Are you traveling solo in Paris? Or do you simply want to expand your circle of acquaintances, share a beer, go for a walk, or enjoy an evening with other travelers from around the world?
Here are the 5 best free apps to quickly connect with other backpackers, students, or cool locals.
🌍 1. Couchsurfing (section “Hangouts” and “Events”)
✨ For: spontaneous chatting or going out with nearby travelers
You may know Couchsurfing for staying with hosts, but the app also offers a “Hangouts” feature: activate your status, say what you want to do (grab a drink, walk, visit…), and see who around you is available right now.
- It also provides a list of free events in Paris every week (language exchange, picnics, bar nights).
📲 Available on iOS & Android – Free
🗣️ 2. Tandem
✨ For: practicing a language while meeting someone over coffee
Tandem is primarily a language exchange app, but many users leverage it while traveling to meet locals or other travelers looking to practice a foreign language.
It’s a great tool for learning and socializing.
📲 Ideal for an English-French coffee duo!
🎉 3. Meetup
✨ For: joining social, creative, or festive events
Meetup gathers interest groups that organize outings in Paris. You can join an international afterwork, an urban hike, a photography workshop, a dance class, etc.
Perfect for breaking the loneliness without pressure and meeting people naturally.
📲 Simple interface, many free or low-cost events
👋 4. Travello
✨ For: connecting with travelers in the same city
Travello is an app designed for backpackers, with a discussion feed by city. You can post a message like “I’m in Paris for 3 days, who wants to grab a drink?” and get responses within minutes.
- You can also create mini-groups or find other travelers in your neighborhood.
📲 Specifically designed for solo travelers
💬 5. Facebook Groups (bonus)
✨ For: joining an active community in Paris
These aren’t apps, but Facebook groups remain super effective:
- Erasmus Paris (official)
- Backpackers in Paris
- Digital Nomads Paris
- Expats in Paris
You’ll find parties, events, great deals, roommates, or walking buddies.
📲 Golden rule: be active, polite, and suggest concrete ideas to meet more easily
🎒 AIJ Paris: a true hub for in-person meetings
And of course, you don’t even need to open your phone to meet people. At the International Youth Hostel, the kitchens, shared rooms, and common areas are already perfect spots to chat, mingle, and share good tips.
