Since Odense ZOO opened in 1930 as the first private zoo in Denmark, it has been a green oasis in the city of Odense, the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen. The Odense River flows right through the grounds, creating an enchanting atmosphere for which the zoo is well-known and admired.
Since 2013, Odense ZOO has held the title of Europe's Best Zoo amongst smaller zoos*. The award recognises our ongoing efforts to provide the animals with the best living and breeding conditions, as well as our sincere wish to provide our visitors with a unique experience with the animals.
* Named as Europe's best zoo 2013-15 and 2015-17 with up to 500,000 visitors a year in "What Zoos Can Do - The Leading Zoological Gardens of Europe 2010-2020"