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In recent decades, zoos in Romania have undergone a remarkable transformation. Once traditional spaces for exhibiting wildlife, they have evolved into true centers for ecological education, species conservation, and outdoor leisure. Located either in the heart of major cities or on the edge of forests, Romanian zoos offer visitors the chance to explore the animal world in an enjoyable, interactive, and—most importantly—responsible way.

These spaces are not just places where children learn their first facts about lions, bears, giraffes, or exotic birds — they are also popular weekend destinations for families, tourists, and nature lovers. Each zoo in Romania has its own unique character, story, and special connection with the city it belongs to.

In this article, we present four of the most beautiful zoos in the country, impressive both for their diversity of species and the quality of their spaces and educational initiatives:

Brașov Zoo – one of the most modern zoos in Romania, located in the forest of the Noua district, where nature and wildlife coexist harmoniously.
Târgu Mureș Zoo – the largest zoo in the country, known for its wide variety of animals and the excellent conditions provided for them.
Oradea Zoo – a great example of urban transformation, upgraded to Western standards, located right in the city center in an elegant, green setting.
Băneasa Zoo (Bucharest) – the oldest zoo in Romania, situated in the northern part of the capital, where generations have first discovered the wonders of the animal world.

These four zoos are important tourist attractions, especially for families with children or for those looking for a relaxing and educational activity in a natural environment. No matter which city you’re visiting, a trip to the zoo can be one of the most pleasant surprises of your holiday.

In the following sections, we’ll explore each of these beautiful Romanian zoos — what makes them special, what animals you can see there, what activities are available, and why they deserve a spot on your list of urban and nature experiences.

Brașov Zoo – A Corner of Nature at the Foot of the Mountains

Located in the Noua district, at the edge of the forest, Brașov Zoo is one of the most modern and well-designed zoos in Romania. Established in 1960, the zoo underwent an extensive modernization process completed in 2014, transforming it into a safe, educational, and highly enjoyable space for visitors of all ages. Spanning over 10 hectares, it is set in a picturesque natural environment, surrounded by wooded hills and fresh mountain air — a place where nature and wildlife coexist in perfect harmony.

(Source: Ghid Local)

What truly sets Brașov Zoo apart is its modern approach to animal presentation, with spacious, well-maintained enclosures designed to closely mimic each species' natural habitat. Currently, the zoo is home to over 100 species of animals and birds, both native and exotic — some of which are very rare in other Romanian zoos. Visitors can admire lions, tigers, brown bears, wolves, zebras, meerkats, cougars, monkeys, as well as spectacular birds like pelicans, Ara parrots, and owls. Aquariums and terrariums also showcase aquatic species and exotic reptiles in an engaging, interactive setting.

One of the children’s favorite attractions is the petting zoo and farm area, where young visitors can interact directly with domestic animals such as ponies, goats, rabbits, and poultry — all under supervision. The zoo also features a modern playground, shaded walking paths perfect for family strolls, relaxation pavilions, and an outdoor amphitheater that frequently hosts educational activities, workshops, and events for kids.

In addition to its recreational role, Brașov Zoo also plays an important educational part. It regularly organizes guided tours, lessons on species protection, and themed activities for schools and kindergartens. It’s a place where fun and learning blend seamlessly, making it accessible and welcoming for visitors of all ages.

Just a few minutes’ drive from Brașov’s city center and close to Lake Noua — a green area with walking trails, boat rides, and picnic spots — Brașov Zoo is an ideal choice for a full day spent outdoors.

Whether you're a tourist passing through, a local looking for relaxation, or a parent with energetic kids, this zoo definitely deserves a place on your urban exploration list. Not just for the animals, but also for the tranquility, attention to detail, and natural atmosphere that make you forget you're still at the edge of a bustling city.

Târgu Mureș Zoo – The Largest and One of the Most Diverse in the Country

Located in the forest on the Cornești Plateau, in an exceptional natural setting, the Târgu Mureș Zoo is the largest zoo in Romania, both in terms of area and number of animals. Founded in 1964, it has gradually expanded and today covers over 40 hectares, serving as a true green refuge where visitors can discover impressive biodiversity just a few steps from the city center.

( Source: Gradina Zoologica Targu Mures )

What makes it truly special? First and foremost, its size. The zoo’s generous area allows for the creation of spacious enclosures for the animals, many of which are designed to closely replicate their natural habitats. Over 500 animals can be seen here, representing around 80 different species. Some of the most beloved residents include the Asian elephant, white lions, giraffes, zebras, Bengal tigers, and chimpanzees, along with a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals from five continents. Additionally, the area dedicated to native wildlife is exceptionally well represented, featuring Carpathian brown bears, lynxes, deer, wolves, and wild boars.

Another strong point of the zoo is its long and varied visiting route, which allows for a relaxed experience of at least two hours through forests, shaded paths, and open areas with scenic viewpoints. Along the route, visitors will find resting spots, gazebos, playgrounds for children, cafes, and information points—all contributing to a pleasant and educational visit.

For families, the main attraction is the interactive area where children can engage with domestic animals and learn about farm life. The zoo also frequently organizes themed events, workshops, guided tours, and educational programs for schools, reinforcing its role as an ecological education institution.

The Târgu Mureș Zoo is not only a place for relaxation and observation but also a model of efficient management, species conservation, and international collaboration. It is one of the few zoos in Romania that is part of European professional associations, actively participating in animal exchanges and breeding programs for endangered species.

Located in one of Romania’s greenest and cleanest cities, and close to other local attractions (such as the amusement park on Cornești Plateau or hiking trails), the Târgu Mureș Zoo is a complete destination worth including in a city break or a trip to the heart of Transylvania.

Oradea Zoo – an Urban Zoo with a Modern Spirit

In the heart of Oradea, just a few minutes from the historic city center, lies one of the most elegant and well-organized zoos in Romania: Oradea Zoo. Located in the Bălcescu Park area, on the banks of the Crișul Repede River, the zoo is easily accessible and offers an oasis of calm and curiosity right in the middle of the city.

Its history dates back to 1960, and over the past two decades, the space has been completely renovated and modernized, becoming today a model of urban redevelopment. Although it is smaller in size than other Romanian zoos (approximately 3.5 hectares), it stands out through its compact, modern, and well-maintained design, where every corner is thoughtfully planned around the visitors and the animals.

Currently, Oradea Zoo houses over 150 animals from around 40 species, including domestic, wild, and exotic animals. Among the most popular attractions are African lions, tigers, monkeys, meerkats, peacocks, llamas, pumas, and deer, as well as a special area dedicated to birds and farm animals, ideal for children. The enclosures are modern and open, designed to meet international standards regarding space, comfort, and the natural behavior of the species.

Another aspect that sets Oradea Zoo apart is its ambition to be an active educational and community space. Events for families, workshops for children, animal protection awareness campaigns, and themed tours are regularly organized, all within a safe and friendly environment.

Being centrally located, a visit can easily be integrated into a city tour: you can combine discovering the animals with a walk along the Criș River, a coffee break in the pedestrian area, or a visit to the Black Eagle Palace. It’s an ideal choice for families with children, as well as for tourists who want to discover a different side of Oradea — green, lively, and connected with nature.

Although small in size, Oradea Zoo makes up for it with organization, atmosphere, and quality of experience. It is a successful example of how an urban space can be transformed into an educational, recreational, and valuable place for the community. If you visit Oradea, don’t miss this stop — it’s a pleasant surprise, especially on a sunny day.

Băneasa Zoo (Bucharest) – Tradition, Nature, and Discovery in the Capital

Bucharest Zoological Garden, Băneasa Zoo

Located in the northern part of Bucharest, nestled between the Băneasa Forest and the city’s modern neighborhoods, lies Romania’s oldest zoological garden – Băneasa Zoo. With a history dating back to 1955, it has been the first encounter with exotic and wild animals for many generations. Although it has gone through periods of change and modernization, Băneasa Zoo has maintained its role as an emotional and educational landmark in the Bucharest landscape.

The zoo covers an area of approximately 5.8 hectares and currently houses over 150 specimens from about 35 species, some of which are protected or endangered. Visitors can admire lions, tigers, wolves, Carpathian bears, red deer, wallabies, ponies, ostriches, peacocks, as well as various species of birds and reptiles. Children especially enjoy the area dedicated to domestic animals, where they can get up close to goats, rabbits, or chickens in friendly environments.

Additionally, the zoo is located in an active tourist area of the capital, close to the Village Museum, Herăstrău Park, Otopeni Airport, and the Băneasa Shopping City mall, making it easy to include in an urban exploration route or a family weekend outing.

Băneasa Zoo is not just a destination for children but a place where you can relive memories, learn new things, and feel that nature is still close, right in the heart of Romania’s largest metropolis. It is a quiet corner with emotional and educational value that deserves to be rediscovered.

Conclusion

Zoos in Romania are no longer just simple places for strolls; they have become true centers for ecological education, conservation, and relaxation amidst nature. From the peaceful forests of Brașov, the vast plateau of Târgu Mureș, the well-integrated urban design of Oradea, to the nostalgic tradition of Băneasa, each of these zoos offers a unique yet memorable experience.

Whether you are a tourist, a parent, or simply curious to rediscover global wildlife in modern settings, a visit to the zoo is a wise choice for all ages. Moreover, these zoos actively contribute to educating new generations, protecting vulnerable species, and reconnecting us with nature in a responsible and interactive way.

So, if you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cultural stop in cities like Brașov, Târgu Mureș, Oradea, or Bucharest, don’t hesitate to add a visit to the local zoo to your list. You will leave feeling more relaxed, better informed, and certainly more connected to the world around you.