Bioparco di Roma
Rating
Family of 4
USD 50-70 for admission; add USD 30-40 for food on-site
Duration
2-4 hours
Best Ages
1-12
About
Bioparco di Roma is one of Europe's oldest zoos, occupying a beautiful corner of the Villa Borghese gardens in the heart of Rome. With over 200 animal species including elephants, Komodo dragons, giraffes, lions, and a dedicated reptile house, it offers the kind of all-day family experience that's genuinely hard to find in a city as densely historical as Rome.
For families with young children, Bioparco stands apart from most Roman attractions because it's designed entirely with young visitors in mind. The animal feeding sessions are a highlight — kids can watch lions, elephants, and other animals up close in scheduled presentations. The zoo also runs a children's theater and seasonal summer camp programs for children, making it more than just a walk-through experience.
Practically speaking, the zoo has wide paved paths that work well with strollers, nursing rooms for infants, and on-site food options. The adjacent Villa Borghese gardens add even more space for kids to run around before or after the zoo visit. Tickets for children under 1 meter tall are free.
A family of four can expect to pay USD 50-70 for admission, plus food. Buy online to avoid queues. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
true
Kid Meals
true
Setting
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings when it opens at 9:30 AM
Wait Times
15-30 min at entry on weekends
Nearby Food
The zoo has on-site cafes and kiosks. The Villa Borghese gardens have picnic areas and a restaurant nearby.
Why Kids Love It
Bioparco di Roma has elephants, Komodo dragons, animal feeding sessions, and a children's theater — little ones can get genuinely close to animals in one of Europe's oldest zoos, set inside the stunning Villa Borghese gardens.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Check the zoo's schedule for animal feeding times — these are the highlights for young visitors.
- The zoo runs summer camps for children — worth booking if you're staying longer in Rome.
- Combine with a visit to the Villa Borghese gardens before or after.
What to Bring
- Stroller — paved paths throughout the zoo
- Packed lunch and snacks to save on food costs
- Sunscreen and hats for outdoor sections in summer
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
USD 50-70 for admission; add USD 30-40 for food on-site
Tips to Save
- Children under 1 meter are free.
- Buy tickets online to skip the entry queue.
- Bring a picnic lunch to avoid the higher-priced on-site food.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Monday
- 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM