The Star-Studded History of Grandhotel Pupp

Grandhotel Pupp dates back to the late 17th century. It began as a small social hall for local elites. Over time, it grew into a massive neo-Baroque palace. The Grandhotel Pupp architecture and history reflect the city's golden age. It served as the inspiration for the Grand Budapest Hotel movie. The building is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. This status recognizes the city's unique spa culture. Every year, the hotel hosts the International Film Festival. This event brings a new wave of celebrities to the lobby. The hotel combines old-world charm with modern luxury. You will see marble floors and crystal chandeliers everywhere.

10 Famous Guests Who Stayed at Grandhotel Pupp

The guest list at Grandhotel Pupp is truly extraordinary. Here are ten of the most notable figures who have walked these halls. Each has left a unique mark on the hotel's legacy.

• Quick Pick: Best for Movie Fans - Daniel Craig (James Bond)
• Quick Pick: Best for History Buffs - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
• Quick Pick: Best for Music Lovers - Ludwig van Beethoven
• Quick Pick: Best for Local Culture - Queen Latifah

1. Name: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Type: historical experience Why go: The famous German poet visited Karlovy Vary 13 times. He loved the hotel's social atmosphere. Best for: Literature fans. Where: Main hotel building. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view plaques. Getting there: Walk from the Tepla river. Tip: Look for his dedicated plaque on the exterior wall.
2. Name: Ludwig van Beethoven Type: historical experience Why go: The legendary composer stayed here in 1812. He performed in the hotel's grand halls. Best for: Classical music enthusiasts. Where: The Festive Hall. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Varies by event. Getting there: Central Karlovy Vary. Tip: Check the concert schedule to hear music in the same room.
3. Name: Daniel Craig Type: film sight Why go: He stayed here while filming Casino Royale. The hotel served as the fictional Hotel Splendide. Best for: James Bond fans. Where: The Royal Suite. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view the lobby. Getting there: Southern end of the spa zone. Tip: Visit the hotel bar where Bond-themed drinks are served.
4. Name: Queen Latifah Type: film sight Why go: She filmed the movie Last Holiday here. The hotel is the primary setting for the story. Best for: Rom-com lovers. Where: The Presidential Suite. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view lobby. Getting there: Walk along the river. Tip: Watch the movie before your visit to recognize the rooms.
5. Name: Richard Wagner Type: historical experience Why go: The composer was a regular guest. He enjoyed the privacy of the luxury suites. Best for: Music historians. Where: Historical wing. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view grounds. Getting there: Near the city theater. Tip: Read the guest book archives in the lobby museum.
6. Name: John Malkovich Type: celebrity experience Why go: A frequent guest during the film festival. He even launched his own fashion line here. Best for: Modern cinema fans. Where: Becher's Bar. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Price of a drink. Getting there: Lower level of the hotel. Tip: Visit during July to spot celebrities in the bar.
7. Name: Giacomo Casanova Type: historical experience Why go: The famous adventurer stayed here during his travels. He enjoyed the vibrant nightlife of the 18th century. Best for: History buffs. Where: The original social halls. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Imagine the grand balls that took place in the main hall.
8. Name: Morgan Freeman Type: celebrity experience Why go: He received a lifetime achievement award here. He praised the hotel's service and architecture. Best for: Fans of Hollywood legends. Where: The Grand Restaurant. Time: 2 hours for dinner. Cost: High-end dining prices. Getting there: Main entrance. Tip: Book a table in advance for the best view.
9. Name: Helen Mirren Type: celebrity experience Why go: She stayed at the Pupp while attending the film festival. She is known to enjoy the spa treatments. Best for: Spa lovers. Where: Pupp Royal Spa. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Spa treatment fees. Getting there: Dedicated spa entrance. Tip: Try the local mineral water treatments she enjoyed.
10. Name: Robert De Niro Type: celebrity experience Why go: Another major star of the film festival. He stayed in the hotel's most luxurious quarters. Best for: Film buffs. Where: The Imperial Suite. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free to view exterior. Getting there: Walk from the Grandhotel Pupp bus stop. Tip: Look for his star on the Walk of Fame outside.

How to Experience the Celebrity Lifestyle at Pupp

You do not need to stay overnight to enjoy the hotel. Many people ask, can you visit Grandhotel Pupp without staying? The answer is a definite yes. You can walk through the lobby and admire the decor. Be sure to check out the Walk of Fame outside. It features brass plaques with the names of famous guests. This is a great spot for photos. Afterward, head to Becher's Bar for a cocktail. This bar has a classic, moody atmosphere. It feels like a scene from a spy movie. You can also enjoy tea in the Grand Restaurant. The service is impeccable and very formal. It is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.