Tucked into the leafy Sete Rios neighborhood of Lisbon, the Lisbon Zoo (Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa) is more than just a classic zoological park—it’s a place where generations of families, animal lovers, and curious travelers come to connect with nature, right in the center of the Portuguese capital.
Established in 1884, it is one of the oldest zoos in Europe, and today, it stands as a modern, conservation-focused park that beautifully blends education, entertainment, and the charm of old-world Lisbon.
For those traveling with children—or anyone young at heart—the Lisbon Zoo makes for a delightful stop, especially when enjoyed with the ease and comfort of a private day tour with Portugal Magik Private Tours.
🐘 What Makes Lisbon Zoo Special?
🌍 Over 2,000 Animals from All Continents
Home to more than 300 species, the zoo offers guests the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, including:
Lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes
Rare and endangered species such as the Sumatran orangutan and snow leopard
Exotic birds, reptiles, amphibians, and marine life
The enclosures are thoughtfully designed to mimic natural habitats, and many areas allow for close-up observation, perfect for families and photography lovers.
🐵 The Enchanting Cable Car Ride (Teleférico)
A signature feature of the Lisbon Zoo is its cable car, offering a bird’s-eye view of the entire park. Glide gently over lions, monkeys, and lakes while enjoying panoramic views of the lush grounds and Lisbon’s skyline in the distance.
🎡 A must-do for both kids and adults!
🐬 Dolphin Show & Educational Programs
One of the highlights is the dolphin presentation, held in a beautifully designed amphitheater. The show combines graceful acrobatics with important messages about marine conservation.
Other daily presentations include feeding sessions and talks by keepers—wonderful opportunities for younger visitors to learn and engage.
🐐 Farm Area (Quintinha) & Petting Zoo
For younger children, the children’s farm area offers an interactive experience with goats, sheep, ponies, and chickens. It’s a charming contrast to the exotic animal areas, and a favorite among toddlers and school-age children.
🍽️ On-Site Dining & Amenities
The Lisbon Zoo features several cafés, picnic areas, and souvenir shops, making it easy to spend a full morning or afternoon here. Everything is clean, well-kept, and family-friendly. And for VIP guests, Portugal Magik can arrange nearby reservations at elegant restaurants or pair the zoo visit with a half-day Lisbon highlights tour.
📍 Practical Information
Location: Sete Rios, Lisbon (easy access from central Lisbon, about 15 mins drive)
Hours: Open daily, usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (check seasonally)
Accessibility: Fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs
Tickets: Can be purchased at the gate or in advance. Portugal Magik can assist with skip-the-line access as part of your private tour.
🌟 Visiting Lisbon Zoo with Portugal Magik Private Tours
Make your day at the zoo stress-free and unforgettable by adding it to a private Lisbon city tour with Portugal Magik. Our guests enjoy:
🚘 Private Mercedes-Benz transportation to and from the zoo
🎓 English-speaking driver-guide for context and local insights
🛍️ Optional pairing with lunch, shopping, or a visit to nearby attractions like Belém or Eduardo VII Park
🧒 Family-focused itineraries with flexible pacing, rest stops, and tailored recommendations
Traveling with kids or seeking a relaxed, nature-filled escape in the city? Let Portugal Magik create the perfect day at the Lisbon Zoo, with everything taken care of from start to finish.
