A Visitor's Guide to Barcelona Zoo - Animals, Facilities, Services and Shows
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Barcelona Zoo, situated in the beautiful Parc de la Ciutadella, is a great place to spend a sunny day in Barcelona. It is large and well facilitated enough to set aside a full day there - 3 hours at the very least. There are enjoyable and picturesque areas to sit and relax, as well as over 325 species of animal to look at.
Click here for information on Barcelona Zoo tickets.
One of the zoo's major highlights are its dolphins and the dolphin show - see below for specific details as to show times. However, this show is not the only added bonus included in the entrance price. At weekends there is also an opportunity to ask experts your questions about the animals, face painting and pony riding.
This article covers the facilities and activities available at the zoo, opening times, how to get there and prices.
The Animals
Barcelona Zoo is home to lions, gorillas, chimpanzees, hippopotamuses, rhinoceroses, giraffes and elephants. The zoo is separated by areas relating to areas of the world where the animals are from. For example, the 'Madagascar' area of the zoo contains the sorts of species of animals that you would find in that country.
The 'Granja' area of the zoo is the farmyard. This section may be less exotic than others, but it provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with the animals. It is possible to pet goats and Shetland ponies. During weekends and public holidays pony riding is also available for €3.50 per child.
Click here for more information on Barcelona Zoo tickets.
Facilities at the Zoo
Eating Facilities
A large outdoor fast food area called 'La Granja' is located just in front of the farm section. It offers fast foods such as sandwiches, fries and burgers. Sandwiches start at €3.10, fries cost €2.65 and a kids meal deal (hot dog, drink, fries and a cake) costs €7.20.
There are also various small wooden huts dotted around the zoo. These are open at weekends serving snacks and ice creams. There are also drink and snack vending machines dotted around the zoo.
If you wish to bring a picnic with you to the zoo this is a viable option. There are numerous picnic-seating areas dotted around the zoo. The environment is also leafy, clean and picturesque, making this an attractive option.
Shops
There are three souvenir ships at Barcelona Zoo. The largest is located next to the entrance. They offer normal souvenirs - including cuddly toys, pencils, books and t-shirts.
Train
There is a small train that can take you on a journey around the zoo. Ask at the entrance regarding where you can pick it up. This costs €3.00 for adults and €2.50 for children.
Buggies
It is possible to rent out small buggy style cars to make your own way around the zoo. These are available in various sizes - for two, four and six people. They cost €15.00 for one hour for a two person buggy. The price rises by €5.00 per hour for each extra person riding the buggy after this. Only over 18 year olds are permitted to drive the buggy.
Click here for more information on Barcelona Zoo tickets.
Shows
Dolphin Show
Every day at the Zoo there are Dolphin shows available for no extra cost. Two large seating areas - one covered and one uncovered, seat people to watch the show. The shows are only available in Catalan or Castellano, however the show can be enjoyed without understanding the commentary. Depending on the time of year and the day of the week shows take place at various times. There are never less than three shows scheduled in one day.
To check the times of the shows it is best to call the Zoo on the number below.
'Let's Talk About Animals'
This is an opportunity to ask questions about different animals at the zoo - the experts cover topics such as eating, reproduction and where the animals are from. It takes place on Saturday: 10:00 - 13:00. Each week different animals are covered - everything from giraffes to sea lions to wolves to chimpanzees. This will take place mostly in Catalan or Castellano. However, if you wish to go and ask a question, the experts may be able to speak your language.
Children's Activities
A small amphitheatre style section of the zoo is dedicated to various children's activities at the weekends. These are included in the entrance price and include clowns and face painting.
How to Get There
Barcelona Zoo is situated in the Parc de la Ciutadella. It is easiest to get there from Arc de Triomph Metro. On exiting the Metro station, head through the arch of the Arc de Triomph and down the pedestrianised centre of Passeig Lluis Companys. At the bottom you will reach the entrance to the park. The Zoo is directly inside the entrance, on the right.
Zoo Barcelona
Parc de la Ciutadella
08003 Barcelona, España
Metro: Arc de Triomph (Red Line, L1)
Tel: +34 90 245 7545
Opening Times:
01 January - 26 March: 10:00 - 17:30
27 March - 15 May: 10:00 - 19:00
16 May - 15 September: 10:00 - 20:00
16 September - 29 October: 10:00 - 19:00
30 October - 31 December: 10:00 - 17:30
25 December: 10:00 - 12:00 noon
Entrance Tickets
Click here for more information on Barcelona Zoo tickets.
Barcelona Zoo is a great place to go for the day in Barcelona. It has something for everybody - with activities to keep children entertained as well as a nice environment for the grown ups to relax in. Located inside the Parc de la Ciutadella, it offers an opportunity to see this part of town whilst you are there.