Prague — a city where it's easy to find your people
Prague is one of the most popular cities for expats in Europe. Tens of thousands of foreigners from all over the world live here, and the social infrastructure for them is more developed than almost anywhere else. Language clubs, international communities, sports groups — it all works and welcomes new members.
But even in such a city, the first step can be hard. Where exactly should you go? How do you choose a format? What if you're going alone? Let's figure it out.
Language exchanges
Language exchanges are probably the most popular format for meeting people among expats in Prague. They happen almost every day in various cafés and bars across the city.
How it works: you show up, get a name tag with flags of languages you speak and learn, and chat with other participants. Usually every 10–15 minutes there's a rotation — you switch conversation partners.
Where to find them: check events in Prague and filter by the "Language Exchange" category. The most active clubs hold meetups 2–3 times a week.
Tip: arrive 10 minutes early. There are fewer people at that point, and starting your first conversation is easier.
Board games
Board games are the perfect format for those who don't enjoy small talk. When there's a shared activity, conversation happens naturally. You discuss strategy, joke about moves, cheer each other on — and by the end of the evening you already feel like part of the group.
Prague has several regular board game clubs:
- Meetups in anti-cafés and board game cafés (Bohemia Boards, Paluba)
- Themed nights: strategy games, party games, cooperative games
- Beginner-friendly events where rules are explained on the spot
You don't need to be a geek or know complex games. Most meetups are designed for casual players.
Running clubs and sports groups
If you love sports, Prague offers plenty of options:
- Running clubs — morning and evening runs along the Vltava embankment, in Letná Gardens, or Stromovka. The pace is usually comfortable, suitable for beginners.
- Yoga in parks — free outdoor classes in summer.
- Cycling groups — group rides around Prague's surroundings.
- Hiking — weekend trips outside the city, from easy walks to serious routes.
Sports bring people together quickly: shared effort, endorphins, and regularity do their work.
Cultural events
Prague is a city with incredible cultural life. And many events can be attended in company:
- Exhibitions and galleries — group visits with discussion afterward
- Film screenings — movies in original language with subtitles
- Concerts — from jazz in small clubs to big festivals
- Tours — author-led walks through historic neighborhoods
On Localisio you can not only find such events but also join a crew that's going too. This removes the "going alone" barrier.
Professional networking
If you want to combine useful with enjoyable:
- Tech meetups — Prague is a major IT hub, with regular meetups on development, design, and product.
- Startup events — pitches, demo days, informal founder meetups.
- Coworking events — many spaces (Locus, Impact Hub, Opero) host internal events.
How not to be afraid of going alone
The main fear — "I'll show up and stand alone in a corner." Here are some ways to overcome it:
- Choose a format with a moderator. At language exchanges and board game nights there's an organizer who helps people integrate.
- Write in the chat beforehand. Many events on Localisio have a group chat — introduce yourself there before the meetup.
- Set a minimal goal. Not "spend the whole evening" but "stay 40 minutes and talk to two people."
- Remember: everyone was a newcomer once. Organizers are used to new faces and usually help with introductions.
Where to find events
The easiest way — open events in Prague on Localisio. Here you'll find:
- Filters by category, language, and date
- The ability to join a crew
- Reviews and ratings from other participants
- An event map for finding what's nearby
Don't put it off. Choose one event this week and just go. In a month you'll be surprised how many new acquaintances you've made.
