Quick Picks for Your Festival Stay

Short on time? Use these quick recommendations to find your ideal base. These picks cover the most popular needs for festival attendees. You can also check our full KVIFF guide for more planning details.

• Best Overall: Hotel Thermal (The heart of the action)
• Best Luxury: Grandhotel Pupp (Iconic and glamorous)
• Best Budget: KVIFF Tent Village (Affordable and social)
• Best for Families: Drahovice Apartments (Quiet and spacious)

10 Best Places Where to Stay During Karlovy Vary Film Festival

Finding the right spot depends on your budget and interests. Most festival events happen near the river Tepla. Staying central saves time on walking between theaters. Here are the top ten locations to consider for your stay.

1. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Iconic Luxury Hotel Why go: It is the most famous hotel in the Czech Republic. Many Hollywood stars stay here. It hosts the closing gala and major KVIFF parties every year. Best for: Luxury and celebrity spotting. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: Full festival duration. Cost: High/Premium. Getting there: 15-minute walk from the city center. Tip: Visit the Becher's Bar for a classic festival cocktail.
2. Name: Hotel Thermal Type: Festival Hub Why go: This is the official headquarters of the film festival. It houses the main Grand Hall and press centers. You are seconds away from red carpet events and the festival ticket guide booths. Best for: Hardcore film fans. Where: City center near the river. Time: 3-9 days. Cost: Mid-to-high. Getting there: Central location, easy walking. Tip: The rooftop pool offers the best view of the city.
3. Name: Savoy Westend Hotel Type: Luxury Spa Resort Why go: It offers a quiet escape from the festival crowds. The hotel consists of five beautiful villas. It is perfect for relaxing between movie screenings. Best for: Peace and wellness. Where: Westend district. Time: 4-7 days. Cost: High. Getting there: 10-minute walk to the main colonnades. Tip: Book a massage to recover from long days of walking.
4. Name: KVIFF Tent Village Type: Budget Camping Why go: This is the most affordable way to experience the festival. It has a great social atmosphere for young travelers. It includes basic showers and security. Best for: Students and backpackers. Where: Rolava Sports Center. Time: 1-9 nights. Cost: Very Low. Getting there: Use the special festival shuttle bus. Tip: Bring your own high-quality sleeping bag for chilly nights.
5. Name: Hotel Romance Type: Boutique Hotel Why go: This hotel is located right across from the Mill Colonnade. It has a romantic, old-world atmosphere. The breakfast terrace is excellent for people-watching. Best for: Couples. Where: Central Spa Zone. Time: 3-5 days. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Walkable from all central cinemas. Tip: Ask for a room with a balcony facing the colonnade.
6. Name: Quisisana Palace Type: Boutique Luxury Why go: It offers personalized service in a stunning neo-Renaissance building. It is smaller and more private than the larger hotels. The location is ideal for reaching the theater district. Best for: Travelers seeking privacy. Where: Near Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 3-7 days. Cost: High. Getting there: Easy walk to the main festival venues. Tip: The restaurant serves some of the best coffee in town.
7. Name: Hotel Imperial Type: Landmark Spa Hotel Why go: This hotel sits high on a hill overlooking the valley. It looks like a fairy-tale castle. The funicular ride to the hotel is a unique experience. Best for: Spectacular views. Where: Imperial Hill. Time: 5-7 days. Cost: High. Getting there: Take the funicular from the theater square. Tip: Use the hotel's park for a quiet morning walk.
8. Name: Retro Riverside Wellness Resort Type: Nature Retreat Why go: It is located a few kilometers outside the city. This is a great choice if you have a car. It feels like a true vacation away from the noise. Best for: Nature lovers with transport. Where: Březová reservoir. Time: 4-7 days. Cost: Mid-to-high. Getting there: 10-minute drive or taxi. Tip: Rent a boat to explore the nearby reservoir.
9. Name: Drahovice Neighborhood Type: Local Apartment Rentals Why go: This residential area offers many private apartments. It is much cheaper than the spa zone. You can experience how locals live. Best for: Long stays and families. Where: Drahovice district. Time: 7+ days. Cost: Low-to-mid. Getting there: 15-minute walk or local bus. Tip: Shop at local grocery stores to save on food costs.
10. Name: Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort Type: Nearby Day Trip Stay Why go: This resort is perfect for those who want to mix golf with films. It is located in a beautiful green valley. The modern spa facilities are top-notch. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Cihelny (6km from city). Time: 3-5 days. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Short train ride or taxi. Tip: Check the train schedule on the railway station official site for easy commutes.

Essential Booking Tips for KVIFF 2026

The festival usually takes place in early July. You should book your accommodation at least six months in advance. Many regular visitors book their rooms a full year ahead. If you wait too long, prices will double or triple. Check the official tourism website for last-minute availability.

Consider your daily transport needs when choosing a location. The city is very hilly and can be tiring. The public transport authority runs extra buses during the festival. If you stay outside the center, look for hotels near bus stops. Walking is the best way to see the things to do in Karlovy Vary between movies.