Zeolite molecular sieves are indispensable materials for acid-based catalysis and separation processes. This article overviews zeolite-type microporous materials containing a secondary system of larger (meso-/macro-) pores. These materials, often referred to as hierarchical zeolites, show better performance in reactions where slow mass transport impedes the reaction rate. A critical analysis of different synthetic strategies for preparation of hierarchical zeolites is presented. The industrial prospects of these materials are also discussed.