Artis : info and guided tour

Introduction to Artis

Artis is Amsterdam’s historic zoo, located in the Plantage district, at Plantage Kerklaan 38-40. Founded in the 19th century, it is one of the oldest zoological parks in the Netherlands. Today, the site combines animals, green spaces, and urban heritage, in an atmosphere that retains the charm of its origins.

The site is also known for its refined architecture and English-style garden layout, where paths, ponds, and pavilions create a very clear setting. Several old buildings, some linked to the natural sciences, recall that the park has long been a place of discovery and education as much as a place for strolling.

Artis has earned its place in Amsterdam thanks to the diversity of its collections and its cultural role. Visitors can observe species from around the world, as well as facilities dedicated to the aquarium, wildlife, and nature awareness. The whole site appeals through its rare blend of heritage, greenery, and animal observation.

Among the emblematic features are the shaded gardens, historic buildings, and enclosures integrated into the landscape. Visitors discover a lively place, where the history of the zoo can be read in the park’s layout as much as in its old buildings, in the heart of a central Amsterdam district.

Discover Amsterdam with a private guide

A private guide can help you better understand Artis by connecting its spaces, history, and role in Amsterdam’s cultural life. The guided experience makes it easier to understand the old buildings, the layout of the park, and the distinctive features of the collections, with explanations tailored to the site’s context.