
Becov nad Teplou Castle and Reliquary
Discover the dramatic history of the St. Maurus Reliquary, a hidden treasure with a captivating story, at this well-maintained Czech castle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Becov nad Teplou Castle and Reliquary
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the dramatic history of the St. Maurus Reliquary, a hidden treasure with a captivating story, at this well-maintained Czech castle.
"This is one of the most interesting castles in Czechia... the story of treasure hidden by escaping castle Lords is seriously freezing all the guests."

Book Reliquary Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the St. Maurus Reliquary exhibition by booking tickets online in advance. :ticket:
Allow 2-3 Hours for Visit
The main exhibition and castle grounds offer a rich experience; plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore. :clock:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The St. Maurus Reliquary
Reliquary Exhibition
A breathtakingly ornate shrine, second only to crown jewels, with a dramatic history of being hidden and rediscovered.

Castle Courtyard & Merchants
Castle Courtyard
Experience a vibrant atmosphere with merchants selling goods, adding a lively historical touch to the castle grounds.

Panoramic Views
View Post
Ascend to the view post for stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape and the charming town below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Reliquary Tickets Online
Allow Ample Time for the Reliquary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Reliquary Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the St. Maurus Reliquary exhibition by booking tickets online in advance. :ticket:
Allow 2-3 Hours for Visit
The main exhibition and castle grounds offer a rich experience; plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore. :clock:
Locker for Belongings
A small fee (5 CZK) is required for lockers to store bags and personal items. :moneybag:
Look for Signs
Finding the castle can be tricky; keep an eye out for signs to avoid getting lost. :round_pushpin:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Reliquary Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the St. Maurus Reliquary exhibition by booking tickets online in advance. :ticket:
Allow 2-3 Hours for Visit
The main exhibition and castle grounds offer a rich experience; plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore. :clock:
Locker for Belongings
A small fee (5 CZK) is required for lockers to store bags and personal items. :moneybag:
Look for Signs
Finding the castle can be tricky; keep an eye out for signs to avoid getting lost. :round_pushpin:
Enjoy Local Cafes
Several nice restaurants and cafes with good prices are located near the castle. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the dramatic history of the St. Maurus Reliquary and its hidden treasure, calling it a must-visit in Czechia. The castle grounds offer beautiful views and a lively courtyard atmosphere. However, some find the entry fees high and wish for more guided tours or clearer signage.
"The reliquary is ok , but is questionable if it is worth the price. I guess once in a lifetime it's good to see it but it's not that special. Now there is an exhibition shown in the videos which is much more interesting."
Ondra Drudik
"We visited the castle in May 2025. There is very interesting information about the history everywhere on the territory. At first it was a fortress, and then gradually a beautiful castle with a garden was created here. Unfortunately, we did not have time for an excursion inside the castle. Very beautiful views all around. There is a room for children, a cafe, toilets, souvenir shops. Near the castle there are several restaurants and cafes with beautiful terraces. Bečov is located halfway between Marianske Lazne and Karlovy Vary, between which a local small train runs every 2 hours. The journey will take about half an hour."
Liudmyla K
"We only visited the reliquary but it was very much worth it. Unfortunately entry fees were high, explanatory panels had too much text and were confusing. We were missing a live guide. I strongly recommend buying the tickets online. 5 Kč is needed to store your bag or any other stuff in the locker. Toilets and small coffee shop are located at the heart of the castle."
Zlata GERGELOVA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Becov nad Teplou Castle is conveniently located between Marianske Lazne and Karlovy Vary. A local small train runs every 2 hours between these towns, taking about 30 minutes to reach Becov nad Teplou. This scenic train journey offers beautiful views upon arrival.
Finding the castle can be a bit challenging as there aren't always clear signs. It's advisable to look carefully for directional markers to avoid getting lost.
While driving is an option, public transport like the local train offers a charming and scenic way to reach the destination, especially when traveling between nearby spa towns.
Becov nad Teplou is a bit of a journey from Prague, often requiring a combination of bus and train. Many visitors opt for day trips to Karlovy Vary first, then travel to Becov.
Information on specific parking availability directly at the castle can vary. It's best to check local resources or be prepared to park in the town and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees can be considered high, with one review mentioning 200 CZK in 2018 for the reliquary. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current pricing and consider online booking.
Yes, it is strongly recommended to buy tickets for the reliquary exhibition online in advance. This helps secure your entry and can streamline your visit.
While specific options vary, consider if a combined ticket for the castle and reliquary is available if you plan to explore both.
Opening hours can change seasonally. It's best to consult the official Becov nad Teplou Castle website for the most up-to-date information on operating times.
Yes, there is a small fee of 5 CZK required to use the lockers for storing bags and other belongings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The castle offers a main exhibition detailing its history, including the fascinating story of the St. Maurus Reliquary and its hidden treasure. You can also explore the castle grounds and courtyard.
Absolutely! The St. Maurus Reliquary is described as one of the most interesting castles in Czechia, with a 'seriously freezing' story of hidden treasure. It's considered a must-visit.
Some visitors have expressed a desire for live guides, suggesting that guided tours might not be consistently available or as prominent as self-guided options.
The reliquary has a dramatic history involving castle lords hiding it in 1945 and its discovery during the communist era in 1985. The story of its renovation and return is well-documented in the exhibition.
Yes, there are toilets and a small coffee shop located at the heart of the castle complex. Additionally, nearby restaurants and cafes offer beautiful terraces.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary within historical sites. It's advisable to check for signage or ask staff regarding restrictions on photography inside the reliquary exhibition and other interior spaces.
The castle courtyard, especially when filled with merchants, offers a lively scene. The panoramic views from the view post are also excellent for capturing the surrounding landscape.
As with most historical sites and protected areas, drone usage is likely restricted. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Visitors often capture the ornate details of the reliquary (where permitted), the historic architecture of the castle, and the scenic vistas from the grounds.
While the castle offers beautiful photo opportunities, its historical significance, particularly the reliquary, is the primary draw. The visuals enhance the overall experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There is a dedicated room for children within the castle complex, suggesting an effort to make the visit more family-friendly. Practical amenities like toilets and a small coffee shop are available, making it easier to manage a day out with younger visitors. The train journey to Becov nad Teplou can also be an enjoyable part of the adventure for kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Once at the castle, you can enjoy the courtyard and potentially the views without needing a full ticket, depending on access. The nearby restaurants and cafes offer good prices, providing a budget-friendly option for meals and refreshments. The 5 CZK fee for lockers is minimal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Captivating Story of the St. Maurus Reliquary
During the tumultuous end of World War II, the castle lords, fearing the advancing Soviet army, hid the reliquary. It remained concealed for decades, its location a closely guarded secret. The narrative of its discovery is equally compelling, occurring during the communist era in 1985. This tale of concealment, rediscovery, and eventual return to the castle is meticulously detailed within the exhibition, captivating guests with its suspense and historical intrigue.
Visitors often describe the story as 'seriously freezing' and something that 'will catch you.' The exhibition does a marvelous job of presenting this narrative, making the reliquary not just a beautiful object but a symbol of resilience and historical drama. The sheer craftsmanship and the compelling backstory make it a highlight that many travelers highly recommend experiencing.
Navigating to Becov nad Teplou
A highly recommended and scenic way to arrive is by the local small train that connects these towns. This train operates approximately every two hours and provides a journey of about 30 minutes to Becov nad Teplou. The ride itself is noted for its beauty, offering pleasant views as you approach the town. This mode of transport adds to the overall tranquil and picturesque experience of visiting the region.
For those coming from further afield, like Prague, the journey will be longer and may involve bus and train connections. While driving is an option, the train offers a more relaxed and integrated way to experience the local landscape. Be aware that finding the castle upon arrival might require some attention to signage, as it's not always immediately obvious.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit