Opened in 1831, Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and home to over 400 animals across African savanna, Asian forest, and Irish wildlife habitats. It played a notable role in lion breeding — a lion born here, nicknamed Slats, became the roaring MGM logo lion — and remains one of Ireland's most visited family attractions.
| Admission | €22 adult, €18 child 3–15, free under 3 (~$24.20 / ~$19.80) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 09:30–18:00 (summer); 09:30–dusk (winter); check dublinzoo.ie |
| Typical visit | 3–5 hours |
| Best time | Weekday mornings; arrive early when animals are most active |
| Getting there | Bus 37, 38, 39, 70 to Phoenix Park main gate; 20-min walk from Heuston Luas stop |
| Address | Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, D08 EEY1, Ireland |
Weather through the year in Ireland
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Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Ireland.
Location
Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, D08 EEY1, Ireland
53.3592, -6.3017 View on map
Highlights
- African Savanna habitat with giraffes, rhinos, and zebras
- Historic link to the original MGM logo lion, born at the zoo
- Gorilla Rainforest walk-through habitat
- Set entirely within Phoenix Park, Europe's largest enclosed city park
Tips for visiting
- Buy tickets online in advance — Dublin Zoo caps daily visitor numbers and popular dates can sell out, especially school holidays
- Budget a full half-day; the zoo's paths cover a lot of ground and animal activity is highest in the first two hours after opening