By Cansin Erdogan
Starting life in a new country comes with excitement, curiosity, and the promise of new experiences. But for many international students, the first reality they face is simple: arriving in a city where they know almost no one. In these moments, building a network becomes more than just making friends. It becomes a key part of feeling supported, staying motivated academically, and slowly finding a sense of belonging in a new culture.
One of the easiest ways to meet people in Budapest is through shared activities. Sports communities are especially welcoming to newcomers. Groups like the Budapest Running Latte Club bring together people from different countries who simply enjoy running and exploring the city together.
For those looking for girly social clubs and relaxed ways to meet people, Budapest also offers a variety of unique social experiences. Spaces such as La Maison d’Art, along with communities like Art Island and You Project, regularly host creative and community-focused gatherings designed to bring women together in comfortable and welcoming environments. These events often include activities like painting sessions, “sip and paint” evenings with wine, creating vision boards together, or wellness gatherings such as Pilates accompanied by a DJ. Events like these create a relaxed atmosphere where conversations start naturally, and new friendships can form easily.
In Budapest, yoga and outdoor wellness activities have become a popular way for students to manage stress and maintain balance during the academic year. During the spring semester, when the weather becomes warmer, outdoor yoga sessions allow students not only to relax and recharge but also to explore the city, meet new people, and naturally build their network in a calm and welcoming environment.
Some of the most unique experiences include SUP yoga on the City Park lake, where participants practice yoga on paddleboards while floating on the water. Those who prefer quieter green spaces often visit Philosopher’s Garden on Gellért Hill, which offers peaceful surroundings and beautiful views of the city. Weekend morning sessions also take place along the Danube at Jane Haining quay as part of the “Flow to the People” initiative, while Margaret Island remains one of the most popular locations for community yoga, welcoming both locals and international residents.
Gym centres are another great way to stay active while also meeting new people in Budapest. Popular fitness spaces such as Go Active Fitness and Life1 Fitness attract many international students and young professionals. Among them, Go Active is often considered one of the most international and English-speaking gym environments in the city. These gyms offer modern facilities and group classes that naturally bring people together, making them a great place not only to maintain a healthy routine but also to meet others and expand your network.
Language schools are also a great option for students who want to improve their language skills while studying in Budapest, especially for those who may be thinking about doing a master’s degree in another European country later. Budapest is not only an academic city but also a very international and tourist one. Students and visitors from all over the world fill the streets, and during the spring and summer months, the city almost feels like a celebration of different languages and cultures.
In this kind of environment, practicing languages and meeting new people happen very naturally. Places like Instituto Cervantes, where you can learn Spanish and explore Spanish culture. Students who want to improve their language skills while expanding their network can find that these schools can be a very enjoyable and valuable part of the experience.
One of the most memorable experiences is joining a boat party on the Danube. While the music is playing and everyone is dancing, the boat slowly moves along the river with a beautiful view of the city at night. Seeing the Hungarian Parliament and the historic buildings of Budapest while enjoying the party creates a unique atmosphere. Moments like these allow students to experience the city differently, combining Budapest’s stunning views with the fun and energy of student life.
Photos by Cansin Erdogan
