellabrunn Zoo was founded in 1911 and lies in the Isar floodplain. It stretches from the Thalkirchner Bridge upstream to the Marienklause, from the steep slope to the bank of the Isar. The Auer Mühlbach runs through the grounds, and there are 25 bridges.
Hellabrunn is regarded as the first geo-zoo in the world: the animals are arranged not by species but by their origin. More than 500 animal species live here, in enclosures modelled on their habitat.
How to get there from us
All routes begin at our hotel in Oberschleißheim.
By bus and train
The U3 underground line stops at Thalkirchen (Tierpark). The MVV timetable shows how to get there from Oberschleißheim. Plan the journey as a day trip.
By car
The zoo is in the south of the city, so the drive is long. You will travel more relaxed by train and underground.
A day for the family
The zoo is a destination for a whole day. Take time for long walks and breaks in the green. The historic elephant house has stood since the early days of the park and can be seen in the photo.
More destinations
These destinations are nearby or easy to combine.
English Garden
approx. 11 km as the crow flies. One of the largest city parks in the world, with the Monopteros, beer gardens and the Isar.
Deutsches Museum
approx. 13 km as the crow flies. One of the largest technology museums in the world on the Isar Museum Island, with the Flugwerft as a branch.
Munich, Marienplatz and Old Town
25 min by S1. Town hall, glockenspiel and pedestrian zone in the heart of the city, about 25 minutes by S1.
Cycle routes from our door
We are a certified Bett+Bike hotel and have put together day cycle tours for you.
You can hire e-bikes and standard bicycles from us: mention it when you book or ask at reception.
See all cycle tours
1Palaces and Olympic sites
40.1 km · 3:15 hrs
- 3
Munich Lifestyle
21.7 km · 1:30 hrs
5Allianz Arena
15.1 km · 45 min
Questions about this trip
What is a geo-zoo?
A zoo that arranges animals by their geographical origin. Hellabrunn was the first geo-zoo in the world.
How many animals live in the zoo?
According to the figures, around 18,500 animals of 529 species live there. The numbers may change; the official website gives current values.
Where is the zoo?
In the Isar floodplain in the south of Munich, about 17 km from us as the crow flies.
How do I get there from us?
By train and underground, last of all by U3 to Thalkirchen (Tierpark). Check the connection in the MVV timetable.
Is the zoo suitable for children?
Yes, it is a classic family destination. It is best to plan the whole day for it.
Image credits:High Contrast, CC BY 3.0 DE (Source). All image credits
