Tierpark Bern

Tierpark Bern, also known as Tierpark Dählhölzli, is the city zoo of the Swiss capital, set in the Dählhölzli forest on the banks of the Aare, about a kilometre from the centre. It opened in 1937 and today covers around 15 hectares, home to roughly 3,000 animals from more than 200 species. It is a calm family outing where a walk among trees blends with animal watching.

What makes Tierpark Bern different?

Unlike big zoos built around elephants and giraffes, Bern's zoo feels closer to a nature park. A large share of the collection is made up of European species, and the enclosures sit within real woodland. A visit feels like a stroll through a forest park rather than a classic zoo tour. Paths run through shaded stretches of forest, a real advantage on hot summer days.

Who runs it?

The zoo is owned by the city of Bern, which funds most of its operation. The Tierparkverein Bern, an affiliated association, supports it on the organisational side. This municipal character makes it an important leisure option for the capital's residents.

What to see nearby

The BearPark, an enclosure for bears right in the city centre, is part of the Bern Animal Park. It is a separate site with free entry, open every day of the year. The bear has been Bern's emblem for centuries, so it is worth a stop even on a short visit.

A free public section of the grounds along the Aare is also open to everyone. The forest trails by the river make a good walk whether or not you go into the paid part of the zoo.

How to plan your visit

• Getting there: the zoo is about a kilometre from the centre, reachable on foot or by public transport.
• Time needed: allow a few hours for an unhurried walk around the whole park.
• Season: being in a forest, it offers shade in summer and colourful scenery in autumn.
• Best for: families with children, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a break from the Old Town's sights.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Tierpark Bern? In the Dählhölzli forest by the Aare, about a kilometre from central Bern.

When did the zoo open? In 1937.

How many animals live here? Around 3,000 animals from more than 200 species, across roughly 15 hectares.

Will I see exotic animals? European species dominate, so it is more a nature park than a zoo with large African animals.

Is the BearPark paid? No. Entry is free and it is open daily all year.

Is the whole site paid? No, a section of the grounds with forest trails along the Aare is freely accessible.

Tierpark Bern is a good choice when you want to combine a forest walk with time among animals in Bern, without the rush and crowds of Europe's biggest zoos. Because it lies so close to the centre, it fits neatly into a day of sightseeing, especially when travelling with children who, after hours among historic buildings, will happily run around in the fresh air.