During the breeding season, Red-breasted Flycatchers prefer mature deciduous or mixed forests with dense undergrowth, often close to water bodies. They are typically found in the canopy or mid-story, but may descend to lower levels to forage. During migration, they can be encountered in a wider variety of wooded habitats, including parks and gardens. Their wintering grounds are predominantly in the Indian subcontinent.

Spotting this bird often requires patience and good listening skills. Its song is a distinctive series of clear, fluty whistles, often ending with a characteristic 'trrrt' or 'zrrrt' sound, which is a good clue to its presence. Look for a small, active bird flitting through the leaves, darting out to catch insects in mid-air (flycatching behavior). The male's bright orange-red throat is unmistakable when seen well, but females and juveniles are duller and harder to identify. They are generally shy but can be observed when foraging actively.

Red-breasted Flycatchers are most active during daylight hours. The best time to observe them is during the breeding season (late spring to early summer) when males are vocal and more conspicuous due to their bright plumage and territorial displays. During migration periods (spring and autumn), they can be seen passing through various habitats on their journey between breeding grounds in Europe and Asia and wintering grounds in India.