Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg

Exploring the Innsbruck Alps: A Practical Guide to the Alpine Zoo & Hungerburg Combo

If you’re thinking about visiting Innsbruck and want to combine a wildlife experience with stunning panoramic views, this Combi Entrance Ticket to the Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg might be just what you need. It offers a smooth way to see Europe’s highest situated zoo and ride a scenic funicular, all bundled into one affordable package. We’ve looked into the details to help you decide if it’s worth your time—and money.

What excites us most about this combo is how accessible and flexible it seems. You get a full day of activity for around $26, including both transportation and entry, which feels like good value when you consider the scenic ride and the chance to see native alpine animals. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the zoo is quite a walk, and you might spend a fair bit of time on your feet, so pack comfortable shoes. This experience suits travelers who love wildlife, enjoy scenic rides, and appreciate a simple yet engaging day trip—family-friendly, but also perfect for couples or solo explorers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable combo ticket covers both the Alpine Zoo entry and the Hungerburg funicular ride.
• Over 2000 animals, including native species like lynx, wolves, and eagles, make it a wildlife-focused experience.
• Scenic funicular ride offers spectacular views of Innsbruck’s rooftops and the surrounding mountains.
• Accessible from the city: a quick ride from Innsbruck’s Old Town makes it easy to include in your itinerary.
• Family-friendly with plenty of areas for kids, but also enjoyable for adults who love nature and architecture.
• Limited group size (max 6 participants) keeps the tour intimate and relaxed.
• Check opening hours carefully, as they vary seasonally and daily.
• No pets or guide included, so plan accordingly if you prefer guided commentary or traveling with animals.

What Is the Alpine Zoo & Hungerburg Combo All About?

This ticket offers an excellent way to explore two of Innsbruck’s highlights without the hassle of separate bookings. It’s especially good for those who want to combine nature, wildlife, and the thrill of a mountain ride all in one go. The Alpine Zoo is celebrated for its focus on animals native to the Alpine region, which is pretty rare globally. You’ll encounter species that you likely won’t see elsewhere, including lynx, wolves, bears, and eagles—all in exhibits that respect the natural environment.

Meanwhile, the Hungerburg funicular is more than just transportation. It’s a journey that elevates you high above Innsbruck, offering some breathtaking views over the city and the surrounding mountains. The architecture of the funicular itself is quite unique, blending modern design with the alpine landscape, which makes for some great photo opportunities.

The combo ticket is valid for one day, so it’s flexible depending on your schedule. You can start your day exploring the zoo, or catch the funicular first and then visit the zoo afterwards—whichever suits your pace.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting from Innsbruck’s Altstadt, the journey begins with a short seven-minute ride on the Hungerburg funicular. This is where the magic begins: as the train climbs, your views get more spectacular, and you’ll quickly see why this ride is worth it. The train runs every 15 minutes during operating hours, so you won’t have to wait long.

Once you arrive at the Alpine Zoo station, it’s just a few steps to the entrance. Here, you’ll find over 150 species of animals native to the Alps—wolves, lynx, marmots, otters, and numerous bird species. Visitors often praise the enclosures, which are well-integrated into the landscape and allow animals to live in environments that mimic their natural habitats. Several reviews mention that the zoo is family-friendly, with plenty of space for kids to explore and observe animals up close, which makes it ideal for families or anyone traveling with children.

Many visitors appreciate the walkthrough sections, where animals are displayed in naturalistic settings. One reviewer noted, “You can walk through many enclosures, and they use the existing nature for decoration,” making the experience feel immersive and educational.

The scenic views continue as you leave the zoo, with a short ride back on the funicular, followed by a break or sightseeing walk. The area around the top station offers photo opportunities and sweeping vistas over Innsbruck and the mountains beyond. It’s a great spot for a picnic or just soaking in the scenery before heading back.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Highlights include the ease of access—the combined ticket simplifies logistics—plus the breathtaking vistas from the Hungerburg lift. The value for money is notable, especially since the transport alone could cost more if purchased separately. Several reviews highlight how cost-effective this is, with one traveler saying, “Excellent value for money as the transport was expensive on its own.”

People also love the animal variety, with many reviews mentioning how close they could get to the animals, particularly at feeding times. “We really enjoyed the wolves and otters—they put on quite a show,” shared a visitor.

However, some found that not all animals are visible at all times, especially the bears, since they tend to be out during feeding. One reviewer admitted, “We were disappointed not to see a lot of the animals,” which is worth keeping in mind if your main goal is animal spotting.

On the practical side, note that parking is not included in the ticket price, and the zoo is situated on a mountain, so be prepared for uphill walking. The zoo’s layout involves some moderate terrain, which is worth considering if mobility is a concern. Also, pets and dogs are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re a nature lover or a family seeking an engaging outdoor activity, this combo offers a straightforward, scenic adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate native alpine wildlife and stunning mountain views. The small group limit ensures a relaxed atmosphere, making it a good choice for those wanting a more intimate experience.

For those with limited time in Innsbruck, this package packs a lot into one day—no need to worry about separate tickets or complicated logistics. Plus, the scenic ride and the chance to observe regional animals make it more than just a zoo visit.

Keep in mind, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, the terrain and walking distance might require some planning. Also, check the opening hours in advance, especially during the off-season, to ensure your visit aligns with the zoo and funicular schedule.

Final Thoughts

This combination of Innsbruck’s Alpine Zoo and the Hungerburg funicular offers a practical, scenic, and educational day out that balances wildlife viewing with spectacular mountain vistas. For just around $26, you get admission, transport, and a memorable ride, making it a solid choice for travelers who want to experience the region’s natural beauty without fuss or high costs.

The reviews suggest it’s well-loved by visitors, especially those who value close animal encounters, breathtaking views, and good value for money. While you might not see every animal at all times—and parking isn’t included—it remains a great way to add some local wildlife and mountain scenery into your Innsbruck trip.

If you’re after a contemplative walk, a bit of wildlife education, and panoramic views, this combo ticket could be your perfect day in the Alps.

FAQs

Is the ticket valid for a single day?
Yes, the ticket is valid for one day, so you can plan your visit accordingly within the operating hours.

Does the ticket include guided tours?
No, guided tours are not included. It’s a self-guided experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Can I buy parking with this ticket?
Parking is not included; you’ll need to purchase it separately if you plan to drive.

Is the Hungerburg funicular wheelchair accessible?
The information states the activity is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always a good idea to check in advance for specific needs.

What animals can I see at the zoo?
Expect to see native alpine species like lynx, wolves, bears, eagles, otters, and many others, with some visitors noting particular enjoyment seeing the young animals.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets and dogs are not permitted in the zoo.

What are the operating hours?
The Hungerburg funicular runs Monday to Friday from 7:15AM to 7:15PM and on weekends and holidays from 8:00AM to 7:15PM. The zoo’s hours are from 9:00AM to 6:00PM (April to October) or until 5:00PM (November to March).

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, the zoo is quite family-friendly, with lots of space for kids to walk, discover, and enjoy animals, though some terrain may require attention.

If you’re visiting Innsbruck and want a day that combines nature, panoramic views, and wildlife, this combo ticket is a solid choice that balances fun with affordability. Just bring your walking shoes, a camera, and a spirit ready for mountain vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here: