CHATA AND CHALUPA: THE CZECH HOLIDAY HOME MARKET BETWEEN TRADITION AND RISING PRICES
After a downturn in the real estate market caused by the pandemic, holiday homes in Czechia particularly traditional chalupa houses and rustic chata cabins are enjoying renewed popularity in 2025. The Czech tradition of escaping to the countryside is stronger than ever, with many buyers and renters rediscovering the emotional and cultural value of owning or staying in a second home surrounded by nature. Demand is climbing not only among Czechs but also among foreign buyers who appreciate the natural charm, affordability, and unique atmosphere of Czech rural living. According to property portal Bezrealitky, prices for vacation properties increased by an average of 8.8% in the first half of the year, reaching approximately CZK 3.2 million. However, in the most desirable areas such as the Liberec and Hradec Králové regions prices can soar to CZK 4.95 million and CZK 4.67 million, respectively. The upward trend reflects a broader desire for retreat-style living, remote working potential, and growing tourism infrastructure.
Chata or chalupa? understanding Czech cottage culture
To fully understand this market, it’s essential to grasp the cultural and functional difference between a chata and a chalupa. A chata is a smaller, simpler weekend cabin often wooden, more rustic, and historically used by families seeking short-term escapes. These are typically not eligible for financing due to their informal status and more basic infrastructure. A chalupa, on the other hand, is usually a larger, older countryside house, often built with brick or stone, and more likely to have been renovated to meet modern living standards. These homes can be mortgaged and are more suitable for year-round use. The renewed demand for both types reflects the changing lifestyle preferences in Czech society. Urban residents are increasingly drawn to nature, wellness, and a slower pace of life values deeply embedded in the country’s post-war tradition of tramping and weekend retreats along the Vltava, Berounka, and Sázava rivers. This cultural revival supports not only the housing market but also rural economies and tourism services.
A diverse and evolving market
The cottage market in Czechia is far from homogenous. Prices and conditions vary drastically depending on location, property condition, and the presence of infrastructure such as water, electricity, and road access. Modest cottages in remote or underdeveloped areas can still be found for around CZK 850,000, especially if renovations are needed. However, renovated properties in high-demand areas especially in the mountains can fetch between CZK 5 and 6.4 million. Buyers in 2025 are much more discerning than during the Covid-era property rush. As Petr Makovský, director of Reality.iDNES.cz, notes, “The euphoria is gone. Today’s buyers are picky they want renovated, well-located, and technically sound properties.” This shift in buyer expectations has led to a growing market for high-quality renovations and design-forward properties, which offer a blend of traditional charm and modern comfort. At the same time, investors should be aware that the rental market in some tourist-heavy areas is becoming saturated.
Prime locations and hidden gems
The most popular regions for purchasing or renting holiday cottages continue to be the Krkonoše, Jizera, and Orlické Mountains, which offer both winter and summer recreational opportunities. These areas benefit from good infrastructure, consistent tourism, and natural beauty. Vysočina and the Lipno region are also in high demand, especially among Prague and Brno residents looking for weekend escapes. Meanwhile, emerging areas such as the Beskydy Mountains and the Kralický Sněžník region are gaining traction for their affordability and untouched landscapes. In addition to these popular zones like Pálava, Kokořínsko, and Slapy are favored for their proximity to major cities and high rental potential. Even more remote areas such as the Ore Mountains or Křivoklát present opportunities for buyers willing to invest in renovations and wait for long-term value appreciation. The diversity of regions allows for varied investment strategies, whether targeting seasonal rentals, personal retreat spaces, or long-term capital gains.
Renting as an alternative: comfort without commitment
For those who are not ready to purchase, renting a chata or chalupa remains a flexible and increasingly popular option. The range of rentals on the market is broad, from simple wooden cabins with outdoor fire pits to architect-designed retreats with spas, saunas, and ski-in access. According to real estate agents, current prices range from CZK 1,500 to 3,000 per night for standard accommodations and CZK 4,000 or more for premium options. Weekly rentals typically start at CZK 20,000–30,000, with many properties booked out well in advance for the summer season. With around 65% of Czechs planning to spend their holidays within the country, early booking is essential. The flexibility of renting also allows families to explore different regions before deciding where to invest. Ultimately, whether buying or renting, the renewed interest in chata and chalupa living represents not just a market trend but a deeper cultural reconnection with Czechia’s natural landscapes, traditions, and rhythms of life.
Sources: https://www.expats.cz/
