Moving to Paris as an international student is exhilarating—but it can also be lonely. You’re surrounded by millions of people, yet finding genuine connections often feels like a challenge. The good news? Paris is full of opportunities to meet people if you know where to look. This guide covers practical, tested ways to make friends in Paris as an international student, from university groups to neighborhood cafés.
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Why Making Friends in Paris Can Be Tricky (and How to Overcome It)
Parisians have a reputation for being reserved. Unlike in some cultures where strangers chat easily, Parisians often stick to existing social circles. Language barriers and cultural differences can add to the challenge. But don’t let that discourage you. Once you understand the unwritten rules of Parisian social life, you’ll find that locals are warm and curious once you break the ice.
Key mindset shifts: Be patient, take the first step, and embrace rejection as part of the process. Every friendship starts with a hello.
1. Tap Into University and Campus Life
Your university is the easiest place to start. Most Parisian universities have international student offices, clubs, and events designed to help you connect.
Join Student Associations and Clubs
From sports teams to debate clubs, student associations are a goldmine for meeting people. Look for BDE (Bureau des Étudiants) or associations étudiantes on campus. Many universities also host welcome weeks, language exchanges, and cultural outings specifically for international students.
Attend University Events and Workshops
Check your university’s calendar for free events: film screenings, museum visits, cooking classes, or career fairs. These low-pressure settings make conversation easy.
Use Campus Online Platforms
Many universities have private Facebook groups, Slack channels, or Discord servers where students post about meetups, shared apartments, or study groups. Join them before you arrive.
2. Leverage Language Exchanges and Meetup Groups
Paris is a hub for language exchange. These events are designed for mingling and are perfect for international students.
Polyglot Club and Conversation Circles
Polyglot Club hosts regular meetups in cafés across Paris. You’ll find people eager to practice English, French, or other languages. The atmosphere is friendly and informal.
Meetup.com and Facebook Events
Search for groups like “International Students in Paris” or “Expats in Paris” on Meetup.com. Many groups organize pub nights, hiking trips, museum tours, and dinner parties. The key is to attend consistently—familiarity builds friendship.
Couchsurfing Events
Couchsurfing isn’t just for free accommodation. Their weekly events (like the famous Monday night meetup at a bar) attract travelers and locals alike. It’s a safe, open environment to meet people from all over the world.
3. Explore Neighborhood Life and Local Hangouts
Paris is a city of villages. Each arrondissement has its own character. Becoming a regular at a local café, park, or bookstore can lead to unexpected friendships.
Become a Regular at a Café
Choose a café near your home or school and visit often. Greet the staff, smile at other regulars. After a few weeks, you’ll start to recognize faces and can strike up a conversation. Try places like Café de Flore (Saint-Germain) or a cozy spot in the Marais.
Join a Sports or Hobby Group
Paris has countless clubs: running groups (like Paris Running Club), cycling clubs, board game nights, photography walks, and choir groups. Websites like Le Bon Coin or Sport à Paris list local activities.
Attend Free Cultural Events
Check out Nuit Blanche (all-night art festival), Fête de la Musique (June 21), or free museum days (first Sunday of each month). These events draw crowds of friendly, open-minded people.
4. Use Digital Tools and Apps Strategically
Technology can accelerate your social life, but use it wisely.
Apps for Making Friends
- Bumble BFF – a dedicated mode for finding friends. Many international students use it in Paris.
- Meetup – as mentioned, great for structured events.
- Internations – a global expat community with regular events in Paris.
- Frimake – a French app for finding local activities and groups.
Facebook Groups to Join
- “International Students in Paris”
- “Expats in Paris”
- “Paris Social Club”
- “Paris Language Exchange”
Pro tip: Don’t just lurk. Post an introduction, ask a question, or propose a meetup. Be specific: “Anyone want to visit the Louvre this Saturday?”
5. Master the Art of French Social Etiquette
Understanding local customs will make you more approachable and help you avoid faux pas.
Always Say Bonjour
Never start a conversation in English without first saying bonjour. It’s a sign of respect. Even if you struggle with French, a polite greeting opens doors.
Use La Bise (the Cheek Kiss) Appropriately
Between friends, air-kissing on both cheeks (usually two, sometimes four) is standard. Don’t initiate it until you’ve met a few times. Follow the other person’s lead.
Invite People for a Drink, Not Dinner
Parisians often socialize over an apéritif (pre-dinner drink) rather than a full meal. It’s low-commitment and easy to end when you want. Invite a classmate for a verre at a nearby bar.
Be Prepared for Directness
Parisians can be blunt. They may criticize your French or disagree openly. Don’t take it personally—it’s often a sign of engagement. Respond with humor or curiosity.
6. Practical Checklist: Your First 30 Days in Paris
| Week | Action Items |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Join 3 Facebook groups for international students in Paris. Introduce yourself. Attend one campus welcome event. |
| Week 2 | Visit a language exchange (e.g., Polyglot Club). Sign up for a hobby class (e.g., photography, dance). |
| Week 3 | Become a regular at a café near your home. Attend a Meetup.com event. Use Bumble BFF to match with 5 people. |
| Week 4 | Invite a classmate for a drink after class. Join a sports group (e.g., running, yoga in the park). Explore a free museum. |
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Only hanging out with other international students. It’s comfortable, but you’ll miss out on local culture. Make an effort to meet French people too.
- Expecting instant deep friendships. In Paris, friendships often develop slowly. Be patient and consistent.
- Not learning basic French. Even if Parisians speak English, making an effort with French shows respect and opens doors.
- Staying home too much. Loneliness can make you want to retreat. Force yourself to go out at least three times a week.
- Being too passive. Wait for others to invite you? You’ll wait forever. Take the initiative.
8. How to Maintain Friendships Once You’ve Made Them
Making friends is step one; keeping them is another. Here’s how to nurture connections in Paris:
- Follow up within 24 hours. After meeting someone, send a quick message: “Nice meeting you! Want to grab coffee next week?”
- Be reliable. Parisians value punctuality and keeping plans. If you say you’ll come, show up.
- Suggest specific plans. Instead of “We should hang out sometime,” say “Would you like to visit the Musée d’Orsay on Saturday afternoon?”
- Learn to host. Invite new friends over for a simple dinner or apéro. It’s a warm gesture that builds closeness.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to make friends in Paris as an international student?
It can be challenging at first due to cultural differences and language barriers, but with persistence and the right strategies (like joining student groups and language exchanges), it’s absolutely possible. Thousands of international students do it every year.
Do Parisians speak English well?
Many young Parisians speak good English, especially in universities and tourist areas. However, learning basic French phrases will greatly improve your social interactions and show respect.
What are the best neighborhoods for international students to live in for socializing?
The Latin Quarter (5th), near universities, is lively and student-friendly. The Marais (3rd/4th) is multicultural and full of cafés. Montmartre (18th) has a village feel and attracts artists. Near your campus is always a good choice.
How can I meet French people specifically, not just other expats?
Join local clubs (sports, art, volunteering), attend language exchanges, and avoid staying in the international bubble. Participate in neighborhood events, say bonjour to shopkeepers, and be open to invitations from classmates.
Is it safe to meet strangers from apps in Paris?
Generally yes, but take precautions: meet in public places, tell a friend where you’re going, and trust your instincts. Apps like Bumble BFF and Meetup have safety features.
What if I’m shy or introverted?
Start small. Attend low-key events like book clubs or board game nights. Use one-on-one settings (e.g., a language exchange partner) rather than large parties. Set a goal to talk to one new person per week. Gradually, it gets easier.
Your Next Steps: From Lonely to Connected
Making friends in Paris as an international student isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy and effort. Start with one or two actions from this guide. Join a Facebook group, attend a language exchange, or simply say bonjour to a classmate. Each small step builds momentum. Remember: every friend you make in Paris becomes part of your story here. The city is waiting for you.
Photo by adam rozanski on Pexels
Great article! I’m moving to Paris next month for my master’s. Do you have any tips for shy students who find it hard to approach people at language exchanges?
Absolutely! Start by arriving early when fewer people are there, and find a seat near the organizer. You can also bring a friend or join a conversation circle that’s just getting started. Remember, most people are there for the same reason—to meet others—so a simple ‘Bonjour, first time here?’ can work wonders.
This guide is exactly what I needed. One question: how do you recommend overcoming the language barrier when your French is still basic?
Great question! Start with language exchanges like those at Polyglot Club, where everyone is patient. Use simple phrases and don’t be afraid to mix English and French. Many Parisians appreciate the effort and will switch to English to help. Also, carrying a small notebook for new words can be a conversation starter.
Thanks for the tips! I found the section on neighborhood life really helpful. Are there specific cafés in the Latin Quarter that are known for being friendly to students?
Yes! Café de la Nouvelle Mairie (Place Louis Lépine) is a favorite among students for its affordable coffee and relaxed vibe. Also, Le Petit Châtelet near Place Monge has a cozy atmosphere and often hosts small events. Just sit at the counter or a communal table to spark conversations.
I’ve been in Paris for three months and still feel lonely. The article mentions joining university clubs, but my campus is very small with few activities. Any alternatives?
Definitely look beyond campus. Meetup.com has many international student groups, and Polyglot Club events happen all over the city. Also, try volunteering—organizations like Restos du Cœur often need French-speaking volunteers, and it’s a great way to meet locals. Don’t forget about Couchsurfing events; they’re very welcoming.