New in Basel? How to Meet People and Feel at Home

Basel is a city of contrasts: international and deeply local, lively and calm, artistic and professional. For newcomers, it’s easy to fall in love with the architecture, the Rhine, and the high quality of life. But let’s be real — Freunde finden in Basel can be a bit tricky at first.

Swiss people are often described as reserved, and while that’s not untrue, it doesn’t mean they aren’t open to new connections — especially if you take the first step.

Here’s how you can meet new people in Basel and feel at home faster than you might expect:

1. Join After-Work Events & Local Apéros

Many Basel companies and coworking spaces organize casual after-work meetups — from networking apéros to beer nights by the river.

👉 Try:

• Impact Hub Basel – great space for creative minds and events
• Buvettes along the Rhine – informal spots where locals and expats mingle in summer
• “Afterwork Basel” groups on Meetup or Facebook

2. Explore Basel’s Social Clubs & Associations

From rowing clubs on the Rhine to book circles, the city has countless Vereine (clubs). These are at the heart of Swiss social life – and a great way to meet locals and integrate.

👉 Where to start:

• Gundeldingerfeld – cultural & community space
• Basel Rowing Club or Stammtisch groups
• Volunteer opportunities via platforms like benevol-jobs.ch

3. Make the Most of Expat Communities

Basel is home to many international employees, especially in pharma, research, and academia. That means there are plenty of others in the same boat as you.

👉 Join:

• Internations Basel – regular meetups and interest-based groups
• Basel Expats on Facebook – huge, active community
• City Mates – app-based friend-making through real-life events in Basel

4. Say Yes to Outdoor Events – Especially by the Rhine

The Rhine isn’t just for swimming – it’s a social hub, especially in summer. Open-air movie nights, BBQs, spontaneous music sessions… It’s where locals hang out, and where new friendships often start.

👉 Tip: Pack a Wickelfisch, some snacks, and head to Kleinbasel on a sunny day.

5. Try Group Activities or Take a Class

One of the easiest ways to meet new people in Basel is to do something together. Whether it’s a dance class, a cooking workshop, or a photography walk – shared activities create shared stories.

👉 Check out:

• Volkshochschule beider Basel – language, culture, creative workshops
• Basel Art Classes or Open Studio Sessions
• Yoga or fitness groups at Klybeck or Dreispitz

6. Use Social Apps for Real-Life Meetups

If you’re not sure where to start, try an app that connects people through real-life events instead of endless messaging.

👉 City Mates is perfect for newcomers who want to skip the small talk and join curated meetups in Basel – whether it’s for drinks, hikes, or creative hangouts.

7. Be Proactive, Be Patient

Yes – it might take a little more effort in Switzerland. But that also means friendships tend to be deep and long-lastingonce they’re built.

Don’t get discouraged if things don’t click right away. Keep showing up, stay curious, and say Hoi with a smile – it goes a long way.

Final Thoughts

If you’re new in town and wondering how to meet new people in Basel, you’re not alone. Thousands of others feel the same. The key is to take the first step, show up, and give things time.

Whether you prefer apéros, art, or after-work hikes – Basel has a place for you.

👉 Join City Mates and discover local events to connect with people in Basel

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