Planning Your Visit to Wallenstein Garden

Wallenstein Garden is a hidden gem in the heart of Prague. It sits right below the Prague Castle hill. This garden is part of the Senate of the Czech Republic complex. It offers a peaceful break from the busy city streets. You will find many free tourist attractions in Prague, but this is a favorite.

The garden was built in the 17th century. It features a strict Baroque design with geometric paths. You can enter through the Malostranská metro station entrance. Another gate is located on Valdštejnská street. Entry is completely free for all visitors throughout the open season.

This site is one of the best places to visit in Prague for history lovers. The architecture reflects the power of Albrecht von Wallenstein. He was a famous military leader in the Thirty Years' War. Today, the garden serves as a public park and a seat of government.

Wallenstein Garden Opening Hours and Peacocks Tips

You must check the Wallenstein Garden opening hours and peacocks schedules before you go. The garden is only open from April until October. It remains closed during the cold winter months. During the spring and summer, it usually opens at 7:30 AM on weekdays. Weekend hours typically start at 9:00 AM.

The garden closes around 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM depending on the month. You should consult the official city tourism portal for exact daily timings. Arriving early is the best way to avoid large tour groups. The peacocks are also more active during the cooler morning hours.

The resident peacocks are the stars of the garden. You can find both blue and rare all-white peacocks here. They roam freely across the green lawns and gravel paths. Please remember that these are wild animals. You should keep a respectful distance while taking your photos. Check the official municipal government portal for rules on interacting with local wildlife.

What to See Inside the Garden

One of the most unique features is the massive dripstone wall. This artificial limestone wall looks like a collection of skulls or faces. It is located at the far end of the garden. Next to it, you will find a large aviary. This cage is home to several majestic eagle owls.

The garden also features a large pond with a central statue. You can see giant koi fish and ducks swimming in the water. The bronze statues lining the paths are also very famous. These are copies of originals by Adriaen de Vries. The originals were taken as war booty by the Swedish army long ago.

The Sala Terrena is another architectural highlight. This large open-air hall features stunning ceiling frescoes. It often hosts free concerts and theatrical performances in the summer. For more information on national landmarks, visit the Visit Czechia website for travel inspiration.

Essential Checklist for Your Visit

To make the most of your trip, follow these specific checklists. Preparation will help you avoid the crowds and see the birds.

• Before you go:
• Check the current month to ensure the garden is open.
• Verify the closing time for the specific day of your visit.
• Charge your camera battery for peacock photos.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes for the gravel paths.
• Download an offline map of the Malá Strana area.

• While you are there:
• Locate the white peacock near the Sala Terrena.
• Walk to the dripstone wall to find the hidden faces.
• Visit the owl aviary near the garden entrance.
• Watch the giant koi fish in the central pond.
• Take a photo of the Prague Castle view from the garden.

• If you are visiting with a family:
• Bring a stroller as the paths are mostly flat.
• Keep children away from the deep pond edges.
• Use the public restrooms located near the Senate entrance.
• Remind children not to chase or touch the peacocks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid at Wallenstein Garden

Many tourists make simple mistakes when visiting this site. Avoid these errors to ensure a smooth experience. Note that some items are strictly forbidden to protect the historic site.

• Common Mistakes:
• Visiting between November and March when it is closed.
• Arriving too late in the evening during the month of October.
• Feeding bread or snacks to the peacocks or fish.
• Making loud noises that disturb the peaceful atmosphere.
• Missing the dripstone wall because it is tucked in a corner.
• Trying to touch the birds or their feathers.

Don't pack these items:

• Drones (they are strictly prohibited in this area).
• Large bags or suitcases (storage is not available).
• Professional tripods without a special permit.
• Bird food or seeds of any kind.