Why Visiting Bečov nad Teplou Castle is Essential

Bečov nad Teplou is more than just another Czech castle. It holds the Reliquary of Saint Maurus. This gold-plated box is the second most valuable artifact in the country. Only the crown jewels in Prague are more precious. The history of its discovery is like a movie plot. It was hidden under the floorboards for decades before being found in 1985. Visiting this site allows you to see this masterpiece up close.

The complex itself is architecturally fascinating. It consists of a 14th-century Gothic castle and a 19th-century Renaissance-style palace. This contrast shows the evolution of noble life over 600 years. The surrounding town is quiet and charming. It offers a peaceful break from the busy spa colonnades of Karlovy Vary. You can easily spend a full day exploring the grounds and the local trails.

If you enjoy history, this is one of the best excursions from Karlovy Vary available. The site is well-maintained and offers tours in several languages. You will learn about the Beaufort-Spontin family who once lived here. You will also hear about the dramatic restoration of the reliquary. It is a perfect destination for families and history buffs alike.

10 Must-See Highlights at Bečov nad Teplou

Before you go, check out these top picks for your itinerary. Here are the best things to see and do in and around the castle complex.

• Best overall: The Reliquary of Saint Maurus
• Best for families: Bečov Botanical Garden
• Best for views: Castle Terraces
• Best free activity: Town Square Walk

1. Name: Reliquary of Saint Maurus Type: iconic sight Why go: To see a 13th-century masterpiece of goldsmithing. Best for: History lovers and art enthusiasts. Where: Inside the main chateau building. Time: 45 minutes for the specific tour. Cost: Moderate (requires a specific tour ticket). Getting there: Follow signs for the "Reliquary" tour at the ticket office. Tip: Book tickets in advance as tour slots are limited.
2. Name: The Renaissance Palace Type: sight Why go: To explore the lavish living quarters of the former nobility. Best for: Fans of interior design and 19th-century history. Where: The lower part of the castle complex. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Included in the standard chateau tour. Tip: Look for the original wall coverings and ornate furniture.
3. Name: Gothic Castle Ruins Type: sight Why go: To see the medieval core of the fortress. Best for: People who love ancient architecture. Where: The upper ridge of the site. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Often viewed from the exterior or via special tours. Getting there: Accessible via the main castle courtyard. Tip: This area is sometimes closed for restoration, so check the official site before visiting.
4. Name: Castle Gardens and Terraces Type: viewpoint Why go: For stunning views of the Teplá valley and the town below. Best for: Photographers and nature lovers. Where: Surrounding the main palace. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Low/Free with tour. Getting there: Walk through the gates near the palace entrance. Tip: Visit during sunset for the best lighting on the stone walls.
5. Name: Bečov Botanical Garden Type: unique local experience Why go: It is one of the most important historic gardens in Bohemia. Best for: Families and plant lovers. Where: About a 10-minute walk from the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Follow the signs from the town square toward the river. Tip: Try the unique "rock garden" section which is very well preserved.
6. Name: Museum of Historic Motorcycles Type: museum Why go: A surprising collection of vintage bikes in a historic building. Best for: Motorheads and rainy days. Where: Located in the town center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: A short walk from the castle entrance. Tip: The museum is housed in a former courthouse with interesting architecture.
7. Name: Bečov Town Square Type: neighborhood Why go: To enjoy a quiet meal and see traditional Czech architecture. Best for: A relaxing lunch break. Where: Directly below the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to explore. Getting there: You will pass through it when arriving by bus or train. Tip: Look for the small local bakeries for traditional Czech pastries.
8. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: To see a massive stone fortress used in the James Bond movie Casino Royale. Best for: Adventure seekers and movie fans. Where: 20 minutes north of Bečov. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Easily reached by train or car. Tip: Check out our guide on the Loket Castle day trip for more details.
9. Name: Mariánské Lázně Type: day trip Why go: To see the famous Singing Fountain and grand colonnades. Best for: Spa lovers and fans of classical architecture. Where: 25 minutes south of Bečov. Time: Half-day or full-day. Cost: Free to walk; spa treatments vary. Getting there: Direct train connection from Bečov. Tip: Read our Mariánské Lázně guide before you go.
10. Name: Teplá River Nature Trail Type: nature Why go: A peaceful walk through the forest following the river. Best for: Hikers and dog walkers. Where: Starts near the botanical garden. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down to the river bank from the town. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the path can be muddy after rain.

How to Plan Your Trip from Karlovy Vary

Getting to the castle is very straightforward. Most visitors travel from Karlovy Vary. You can take a local train which offers a scenic ride through the valley. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, there is a frequent bus from Karlovy Vary to Bečov nad Teplou that drops you near the square. Driving is also an option, with parking available in the town center.

When you arrive, head straight to the ticket office. There are different tour circuits available. Circuit I focuses on the Reliquary of Saint Maurus. Circuit II covers the chateau interiors. If you want to see both, plan for at least three hours on-site. English tours are available, but they run less frequently than Czech ones. You can use an audio guide if an English-speaking guide is not available.

For a smooth visit, check the Visit Czechia website for regional travel updates. It is also wise to bring some cash. While the castle accepts cards, some smaller shops in town may not. There are several restaurants near the castle gate. They serve traditional Czech dishes like goulash and dumplings at fair prices.

Best Times for Visiting Bečov nad Teplou Castle

The main season for the castle is from April to October. During these months, all tour circuits are open. Summer is the busiest time, especially on weekends. If you visit in July or August, try to arrive early in the morning. This helps you avoid the largest tour groups. The gardens are most beautiful in late spring when the flowers are in bloom.

In the shoulder season, like September or October, the crowds are much smaller. The autumn colors in the Teplá valley are stunning. Many people ask is Bečov nad Teplou castle open in winter? Generally, the interiors are closed from November to March. However, the town and the exterior of the castle remain accessible for photos. Special events sometimes happen during the Christmas season.

Always check the weather before your trip. The castle is located on a hill and can be windy. Even in summer, the thick stone walls keep the interiors quite cool. A light jacket is often useful during the tour. If it rains, the Motorcycle Museum is a great indoor alternative. This ensures your trip is enjoyable regardless of the forecast.