Why You Should Visit Becov nad Teplou Castle

Bečov nad Teplou is one of the best day trips from Karlovy Vary. The town is small but very charming. The main draw is the castle and chateau complex. It stands on a high rocky cliff. You can see three different styles of architecture here. There is a Gothic castle, a Renaissance palace, and a Baroque chateau.

The site is most famous for the Reliquary of Saint Maurus. This gold box is over 800 years old. It was hidden for decades under the floor of the castle chapel. Experts found it in 1985. Now, it is fully restored for visitors to see. It is the second most important treasure in the country after the crown jewels.

Visiting this site is easy for anyone staying in West Bohemia. You can enjoy the fresh air of the Slavkov Forest. The town offers a peaceful break from the busy spa crowds. It is a place where history feels very close. You can walk through ancient halls and modern gardens in one afternoon.

10 Best Things to Do When You Visit Becov nad Teplou Castle

When you plan to visit Becov nad Teplou castle, there is more to see than just one building. The entire town and the surrounding hills offer great activities. Here are the top items for your itinerary.

1. Name: Reliquary of Saint Maurus Type: experience Why go: See the incredible 13th-century gold treasure in a high-security vault. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Inside the Baroque Chateau. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate (paid tour). Getting there: Follow signs to the main ticket office. Tip: This tour is very popular, so book your time slot online.
2. Name: The Gothic Castle Ruins Type: sight Why go: Explore the oldest part of the complex with its thick stone walls. Best for: Photographers. Where: Upper part of the castle rock. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in some tour circuits. Getting there: Walk up from the main courtyard. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven.
3. Name: Baroque Chateau Interiors Type: sight Why go: See how the nobility lived in the 18th and 19th centuries. Best for: Fans of art and furniture. Where: The lower chateau building. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Main entrance via the castle bridge. Tip: Look for the beautiful wall paintings in the dining hall.
4. Name: Bečov Botanical Garden Type: nature Why go: Walk through one of the first rock gardens in the country. Best for: Families and nature lovers. Where: Across the river from the castle. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the town square. Tip: Rent a boat on the small pond inside the garden.
5. Name: Museum of Historical Motorcycles Type: museum Why go: See a huge collection of vintage bikes and old wooden toys. Best for: Gearheads and kids. Where: In the town center near the square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Short walk from the castle gates. Tip: The museum is housed in a very old historic building.
6. Name: The Castle Terraces Type: viewpoint Why go: Enjoy panoramic views of the Teplá River and the town below. Best for: Relaxing and scenic photos. Where: Surrounding the chateau. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free with castle entry. Getting there: Accessible from the chateau courtyard. Tip: Visit during sunset for the best lighting.
7. Name: Church of Saint George Type: sight Why go: A beautiful local church with a rich history and quiet atmosphere. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Just below the castle walls. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk down the main stairs from the castle. Tip: Check the notice board for local concert schedules.
8. Name: Teplá River Nature Trail Type: nature Why go: A gentle walk along the water with views of the castle from below. Best for: Hikers and dog walkers. Where: Starts near the botanical garden. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow trail markers. Tip: This path is mostly flat and very easy to walk.
9. Name: Bečov Town Square Type: neighborhood Why go: See the colorful houses and enjoy a coffee in a local cafe. Best for: Local culture. Where: Náměstí 5. května. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: The main road leads directly here. Tip: Try the local pastries at the small bakery on the corner.
10. Name: Šibeniční vrch Lookout Type: viewpoint Why go: Hike up to see the castle and town from a high vantage point. Best for: Active travelers. Where: The hill overlooking the town. Time: 1 hour (round trip). Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the hiking trail from the train station. Tip: Bring water as the uphill climb can be steep.

Essential Planning Tips for Your Visit

Planning your trip to visit Becov nad Teplou castle is quite simple. Most people travel here from Karlovy Vary. You can take a train from the Karlovy Vary railway station. The ride takes about 25 minutes. The train follows the river and offers beautiful views. You can also take a local bus or drive your own car.

The castle is usually open from April to October. Some parts may be closed in the winter months. Always check the official website before you go. Tours are available in several languages. If you want an English tour, it is best to book ahead. This ensures you have a spot on the Reliquary tour.

Wear comfortable shoes for your visit. The town has many cobblestone streets and hills. There are several small restaurants near the square for lunch. Prices are generally lower than in the main spa area of Karlovy Vary. It is a very budget-friendly destination for a day trip.

Other Great Stops Near Karlovy Vary

If you have more time in the region, there are many other sites to see. You might enjoy a Loket Castle day trip. Loket is another medieval town with a very different feel. It is famous for its torture museum and outdoor theater. It is only 15 minutes away from Karlovy Vary by car.

For nature lovers, a hike at Svatosske Skaly rock formations is a must. These granite pillars look like a petrified wedding party. You can also visit the nearby Andelska Hora ruins for a short hike. The views from the top of the hill are spectacular.

Finally, consider visiting the other famous spa towns. You can follow a Marianske Lazne spa town itinerary to see the Singing Fountain. This town is south of Bečov and very easy to reach by train. West Bohemia is full of history and beauty at every turn.