Where to find an apartment in Prague as an expat: A complete guide
Updated February 2025 · 11 min read
The Prague rental market can be confusing for new expats, listings are scattered across dozens of portals, agencies charge varying fees, and not all landlords are willing to rent to foreigners. This guide will help you navigate the market and find an apartment as efficiently as possible.
Main portals for searching for an apartment in Prague
The Prague apartment market is fragmented across several key platforms. Each has a different focus:
- Sreality.cz - The largest Czech property portal. Most listings available, but the majority of ads are in Czech and via agencies charging commission.
- Bezrealitky.cz - "Without an estate agent" means no commission. Direct contact with the owner saves you 20 000-40 000 Kč. It pays to check daily.
- Expats.cz - Advertisements written in English targeting expats. A smaller selection, but easier communication.
- Airbnb / Booking.com - For short stays while searching for long-term accommodation. Reserve the first 2-4 weeks while you view other properties.
- Facebook groups - "Prague Apartments for Rent", "Expats Prague Housing". Fast offers, direct contact with owners.
Best neighbourhoods for expats
The choice of district depends on your lifestyle and workplace. The most popular districts among expats in Prague are:
| Neighbourhood | Expat community | Rent for a studio apartment (1+kk) | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinohrady (Prague 2) | Very strong | 22 000-38 000 Kč | Young professionals and creatives |
| Holešovice (Prague 7) | Strong | 18 000-30 000 Kč | Start-ups, artists, nomads |
| Dejvice (Prague 6) | Strong | 22 000-35 000 Kč | Diplomats, families, managers |
| Prague 1 | Medium | 30 000-55 000 Kč | Business travellers, luxury |
Legal minimums for expats in Prague
As a foreigner in the Czech Republic, you are obliged to register your stay with the Foreign Police within 30 days of arrival (EU citizens) or as part of your visa process (non-EU). Your landlord must sign an accommodation declaration. Without it, you cannot:
- Open a Czech bank account
- Register with a doctor in the Czech Republic
- Register children for school
- Apply for a long-term residence permit or permanent residence permit
Ensure in advance that your landlord agrees to the notification: some refuse for tax or other reasons.
What to prepare before looking for an apartment
Landlords in Prague are cautious when selecting tenants, especially foreigners. Prepare these documents in advance so you can respond quickly:
- Passport or identity card
- Proof of income - payslips for the last 3 months or an employment contract
- Reference from the previous tenant - if you have them, they significantly increase the chances
- Cover letter (optional): a brief introduction to yourself and your housing intentions. It works better than with Czechs.
Typical costs when moving in
- Deposit: usually 2-3 months' rent (fully refundable upon compliance with the contract)
- Commission to the agency: 1 month's rent - only if you go through an agency
- First rental: in advance upon signing the contract
- Total costs upon moving in: 3-5 times the monthly rent
Practical tips for effective searching
- Set up email notifications on Bezrealitky.cz and Sreality.cz: good flats disappear within 24-48 hours.
- Schedule inspections on weekdays. You'll face less competition than at weekends.
- Offer a cash deposit payment (by bank transfer on the day of signing): owners will appreciate this.
- Check on your neighbours and noise levels: take a walk around the area at different times of day.
- To translate the contract, use DeepL or hire a translator (approx. 500 Kč).
Are you looking for temporary accommodation at the beginning?
Booking.com is ideal for your first weeks in Prague before you find a long-term flat.
View accommodation →Frequently Asked Questions
Where to find an apartment in Prague as a foreigner?
Foreigners achieve the best results on Expats.cz (English listings), Bezrealitky.cz (no commission) and Facebook groups "Prague Apartments for Rent". The most popular districts for expats are Vinohrady, Holešovice and Dejvice. The Expat Center Prague agency specialises in English-speaking tenants.
How much does rent cost in Prague?
The average rent for a furnished 1+kk apartment ranges from 12,000 to 55,000 Kč per month. Vinohrady: 22,000-38,000 Kč, Holešovice: 17,000-30,000 Kč, Prague 1: 30,000-55,000 Kč. Add utility deposits (3,000-6,000 Kč/month) and a security deposit of 2-3 months' rent.
How to quickly find an apartment in Prague?
On the Prague market, speed is key, good flats disappear within 24-48 hours. Set up notifications, respond immediately, and have your documents ready. Arrange short-term accommodation first and search for a flat in person from Prague.
What is the deposit for renting an apartment in Prague?
The standard deposit is 2-3 months' rent. Add 1 month's commission when using an agency. Total move-in costs are 3-5 times the monthly rent. The deposit is fully refundable, always sign the handover protocol for protection.