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Are you ready to embark on a wild adventure in Istanbul? If you’re an animal lover or traveling with family, you’ll be thrilled to know that Istanbul offers a wide array of zoos and animal attractions to explore. From dolphins and sea mammals to exotic fish and wildlife, Istanbul’s zoos have something for everyone. In this 2024 guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best zoos in Istanbul, providing all the essential information you need to plan your visit. Let’s dive in and discover the animal wonders of Istanbul!
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Faruk Yalçın Zoo and Botanic Park (Darica Zoo)
If you’re seeking a family-friendly zoo that offers not only a diverse array of animals but also an engaging and educational environment, Faruk Yalçın Zoo should be at the top of your list. Established in 1994, this zoo is a sprawling sanctuary that houses a wide variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and an astonishing array of over 200 different plant and tree species. Faruk Yalçın Zoo has something for everyone, including areas for dining and relaxation. Families can also enjoy a delightful children’s train tour, making it a perfect destination for a day of exploration and fun.
Address: Darıca/Kocaeli (Slightly outside of the city center)
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 18:00
Ticket Price:
- Adult: 645 TL
- Children (3-17 years): 335 TL
- Student: 335 TL
- 65+: 375.00 TL
- Baby (0-36 months): Free
Location and Transport: While Faruk Yalçın Zoo is slightly outside the city center, you can easily access it through a shuttle service from Kadıköy. Alternatively, you can use public transportation, taking the Marmaray Halkalı-Gebze line and disembarking at Osmangazi station, which is just 2 km away from the park. From there, hailing a taxi or taking Darıca buses are convenient options.
Visit the website for more information.
Polonezköy Zoo – Natural Life Park
Polonezköy Zoo – Natural Life Park stands out as one of Istanbul’s premier zoos, offering a truly unique experience. What sets it apart is its commitment to providing animals with spacious, natural habitats, ensuring that many of them are not locked behind bars. As you explore this expansive facility spread over 140 acres, you’ll encounter a wide variety of animals, including goats, guinea pigs, wading birds, zebras, alpaca, and many more.
Beyond the fascinating wildlife, the park houses a country club, allowing families to book accommodations and experience the joys of being immersed in nature, all while staying in the heart of Istanbul. In addition to the wildlife, you’ll also find numerous parks and playgrounds, making it an ideal destination for families.
Address: Polonez, 75. Yıl Cd., 34829 Beykoz/İstanbul
Phone: +90 541 432 30 55
Opening Hours:
- May-August: 09:00-19:00 (09:00-20:30 on weekends)
- March, April, September, October: 09:00-18:30 (09:00-19:30 on weekends)
- November-February: 09:00-17:30 (09:00-18:30 on weekends)
Ticket Prices:
- 0-1 years: Free
- 2-12 years: 250 TL
- 13-69 years: 350 TL
- 70+: 100 TL
Location and Transport: Located 20 km outside the city, Polonezköy is on the European side of Istanbul. You can reach Polonezköy via the 137 İETT Kavacık – Beykoz – Riva – Cumhuriyet Köyü Bus.
Explore more about Polonezköy Zoo through their Instagram page.
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Park Of Istanbul in Çekmeköy
Park of Istanbul is more than just a zoo; it’s a comprehensive nature and life complex that offers an extensive array of experiences. Encompassing an impressive 200 acres of land, the facility is not only home to the largest zoo in Istanbul but also boasts restaurants, cafés, adventure courses, and even a pony club.
This vast area appeals to visitors of all ages, providing a home to more than 400 animals representing 60 different species.
Address: Çatalmeşe, Mesire Alanı, 30 Ağustos Cd. No:3, 34467 Çekmeköy/İstanbul
Phone: +90 216 363 44 44 / +90 216 363 44 54
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 18:30
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: 400 TL
- 3-17 years, 65+ years: 300 TL
- Under 3 years: Free
Location and Transport: Situated in the Anatolian part of the city, Park of Istanbul is easily accessible. You can take the 4A or 14AK İETT buses from Kadiköy and arrive directly at the park. For those traveling from the Anatolian side, you can switch to the Üsküdar – Ümraniye – Çekmeköy line at the Üsküdar Marmaray station and take bus lines 11A, 11NM, 14A, 522, and 522N from Madenler İETT Bus station to Nişantepe direction.
Visit their website for more information.
LionPark Istanbul
LionPark Istanbul, nestled within the Viaport Marina, is a unique and exclusive Lion Park that stands as a testament to magnificence and exclusivity. Located in Tuzla, on the Anatolian Side of Istanbul, it offers a vast expanse of 8,000 square meters, serving as a sanctuary for 32 distinct members of the Big Cat Family.
Among these captivating creatures, you’ll find the illustrious White Lions, regal African Lions, commanding Tigers, elusive Leopards, vibrant Bengali Jaguars, enigmatic Black Panthers, elusive Lynxes, agile Pumas, and the captivating Caracals.
Address: Cami, Balıkçılar Sk. U Blok No:20 D:U, 34940 Tuzla/İstanbul (Viaport Marina)
Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: 369 TL
- Student: 339 TL
- 3-12 years 299 TL
- Under 3 years: Free
Location and Transport: To reach Aslan Park from Istanbul via the Marmaray Halkalı – Gebze Line, simply disembark at the Marmaray Tuzla stop. From there, you can catch one of the minibuses that pass in front of Tuzla Station, and within a short 5-minute ride, you’ll arrive at Aslan Park.
Visit their website for more information.
Emaar Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Emaar Aquarium & Underwater Zoo offers a brand-new and immersive aquarium experience. Divided into thematic sections, it is home to more than 20,000 sea creatures and amphibians representing 200 species. As you explore the various sections, you’ll encounter Rocky Shores, the Main Tank including a tunnel aquarium, Forests, Rivers and Waterfalls, Penguin Island, Crocodile Kingdom, and the interactive playground Dream Island. This aquarium and underwater zoo provide a captivating environment to learn about the wonders of marine life.
Address: EMAAR ENTERTAINMENT TURKIYE, LIBADIYE CAD. NO: 82 / F, 34700 USKUDAR, ISTANBUL, TURKIYE
Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00
Ticket Prices: Starting from $30
Phone: +90 216 547 1888
Visit their website for more information.
SEA LIFE (Sea Life Akvaryum Forum İstanbul)
SEA LIFE Istanbul is a popular entertainment area located in the Forum Shopping Center in the Bayrampasa district of Istanbul. It’s also the 5th largest aquarium in the world. SEA LIFE Istanbul offers an array of attractions, allowing visitors to experience and enjoy lovely sea creatures, the largest collection of sharks in Europe, the Digital Aquarium, the Turtle Hospital, and various thematic zones.
Beyond the aquarium, you can also enjoy leisure time and shopping at the Forum Istanbul Shopping Mall.
Location: Forum Shopping Center, Bayrampasa district
Phone: 444 3 253
Ticket Price: 621 TL
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 19:00
Location and Transport: You can easily access it by taking the subway running on the “Atatürk Airport – Yenikapi” line. Just hop off at the “Kocatepe” stop, and you’re there in no time. If you’re coming from the Anatolian side, your journey starts with the Marmaray (tube). Disembark at the “Yenikapı” stop and make a seamless transfer to the subway operating on the “Yenikapı – Atatürk Airport” line. Once again, step off at the “Kocatepe” stop, and you’ve reached your destination.
Visit their website or check out their Instagram page for more information.
Istanbul Dolphinarium
Located in the picturesque Eyup district along the Golden Horn, the Istanbul Dolphinarium is not just any ordinary zoo. It’s the largest indoor Dolphinarium in Europe, making it a must-visit destination for animal enthusiasts. Here, you can immerse yourself in the world of sea mammals, including playful dolphins, massive walruses, and the magnificent white whale.
The Istanbul Dolphinarium offers captivating dolphin shows that last about 1 hour. These shows are a fantastic way to witness the grace and intelligence of these incredible marine animals.
If you’ve ever dreamt of swimming with dolphins, this is your chance. The Dolphinarium allows visitors to interact with the dolphins, offering experiences like swimming and diving with these magnificent creatures. You can even try dolphin therapy.
Address: Silahtarağa Mh, Silahtarağa Cd. No:20, 34050 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul
Check Istanbul Dolphinarium for more innformation.
Opening Hours: Shows are available every day except Friday at 12:00, 14:00, and 17:00.
Ticket Price: Starting from 1300 TL
Istanbul Aquarium
If you’re more of an underwater enthusiast, the Istanbul Aquarium is a dream come true. It’s not just one of the best aquariums in Europe; it’s also the world’s biggest thematic aquarium.
With a 1.2 km long travel route starting in the Black Sea and winding towards the Pacific, the Istanbul Aquarium offers a journey through various fish species and rainforests, making it a fascinating experience for all ages.
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The aquarium features a restaurant with a view of the Panama Canal on one side and a breathtaking sea view on the other. You can also indulge in leisure and shopping at the Aqua Florya Shopping Mall.
Address: Senlikköy district, Yesilköy Halkali Street. No:93 Florya-Istanbul
Phone: 444 9 744 (PBX)
Check Istanbul Aquarium for more information.
Ticket Price:
- Adults: 750 TL
- Children (2-12 years) and Seniors (65+): 650 TL
Public Transportation: You can also opt for public transportation options, including the Metrobus, public buses, seabus, metro, and Marmaray Train, to reach the Istanbul Aquarium conveniently.
Free Shuttle: The most practical way to reach the Istanbul Aquarium is by taking advantage of their free shuttle service, available from Taksim Square, Sultanahmet, and Sirkeci Train Station. This service is exclusively for visitors who purchase Istanbul Aquarium tickets from the Hop-on Hop-off departure point.
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Conclusion: Best Zoos in Istanbul
Istanbul boasts some of the most extraordinary zoos and animal attractions in the world. Whether you’re captivated by the grace of dolphins or the wonders of underwater life, these destinations offer a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages.
Don’t forget to check the websites of the zoos in Istanbul for the latest information on opening hours and ticket prices because inflation in Turkey is high and fees change frequently.
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