A Legacy of Luxury in Karlovy Vary

The hotel began as a small social hall for the local elite. Over centuries, the Pupp family expanded it into a massive complex. It survived wars, political changes, and economic shifts. Its architecture reflects the Neo-Baroque style that defines the city. This style makes it a top pick for travelers exploring the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the region. The hotel is more than just a place to sleep.

It serves as a cultural hub for the famous Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. Every summer, the red carpet rolls out for global cinema icons. The staff has decades of experience serving high-profile visitors. They maintain a level of service that matches the hotel's grand reputation. If you love history, you will find endless stories here. The walls have witnessed secret meetings and grand celebrations for over 300 years.

10 Historic Spots and Famous Guest Links

Experience the history of Grandhotel Pupp famous guests by visiting these specific locations. Each spot has a unique connection to a legend. Here are our top picks for your next trip:

• Best overall: The Festive Hall
• Best for film fans: Casino Pupp
• Best for coffee lovers: Café Pupp
• Best free activity: The Walk of Fame

1. Name: The Festive Hall Type: sight Why go: This grand hall hosted Ludwig van Beethoven in 1812. It features stunning acoustics and ornate ceilings. Best for: Music lovers and history buffs. Where: Main building, first floor. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view during open hours. Getting there: Walk from the main lobby. Tip: Look for the plaque honoring Beethoven near the entrance.
2. Name: Café Pupp Type: experience Why go: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a frequent visitor here. You can enjoy an afternoon coffee in a literary setting. Best for: Relaxing and people-watching. Where: Street level, riverside. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Typical cafe prices ($5-$15). Getting there: Entrance is on the main riverside road. Tip: Try the signature Pupp cake for a traditional taste.
3. Name: Casino Pupp Type: activity Why go: This was the primary filming location for the James Bond movie Casino Royale. Daniel Craig spent many weeks here. Best for: Movie fans and nightlife. Where: Side wing of the hotel. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Entry is usually free; gambling costs vary. Getting there: Follow the signs from the hotel courtyard. Tip: Dress code is smart casual to enter the gaming areas.
4. Name: The Mirror Hall Type: sight Why go: Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as Sisi, dined here during her stays. The mirrors and gold leaf are breathtaking. Best for: Photography and royal history. Where: Central hotel wing. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included for hotel guests or tour groups. Getting there: Located near the Grand Restaurant. Tip: Visit in the morning for the best natural light.
5. Name: The Walk of Fame Type: sight Why go: It features brass plaques for stars like Morgan Freeman and Robert De Niro. It celebrates the hotel's link to cinema. Best for: Quick photo ops. Where: Exterior pavement in front of the hotel. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the river toward the hotel entrance. Tip: It is best viewed during daylight to see the names clearly.
6. Name: Becher's Bar Type: experience Why go: This 19th-century style bar is a favorite of John Malkovich. It offers a cozy, historic atmosphere. Best for: Evening drinks and late-night talks. Where: Lower level of the hotel. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Cocktails around $10-$20. Getting there: Use the stairs near the Malá Dvorana. Tip: Order a drink made with Becherovka, the local herbal liqueur.
7. Name: The Imperial Suite Type: experience Why go: This is where modern royalty and heads of state stay. It offers the best views of the valley. Best for: Luxury seekers. Where: Top floor of the Parkside wing. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: High-end luxury pricing. Getting there: Private elevator for suite guests. Tip: Book months in advance if you want this specific room.
8. Name: Malá Dvorana Type: sight Why go: The massive crystal chandelier here is a city icon. It is the heart of the hotel's social life. Best for: Grand architecture fans. Where: Main lobby atrium. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to visit the lobby. Getting there: Enter through the main revolving doors. Tip: Look up to see the intricate glasswork from the 19th century.
9. Name: The Pupp Spa Clinic Type: experience Why go: Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space, used the spa facilities here. It combines modern care with historic charm. Best for: Wellness and relaxation. Where: Dedicated spa wing. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Spa treatments start around $50. Getting there: Follow the indoor corridor from the main building. Tip: Book a mineral water bath for the full local experience.
10. Name: The Grand Restaurant Pupp Type: experience Why go: Famous composers like Richard Wagner enjoyed meals here. The service follows strict traditional standards. Best for: Fine dining and special occasions. Where: Main floor, river view. Time: 2 hours. Cost: $40-$100 per person. Getting there: Located right off the main lobby. Tip: Reservations are highly recommended for dinner.

Planning Your Visit to This Landmark

Visiting the hotel is easy if you are already in the city center. Most guests arrive via the Karlovy Vary railway station and take a short taxi ride. You can also walk through the spa zone to reach the hotel. This walk takes about 20 minutes from the Mill Colonnade. The path is flat and follows the Teplá River. It is a very scenic route for any traveler.

If you are not staying as a guest, you can still visit. The cafe and restaurants are open to the public daily. Many people visit during the film festival in July. However, this is the busiest time of the year. For a quieter experience, try visiting in the spring or autumn. The weather is mild, and the hotel is less crowded. You will have more time to explore the history of Grandhotel Pupp famous guests at your own pace.