Korkeasaari Zoo, Helsinki

The zoo is on an island. Took the boat from the market to the zoo (7 euros, return). You purchase zoo tickets once you arrive at the zoo. The zoo is well layed out and an easy walk. There are a couple of restaurants along the way. There appeared to be an emphasis on big cats - every type of big cat imaginable. Also enjoyed the reindeer! It was a pleasant way to spend 2-3 hours.

It was amazing adventure - the best zoo in the World! If you have time, my advice is to visit it. I was really charmed about such various species of animals and their living condition. This zoo grow up my love for Finland.

Helsinki zoo is on an island. You're able to get here via their ferry from Market Square, or bus to the main entrance bridge. It's fairly straightforward, but there is a small charge for either. The highlights of the zoo are the big cats. They have leopards, tigers, Asiatic lions, lynx, and snow leopards. There are also brown bears. All of the animals had large spacious well kept enclosures. The signage was very good and easy to understand. There's a good selection of animals, several cafés and a picnic area. The gift shop was poor, almost exclusively selling soft toys. Expect to spend between half a day and a day here.

Excellent view to the coast. If you visit the beach, please leave clean the place where you pic-nic or grill.

I was very disappointed in my visit there. Went there in March and despite them saying on the website that most of the animals would be outside in winter as well this was not the case. We maybe got to see about half the animals. On top of that the outlook tower from which you can see Helsinki was not accessible because there was no winter service. Also the Zoo shop was closed. This would have all been still enjoyable if it was stated beforehand and if there was maybe a reduced price in the winter season. Instead they still made me pay the full adult price because I forgot my student id. The whole experience might be different in the summer though. It still is quite a small zoo compared to others I've visited. It's nicely located on an island however, and the direct bus from the main train station is very convenient.