10 Plzeň Zoo Botanical Gardens Must See Plants to Visit

Plzeň is famous for its beer. However, it also hides a lush green treasure. The Plzeň Zoo and Botanical Garden is a unique place. It combines animal exhibits with vast plant collections. Finding the Plzeň Zoo botanical gardens must see plants is a treat for any nature lover. This garden is the second oldest in the country. It sits on a sunny hillside in the Lochotín district. You can see thousands of species in one afternoon. Many visitors come for the Plzeň Zoo and DinoPark highlights each year. The botanical section is often the most peaceful part of the park. You can learn more about the city on the Visit Plzeň tourism board website.

Why Visit the Botanical Gardens in Plzeň?

The garden is not a separate park. It is fully merged with the zoo. This means you see animals and rare plants together. The collection includes over 9,000 different plant types. The layout follows geographical regions. You can walk from the African desert to the Asian mountains. The hillside location offers great views of the city. It is a perfect spot for a long walk. You should wear comfortable shoes for the slopes. The garden is beautiful in every season. Spring brings colorful blooms to the rockeries. Summer features giant water lilies. Autumn turns the Japanese maples into bright red flames. It is one of the top sights in Plzeň for families.

10 Plzeň Zoo Botanical Gardens Must See Plants

This list highlights the most unique flora in the park. Each item offers something special for visitors. Make sure to bring your camera for these stunning displays.

Name: Japanese Garden Showa-en Type: experience Why go: It is the only authentic Japanese garden in the Czech Republic. Best for: Peace and photography. Where: Northern hillside. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket (approx. 200 CZK). Getting there: Tram 4 to 'Lékařská fakulta'. Tip: Look for the traditional stone lanterns.
Name: Wollemia Nobilis (Prehistoric Pine) Type: sight Why go: This tree was thought to be extinct for millions of years. Best for: History fans. Where: Near the DinoPark entrance. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket. Getting there: Walk from the main zoo entrance. Tip: It is kept in a protective cage for safety.
Name: Victoria Amazonica (Giant Water Lily) Type: sight Why go: These lilies have massive leaves that can float on water. Best for: Summer visitors. Where: Tropical greenhouse. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket. Getting there: Follow signs for the exotic pavilions. Tip: They usually bloom in late summer.
Name: Mediterranean Terraces Type: experience Why go: It feels like a trip to Italy or Greece. Best for: Fragrant herbs and sun. Where: South-facing slopes. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket. Getting there: Central garden path. Tip: The smell of lavender is strongest in July.
Name: Succulent Greenhouse Type: indoor Why go: It houses a huge variety of cacti and desert plants. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Greenhouse complex. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket. Getting there: Near the main zoo administration. Tip: Look for the "living stones" plants.
Name: Alpine Rock Garden Type: sight Why go: It features rare flowers from high mountain ranges. Best for: Early spring blooms. Where: Rocky outcrops near the raptor aviaries. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket. Getting there: Upper park trails. Tip: Visit in May for the best colors.
Name: Ginkgo Biloba Grove Type: sight Why go: These ancient trees have unique fan-shaped leaves. Best for: Autumn colors. Where: Asian section. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket. Getting there: Tram 4 to the zoo. Tip: The leaves turn a bright, solid gold in October.
Name: Cycad Collection Type: sight Why go: These are some of the oldest plant lineages on Earth. Best for: Botany enthusiasts. Where: Tropical pavilion. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket. Getting there: Lower part of the zoo. Tip: Compare them to the models in DinoPark.
Name: Orchid House Type: indoor Why go: A stunning display of exotic and colorful blooms. Best for: Seeing rare tropical flowers. Where: Within the greenhouse area. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket. Getting there: Central zoo area. Tip: Humidity is high here, so dress in layers.
Name: Carnivorous Plant Display Type: experience Why go: See plants that actually eat insects. Best for: Kids and curious adults. Where: Specialized greenhouse section. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in Zoo ticket. Getting there: Main botanical path. Tip: Look closely to see the tiny traps.

Practical Tips for Your Botanical Walk

Planning your trip is easy with a few tips. First, check the how to get to Plzeň Zoo from city center guide. Trams are the most reliable way to travel. The garden is quite large and hilly. You should allow at least three hours for a full visit. If you have kids, consider a combined ticket for the DinoPark. You can find more regional info on the Plzeň Region official site. Most paths are paved, but some slopes are steep. Wheelchair users may need assistance in certain areas. Drinking water stations are available throughout the park. Always check the weather before you head out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to see the Plzeň Zoo botanical gardens must see plants?

The best time to visit is from May to September. During these months, most outdoor collections and the rock garden are in full bloom. Late summer is ideal for seeing the giant water lilies in the greenhouse. Autumn is also beautiful for the changing tree colors.

Is the botanical garden separate from the zoo?

No, the botanical garden and zoo are fully integrated. You only need one ticket to access both areas. This allows you to see exotic animals and rare plants during the same walk. It is a very cost-effective way to spend a day in Plzeň.

How much does it cost to enter the botanical gardens?

The entry fee is part of the zoo admission. Adult tickets usually cost around 200 CZK. Prices may vary slightly by season or for children and seniors. It is best to check the official website for the most current 2026 pricing before your visit.

The Plzeň Zoo and Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination. It offers a rare chance to see prehistoric trees and exotic flowers. Whether you love orchids or ancient pines, there is something for everyone. Make sure to plan for the weather and wear good shoes. Don't forget to check the best time of year to visit DinoPark Plzeň to maximize your trip. Enjoy your walk through one of the most beautiful green spaces in the Czech Republic.

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.

Visit Plzeň — Official city tourism board; unverified source.
City of Plzeň — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.
Lonely Planet — Major international travel guide; unverified source.
Pilsner Urquell Brewery — Primary industrial heritage site; unverified source.