Expat community in Bern
Where expats meet in Bern, and a simpler way to meet one person.
InterNations Bern
An international community for expats in Bern, with monthly get-togethers and interest groups.
WebsiteInternational Bern Welcome Desk
Free individual advice on housing, schools, healthcare and dealing with authorities. Set up by the Swiss federal government, the canton and the city. It is for diplomatic and consular staff, staff of international organisations and employees posted by companies, not for everyone.
WebsiteMeet other newcomers
Other newcomers in Bern are already meeting and making new friends.
Meet someone for coffeeESN Bern
The local section of the Erasmus Student Network, for exchange students at the University of Bern, PH Bern and BFH. It runs a buddy programme and events.
WebsiteBern Meetup Group
A networking group for young locals and expats, open to ages 18 to 40. Almost all events are free.
WebsiteMeetup language exchanges
Meetup groups in Bern run free language exchanges, for example in Monbijoupark, plus bilingual hikes.
WebsiteDetails come from each group’s own pages and can change. Check the link before you go.
An easy first meetup
Cowork, Coffee & Connect is our free weekly event, every Friday at 09:00. Bring a laptop or just a coffee and meet people without any pressure.
See the event
Want to practise a language too? Language exchange in Bern
Common questions
Is it only for expats?
No. Anyone new to Bern or wanting new people is welcome.
Do I need to speak German?
Not for the groups above. Many run in English, and you can say in a sentence which language you prefer for a coffee.