Meet New People in Bern: 5 Ways to Expand Your Social Circle

Meet New People in Bern: 5 Ways to Expand Your Social Circle

Whether you’re new in town or simply looking to refresh your social life, meeting new people in Bern (Neue Leute kennenlernen Bern) can feel a bit intimidating at first. The Swiss capital has a more laid-back and reserved vibe compared to other cities, but behind that calm surface is a vibrant, close-knit community.

Here are five tried-and-true ways to connect with others, build friendships, and make the most of your time in Bern – whether you’re an expat, intern, student, or local.

1. Join a Club or Cultural Group

Bern is full of clubs and associations (Vereine) that bring people together around shared interests – from music and politics to art, hiking, or board games.

👉 Where to look:

• Progr Zentrum für Kulturproduktion – a hub for artists, musicians, and creatives
• Bärnboarders or Wandergruppen – for nature and sports lovers
• Use vereinsverzeichnis.ch to search for local clubs by interest

💡 Tip: Clubs are a huge part of Swiss culture – and a great way to meet both locals and internationals who share your passions.

2. Attend a Stammtisch or Networking Event

Bern’s political identity as the Swiss capital makes it a natural place for Stammtisch events – informal gatherings around a topic or community. From political cafés to start-up networking events, you’ll find plenty of casual spaces to talk, debate, and connect.

👉 Try these:

• Impact Hub Bern – for startup & impact-driven networking
• Polit-Stammtisch at Café Marta – for open political exchange
• Student associations at Uni Bern – especially active in social topics

3. Use Apps That Connect People – Not Just for Dating

If you’re looking for something more intentional than scrolling on dating apps, try social apps made to meet friends or join interest-based events.

👉 Top picks:

• City Mates – an app for curated real-life events where you can meet others in Bern without pressure
• Meetup.com – many English-speaking and international events
• Bumble BFF – yes, it works in Bern too

4. Volunteer for a Cause That Matters

Volunteering is a powerful (and underrated) way to meet new people in Bern. You contribute to the community and meet others who care about the same things – a great base for real friendships.

👉 Where to start:

• Swiss Red Cross Bern
• Caritas Bern
• Service Civil International (SCI) – based in Bern, great for international volunteers
• Check out benevol-jobs.ch for opportunities

5. Say Yes to Local Events – Even If They’re Outside Your Comfort Zone

From outdoor movie nights and flea markets to food festivals and live music in the old town – Bern always has something going on. Sometimes, the best way to meet people is simply to show up.

👉 Keep an eye on:

• Eventfrog.ch or Agenda.Bern.ch for local happenings
• Reitschule Bern – alternative culture and concerts
• Aare hangouts – popular among locals in summer (yes, you’ll likely end up swimming too)

Final Thoughts

In Bern, it may take a bit more initiative than in some bigger cities – but the reward is deeper, more meaningful connections. Whether you’re trying to make friends in Bern, build your network, or just want to share a drink by the Aare, there’s a place (and a person) waiting for you.

So step out, say Hoi, and take that first step. You’ll be surprised how quickly your circle grows.

👉 Explore City Mates and join your next social event in Bern

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