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You’ve Arrived in Toulouse—Now What?
Moving to a new country is exciting, but the first few weeks can feel lonely. As an international student in Toulouse, you might wonder: how do I make friends as an international student in Toulouse? The answer is simpler than you think. This guide covers everything from university clubs to local cafés where English speakers gather. By the end, you’ll have a clear action plan.
Why Toulouse Is a Great Place to Make Friends
Toulouse, nicknamed the Pink City, is home to over 110,000 students. It’s known for its aerospace industry, vibrant culture, and warm weather. The city’s size makes it easy to navigate, and locals (Toulousains) are generally friendly. Many students speak English, especially at universities like Université Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier or Toulouse Business School. The key is to take the first step.
1. Join University Clubs and Associations
Every university in Toulouse has dozens of student clubs. From sports to photography, there’s something for everyone.
How to Find Clubs
- Check your university’s website or Facebook page for a list of associations.
- Attend the Forum des Associations at the start of the academic year (usually September).
- Visit the student union office (BDE) on campus.
Popular Clubs for Internationals
- Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Toulouse – organizes trips, parties, and language exchanges.
- Buddies programs – many universities pair international students with local buddies.
- Sports clubs – rugby, football, climbing, or dance – no need to be an expert.
Joining a club gives you an instant shared activity and regular meeting times, making it easier to form friendships.
2. Use Language Exchange Events
Language exchanges are perfect for meeting both locals and other internationals. You practice French while helping others with English.
Top Language Exchange Spots in Toulouse
| Event | Location | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Polyglot Club | Various cafés (check their Facebook) | Weekly |
| Meetup Language Exchange | Le Bar Basque, Place du Capitole | Every Wednesday |
| Speak & Share at Université Toulouse | Student center on campus | Biweekly |
Pro tip: Arrive a bit early and sit near the organizer. They’ll introduce you to others.
3. Explore Toulouse’s Social Hotspots
Sometimes the best way to meet people is to hang out where they naturally gather.
Cafés and Co-working Spaces
- Boutique Café – popular with students, often has board games.
- Le Florida – a café with a terrace, good for striking up conversations.
- Anticafé – pay-per-hour workspace with free drinks; many freelancers and students.
Parks and Public Spaces
- Jardin des Plantes – bring a blanket and a book; people often chat.
- Prairie des Filtres – along the Garonne River, perfect for picnics and outdoor games.
- Place du Capitole – the main square; grab a coffee and people-watch.
Nightlife
If you enjoy going out, head to Rue des Lois or Rue de la Bourse for bars with a friendly vibe. Many bars have happy hours and trivia nights.
4. Leverage Social Media and Apps
Technology can bridge the gap.
Facebook Groups
- “International Students in Toulouse” – active group with event posts.
- “Toulouse Expats” – for all expats, not just students.
- Your university’s official group.
Apps for Making Friends
- Meetup – search for “Toulouse” and filter by interests.
- Bumble BFF – the friend-finding mode of the dating app.
- Internations – for internationals, but some students use it.
Be proactive: send a message to someone who posted about a similar interest.
5. Attend Cultural and Sports Events
Toulouse has a rich calendar of events. Attending them gives you conversation starters.
Annual Events
- Fête de la Musique (June 21) – free concerts everywhere.
- Marathon de Toulouse – even if you don’t run, cheering creates camaraderie.
- Cinéma en Plein Air – outdoor movies in summer.
Sports Matches
Stade Toulousain (rugby) matches are a huge deal. Join other fans at a pub or the stadium. The energy is contagious.
6. Volunteer in the Community
Volunteering is a powerful way to meet like-minded people while giving back.
Where to Volunteer
- Restos du Cœur – food distribution charity.
- SPA Toulouse – animal shelter, always needs help.
- Festival de Toulouse – volunteer during the annual arts festival.
Volunteering forces you to interact and often leads to deeper connections because you share values.
7. Take a Class Outside Your Major
Enroll in a non-credit course at the Maison des Langues or a local studio.
- Cooking classes – learn to make cassoulet and meet foodies.
- Dance classes – salsa, tango, or swing are social by nature.
- Yoga or pilates – many studios offer student discounts.
These settings naturally encourage conversation before and after class.
8. Avoid Common Mistakes
Knowing what not to do is just as important.
- Don’t wait for others to approach you. Be the one to say hello.
- Don’t stay in your comfort zone. Speak French even if you’re bad at it; locals appreciate the effort.
- Don’t only hang out with people from your country. It’s comfortable but limits your experience.
- Don’t be afraid of rejection. Not everyone will become your friend, and that’s okay.
9. Practical Checklist to Start Today
- ☐ Join your university’s ESN group on Facebook.
- ☐ Attend one language exchange this week.
- ☐ Visit a café and strike up a conversation with a fellow student.
- ☐ Sign up for a club or volunteer opportunity.
- ☐ Download Bumble BFF or Meetup and message one person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to make friends as an international student in Toulouse?
Yes, because the city has a large student population and many events designed for integration. The key is to be proactive.
Do I need to speak French to make friends?
Not necessarily, but knowing basic French helps. Many students speak English, but locals appreciate when you try French.
What are the best places to meet other international students?
ESN events, language exchanges at cafés, and university clubs are top choices.
How can I find housing with roommates to make friends?
Use websites like Appartager or Leboncoin and filter for “colocation.” Many ads mention international-friendly households.
Are there any free events for students?
Yes, many. Check the Université Toulouse events calendar and the city’s official website for free concerts, exhibitions, and festivals.
What if I’m shy?
Start with small steps: smile, ask a simple question about a class, or join a structured activity like a sports club where interaction is built-in.
Your Next Step: Make a Plan for This Week
Now you have a roadmap. Pick one or two actions from this guide and commit to them. Remember, making friends as an international student in Toulouse takes time, but every hello is a step forward. The city is full of people like you—ready to connect. So go ahead, join that club, attend that event, or simply say “bonjour” to someone at your favorite café. Your new friends are waiting.
Photo by Grace Kang on Unsplash
Thanks for the café recommendations! Do you know if Boutique Café has a specific night for board games, or is it just whenever?
Boutique Café often hosts board game evenings on Thursdays, but it’s best to check their Facebook page or ask in person. Even if there’s no set event, you can bring your own game and invite others to join.
I’m worried about the cost of joining clubs. Are there free options?
Yes, many clubs are free or have a small membership fee. The university’s Buddies program is free, and ESN Toulouse usually has a low annual fee. Also, language exchange events are typically free. Check your university’s student union for a list of free associations.
I live near the Université Toulouse III campus. Is there a specific place there where international students hang out?
Yes, the student center (Maison des Étudiants) is a hub. Also, check the cafeteria area and the nearby park Jardin des Plantes. Many international students gather at the ESN desk on campus during orientation weeks. You can also ask at the international office for buddy programs.
This is really helpful! I’m starting at Toulouse Business School next month and was worried about making friends. Which club would you recommend for someone who isn’t very sporty?
Great question! For non-sporty students, the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Toulouse is a fantastic starting point. They organize social events, trips, and language exchanges that are very welcoming for internationals. Also, check out the photography or board game clubs at your school.
I’ve been here for two weeks and still feel lost. The language exchange events sound good, but my French is really basic. Will people still talk to me?
Absolutely! Language exchanges are designed for all levels. Many participants are also learners, and locals are patient. At Polyglot Club, for instance, you can speak English while practicing French. Just be upfront about your level, and you’ll find people happy to help.