How to Make New Friends in Vienna: The Best Ways

How to Make New Friends in Vienna: The Best Strategies for Genuine Connections

Vienna is a fascinating city: cultural, cozy, international – and sometimes a little reserved. Many people who move to Vienna (and even native Viennese!) ask themselves the same question: How do I make new friends here?

The good news: Vienna offers countless opportunities to meet people. Whether you're sporty, love art, enjoy going for coffee, or want to learn new languages – there's a community for you.

A popular way to meet people through shared learning interests is by exchanging with language partners. Through the Skill Tandem platform, genuine friendships often form because people meet regularly and learn something new together.

1. Social Groups & Meetups: Vienna Has Something for Everyone

Vienna is full of groups that meet regularly – from outdoor gatherings to game nights and after-work events. These meetups are ideal if you want to meet people in an uncomplicated way.

A few popular types of meetups:

• Walk & Talk groups – perfect for casual conversations
• Board game evenings – great for introverts or game fans
• After-work gatherings – ideal if you're new to your job or the city
• Cultural meetups – museum visits, concerts, exhibitions

The atmosphere at meetups is open, relaxed, and many people come alone – so you'll be in good company.

2. Clubs and Courses: Friendships Through Shared Interests

Vienna loves its clubs and associations! Few things connect people as much as a shared activity. Plus, you'll find people who regularly come together long-term.

Examples of clubs & courses:

• Dance classes – from Salsa to Viennese Waltz
• Language courses – ideal if you want to improve your German
• Sports clubs – yoga, volleyball, climbing, running groups
• Music or art courses – perfect for creative minds

The advantage: You meet the same people regularly. This is precisely what fosters deep and stable friendships.

3. Coffee Houses & Co-Working Spaces: Vienna is Perfect for Networking

The Viennese coffee house culture is legendary – and a place where much more happens than just drinking coffee. Many people work in cafés, write, study, or meet for conversations.

A casual “Is this seat taken?” can lead to a conversation in Vienna faster than you think.

Co-working spaces are particularly suitable:

• You meet people with similar interests
• They often host community events
• Many consciously come to make contacts

Places like Impact Hub Vienna, Talent Garden, or Café Phil are true social hotspots.

4. Sports & Exercise: Friendships in the Park

Vienna has an abundance of green spaces – and sports groups you can join without prior registration.

• Running groups in the Prater
• Yoga in Stadtpark or by the Donaukanal (Danube Canal)
• Beach volleyball on the Donauinsel (Danube Island)
• Free fitness sessions from local initiatives

Exercise naturally creates connections. You sweat together, motivate each other, or chat afterwards over a drink.

5. International Communities: Vienna is More Diverse Than Many Think

Many newcomers believe Vienna is reserved – but this is no longer true. The city has a huge international community that is open, friendly, and curious.

Particularly helpful are:

• Expat groups on social media
• International Brunches
• Language Cafés
• Cultural and Erasmus meetups

Here you'll meet people who are also open to new friendships.

6. Volunteering: Do Good & Meet New People

Volunteering is one of the most sustainable ways to meet like-minded people.

• Animal welfare organizations
• Community gardens
• Neighborhood projects
• Cultural events

People who engage in social work are often particularly open, empathetic, and sociable – an excellent basis for friendships.

7. Nurturing Friendships: Small Steps with Big Impact

Finding new friends is the first step – deepening friendships is the second.

A few tips:

• Suggest specific meetups
• Show genuine interest
• Share activities you enjoy
• Be reliable and open

Friendships rarely happen overnight. But with a little patience and initiative, they grow faster than expected.

Conclusion: Finding New Friends in Vienna is Possible – and Often Easier Than You Think

Even if the city seems a bit reserved at first, there are countless ways to meet people:

1. Meetups and social groups
2. Clubs and courses
3. Coffee houses & co-working spaces
4. Sports and outdoor activities
5. International communities
6. Volunteering

Most importantly: Go where you feel comfortable – that's where you'll find people who fit you. And if you stay active, you'll quickly realize in Vienna: The city has a big heart; it just opens up through encounters.

FAQ: Common Questions about Making Friends in Vienna

Is it hard to make new friends in Vienna?

It can seem challenging at first, but with the right environment and active engagement, it's very doable.

How long does it take to develop genuine friendships?

This is individual – but many experience stable connections after just a few weeks of regular activities.

Where do most people meet their new friends?

Particularly often in clubs, at meetups, through sports, and via shared interests.