10 Things to Do in Artis Royal Zoo (Artis) Amsterdam Netherlands
When visiting Amsterdam, the Artis Royal Zoo (Artis) is a must-see destination. Located in the heart of the city, Artis is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and one of the oldest in the world, dating back to 1838. With over 900 species of animals, Artis is the perfect place to explore and learn about the world’s wildlife. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the zoo:
1. Take a Tour of the Zoo: Artis offers a variety of guided tours, including a walking tour of the zoo, a boat tour of the zoo’s canals, and a tour of the zoo’s aquariums. The tours provide great insight into the history of the zoo, its inhabitants, and the conservation efforts taking place there.
2. Visit the Aquarium: Artis is home to one of the largest aquariums in Europe, with over 400 species of fish and other aquatic creatures. The aquarium is divided into two sections, the Tropical Pavilion and the Marine Pavilion, and features a wide variety of exhibits, including the Amazon River, the Caribbean Sea, and the Great Barrier Reef.
3. Get Up Close and Personal with the Animals: Artis offers a variety of animal encounters, such as feeding the giraffes, petting the goats, and even swimming with the seals.
4. Explore the Planetarium: Artis’s planetarium is one of the largest in Europe, and features a variety of shows and exhibits about the night sky and the universe.
5. Visit the Insectarium: The Insectarium is home to over 200 species of insects, including butterflies, beetles, and spiders. It also features a variety of interactive exhibits, such as a live bee hive and an ant farm.
6. Check Out the Botanical Garden: Artis’s botanical garden is home to over 5,000 species of plants, including exotic species from around the world.
7. Learn About Conservation Efforts: Artis is dedicated to conservation, and the zoo is home to a variety of endangered species, such as the Sumatran tiger, the African wild dog, and the Amur leopard.
8. Have a Picnic: Artis has a variety of picnic areas, including the Picnic Garden and the Orangery, where visitors can enjoy a meal in the fresh air.
9. Take a Ride on the Ferris Wheel: Artis’s Ferris wheel offers spectacular views of the zoo and the city of Amsterdam.
10. Attend a Special Event: Artis hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, film screenings, and lectures.
From its impressive aquarium to its conservation efforts, Artis Royal Zoo is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Amsterdam. With so many things to do, there is something for everyone to enjoy.