Joining activities and expat groups

Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t know anyone yet. Whether you’re in Geneva for work, study, or family, finding a sense of community is one of the most important steps toward settling in.

It’s often said that making friends in Switzerland can be harder than in other countries. Many newcomers find that locals tend to keep a respectful distance, especially at first. As a result, people often remain within the “expat bubble”, socializing mainly with other internationals. While there’s nothing wrong with that, getting involved in local life can help you feel more integrated and connected in the long run.

Fortunately, Geneva has some regular local events and expat groups that make it easier to meet people and build a social circle.

Why it helps to get involved

Joining a group or activity isn’t just about filling your calendar. It’s a way to connect with people who understand what it’s like to start fresh in a new place. Many locals and long-time expats are welcoming and happy to share advice, such as finding the best spots for a weekend hike.

Being part of a group can also make administrative and cultural challenges feel less isolating. Talking to others who’ve gone through the same experiences can help you gain perspective and reduce stress.

Where to look for local activities

Geneva offers some regular local events and opportunities to get involved. Depending on your interests and language preferences, you can explore a range of options:

• CAGI – Geneva Welcome Center
  Offers events and resources for newcomers, especially those working for international organizations or NGOs.
• Meetup
  A good place to start if you’re looking for hobby-based groups like hiking, language exchange, or board games.
• Glocals
  A long-standing expat platform in Geneva with regular social events, forums, and classified ads.
• InterNations
  Hosts monthly gatherings and niche interest groups for professionals and newcomers alike.
• UN Portals and Staff Associations
  If you’re affiliated with an international organization, check your intranet or HR office for internal social clubs and sports teams.
• Maison de Quartier (FASe – Fondation genevoise pour l’animation socioculturelle)
  Each neighborhood has its own community house that organizes workshops, language cafés, and local events, often at low cost.

Tips to make the most of it

If you’re feeling hesitant about joining an event or reaching out, you’re not alone. Here are a few things that can help you ease into it:

• Start with a one-time event or open-door session to see how it feels
• Join a language tandem to combine socializing with language learning
• Follow groups on social media to stay updated on upcoming events
• Don’t worry about being fluent in French, many activities are held in English or are language-friendly
• Go in with a mindset of curiosity rather than pressure to make instant friends

Getting involved in local life doesn’t have to happen overnight. Try a few different things until you find the spaces and people that feel right for you. Little by little, it becomes easier to feel at home.