The Waldstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) in Prague is a beautiful early Baroque garden offering merciful calm, formally-arranged greenery, sculpture and architecture just below Prague Castle. This guide gives you what to know to plan your visit, including the garden’s history, opening hours, entry, how to reach it, and nearby sites to combine.
A short history and overview of the Waldstein Garden in Prague
The Waldstein Garden was built in parallel with the Waldstein Palace between 1623 and 1629 under Albrecht Waldstein, replacing numerous small houses, gardens and land plots. Designed in an unflinchingly geometric Baroque style, it remains one of Prague’s earliest palace gardens.
The garden includes a prominent Sala Terrena, richly decorated with frescoes and stucco, used historically for gatherings and for admiring views of the garden. Alongside lies an artificial grotto wall of stalactite-like features, an aviary and ornamental fountains with mythological sculptures.
Over time the garden has changed; in the 18th century many pathways were added, parts were forested, and statues removed or lost in wars. Restorations in the 20th and 21st centuries have revived its fountains, ponds, statue replicas (originals taken in war) and planting layout.
The garden is owned by the Senate of the Czech Republic. It serves as public urban green space, open in warmer months, hosting occasional concerts and events in its Sala Terrena and central pavilion.
Five great things to do while you’re in Prague
- Discover Prague’s communist history and nuclear bunkers on a Cold War-themed tour.
- Let a knowledgeable guide explain the highlights on a Prague Castle tour.
- Learn Czechia’s World War II history on a day trip to the Terezin concentration camp.
- Combine Czech beer with some of Prague’s best dining on a food and beer tour.
- Cover more ground in less time on a Prague bike tour.
Waldstein Garden opening hours and entry
The garden is open from April to October. On weekdays (Monday-Friday) it opens at 7.00am, and weekends and public holidays at 9.00am. On all such days it remains open until 7.00pm.
Entry to the Waldstein Garden is free of charge. There are no ticket fees for the general public.
Photography is allowed for private, non-commercial purposes. Commercial use or professional setups may require permission. Dogs are generally not allowed and visitors are asked to respect plants, sculptures, wildlife and quiet.
How to get to Waldstein Garden, Prague
The address is Letenská 123/4, Malá Strana, 118 00, Prague. The garden lies just below Prague Castle, adjoining the Waldstein Palace, between Letenská Street, Valdštejnské náměstí and near the Malostranská area.
Public transport options: use Metro Line A and alight at Malostranská station, then walk a few minutes toward the garden. Several tram lines also serve nearby stops in Malá Strana. Walking from Prague Castle or Charles Bridge is feasible if you enjoy views and don’t mind hills.
There is no dedicated car parking for visitors immediately at all entrances; street parking in Malá Strana is limited and often paid. Using public transport or walking from a nearby location is advisable.
Best times to visit Waldstein Garden Prague
Early morning from 7.00am on weekdays is the quietest period. You’ll have fewer people, cooler light, and more peace for photography. Weekends from opening until about 11.00am tend to grow busier.
Late afternoon, an hour or two before closing is pleasant too—light softens, atmosphere calms, and many tourists have departed. Avoid visiting under heavy rain or storms since parts of the garden are closed for safety in bad weather.
Facilities, access and visitor tips for Waldstein Garden Prague
The garden paths are paved and generally level, but some sections have steps or uneven surfaces. Comfortable footwear is recommended. Wheelchair access is limited; some entrances and parts like the grotto or Sala Terrena may be harder to reach.
There is no café inside the garden, so bring water or plan to eat outside in Malá Strana. Benches are available in shaded spots. Restrooms are nearby in the palace and surrounding area.
Allow at least 30 to 45 minutes for a relaxed walk through the Waldstein Garden, longer if you linger by the grotto, pond and Sala Terrena. Bring a camera; the statues, fountains, and wildlife (including peacocks and pond birds) are highlights.
Check the weather: after heavy rain the garden may close temporarily. Also verify opening hours before your visit, especially at the start and end of the season.
Nearby attractions to combine with Waldstein Garden Prague
Because the garden is in the Malá Strana / Prague Castle area, you can easily combine it with these:
- Waldstein Palace – adjacent to the garden, though access inside is limited and tied to Senate schedules.
- Charles Bridge – walkable from the garden and offers splendid views over the Vltava River.
- Prague Castle complex – including the Golden Lane, St Vitus Cathedral and the Royal Gardens.
- Malá Strana district – charming streets, shops, cafés and baroque architecture along the way.
- Kafka Museum – a suitably confusing museum devoted to Czechia‘s best-known author, next to David Cerny’s peeing statues.
Waldstein Garden FAQ
Is Waldstein Garden wheelchair-friendly?
Partially. Many paths are paved and level, but some parts (Sala Terrena, grotto, steps) may be difficult. Accessibility is limited in certain zones.
Is there any cost to enter Waldstein Garden Prague?
No. Entry to the Waldstein Garden is free.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Dogs are generally not allowed in the garden.
Can I take photos in Waldstein Garden Prague?
Yes—for private, non-commercial purposes. Do not use flash in certain delicate areas, and avoid blocking paths or disturbing wildlife.
When does Waldstein Garden open and close?
From April to October: Monday-Friday from 7.00am, weekends and holidays from 9.00am; closing time each day is 7.00pm. In poor weather the garden may close for safety.
How much time should I allocate?
Most visitors spend 30-45 minutes if walking leisurely and pausing at features. Longer if attending events or concerts.
Visitor tip: go early to enjoy Waldstein Garden before the crowds, pair it with Prague Castle or Charles Bridge, and check the season’s calendar for events in the Sala Terrena.
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