What you’ll learn:
- Single international professionals have lots of opportunities for dating in Geneva as 40% of the population are non-Swiss.
- Visit a language exchange or go hiking to create opportunities to meet singles in Geneva.
- Local expat forums are a place to meet Geneva singles online.
- Boat trip, a watch museum, wine tasting – these are all great ideas for a first date in Geneva.
Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. With countless picturesque cities, world-class dining and endless adventure-filled activities the fairytale love story practically writes itself. When you want to find love the magic is often in the details, so if you need an extra hand, we’re here to help!
Check out our dating in Geneva guide and set your dates up to be memorable, and your budding relationships long-lasting.
Single and Meeting People in Geneva
Dating in Geneva can be characterized by its vibrant, international dating scene. 40% of Geneva is non-Swiss and there are many English speakers.
As a Metropolitan city Geneva has lots of international professionals and nearly 30% of adults are single. Many singles believe it is hard to meet someone in Geneva, but the hardest part of meeting people in a new city is usually just getting started. In Geneva there are indeed many great opportunities to meet new people.
Get active in your dating efforts
Shift your single status from passive to active. Let your friends, family and colleagues know that you are single and looking to meet someone.
Put yourself in situations to meet new people whenever possible and take advantage of talking to new people any chance you get. Even if it doesn’t lead to making a romantic connection it is great practice and will help reposition you to be a more open and approachable person.
Try a language exchange
In Geneva it is easy to find such opportunities. There are amazing language exchanges that many singles take part in, especially ones that are newer to the city and looking to make new acquaintances.
There are tons of German, Italian, French and English language exchanges linked here but you can easily find more by asking around or doing a basic search. This is a great way to take the pressure off of meeting someone because everyone is there on the same premise and there is no sense of embarrassment in approaching someone to speak.
Find people through hiking
If you’re an active person, then Switzerland is one of the best countries in the world to live. It’s always a great idea to meet people through common interests as it starts off your relationship on common ground. In Geneva, it is incredibly easy to join different outdoor activity groups. There are Mountain Hiking Clubs and even French Language Hiking Club.
Go skiing
When the weather gets cooler and limits the amount of hiking you can do, don’t hesitate to keep up the physical activity by joining a ski club or starting ski lessons if you’re new to the sport and take part in one of Switzerland’s most famous activities. Expanding your social circle will help you become more open and attractive to new people.
While in some places, coming from a different country may lead to you feeling like an outsider, being an expat in Geneva makes you fit right in! 40% of Geneva is non-Swiss and it is easy to find and connect with other expats, some who are new and some who thought they would be in Geneva for 3 to 5 years and over 15 years later are still here.
Where to Connect Online
You can join the Facebook chat group for Geneva expats or even follow the many Geneva Expat Meetups that include local comedy shows, outdoor activities and networking events.
In many cities around Europe, you can also find the local branch of InterNations. This is an amazing opportunity to connect with other professional locals and expats who are looking to connect with like-minded people.
In fact, with InterNations the theme of their events is, ‘‘Nobody stands alone,’’ and so people are highly encouraged to approach each other and start conversations with new people. Take initiative and approach others to show that you’re taking an active interest in meeting people. In general, at all of these types of events, about 75% of the people are single so if you’re looking for a more organic way to meet new people then this is the right place.
Top Dating Apps in Geneva
In Geneva, and most of Switzerland really, the two main dating apps are Bumble and Tinder. While in many places Tinder isn’t a reliable place to find quality people interested in real relationships, luckily in Switzerland this is not the case.
Bumble is another great app and the premise is that the woman takes the lead and makes first contact. Both apps work more or less in a similar way and are easy to download and set up. Read here about how to use dating apps as a starting point to dating.
Dating in Switzerland & Dating Ideas in Geneva
So, you’ve taken our advice and have met someone special that you can’t wait to go on a date with but you want to make sure that the date will be memorable. Don’t worry–we’ve got you covered! Try any of these amazing ideas or even combine a few to start your relationship off in the best way possible.
A morning date in Geneva
Meeting up for a morning together in Geneva? Why not grab a coffee at the Birdie Food Coffee and See Lake Geneva by Boat? The breathtaking views are sure to leave a lasting impression. You can also meet up for a walking tour of the city. Even if you’ve been in Geneva for a while, you’ll definitely learn something new and set yourself up for lots of conversation afterward.
Go to a museum
For an original afternoon date try the Patek Philippe Museum and learn about the history of one of the world’s greatest watchmakers. Who knows, if it works out a watch makes a lovely anniversary present, and it will have a special meaning as a reminder of your first date.
A walk and wine
If you prefer a more participatory activity you can do a Wine Tasting Walking Tour. You’ll get to walk through the romantic cobblestone streets of the old city center and learn more about Geneva’s colorful history.
Dinners and drinks
If a dinner date is your thing, then why not try L’Agape.
In the spring and summertime, you’ve got to go to a rooftop for a drink at Hotel Metropole for Rooftop Drinks or the romantic Rooftop Bar des Bergues at the Four Seasons.
Once the weather gets cooler though, head inside to have a drink at local hotspots L’Apothicaire Cocktail Bar or try Geneva’s most popular 20’s style speakeasy, Le Verre à Monique. Wherever you go, you can’t go wrong in Geneva.
For an outside-the-box date, go on a Chocolate Tasting Tour through the romantic old town and even go on a boat ride as you learn about the rich history of chocolate in Geneva.
Day Trips Starting in Geneva
One of the best parts about Geneva is its spectacular location and its easy access to other beautiful places. Check out these incredible day trip options!
- Day trip to Gruyeres including Golden Panoramic Express
- Geneva and Annecy Tour With Optional Lake Geneva Cruise
- Day trip to Montreux, Chaplin’s World Museum and Chillon Castle
Three Tips for dating in Geneva
- Live an active life doing things you enjoy!
- Be the change you want to see in the world – many singles complain that nobody makes the first contact anymore so go ahead and do it yourself!
- Always dress for success and put your best foot forward.
There are endless extraordinary date options in Geneva guaranteed to be the perfect backdrop to a first (and hopefully many more!) dates.
So many come to this city and find the love of their lives and I’ve been fortunate enough to help many on this journey. If you want the support of a science-backed dating program then get in touch for a complimentary consultation.
