New in Switzerland? Learn how to overcome cultural barriers, meet locals and expats, and create meaningful friendships with these 6 proven strategies.
Switzerland often ranks as one of the best countries for quality of life. Stunning landscapes, safe cities, and great career opportunities attract thousands of expats every year. But behind the postcard-perfect image lies a common challenge: many expats struggle to build a social circle in Switzerland.
This guide will show you how to overcome cultural barriers and create meaningful friendships in your new home.
The good news? With the right approach, you can build a vibrant social life here.
City Mates is designed to help expats and locals connect through curated events. From rooftop dinners in Zurich to hikes in Lucerne, these events create safe and fun spaces for meeting new people.
Even basic German, French, or Italian opens doors. Language schools and community classes are also a great place to meet others in the same situation.
Switzerland has thousands of local clubs (Vereine). Whether you’re into football, hiking, or music, joining a club is one of the fastest ways to meet locals.
Internations, Facebook expat groups, and coworking hubs are filled with people who know what it feels like to be new. Many lifelong friendships start here.
Festivals, charity runs, and cultural events are not just fun — they’re also opportunities to meet like-minded people.
Invite colleagues, neighbors, or new acquaintances for a dinner or game night. Taking initiative shows openness and often leads to strong bonds.
Expat life in Switzerland can feel isolating at first, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. By joining the right communities and events, you can build a social circle that makes Switzerland feel like home.
👉 Check out upcoming City Mates events near you and take the first step today.
