How to Make Friends in Barcelona as an English Speaker

A practical guide for expats, internationals, and newcomers to Barcelona

The Challenge of Meeting People as an Expat

Moving to Barcelona is exciting — the weather, the food, the architecture, the beach. But once the initial buzz wears off, many expats and internationals find themselves facing the same challenge: how do you actually meet people and make real friends?

If you don't speak Spanish or Catalan fluently, the social landscape can feel even more daunting. Local friend groups are often well-established, and while Barcelona is full of other internationals, finding them — and turning acquaintances into genuine friendships — takes effort and the right environment.

Many newcomers try language exchanges, co-working meetups, or apps like Bumble BFF. These can work, but they often feel forced or transactional. You meet someone for coffee, have a pleasant conversation, and then never see them again. The missing ingredient? A recurring, shared activity that naturally brings the same people together week after week.

Why Sports Are the Best Way to Connect

Sports have something that most social activities don't: a built-in reason to show up regularly. When you join a running group or sign up for a weekly padel match, you see the same faces every week. Conversations happen naturally — before the game, during breaks, over drinks afterwards. There's no pressure to “network” or make small talk. You're just playing together.

Research consistently shows that repeated, unplanned interactions are the foundation of friendship. Sports create exactly this: a low-pressure environment where you keep bumping into the same people and gradually build real connections.

And you don't have to be athletic. Many of the most popular sports in Barcelona's expat community — like padel, beach volleyball, and hiking — are accessible to complete beginners. The point isn't competition; it's connection.

Top Sports for Meeting People in Barcelona

Padel

Padel is Barcelona's fastest-growing sport, and for good reason. It's easy to learn, always played in doubles (so you meet people by default), and courts are everywhere. The English-speaking padel scene in Barcelona is particularly active, with groups organising matches several times a week. Communities like Keep Calm Community run regular padel sessions for all levels.

Running

Barcelona is a runner's paradise. Between the beachfront promenade, Ciutadella Park, and the Montjuïc hillside, there's no shortage of scenic routes. Joining a running group gives you regular company and motivation. English-speaking running groups are a great option for newcomers who want to explore the city while making friends.

Hiking

One of Barcelona's best-kept secrets is how close it is to incredible hiking. The Collserola hills are a short train ride from the city centre, and places like Montserrat and the Costa Brava coast are perfect for day trips. Hiking groups bring people together for several hours at a time, which naturally leads to deeper conversations and stronger bonds.

Beach Volleyball

Playing volleyball on Barceloneta beach is one of the most social things you can do in the city. Games are casual, open to all levels, and usually end with a group heading to a nearby chiringuito for drinks. It's the epitome of the Barcelona lifestyle.

Tennis & Ping Pong

For something more one-on-one, tennis and ping pong are excellent ways to meet people. You get focused time with someone, which makes it easier to build a personal connection. Several English-speaking groups in Barcelona organise regular sessions and friendly tournaments.

Football & Yoga

Casual football matches are a staple of the Barcelona social scene — no tryouts, just show up and play. And if you prefer something more relaxed, yoga groups offer a calmer way to connect with like-minded people while taking care of your wellbeing.

How to Get Started

The hardest part is showing up for the first time. After that, it gets easier every week. Here's a simple plan:

1. Pick a sport you're curious about — it doesn't matter if you've never played before. Most groups welcome complete beginners.
2. Join a WhatsApp group — most English-speaking sports communities in Barcelona organise through WhatsApp. It's the fastest way to find out what's happening. Keep Calm Community has dedicated groups for each sport.
3. Show up to your first event — introduce yourself, be open, and have fun. Everyone was new once.
4. Keep coming back — friendships form through repetition. By the third or fourth session, you'll start recognising faces and feeling part of the group.

Barcelona is one of the most international cities in Europe. There are thousands of English speakers here looking for exactly the same thing you are — fun, active, genuine friendships. You just have to take the first step.