History of Wallenstein Palace and Garden

Albrecht von Wallenstein was a powerful military commander. He began building this massive palace complex in 1623. He cleared many houses and gardens to make space. The result was the first large Baroque secular building in Prague. It stands as a symbol of his wealth and immense power.

The palace design blends Italian and Northern European styles. Many famous architects and artists worked on the project. The complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Prague. It reflects the transition from Renaissance to Baroque art. The gardens were designed to be as impressive as the palace itself.

Wallenstein did not enjoy his palace for long. He was assassinated in 1634 on the orders of the Emperor. The palace remained in his family for many centuries. In 1945, the state took ownership of the property. Now, it is a place for government meetings and public enjoyment.

10 Best Things to See at Wallenstein Palace and Garden

Here are the top sights you must see when visiting. This list includes the best of the garden and the palace. We also included a few nearby gems to help your planning.

• Quick Pick: Best for families - The Free-Roaming Peacocks
• Quick Pick: Best for photos - The Dripstone Wall
• Quick Pick: Best for history - The Knights' Hall
• Quick Pick: Best free activity - Walking the Garden paths

1. Name: The Dripstone Wall (Grotto) Type: Sight Why go: It is a unique artificial wall that looks like melting rock or skulls. Best for: Photographers and fans of weird art. Where: Far end of the garden. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the south side of the garden. Tip: Look closely to find hidden faces and animals in the limestone.
2. Name: Sala Terrena Type: Architecture Why go: This massive triple-arched loggia features incredible ceiling frescoes. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Facing the main garden area. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from the main garden entrance. Tip: Check the schedule for free evening concerts held here in summer.
3. Name: Peacocks and Statues Type: Experience Why go: Beautiful blue and rare white peacocks roam the paths freely. Best for: Families and kids. Where: Throughout the garden. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter via the Malostranská metro gate. Tip: Do not try to feed the birds as it is strictly forbidden.
4. Name: Bronze Statues by Adriaen de Vries Type: Art Why go: These are high-quality copies of Mannerist sculptures stolen by the Swedes. Best for: Sculpture enthusiasts. Where: Along the main garden path. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central garden aisle. Tip: The originals are currently kept in a museum in Sweden.
5. Name: The Large Fish Pond Type: Nature Why go: A large pond with an island and a statue of Hercules in the center. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Near the palace entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central area of the garden. Tip: You can see very large carp swimming near the surface.
6. Name: The Aviary Type: Sight Why go: A large cage housing several impressive eagle owls. Best for: Animal lovers. Where: Next to the dripstone wall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: South side of the garden. Tip: The owls are most active during the late afternoon.
7. Name: The Knights' Hall Type: Experience Why go: A grand hall inside the palace with a ceiling painting of Wallenstein as Mars. Best for: History buffs. Where: Inside the main palace building. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (on specific weekends). Getting there: Via the Senate entrance. Tip: Check senator meetings and opening hours before you go.
8. Name: Prague Castle Type: Day trip/Nearby Why go: The largest ancient castle complex in the world is just uphill. Best for: Iconic sightseeing. Where: Hradčany district. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Paid tickets for interiors. Getting there: Walk up the Old Castle Stairs nearby. Tip: Go early to avoid the massive midday crowds.
9. Name: Charles Bridge Type: Nearby sight Why go: Prague's most famous bridge is only a 10-minute walk away. Best for: Views and history. Where: Connecting Malá Strana and Old Town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down Mostecká street from the garden. Tip: Visit at sunrise for the best photos without crowds.
10. Name: Malá Strana Square Type: Neighborhood Why go: The heart of the Lesser Town with the stunning St. Nicholas Church. Best for: Coffee and atmosphere. Where: Malostranské náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the garden. Tip: Try a traditional pastry at a local bakery here.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

The garden is usually open from April to October. It closes during the winter months to protect the plants. Opening hours often start at 7:30 AM on weekdays. On weekends, it usually opens at 10:00 AM. Always check the official city tourism portal for updates.

Admission to the garden is completely free for everyone. This makes it one of the best free things to do in Prague. The palace interiors are only open on weekends. Sometimes the palace is closed for official Senate business. Security checks are required to enter the palace buildings.

The garden is a quiet zone. You should not play loud music or run on the paths. Professional photography may require a special permit. Wear comfortable shoes as the paths are made of gravel. There are benches available if you need to rest and enjoy the view.