What to Expect at Bečov nad Teplou Castle

When you arrive at Bečov nad Teplou castle, you will notice three distinct buildings. The upper Gothic castle is currently undergoing long-term restoration. Visitors primarily spend time in the lower Baroque chateau and the Renaissance palace. The complex feels more like a grand estate than a defensive fortress.

The main reason people visit is the Reliquary of Saint Maurus. This 13th-century masterpiece is decorated with gold, silver, and precious gemstones. It is kept in a high-security vault with controlled humidity and lighting. Seeing it up close is a powerful experience for any history enthusiast.

The tours are divided into specific circuits. One circuit focuses entirely on the Reliquary and its incredible history. Another circuit takes you through the chateau interiors. These rooms feature beautiful furniture, tapestries, and paintings from the Beaufort-Spontin family collection.

Best for: History buffs, art lovers, and fans of true-crime mysteries. It is also great for those looking for quiet day trips near Karlovy Vary away from the main spa crowds.

Is Bečov nad Teplou Castle Worth Visiting?

Verdict: Yes, it is a must-visit for the Reliquary alone. The town itself is charming and offers a peaceful atmosphere. However, if you are traveling with very young children who want to run around, this might be a challenge.

• Pros: Home to a world-class historical treasure. Beautifully maintained gardens. Fascinating story of how the relic was found.
• Cons: Mandatory guided tours can feel restrictive. Photography is strictly forbidden in the Reliquary room. Steep walk from the train station.

Skip if: You only want to see "fairytale" furnished rooms and don't care about religious art. If you want a more active experience, consider the Svatos Rocks hiking trail instead.

Alternative: For a more traditional castle experience with armor and dungeons, visit Loket Castle. For a stunning neoclassical estate, check out the Kynzvart Chateau visit.

Planning Your Visit: Tickets and Tours

In 2026, Bečov nad Teplou castle remains a popular destination. You should book your tickets in advance on the official site. Tours in English are available but less frequent than Czech tours. Most international visitors use an English audio guide or a printed text.

Expect to pay between 200 and 300 CZK for the main Reliquary tour. The castle is open from April to October. During the peak summer months of July and August, it is open every day except Monday. Always check the official calendar before you travel.

The tour of the Reliquary takes about 45 minutes. If you combine it with the chateau interiors, plan for at least two hours. Wear comfortable shoes as the paths within the complex are made of cobblestones. There is a small café on-site for refreshments after your tour.

Crowds are usually manageable during the week. Weekends in May and June can get busy with school groups. According to Visit Czechia, arriving early in the morning is the best way to avoid large groups. This allows you to enjoy the gardens in peace.

How to Reach the Castle from Karlovy Vary

Getting to Bečov nad Teplou castle is very easy from Karlovy Vary. The most scenic way is by train. The journey takes about 25 to 30 minutes. You can check the schedule at the Karlovy Vary railway station.

The train ride follows the Teplá River through a beautiful valley. Once you arrive at the Bečov nad Teplou station, it is a 10-minute walk uphill to the castle. The path is well-marked and takes you through the historic town square.

If you prefer driving, the trip takes about 20 minutes via road 20. There is a paid parking lot located just below the castle entrance. Buses also run regularly from the main bus station in Karlovy Vary. This is a great addition to a Marianske Lazne itinerary as it sits right between the two spa towns.

The History of the Stolen Reliquary

The story of the Reliquary of Saint Maurus sounds like a Hollywood movie. After World War II, the owners of the castle were forced to leave. They buried the golden casket under the floor of the castle chapel. It remained hidden and forgotten for forty years.

In 1985, a secret search began. An American businessman offered the Czechoslovak state a large sum of money to find a hidden object. Criminal investigators eventually found the reliquary in a terrible state. It was covered in mud and badly corroded.

It took experts eleven years to restore the piece to its former glory. Today, it is displayed in a specially designed room at Bečov nad Teplou castle. Learning about this discovery makes the visit much more meaningful. It is a symbol of survival and artistic excellence.