New in Klagenfurt? 5 Easy Ways to Meet People

Klagenfurt may be a small city, but when it comes to meeting people, that’s actually an advantage. With its cozy size, stunning location near lakes and mountains, and welcoming Carinthian vibe, it’s a place where a friendly “Servus” can go a long way.

If you’re new here – whether you’re working, studying at the University of Klagenfurt, or simply starting fresh – here are 5 easy and effective ways to make friends in Klagenfurt (Freunde finden in Klagenfurt) and become part of the community.

1. Join a Local Sports or Outdoor Group

Living near Lake Wörthersee and the Alps means you’re surrounded by opportunities for outdoor fun – and outdoor friendships.

👉 Try:

• Hiking clubs (Alpenverein Klagenfurt offers group hikes for all levels)
• Running or cycling groups along the Wörthersee trails
• Sports Vereine for volleyball, football, yoga, or even stand-up paddling
  

💡 Tip: Many clubs are open to beginners and internationals – just show up and say Hallo!

2. Attend Traditional Events & Local Festivals

Klagenfurt has a rich Carinthian culture that’s actually very social. Locals love a good fair, concert, or open-air gathering – and they’re usually happy to welcome newcomers.

🎉 Don’t miss:

• Altstadtzauber – music and arts festival in the old town
• Wiesenmarkt (St. Veit) – traditional fair with food, music, and dancing
• Advent markets – perfect for Glühwein and relaxed chats
  

💬 Pro tip: Locals appreciate when you show interest in regional customs. Even if you don’t speak perfect German, being there is what counts.

3. Use City Mates & Social Apps to Find Events

If you want to meet people who are also new in town, social apps are your best friend. These platforms help you connect offline through curated meetups, not endless messages.

📱 Recommended:

• City Mates – local app for fun, casual events with other newcomers
• Facebook groups like “Expats in Klagenfurt” or “Neu in Klagenfurt”
• Meetup.com – smaller selection, but growing
  

👉 You can even create your own event on City Mates – a hike, a coffee meetup, or a board game night. Others are just waiting for someone to make the first move.

4. Hang Out at Cafés & Talk to Strangers (Really!)

Klagenfurt has a warm café culture, especially around the old town. People actually linger here – reading, chatting, or just enjoying a slow coffee.

☕ Friendly spots:

• Café Ingeborg – cozy and often hosts events
• Domgassner – great for brunch and people-watching
• Café Bar Palim Palim – student-friendly and creative
  

💡 Sit at the bar or a community table – and don’t be afraid to say, “Bist du auch neu hier?”

5. Get Involved at the University (Even If You’re Not a Student)

The University of Klagenfurt is a cultural and social hub – and many of its events are open to the public.

🎓 Try:

• Language tandem programs
• Lectures, workshops, and film nights open to the public
• ESN Klagenfurt – if you’re a student or just looking for international vibes
  

Even non-students can get involved – check bulletin boards or the Uni’s social media channels.

Final Thoughts: Small City, Big Opportunities

In Klagenfurt, you’re only ever a few steps away from a potential new friend. Whether you’re at a lakeside yoga class, sipping a Verlängerter in a café, or joining a local club – this city rewards those who take the initiative.

So don’t wait for someone to invite you — be the one who says “Lust auf einen Kaffee?”

👉 Join City Mates and discover friendly events to meet people in Klagenfurt