Your Guide to Building Connections in the Catalan Capital
Moving to a new city like Barcelona can be exciting but also a little lonely at first. Don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to make new friends! Whether you’re an expat, student, or just new to the city, this guide will help you meet people and grow your social circle. Plus, I’ll tell you about some great WhatsApp and Facebook groups where you can easily connect with others.
1. Join WhatsApp and Facebook Groups
One of the easiest ways to start making friends is by joining WhatsApp and Facebook groups. These groups are full of people just like you – new in Barcelona and looking to meet others. You can find groups for expats, hobby groups, or even groups for people from your own country. It’s a great way to join events, ask for tips, or just chat with people.
Tip: Be sure to follow us on Instagram , where we share events, meetups, and more! It’s a friendly space where people are always open to making new connections.
2. Go to Language Exchange Meetups
If you’re learning Spanish or Catalan, language exchange meetups are perfect. They are fun events where people come together to practice different languages. Don’t worry if your Spanish isn’t great – it’s a relaxed environment, and people are patient.
Check out Meetup.com or Couchsurfing to find language exchange groups. These events are a fantastic way to meet locals and other expats!
3. Attend Cultural Events and Festivals
Barcelona is known for its lively festivals and cultural events. From the big La Mercè Festival to smaller street fairs, these are perfect places to meet people. Everyone is there to have a good time, and you’ll find it easy to start conversations and make friends.
We often organize group outings to these festivals, so you won’t have to go alone!
4. Join a Class or Group Activity
Barcelona is a great place to try something new. Whether you want to take a cooking class, yoga, or even learn to dance, joining a class is a fun way to meet people with similar interests. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter when you’re all learning something together.
If you’re into sports, join a beach volleyball group at Barceloneta or a running group.
5. Use Social Media to Meet New People
Social media is your friend when it comes to making connections. Expat page like “Erasmus_Barcelona” or “welcometobarcelona_” are also helpful. Many people in these groups are also looking to meet new friends and organize meetups.
Tip: Be active! Join conversations, ask questions, or suggest a meetup. People are usually very welcoming, and it’s a great way to start friendships.
6. Volunteer in the City
Another great way to make friends is by giving back to the community. Barcelona has many volunteer opportunities where you can meet people who share similar values. From helping at food banks to joining environmental projects, volunteering brings people together.
7. Explore Barcelona’s Nightlife with New Friends
Barcelona is famous for its nightlife. Going out to bars or cafes can be a fun way to meet people. Smaller bars in neighborhoods like Gràcia or El Born are perfect for more relaxed, social settings. You can also join a bar crawl or go to organized social nights to meet people in groups.
Final Thoughts
Making friends in Barcelona doesn’t have to be hard. The city is full of friendly people, and with a little effort, you’ll soon find your community. Remember, joining groups on WhatsApp and Facebook is one of the easiest ways to meet new people. So, don’t be shy—get involved, attend events, and start building friendships today.