Wilhelma combines a zoo and botanical garden on the grounds of a former Moorish-style royal park built for King Wilhelm I, and the 19th-century pavilions, pergolas and magnolia groves remain part of the visitor experience alongside modern animal enclosures. The zoo houses around 9,000 animals from roughly 500 species, including a well-regarded great ape house, an aquarium, and one of Europe's largest orchid collections inside its historic greenhouses. The botanical side includes the Moorish villa, camellia gardens and an insect house, allowing visitors to combine wildlife viewing with a stroll through formal and glasshouse gardens on the same ticket. A full visit covering both the animal enclosures and the botanical greenhouses takes three to four hours. Spring is particularly rewarding, when the magnolia and camellia collections bloom alongside the greenhouse displays, though summer weekends bring the largest family crowds.
| Admission | €19.80 (~$21.40) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 8:15 AM - 6:00 PM (seasonal variation) |
| Typical visit | 3-4 hours |
| Best time | Spring for blooming botanical greenhouses |
| Getting there | U-Bahn U14 to Wilhelma station, direct entrance |
| Address | Wilhelma 13, 70376 Stuttgart, Germany |
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Location
Wilhelma 13, 70376 Stuttgart, Germany
48.8069, 9.2044 View on map
Highlights
- Historic Moorish villa and 19th-century greenhouses
- Orchid collection, one of Europe's largest
- Great ape house and modern zoo enclosures
- Camellia and magnolia gardens
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at opening to see popular animal enclosures before midday crowds
- Spring visits catch the magnolia and camellia blooms at their peak
- Allow extra time for the greenhouses, which are easy to rush past
- Buy tickets online in advance during peak summer weekends to skip queues
When to visit
Spring brings the magnolia and camellia gardens into bloom; arriving at opening avoids the largest summer weekend crowds.
Accessibility
Most paths are paved and wheelchair accessible, though some historic greenhouse sections have narrow doorways and raised thresholds.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Wilhelma take?
Three to four hours covers both the zoo and the botanical greenhouses at a relaxed pace.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, it is one of the most popular family attractions in Stuttgart, combining animals with gardens.
Is photography allowed?
Photography without flash is allowed throughout the zoo and gardens.