Diergaarde Blijdorp (Rotterdam Zoo)

Blijdorp is Rotterdam's historic zoo, arranged by continent around gardens and glasshouses. The Oceanium, with its big tank and shark tunnel, is ideal on a cold day, as are the Asian glasshouse and Amazonica. Outside, elephants, lions, giraffes and sea lions keep things lively. In winter the zoo opens at 9 am. Tip: arrive at opening time, as it gets dark early and the park closes early; pay for the zoo car park at the machines by the main entrance. On a few evenings in December and early January, 'Winters Blijdorp' adds light trails and an ice rink (separate ticket).