In the hills above Veszprém, a historic Hungarian city often called the “City of Queens,” sits a gem that shouldn’t be overlooked: the Veszprémi Állatkert. If you’re imagining a small local menagerie, you’ll be pleasantly surprised—this is a sprawling, thoughtfully curated zoological park that’s entwined with the city’s own story. Opened on August 1, 1958, during a period when Hungary was still behind the Iron Curtain, the zoo originally began as a modest endeavor. It has, over the decades, grown into one of the country’s largest and most beloved zoos, covering more than 26 hectares. The location itself is hard to beat: perched in the picturesque valley of Fejes-völgy, just a stone’s throw from the bustling heart of Veszprém, it feels both accessible and tucked away in nature’s arms.
What makes wandering the Veszprémi Állatkert both fascinating and fun is its enchanting mixture of old-world ambiance and modern standards. The first animals, including a single bear named Dönci—who quickly became a local star—were donated by townsfolk and neighboring cities. Over the years, the collection expanded dramatically, transforming from humble beginnings to an astonishing assembly of over 500 animals representing nearly 150 species. The enclosures reveal how much care has gone into preserving naturalistic settings. Instead of cages, you’ll often find moats, glass walls, and clever landscaping that let you get close to the inhabitants without feeling they’re on display. Particularly striking are the large, leafy African Savannah zone and the captivating Tropic House, which is home to birds and reptiles in lush, steamy conditions rarely found in Hungary’s cool climate.
One of the zoo’s strongest draws is its commitment to education and conservation. The staff are endlessly patient and clearly passionate—they will delight in telling you tales of the animals, from the eccentric personalities of the lemurs to the wisdom of aging tigers. They’re more than keepers; they’re caretakers and storytellers, keen on nurturing respect for wildlife in children and adults alike. Throughout the years, Dr. Tóth Gábor, the zoo’s director, has played a pivotal role in overseeing engaging and forward-thinking expansions, including a brand-new African Elephant House and the playful Madagascar zone. School groups are regular visitors, but there’s always enough space to find a quiet corner for animal watching.
If you’re traveling with family, you’ll quickly discover why the Veszprémi Állatkert is beloved by locals. Besides its feathered and furry residents, the zoo is packed with well-maintained playgrounds scattered along the winding paths. After an hour of oohs and aahs at the sight of giraffes grazing, little ones tend to gravitate towards the sandpits, climbing frames, and water features—true saviors for parents. The farm animals at the “Children’s Zoo” area can be fed and petted, while a small amusement park next door offers carousels and rides. Even visiting without kids, the parkland setting, mature trees, and the quiet stretches along winding pathways between enclosures lend themselves to a day of aimless wandering.
Food at the zoo is agreeably Hungarian—expect langos, pancakes, and plenty of cold drinks in the summer. There are picnic spots with generous shade under old oaks, and you’ll see families unpacking feasts as if picnicking were an official part of the visit. If you’ve come during spring, the valley bursts into bloom and the animal enclosures become even more photogenic. Summer nights occasionally bring afterhours events, like nocturnal animal tours or local art exhibitions tucked among the animal houses. Winters are quieter but magical—think of snowy lynxes and wolves padding quietly through the trees, a sight you’re not likely to encounter in city zoos elsewhere.
Location-wise, the Veszprémi Állatkert couldn’t be more convenient. It’s a quick walk from Veszprém Castle and the old town, making it easy to combine a brush with history and an immersion in wildlife all in a single day. The local bus network runs right to the entrance, but many visitors prefer the relaxed walk through the ancient city gates toward the green folds of the Fejes Valley. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking peace, a couple in search of a low-key outing, or a group eager to experience the city at a gentler pace, the zoo delivers.
Above all, the Veszprémi Állatkert feels like something both special and accessible—a place shaped by the love of the community, but welcoming to guests from anywhere. Its charm lies in its blend of excitement and calm; there are always new animals to meet, a new corner of the park to discover, and a sense that, even as the city modernizes, some things remain delightfully wild. If you’re planning a trip to Veszprém, carve out a morning or afternoon to explore the zoo. You might find yourself, giraffe-watching with a coffee in hand, feeling as content as the animals that call this peaceful Hungarian valley home.
