A 27-year-traditional woman in Berlin shared her experience of prolonged isolation in a recent online post, sparking a wider conversation about the challenges of building social connections in the German capital. The woman, who has lived in Berlin for three years, stated she has yet to form a “real friend,” despite being employed.
The difficulty of making friends in Berlin is a common experience for newcomers, according to multiple online resources and expat communities. While Berlin is often lauded for its vibrant cultural scene and relatively low cost of living, forging lasting relationships can prove elusive. Experts suggest that Berliners, while friendly, are not typically inclined towards the kind of casual small talk common in other cultures, making initial connections more challenging.
Several platforms and groups cater to expats and newcomers seeking to build a social life in the city. Meetup.com hosts numerous groups focused on hobbies and social activities, many conducted in English. Eventbrite and Facebook events also list a variety of gatherings. InterNations, an organization specifically designed for expatriates, organizes regular events aimed at fostering community. Timeleft offers a unique approach, facilitating dinners with strangers. For those interested in specific hobbies, board game meetups and groups centered around activities like chess or bouldering provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.
Online communities, such as the subreddit /r/berlinsocialclub, offer another avenue for meeting people. Groups exist for individuals of various nationalities, including Americans, Brazilians, Canadians and Turks, providing a sense of familiarity and shared experience. Learning German is frequently cited as a key factor in integrating into Berlin society and building deeper connections, though it is not necessarily a prerequisite for initial social interactions.
Cheryl Howard, who moved to Berlin in 2011, described a similar initial period of isolation in a blog post published in September 2025. She noted the overwhelming administrative tasks and the stress of navigating public transportation as contributing factors to her initial feelings of loneliness. Howard emphasized the importance of actively seeking out opportunities to meet people and “faking it until you make it” in overcoming initial discomfort.
According to a guide published in January 2026, many newcomers initially identify themselves surrounded by other transient individuals, often referred to as “nomads,” who may eventually exit the city. The guide acknowledges that building a stable social circle takes time and effort, but emphasizes that it is achievable. The Berlin Capital Club, Golf and Country Club Berlin, Rotary Club of Berlin, and Lions Club Berlin are among the social and professional organizations that offer networking and socializing opportunities.
As of February 13, 2026, the woman’s original online post remains open for comment, with ongoing discussion about the challenges and strategies for making friends in Berlin.
