Things to Do in Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden

King Wilhelm I built his Moorish palace in the 1840s—nobody expected it would become Germany's second-largest zoo. Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden now houses over 11,000 animals from around 1,200 species alongside more than 8,500 plant species in Stuttgart's Bad Cannstatt district. Total transformation. You'll find rare orchids in ornate Moorish pavilions, then watch great apes in modern facilities that integrate zoological missions with serious botanical research across Europe's most unusual zoo-garden combination.

The main restaurant Amazonia offers diverse menus. Smaller kiosks serve snacks and beverages with decent food quality for zoo dining, though prices reflect the captive audience situation—no surprises there. Bad Cannstatt has excellent traditional Swabian restaurants within walking distance. Many visitors combine their zoo day with dinner at local Gasthaus establishments, while Stuttgart's broader food scene features traditional beer gardens and growing international restaurant options in the city center.

Spring wins for timing. Wilhelma operates year-round, but April through June brings active animals, peak botanical displays, and comfortable walking weather for the ideal experience. Summer offers longer hours and lush gardens—expect crowds and heat though. Fall provides pleasant temperatures and fewer people, though some outdoor exhibits become less active during cooler months. Winter visits work well in heated indoor facilities like the aquarium and tropical houses, plus you'll practically own the place on weekdays.