Wallenstein Palace & Gardens

Valdštejnský palác (Wallenstein Palace), a grand, monumental Baroque residence built between 1623 and 1630 by Albrecht of Wallenstein, one of the most powerful military commanders of the Thirty Years’ War, lies just below Prague Castle in the heart of Lesser Town. Determined to rival Prague Castle, Wallenstein spared no expense, commissioning Italian architects and artists to create a lavish complex that would reflect his ambition.

Today, the palace houses the Czech Senate and is only partially open to the public, but its real gem lies just outside: the Wallenstein Gardens. These formal Baroque gardens, open from April to October, are a haven of symmetry and elegance, featuring geometric hedges, a large central pond with a statue of Hercules, and a dramatic garden pavilion (sala terrena) adorned with mythological frescoes. Peacocks roam freely, adding to the aristocratic ambiance.

Keep an eye out for the artificial grotto wall, designed to resemble dripping stalactites, and for bronze statues by Adriaen de Vries, originally looted from Emperor Rudolf II’s collection during the Thirty Years’ War.

Nearby, the historic Wallenstein Riding School (Jízdárna), part of the palace complex, hosts exhibitions and cultural events, adding another layer of interest to your visit.

💡 Top Tip 💡

Entrance is free, and the gardens offer some of the most peaceful views of Prague Castle without the crowds. If you're visiting during a weekday, try to catch one of the occasional Senate open days, when you can glimpse the palace's richly decorated halls.

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📅 Plan your visit

🎫 Admission: Free Entrance
🕒 Opening Hours: Apr–Oct: 7:30–19:00
📍 Entrance Location: Enter from Letenská Street or from Malostranská Metro/tram stop

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🍴Where to eat : 

(Here are some suggestions. All are within 7 min walking from your current location).

 

[$]

- Bagel Lounge  (Bagels, sandwiches & coffee in a cozy café) 4.7⭐

- Miska Ramen (Japanese ramen & Asian street food) 4.8⭐ 

 

[$]

- Vojanův dvůr  (Historic brewery restaurant with garden) 4.1⭐

- Alebrijes  (Modern Mexican cuisine & cocktails) 4.6⭐

- El Pablo (Steakhouse & European cuisine with cozy ambiance) 4.3⭐

 

[$$]

- Street Burger Bistro (Gourmet burgers & craft beer) 4.7⭐ 

- SIU Restaurant (Modern European cuisine in a stylish setting) 5.0⭐  

- Restaurant U Tří Pštrosů (Elegant Czech & international dining in historic setting) 4.0⭐ 

 

[$$]

- Brick's (Modern European cuisine with river views) 4.5⭐

- Kampa Park (Fine dining with river and Charles bridge views and international cuisine) 4.6⭐