If you’re looking for a hotel that feels like stepping into a classic European film set, Grandhotel Pupp delivers exactly that. Located in the historic spa town of Karlovy Vary, this legendary property has been welcoming guests for more than three centuries—and it still feels every bit as glamorous today.

Set along the Teplá River in the heart of town, the hotel is known for its dramatic architecture, grand ballrooms, and storied guest list that spans royalty, artists, and film stars. It’s also one of the most recognizable hotels in Central Europe, thanks in part to its appearance in the James Bond film Casino Royale.

Here’s our insider’s guide to one of Europe’s most iconic grand hotels.

The Story of Grandhotel Pupp

The history of Grandhotel Pupp dates back to 1701, when the original inn opened to accommodate visitors traveling to Karlovy Vary’s famous mineral springs. In the late 18th century, the property was acquired by confectioner Johann Georg Pupp, whose family expanded the hotel and transformed it into one of Europe’s most elegant spa destinations.

Over the centuries, the hotel became a favorite among aristocrats and cultural figures visiting the spa town—then known as Carlsbad—cementing its place in the region’s rich tradition of European spa culture.

The Setting in Czechia

Karlovy Vary is one of the most picturesque towns in Central Europe, famous for its pastel-colored buildings, riverfront promenades, and ornate colonnades where visitors sip the town’s mineral-rich spring water.

From Grandhotel Pupp, many of the town’s most famous landmarks are within walking distance, including the beautiful Mill Colonnade and the striking Hot Spring Colonnade.

The Design at Grandhotel Pupp

Grandhotel Pupp embodies the grandeur of historic European hotels. Inside, you’ll find sweeping staircases, glittering chandeliers, and richly decorated salons that evoke the golden age of travel.

The property is divided into two main sections: the historic Riverside Wing, which preserves much of the hotel’s original character, and the Parkside Wing, which offers more contemporary accommodations while still reflecting the hotel’s classic elegance.

One of the most breathtaking spaces in the hotel is the Pupp Ballroom, an ornate hall often used for events and celebrations.

The Film Connection

Even if you haven’t visited Karlovy Vary before, you may have already seen Grandhotel Pupp on screen.

The hotel served as a filming location for the James Bond movie Casino Royale, standing in for Montenegro’s luxurious Casino Royale hotel. Its grand interiors and dramatic architecture made it a natural fit for the film’s glamorous casino scenes.

The Experience of Staying at Grandhotel Pupp

Staying at Grandhotel Pupp is about more than just checking into a room—it’s about immersing yourself in a tradition of European hospitality that dates back centuries.

Guests can enjoy elegant dining, relaxing spa treatments, and easy access to the historic spa colonnades that have drawn travelers to Karlovy Vary for generations.

The Insider’s Key

Grandhotel Pupp is the kind of place where history feels alive. Between its cinematic interiors, spa-town setting, and centuries of stories, the hotel offers a travel experience that feels both timeless and unforgettable.

For travelers seeking a classic European grand hotel—with a touch of movie magic—this legendary property remains one of the most memorable stays in Central Europe.