Wilhelma Zoo

Wilhelma Zoo

A botanical paradise, castle, and zoo all in one — where can you find such a place? The answer is the Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Garden in Stuttgart. Here, you can admire elephants, pelicans, orchids, and countless other plants and animals in breathtaking surroundings. Germany’s only zoological-botanical garden is located in Stuttgart — the Wilhelma, where animals live like royalty: the gardens, greenhouses, and Moorish buildings were originally built in the mid-19th century by King Wilhelm I of Württemberg for residential and social purposes.

After World War II, restoration of some of the damaged facilities began, and to enhance the park’s appeal, animals were soon introduced. Today, Wilhelma welcomes over two million visitors annually, making it one of Germany’s most popular zoos. This large-scale zoo, with a history of more than 150 years, is one of the most famous and beautiful zoos in Europe. Wilhelma is home to around 1000 different plant species — the beautifully exotic plants alone are a sight to behold, and with the expert landscaping that recreates diverse geographical landscapes from various climates, visitors feel as though they’ve stepped into a colorful dream world.

It’s no easy task to single out the most beautiful part of this vast 30-hectare site: bears and big cats exude a thrilling allure, there’s also a primate breeding facility, and from there, you can pass through a giant lotus pond to reach the jungle house. Crocodiles lurk here, while the roar of waterfalls mingles with the exotic calls of birds. All of this is encompassed within a breathtakingly beautiful zoological-botanical garden — come explore and discover at Wilhelma Palace!

Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden

Must-visit reason: Germany’s only zoological-botanical garden

Continent: Europe

Country/Region: Germany

State/Province: Baden-Württemberg

City: Stuttgart