France is renowned for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and beautiful landscapes. But did you know it’s also home to some of the best zoos in Europe?
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply a nature lover, France’s zoos offer a range of incredible experiences.
We have three children of varying ages and have visited many zoos in France over the years, some of which we have visited twice. Our list includes some that we have visited and others that are well known for being fantastic for families.
The 10 Best Zoos in France
From safaris to traditional zoos, here are the 10 best zoos in France to add to your itinerary, along with nearby Eurocamp sites to enhance your stay.
1. ZooParc de Beauval (Saint-Aignan, Centre-Val de Loire)
Address: Avenue du Blanc, 41110 Saint-Aignan, France
Book Tickets: ZooParc de Beauval
Ranked among the top five zoos in the world, ZooParc de Beauval spans 40 hectares and is home to over 35,000 animals representing 800 species, including rare creatures like giant pandas, koalas, white tigers, and manatees. The zoo features innovative exhibits such as a massive dome aviary, a tropical greenhouse, and aquatic shows featuring sea lions. With a strong focus on conservation, Beauval participates in breeding programs for endangered species.
We visited ZooParc de Beauval when we stayed at Les Alicourts in the Loire. The zoo is absolutely massive and you’ll will have to be there early to ensure you make the most of your visit. Don’t forget to take lunch and plenty of water if it’s a warm day. You can read our full review here.
Don’t miss: The giant pandas, an iconic attraction that draws visitors from across the globe.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: Le Parc des Allais
Distance: Approximately 60 miles (97 km)
Travel Time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes by car
Le Parc des Allais features a well-equipped aquatic center with waterslides and both indoor and outdoor pools. It’s an ideal base for a day trip to ZooParc de Beauval.
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2. La Palmyre Zoo (Les Mathes, Charente-Maritime)
Address: 6 Avenue de Royan, 17570 Les Mathes, France
Book Tickets: La Palmyre Zoo
Nestled in a picturesque pine forest, La Palmyre Zoo is one of the most visited zoos in France, housing over 1,600 animals across 115 species. The zoo is renowned for its engaging animal presentations, including sea lion and parrot shows. Visitors can stroll along shaded trails while admiring animals such as polar bears, Asian elephants, and cheetahs.
Don’t miss: Feeding the giraffes and experiencing the up-close flamingo habitat.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: Palmyre Loisirs
Distance: Approximately 2 miles (3.2 km)
Travel Time: Around 5 minutes by car
Palmyre Loisirs is a family-friendly park close to the beach, featuring a pool complex with a lazy river and slides. Its proximity to La Palmyre Zoo makes it a perfect choice for visitors.
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3. Zoo de Cerza (Hermival-les-Vaux, Normandy)
Address: Départementale 143, 14100 Hermival-les-Vaux, France
Book Tickets: Zoo de Cerza
Known as one of Normandy’s top wildlife attractions, Zoo de Cerza offers a safari experience with more than 1,500 animals from 120 species. Visitors can explore walking trails or take a safari train to see animals such as rhinos, tigers, and giraffes in large, open habitats.
Don’t miss: The safari train ride that takes you through wide-open spaces filled with African wildlife.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: La Vallée
Distance: Approximately 15 miles (24 km)
Travel Time: Around 30 minutes by car
La Vallée is an excellent campsite with family-friendly facilities, including pools, playgrounds, and on-site activities, offering a relaxing retreat near the zoo.
4. Réserve Africaine de Sigean (Sigean, Occitanie)
Address: RD 6009, 11130 Sigean, France
Book Tickets: Réserve Africaine de Sigean
For a safari-style experience, head to Réserve Africaine de Sigean. Spanning over 740 acres, this wildlife park allows visitors to drive through expansive habitats where animals such as lions, giraffes, and rhinoceroses roam freely. Walking trails offer the chance to see chimpanzees, alligators, and colorful bird species.
Don’t miss: The thrilling safari drive, offering close encounters with majestic animals.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: Le Sérignan Plage
Distance: Approximately 30 miles (48 km)
Travel Time: Around 40 minutes by car
Le Sérignan Plage offers a unique spa experience at its water spa fitness centre, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of wildlife exploration.
Explore and Book Le Sérignan Plage
5. Zoo de la Flèche (La Flèche, Pays de la Loire)
Address: Le Tertre Rouge, 72200 La Flèche, France
Book Tickets: Zoo de la Flèche
Zoo de la Flèche is one of the oldest zoological parks in France and remains a favorite for its naturalistic enclosures. The zoo is home to over 1,500 animals from 150 species, including polar bears, grizzly bears, and lemurs. Families can enjoy themed lodges within the zoo, offering a chance to wake up surrounded by wildlife.
Don’t miss: Staying overnight in one of the zoo’s themed lodges for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: Domaine de la Brèche
Distance: Approximately 30 miles (48 km)
Travel Time: Around 45 minutes by car
Domaine de la Brèche features a stunning pool complex and spacious pitches, making it a great choice for visitors.
Explore and Book Domaine de la Brèche
6. Safari de Peaugres (Peaugres, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes)
Address: Montanet, 07340 Peaugres, France
Book Tickets: Safari de Peaugres
Safari de Peaugres combines a drive-through safari with a traditional zoo, housing over 1,000 animals from 127 species, including lions, bears, cheetahs, and elephants. Visitors can drive through open habitats and enjoy pedestrian areas featuring reptiles, primates, and birds. The park is ideal for families with its kid-friendly attractions and educational programs.
Don’t miss: The bear and lion enclosures, which provide an exhilarating safari experience.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: Val de Bonnal
Distance: Approximately 60 miles (97 km)
Travel Time: Around 1 hour 20 minutes by car
Val de Bonnal offers scenic views, a fantastic water park, and a relaxing riverside atmosphere, making it a great base for visiting Safari de Peaugres.
Explore Val de Bonnal
Explore and Book Val de Bonnal
7. Parc Zoologique de Paris (Paris, Île-de-France)
Address: Avenue Daumesnil, 75012 Paris, France
Book Tickets: Parc Zoologique de Paris
Also known as Zoo de Vincennes, this eco-friendly zoo emphasizes conservation and features five biozones representing ecosystems from around the globe, including Madagascar, Africa, and the Amazon. The park is home to giraffes, jaguars, lemurs, and manatees, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience a variety of habitats and learn about biodiversity.
Don’t miss: The towering giraffe enclosure and lush biozones.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: La Croix du Vieux Pont
Distance: Approximately 65 miles (105 km)
Travel Time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes by car
La Croix du Vieux Pont is a family favorite with lakeside views, swimming pools, and plenty of activities for all ages. It’s perfectly located for a day trip to Paris and the zoo.
Explore and Book La Croix du Vieux Pont
8. Zoo du Bassin d’Arcachon (La Teste-de-Buch, Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
Address: 11 Route de Cazaux, 33260 La Teste-de-Buch, France
Book Tickets: Zoo du Bassin d’Arcachon
Situated in a serene forest near the famous Dune of Pilat, Zoo du Bassin d’Arcachon spans 22 hectares and features over 1,000 animals from more than 100 species. Visitors can explore a 4 km walking trail through naturalistic enclosures housing lions, giraffes, zebras, and other exotic animals. The zoo is a peaceful retreat for families and animal lovers.
Another of the zoos we have visited on more than one occasion. One of the best things about the zoo is the giraffe bridge which allows you to get really close to these giant friendly animals.
Don’t miss: The tranquil forested setting and educational feeding sessions.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: Camping La Rive
Distance: Approximately 14 miles (23 km)
Travel Time: Around 25 minutes by car
Camping La Rive is a family-friendly site featuring an incredible aqua complex with indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, and a Jacuzzi. Its proximity to Zoo du Bassin d’Arcachon makes it an ideal base for exploring the zoo and enjoying a relaxing getaway.
Explore and Book Camping La Rive
9. Parc de Branféré (Le Guerno, Brittany)
Address: Parc de Branféré, 56190 Le Guerno, France
Book Tickets: Parc de Branféré
Parc de Branféré offers a unique combination of a zoo, botanical garden, and adventure park. Animals such as kangaroos, flamingos, and antelopes roam semi-freely, creating a harmonious and naturalistic environment.
The park also features the Parcabout® treetop nets, a fun family adventure. Its focus on education and conservation, combined with the picturesque setting, makes it one of France’s most beautiful zoos.
We visited Parc de Branfere when we stayed at Domaine d’Inly. Its a lovely family friendly parc which has a whole host of animals on site. One of the best parts was being able to walk through the alpacas and goats, all who want to eat some of the treats you can buy to feed the animals.
You’ll also find some penguins which are great fun to watch as they swim and play.
Don’t miss: Walking among free-roaming animals and the treetop adventure.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: Domaine d’Inly
Distance: Approximately 9 miles (14.5 km)
Travel Time: Around 20 minutes by car
Domaine d’Inly is a 5-star campsite offering a giant water park, horse riding, kayaking, and a mini-farm. Its close proximity to Parc de Branféré makes it an excellent base.
Explore and Book Domaine d’Inly
10. Parc Zoologique et Botanique de Mulhouse (Mulhouse, Grand Est)
Address: 51 Rue du Jardin Zoologique, 68100 Mulhouse, France
Book Tickets: Parc Zoologique et Botanique de Mulhouse
This Alsace gem is both a botanical garden and a zoological park, housing over 1,200 animals and a vast collection of plants. Endangered species like Amur tigers and polar bears are highlights, while the botanical gardens provide a serene and picturesque backdrop. The zoo is deeply committed to conservation and education, offering various programs for visitors.
Don’t miss: The unique mix of exotic animals and stunning plant collections.
Nearest Eurocamp Site: Le Parc de la Fecht
Distance: Approximately 30 miles (48 km)
Travel Time: Around 45 minutes by car
Le Parc de la Fecht is nestled in the picturesque Munster Valley, offering a serene environment with easy access to the Alsace Wine Route and the Vosges Mountains. The site provides comfortable accommodations and family-friendly amenities, making it a suitable base for exploring the region.
Explore and Book Le Parc de la Fecht
FAQs: Zoos in France
What is the biggest zoo in France?
The biggest zoo in France is ZooParc de Beauval in Saint-Aignan. Covering 99 acres, it is home to over 35,000 animals across 800 species.
What is the most beautiful zoo in France?
The most beautiful zoo in France is often considered to be Parc de Branféré, thanks to its lush botanical gardens, free-roaming animals, and harmonious landscapes.
Which zoos in France are best for families?
Zoo de la Flèche, Safari de Peaugres, and La Palmyre Zoo are excellent for families, offering interactive exhibits, educational programs, and activities tailored for children.
Are there any drive-through safaris in France?
Yes, Réserve Africaine de Sigean and Safari de Peaugres provide drive-through safari experiences where you can observe animals like lions, zebras, and giraffes in open habitats.
What zoos in France focus on conservation?
ZooParc de Beauval, Parc Zoologique de Paris, and Parc Zoologique et Botanique de Mulhouse are known for their conservation efforts and breeding programs for endangered species.
When is the best time to visit zoos in France?
Spring and early autumn are ideal times to visit, as the weather is mild, and animals are more active during these seasons.
Plan Your Visit
France’s zoos offer more than just animal exhibits—they are immersive experiences that combine education, conservation, and fun. With a range of activities, unique exhibits, and picturesque settings, these zoos cater to visitors of all ages and interests. Adding the convenience of nearby Eurocamp accommodations makes it even easier to enjoy a complete holiday experience.
Tips for a Perfect Zoo Adventure
- Book Your Tickets in Advance: Many zoos offer discounted rates and skip-the-line options for tickets purchased online.
- Arrive Early: Animals are often most active in the morning, and arriving early lets you avoid the crowds.
- Plan Your Route: Large zoos can be overwhelming, so take a look at the map beforehand to prioritize the exhibits you want to see.
- Bring Essentials: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and refillable water bottles are must-haves for a long day of exploring.
- Pack a Picnic: While zoos often have restaurants and cafes, bringing your own food can save time and money. Many zoos have designated picnic areas.
- Check Show Times: Live shows and feeding demonstrations can be a highlight of your visit. Make sure to schedule these into your day.
- Stay Overnight: Some zoos, like Zoo de la Flèche, offer on-site accommodations for a truly unique experience.
Why Choose Eurocamp?
Eurocamp offers family-friendly accommodations that are perfectly situated near many of France’s top zoos. With a variety of accommodation options, from comfortable mobile homes to spacious camping pitches, Eurocamp sites provide a convenient and affordable way to enhance your trip.
Many locations also feature amenities such as swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and activities, making them ideal for families or those looking to unwind after a day of zoo adventures.
If you want to find out more about Eurocamp then you need to head over to our Eurocamp page.
Best Zoos in France Create Lasting Memories
Whether you’re marveling at the giant pandas of ZooParc de Beauval, embarking on a safari at Réserve Africaine de Sigean, or enjoying the free-roaming animals at Parc de Branféré, France’s zoos offer unforgettable experiences. Combined with the convenience and comfort of Eurocamp accommodations, your visit will be one to remember.
Plan your next French adventure today and discover the best zoos in the country. These unique destinations offer the perfect mix of education, entertainment, and relaxation, making them ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore these incredible wildlife sanctuaries and create memories that will last a lifetime.
