Making Friends and Building a Social Life in Ticino: How Internationals Create Connection

A New Place, a New Beginning When I first moved to Ticino, I imagined that life in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland would be warm and easy to navigate. The reality? It was beautiful but lonely. Everyone seemed to have their circle of friends already. I didn’t know where to start — and saying “buongiorno” in my beginner’s Italian felt terrifying. Fast forward a few years, and Ticino now feels like home. I have friends who feel like family, a thriving community, and a calendar full of events that bring internationals together. If you’ve just arrived, this post is for you - a guide to finding your people and building a life that feels connected.

making friends in Lugano

Why It Feels Hard at First

Even the most outgoing person can struggle to make friends after moving abroad.
In Ticino, there are a few reasons why it can feel challenging in the beginning:

  • Language barriers. Italian is the local language, and while many people speak English, most friendships begin in Italian.

  • Different social rhythms. People tend to socialize with family or close friends rather than large groups.

  • Cultural reserve. Locals are friendly, but it takes time to move from polite conversation to genuine friendship.

The good news? Ticino is full of people - both locals and internationals - who are open, kind, and curious about newcomers once you take the first step.

Understanding the Local Culture

Ticino’s social life is influenced by both Swiss structure and Italian warmth.
That means things are organized but never rushed. People appreciate sincerity and consistency more than big gestures.

A few things I learned early on:

  • Always greet with “Buongiorno” or “Buonasera.” It opens doors instantly.

  • Don’t be discouraged if invitations take time - people like to get to know you slowly.

  • Join regular activities (language classes, sports, workshops) - consistency builds trust faster than one-off meetings.

When you show genuine interest in local life, you’ll notice how quickly Ticino starts opening up.

Where to Meet People

There are so many ways to connect once you know where to look.

1. Cafés and Co-working Spaces
Ticino has many small cafés where regulars chat over coffee. Sit at a table, smile, and say hello. Co-working spaces like those in Lugano are full of professionals eager to network.

2. Community Events
From international aperitifs to ladies’ brunches and cultural evenings, these gatherings are the heart of social life for newcomers.
Browse our Events Calendar or go directly to the Social section to find meetups happening this month.

3. Language Courses
Language schools are not just for learning grammar - they’re where friendships start. You meet others going through the same experience, and you’ll practice together outside class.

4. Volunteering and Clubs
Helping others is one of the easiest ways to feel part of the community. Ticino has many small associations and events that welcome international volunteers - from animal shelters to cultural festivals.

5. Outdoor Life
Join local hiking or sports groups, we have many of them in our whatsapp chat. The Ticino landscape - mountains, lakes, trails - naturally brings people together.

Internationals in Ticino: A Community that Feels Like Family

Feeling isolated after moving abroad was what inspired me to create Internationals in Ticino - a space where everyone, regardless of background or language level, can belong.

We organize:

  • Social brunches and aperitifs

  • Language exchange meetups

  • Business networking evenings

  • Women’s circles and family-friendly gatherings

  • And more ideas are always welcome

Every event is relaxed, friendly, and welcoming. You can come alone and still leave with new contacts - or even lifelong friends.

Stories of Connection

A few members recently shared how joining the community changed their experience in Ticino:

“I came here for work and didn’t know anyone. After my first coffee meetup, I met three people who became my closest friends.”
- Marina, originally from Spain

“Joining the community helped me finally feel part of something. It’s amazing how easy it becomes to settle when you’re surrounded by positive people.”
- James, UK

These moments remind us that friendship is built one conversation at a time - and Ticino is full of people who are waiting to meet you.

Tips for Building Connection

If you’re just starting out, try these simple but powerful steps:

  • Learn a few Italian phrases and use them daily.

  • Be consistent - show up to events more than once.

  • Don’t wait to be invited; take initiative.

  • Join online local groups to discover what’s happening.

  • Share your skills - teaching, organizing, or even just helping others - builds instant bonds.

Small efforts create real friendships here.

A Final Word

Building a social life in a new country takes time, patience, and courage - but it’s worth every moment.
Once you connect with others who share your journey, Ticino transforms from a beautiful place to live into a place where you truly belong.

Take that first step. Join a local event, start a conversation, or simply say “Ciao” to a stranger at the café.
You never know - your new life in Ticino might begin with just one smile.