Top 5 student cities in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is one of the best countries for an exchange programme or Erasmus. There are many reasons for this: it's inexpensive, it's the world's leading beer-producing country, it has a great student atmosphere... If you're thinking of studying in this country but aren't sure which city to go to, here are the top 5 student cities in the Czech Republic.

 

Throughout the article, you’ll be able to compare each destination with specific data: pros and cons, top universities, and rental prices for students. This’ll give you a clear picture of what each city has to offer based on your budget, lifestyle, and academic preferences.

 

And, once you have decided which of the 5 best cities to study in the Czech Republic is right for you, through our online student accommodation platform, you’ll be able to search for and book your room, flat or verified residence easily and securely throughout the country.

 

Prague

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and, among Czech destinations, it’s the one that receives the most students each year. This university city isn’t only one of the most beautiful, with incredible architecture and the largest castle in Europe, but it also offers a high quality of life at very affordable prices compared to other capitals.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Prague

The academic experience in Prague has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.

 

Pros of studying in Prague

• Large student community, both Czech and foreign.
• Plenty of cultural offerings: museums, theatres, concerts, and events throughout the year.
• Internationally recognised universities.
• Efficient and economical public transport, within Prague and for travelling to other cities and countries.

 

Cons of studying in Prague

• Despite being inexpensive compared to other capitals, it’s the most expensive city in the country to live in.
• It’s very touristy, which can be overwhelming and tiring.
• The demand for student accommodation is very high, and finding the ideal place can take a lot of time and effort.

 

Top Universities in Prague

The Czech capital is home to some world-renowned institutions.

 

Univerzita Karlova (Charles University)

Charles University in Prague is the oldest and most prestigious university in the country, as well as one of the oldest in Europe still in operation. Most of its faculties are spread across different districts of Prague, although it also has some in Pilsen and Hradec Králové.

See the complete guide to student housing close to Charles University in Prague for more information.

 

Ceské Vysoké Ucení Technické v Praze (Czech Technical University)

The Czech Technical University in Prague is one of the largest institutions in the country and a leader in engineering and technology. The main campus is in Dejvice, but it has other campuses in different parts of the city.

If you’re going to study there, don't miss our guide to accommodation near the Czech Technical University in Prague.

 

Student housing in Prague

Although the Czech Republic is an inexpensive country, Prague, being the capital and a very touristy city, has the highest prices in the country. Even so, it’s possible to find affordable options if you book in advance. As a reference, the cost of single rooms in shared flats usually ranges from €350 upwards, with an average of €500 per month.

 

Are you looking for accommodation in the Czech Republic? Read our student accommodation in Prague, with different types, the best neighbourhoods and approximate prices.

 

Brno

Brno is the second most important city in the Czech Republic and one of the favourite destinations among international students for studying. It boasts an incredible student atmosphere—reportedly even better than Prague—along with a lower cost of living than the capital and universities known for their high-quality teaching. It also has cafés, libraries, cultural spaces, and a very active nightlife.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Brno

Brno stands out for its benefits for students, but it also has some weaknesses.

 

Pros of studying in Brno

• The cost of living and rents are cheaper than in Prague.
• Excellent student atmosphere with many events, festivals, and activities.
• Efficient and safe public transport.
• More tranquility in the city because there are fewer tourists.

 

Cons of studying in Brno

• Fewer cultural and employment opportunities than the capital.
• The demand for accommodation rises sharply at the beginning of each semester.
• Fewer English-language programmes at universities.

 

Top Universities in Brno

There are several institutions offering high-quality education in this Czech city.

 

Masarykova Univerzita (Masaryk University)

Masaryk University is one of the most prestigious universities in the country, known for its humanities, science, and medicine faculties. It has five different campuses in Brno, and the main one consists of buildings in the historic centre and the Veveří district.

Find out everything about the university and its surroundings in our guide to accommodation near Masaryk University.

 

Vysoké učení technické v Brně (Brno University of Technology)

Brno University of Technology ranks among the most important technical universities in the country, excelling particularly in subjects such as engineering, architecture and technology. Most of its faculties are located on the campus in Královo Pole, but it also has buildings in other areas of Brno.

Find the best areas to live in our article on housing close to the Brno University of Technology.

 

Student housing in Brno

Rent in Brno is generally more affordable than in Prague, which attracts many students looking for a good quality of life without spending as much. Even in areas close to the city centre, prices tend to be more moderate. For example, the cost of a room in a shared flat is usually around €350-400, starting at approximately €250.

 

If you’d like to see all the available options, please consult our guide to student accommodation in Brno.

 

Olomouc

Olomouc is one of the most traditional university towns in the Czech Republic. Despite its small size, it attracts Czech and foreign students looking for a quiet and relaxed atmosphere with prices that are affordable for student budgets. It also has a beautiful historic centre where you can delve into local history and culture.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Olomouc

Studying in Olomouc can be amazing, although there are also some drawbacks to consider.

 

Pros of studying in Olomouc

• Prices are lower than in Prague and Brno (including rent).
• The student environment is lively, with plans throughout the year.
• It’s a small town and easy to get around.
• It’s surrounded by natural sites and has several green spaces to enjoy.

 

Cons of studying in Olomouc

• A quieter atmosphere and more limited nightlife than in large cities.
• The availability of jobs for students is more limited.
• It has less variety of programmes in English.

 

Top Universities in Olomouc

One higher education institution in particular stands out in this Czech city.

 

Univerzita Palackého v Olomouci (Palacký University Olomouc)

Palacký University is one of the oldest universities in the Czech Republic and Central Europe. Its faculties are located in buildings scattered throughout different parts of the city, in neighbourhoods such as Envelopa, Staré Město and Nová Ulice.

Find out more details in the guide to accommodation near Palacký University.

 

Student housing in Olomouc

Olomouc is usually one of the most affordable options in the country when it comes to accommodation. Prices are significantly lower than in Prague and are also usually lower than in Brno. The minimum cost of a room in a shared flat is usually €250, and the average is around €320 per month.

 

Are you planning to study in the Czech Republic? Don't miss our guide to student accommodation in Olomouc, with up-to-date neighbourhoods and prices.

 

Ostrava

Ostrava is the third largest city in the country, but it’s still relatively small. It’s an industrial city that has undergone extensive renovation in recent years, transforming itself into a modern and accessible university destination. Its atmosphere is quieter than that of Prague or Brno, but it offers a good quality of life, low prices and a growing student community.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Ostrava

Being a student in Ostrava has many favourable aspects, but there are also factors that may be less appealing.

 

Pros of studying in Ostrava

• Its cost of living is among the lowest of university cities in the Czech Republic.
• Growing cultural and leisure offerings, with cultural centres and creative spaces.
• Greater availability of student accommodation.
• Ease of travelling around the country and to Krakow, because it is close to the border.

 

Cons of studying in Ostrava

• Its nightlife and activities are more limited than in larger cities.
• There are fewer job opportunities for foreign students because of the language.
• Winters can be colder than in other parts of the country, with temperatures of -5ºC or even lower.

 

Top Universities in Ostrava

Ostrava attracts Czech and international students due to the quality of its universities.

 

Czech Ostravská univerzita (University of Ostrava)

The University of Ostrava is one of the newest public institutions in the country, but it still offers very high-quality education. It has faculties in the city centre and in the Šalamouna neighbourhood.

 

Technická univerzita Ostrava (Technical University of Ostrava)

The Technical University of Ostrava is nationally recognised for engineering, mining, technology and IT. Its main campus is located south of the city centre, about 45 minutes away by public transport.

 

Student housing in Ostrava

Ostrava is usually one of the most affordable cities in the country in terms of rent, with prices significantly lower than Prague, Brno, and even Olomouc. A room in a shared flat usually costs between €150 and €300 per month, depending on its location.

 

If you’re going to study in the Czech city, check out our guide to student accommodation in Ostrava with information on prices and recommended neighbourhoods.

 

Pilsen

Pilsen, internationally renowned for its beer production, is another city that’s becoming increasingly popular among foreign students. This is because it has a peaceful atmosphere and is a comfortable size to explore, while also offering affordable prices and prestigious universities. It’s a good alternative for those who want to experience life away from the crowds of larger cities.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Pilsen

Living and studying in Pilsen offers many benefits, although there are also certain negative aspects to consider during your stay.

 

Pros of studying in Pilsen

• It’s a safe, manageable city with a good quality of life.
• It strikes a balance between a peaceful environment and cultural options.
• The cost of living and rents are lower than in the capital and Brno.
• Its student body is active because it has several international programmes.

 

Cons of studying in Pilsen

• Plans for nights out are less common than in larger cities.
• The Czech language makes it difficult to communicate with the locals if you don’t learn at least a little bit of it.
• Less chance of getting a job or internship.

 

Top Universities in Pilsen

Pilsen is home to several renowned institutions.

 

Západočeská univerzita v Plzni (University of West Bohemia in Pilsen)

The University of West Bohemia is the city's main university, renowned for its faculties of engineering, law, applied arts, education and economics. Some of its faculties are located in central areas of the city, while others are located in different parts of Pilsen.

 

Univerzita Karlova (Charles University)

The Faculty of Medicine of Charles University is located in Pilsen, in an area close to the historic city centre.

Student housing in Pilsen

Rent in Pilsen is usually cheaper than in Prague and Brno, and comparable to cities such as Olomouc. The cost of a room in a shared flat is typically between €200 and €400 per month.

 

For more information about university life, accommodation and areas to live in this city, you can read our guide on student accommodation in Pilsen.

 

Find accommodation in the Czech Republic with Erasmus Play

Choosing between the top five student cities in the Czech Republic depends on your budget, the type of experience you are looking for, and the university environment that best suits you. Prague offers the most international environment, Brno stands out for its balance between quality of life and prices, and cities such as Olomouc, Ostrava, and Pilsen are affordable and quiet alternatives for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

 

Once you have chosen your city, our student accommodation platform allows you to search for rooms, flats and verified residences easily and securely, so that you can arrive with everything organised and start your academic experience without any complications. Book as soon as possible to secure your place!

Other guides on studying and living in the Czech Republic

Still undecided and need more information about these destinations? Find more interesting details in the following guides:

Studying in the Czech Republic

• Erasmus in the Czech Republic
• Erasmus in Prague
• Erasmus in Brno
• Erasmus in Olomouc
• Erasmus in Ostrava
• Erasmus in Pilsen

Accommodation and student residences in the Czech Republic

• The best neighbourhoods for students in Prague
• The best neighbourhoods for students in Brno
• Guide of Student residences in Prague
• Guide of Student residences in Brno
• Guide of Student residences in Ostrava
• Guide of Student residences in Pilsen
• Flatshare in Prague
• Flatshare in Brno
• Flatshare in Ostrava
• Flatshare in Pilsen