New in Switzerland and feeling alone? You’re not the only one. Here’s how to overcome loneliness and make real friends – even if you’re shy.
You’re surrounded by mountains, clean cities, and polite people…
Yet something’s missing.
You feel alone.
Whether you’re a new expat, international student, remote worker, or even a local in a new life phase – loneliness in Switzerland is real. And you’re definitely not the only one feeling this way.
Here’s how to overcome it – no fake confidence required.
Loneliness is not a personal failure.
In a country where people value privacy and routine, it’s easy to feel invisible.
The first step is knowing you’re not broken – you’re just in a place that makes connection harder. But not impossible.
We tell ourselves we’ll go out next week, when we feel better, when we speak better German.
Truth? That day never comes.
Start with something small: Join an online event. Say hi in a local chat. Attend a City Mates coffee meetup near you. It doesn’t need to be perfect – it just needs to happen.
At City Mates events, many people start with the same sentence:
“I’m new here.”
“I don’t know anyone.”
And guess what? That sentence unlocks the room. Vulnerability leads to real conversation. Real connection.
Feeling overwhelmed in big crowds?
You’re not alone. That’s why City Mates focuses on small, curated experiences: 5–15 people, shared interests, clear expectations. Whether it’s a hike, a games night, or a wine tasting – it’s connection, not chaos.
This isn’t about becoming the most social person in the room.
It’s about being in the room.
That’s enough.
And when you do – you’ll realise most people there feel exactly like you.
And suddenly, you’re not alone anymore.
Start small.
Start today.
Join an event on City Mates and see what happens when you’re just a little brave.
