Athens, known for its ancient ruins, Mediterranean beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, also offers a lesser-known gem for animal lovers: its zoos, wildlife and themed parks. While Athens doesn’t have a vast number of zoos, it does have an impressive selection of wildlife experiences for families, tourists, and animal enthusiasts alike. Visiting these zoos and parks  can be a refreshing break from the historical tours, offering a chance to relax, learn, and connect with animals from around the world. Here’s a guide to the must-visit zoos and wildlife parks in and around Athens, perfect for anyone seeking a unique addition to their Greek adventure.

Attica Zoological Park

Attica Zoological Park, located about 40 minutes from Athens’ city center, is the largest and most famous zoo in Greece. Opened in 2000, it has grown over the years to become a premier wildlife destination, now home to over 2,000 animals representing 290 species from five continents. The park’s sprawling layout means you can spend a full day here, and this is what we recommend to do to enjoy your day most, wandering through its various zones dedicated to different habitats and species. Attica Zoo has a café, but you might want to pack a few snacks, especially if traveling with young children.

The must-See attractions of Attica Zoo are the african Savannah Exhibit (Zebras, giraffes, and antelopes roam freely in a savannah-inspired habitat that mimics their natural home. It’s a must-see for anyone fascinated by African wildlife, of course the dolphin Show, featuring trained dolphins in a performance that both educates and entertains. Kids especially love watching the dolphins’ impressive jumps and tricks, the big cats and primates: get up close with lions, tigers, and cheetahs, along with primates like chimpanzees and lemurs, its bird collection as it  boasts one of Europe’s largest bird collections, showcasing exotic and native bird species in a walk-through aviary that allows visitors a closer look.

• Location: Spata, near Athens International Airport
• Highlights: Dolphins, Big Cats, African Savannah Animals, and Birds
• Perfect for: Families, animal lovers, and anyone with a full day to explore
• Transportation: Located near the Athens Airport, it’s easiest to reach by car or taxi.
• Official site: www.atticapark.com

Zoological Museum (ZMUA) & Museum of Palaeontology of the University of Athens

It is the oldest and most historical natural history museum in Greece. Established in 1858. It opens to the public one Sunday a month with an entrance fee of 2€ and has a QR code app so you can have an even more complete tour with audio and visual information.  Right next to the museum, it is the Paleontology Museum which you can also visit.

• Location: University of Athens, Entrance from Oulof  Palme street.
• Perfect for: Families, animal lovers, and anyone with a full day to explore
• Transportation: Located in Zografou area,  easy access by bus from Syntagma square
• Official site: zoolmuseum.biol.uoa.gr

National Gardens Zoo

For a more relaxed and smaller-scale animal experience, head to the National Gardens of Athens, located in the heart of the city. Originally commissioned by Queen Amalia in the 19th century, the gardens are a green oasis with a charming little zoo. The National Gardens Zoo is not a full-scale zoo but more of a petting zoo with a modest collection of animals, including peacocks, ducks, turtles, goats, and some native Greek species. Its charm lies in the surrounding gardens, ponds, and shaded pathways, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s ideal for kids as they would love the accessible animal exhibits, and the open  space is great for running around. The park is also pic nic  friendly, and actually a popular spot for picnics, so feel free to bring along a meal and enjoy a leisurely day in the greenery. Free entry.

• Location: Athens City Center, Syntagma Area
• Highlights: Small animals, native Greek wildlife, lush botanical gardens
• Perfect for: Families with young children, nature lovers, and budget travelers
• Official site:

XPLORE Aquarium

XPLORE Aquarium offers a unique, interactive marine life experience in the Golden Hall Mall in Marousi. This indoor aquarium is designed with family-friendly activities and a focus on learning through play, making it an excellent option for younger children. XPLORE Aquarium houses a range of marine life, including exotic fish, starfish, and sea anemones, set in creative, engaging exhibits that combine entertainment with education. Must-See features are the touch pools where kids can get hands-on with certain marine creatures under the supervision of staff, making it a tactile and memorable experience, the themed exhibits where each area of the aquarium is carefully designed with themes that transport you into different underwater ecosystems, and the educational programs of the sessions that aquarium organizes to teach visitors about ocean conservation and the importance of protecting marine habitats. Here you could also combine with a shopping experience as the aquarium is located within in one of the most popular mall of Athens. So, plan a visit here for 1–2 hours.

• Location: Golden Hall Mall, Marousi, Athens
• Highlights: Interactive marine exhibits, hands-on learning, exotic fish, and sea creatures
• Perfect for: Families, young children, and anyone looking for an educational indoor activit
• Official site: www.x-plore.gr

Turtle Rescue Centre Archelon (Glyfada)

The Turtle Rescue Centre of ARCHELON in Glyfada, near Athens, is a renowned sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation center dedicated to the conservation of endangered sea turtles in Greece, particularly the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). Established in 1994 by the ARCHELON Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece, the center plays a crucial role in rescuing, treating, and rehabilitating injured sea turtles from across the Greek coastline. The center’s primary mission is to protect sea turtles and their habitats, focusing on conservation through rescue and rehabilitation efforts, as well as education and awareness programs. Greece is home to significant nesting grounds for the loggerhead turtle, and many turtles suffer injuries from fishing gear, boat collisions, and plastic pollution. ARCHELON’s team and volunteers provide medical care to injured turtles, aiming to release them back into the wild once they have fully recovered.

Located in the coastal suburb of Glyfada, the Turtle Rescue Centre welcomes visitors who are interested in learning more about sea turtles and the work being done to protect them. You can book a guided tour, visit the educational exhibits or even participate in voluntary program, visit their gift shop to buy your souvenirs and donate for their aim helping the sea turtles that are in danger.

Official site: archelon.gr

Lakagini Wildlife Refuge (Lakagini sta Kiourka)

Lakagini is mainly  a cafe-restaurant, but it has a wildlife refuge inside too, nestled in the forested area of Afidnes (Kiourka), dedicated to preserving and caring for native Greek species in a natural setting. It offers a serene, outdoor experience where visitors can learn about Greece’s local fauna in a way that is both relaxing and educational. Visitors have a chance to see animals like deer, foxes, alpacas,  kangaroos and various bird species, and even pet and interact with some of the friendlier animals like horses. Bring comfortable shoes as the refuge is spread over a natural landscape, so comfortable footwear is recommended and plan for a half-day trip as it located outside Athens and you could combine your  visit here with a visit to Beletsi lake which is near as well to have your lunch at the popular meat taverns in  the area.

• Location: Afidnes (Kiourka), about 45 minutes from central Athens
• Highlights: Native Greek animals, deer, horses, alpacas, peaceful forest setting
• Official site:  www.lakkagini.gr

Mia Fora Kai Enan Kairo (Once Upon A Time) Farm

Mia Fora Kai Enan Kairo, which translates to “Once Upon a Time,” is a magical farm that combines traditional Greek folk tales with a charming farm experience. Located in Avlona, this themed farm invites families to step into a storybook-like setting where animals, nature, and Greek folk stories come to life. Kids especially enjoy the fairy-tale aspect, which makes for a memorable and immersive experience. The farm is divided into areas that reflect elements of traditional Greek stories, complete with animal friends to meet along the way. There are sessions where staff members bring Greek fairy tales to life, engaging children in storytelling and role-playing activities. Young visitors have a chance to meet and feed animals like goats, sheep, and rabbits.  This farm is ideal for families with young children who will enjoy the fairy-tale theme. Special storytelling sessions and events are held regularly, so inquire ahead if you want to catch one.

• Location: Avlona, north of Athens
• Highlights: Farm animals, traditional Greek fairy-tale theme, children’s activities
• Perfect for: Families with young kids, school groups, and storybook lovers
• Official site: miaforakienankairo.com

Farmamoo

Farmamoo is a working organic farm that invites visitors to experience farm life firsthand. It’s particularly popular with families and school groups, as it offers an array of interactive activities and a chance to learn about sustainable farming practices. Visitors can interact with farm animals such as goats, sheep, and chickens, and explore how the farm operates in harmony with nature. Farmamoo focuses on organic, sustainable practices, and visitors can participate in farm-to-table activities like planting, harvesting, or cooking with fresh produce. The farm organizes hands-on workshops on topics like composting, planting, and animal care, making it an educational day out for all ages.  The  farm often runs scheduled workshops, so check their calendar if you’re interested in joining. As farm activities can get a bit messy, so it’s best to dress comfortably.

• Location: Koropi, southeast of Athens
• Highlights: Farm animals, organic farm experience, family-friendly activities
• Official site: Farmamoo.gr 

Kouvaras Equestrian Centre

Kouvaras Equestrian Centre, situated near the coastal town of Keratea, offers a fantastic escape for anyone interested in horseback riding. The center provides riding lessons for all skill levels and has a variety of scenic trails for riding, with views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a first-timer, Kouvaras is a fantastic destination to experience the equestrian side of Greece. The center offers lessons tailored for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. For those who enjoy nature, guided trail rides are available, allowing visitors to take in the stunning Greek landscapes on horseback. Visitors interested in learning more about horses can participate in programs focused on horse care, grooming, and stable management. Book in Advance – Kouvaras Equestrian Centre can be popular, so it’s a good idea to book your riding session ahead of time, especially during weekends.

• Location: Kouvaras, east of Athens
• Highlights: Horseback riding lessons, scenic trails, equestrian programs
• Official site: kouvarasequestrianclub.com

Goulandris Natural History Museum

While not a zoo in the traditional sense, the Goulandris Natural History Museum is well worth a mention for its rich focus on Greece’s unique biodiversity. This museum, founded by Angelos and Niki Goulandris in 1965, offers a fascinating look at the country’s diverse flora and fauna, along with informative exhibits on ecology, geology, and environmental science. The museum has a remarkable display of taxidermied animals, showcasing the diversity of Greek wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. Outside the museum, there’s a small botanical garden featuring native plants and herbs from the Greek ecosystem. The museum also features exhibits on Greece’s unique geological formations, marine life, and fossils.

• Location: Kifissia, a northern suburb of Athens
• Highlights: Greek wildlife exhibits, extensive taxidermy collection, botanical exhibits
• Official website: www.gnhm.gr

And if you want to combine a daily trip outside Athens with a visit to a local animal refuge or another meeting with… locals, make sure to include the above places in your plan.

Attica Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, Aegena island

For travelers interested in wildlife conservation and animal welfare, the Attica Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center on nearby Aigina Island offers a unique experience. This non-profit organization rescues and rehabilitates injured wildlife, primarily focusing on local Greek species like birds of prey, tortoises, and marine animals. While it’s not a zoo, the center allows visitors to learn about Greece’s native wildlife and the challenges they face. The center isn’t always open to the public, but there are scheduled visiting hours and educational tours for those interested. You can also participate in volunteer programs to assist with animal care and habitat maintenance. Plan a day trip to Aigina island which is about a 40-minute ferry ride from Athens.

• Location: Aigina Island, a short ferry ride from Athens
• Highlights: Wildlife rescue, Greek species, volunteer opportunities
• Official website: ekpaz.com

Muses Lake, Askri, Veotia

An area of 40 acres of unique environment with natural beauty. A real gem in Viotia created for you and your family that is definitely worth a visit. Overlooking the lake you can enjoy your coffee, your refreshment, your dessert as well as your food. Just one hour from Athens and half an hour from Thebes and Livadia. An ideal one-day getaway from Athens to nature and the surrounding area with so many attractions. You can enjoy your horseback ride and the children can carefree spend beautiful hours playing in a safe place. Don’t forget to have a small hike in Petra Waterfall for the ultimate adventure in this daily trip from Athens!

Making the Most of Your Zoo Visits in Athens

Exploring Athens’ zoos and wildlife parks is an enriching way to diversify your travel experience. Whether you’re traveling with family, interested in animal welfare, or simply want to enjoy a relaxing day in nature, Athens offers wildlife experiences that suit every preference.

From the sprawling exhibits of Attica Zoological Park to the serene paths of the National Gardens, the fascinating exhibits at the Goulandris Museum, to the farms with animals  which offer a farm-to-table experience, these attractions promise an adventure into the animal world—right alongside Greece’s rich cultural history. So, on your next trip to Athens, make time to add a little wild to your itinerary?