Making friends across the world has become easier than ever in 2026. Whether you’re interested in Italian culture, planning to visit Italy, learning the Italian language, or simply looking to expand your international social circle, there are many opportunities to connect with people online.
Italy is known for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, fashion, and warm hospitality. Thanks to social media platforms, friendship apps, and online communities, you can meet people from Italy without leaving your home.
This guide explains the best ways to build genuine friendships in Italy in 2026. You’ll discover trusted online platforms, learn how to create accounts, start meaningful conversations, and build long-lasting friendships based on shared interests and mutual respect.
Why Build Friendships in Italy?
International friendships are about much more than exchanging messages. They provide an opportunity to learn about different cultures, improve communication skills, and gain a better understanding of life in another country.
Making friends in Italy can help you:
- Learn about Italian culture and traditions.
- Practice English or Italian with native speakers.
- Prepare for future travel or study opportunities.
- Build an international professional network.
- Discover authentic Italian food, festivals, and local customs.
- Expand your global circle of friends.
Many lasting friendships begin with a simple online conversation.
Best Online Platforms to Meet People in Italy
1. Tablo (Highly Recommended)
Tablo has become one of Italy’s most popular social apps for meeting new people through shared activities rather than random messaging.
How It Works
Users create or join events such as:
- Coffee meetups
- Hiking trips
- Dinner gatherings
- Museum visits
- Language exchange events
- Photography walks
- Beach outings
How to Create an Account
- Download the Tablo app from Google Play or the App Store.
- Register using your email, Google account, or Apple ID.
- Add a profile picture and write a short bio.
- Choose your interests and preferred city.
How to Meet People
Browse public events or create your own meetup. Many Italians use Tablo to make local friends after moving to a new city, making it one of the most authentic friendship apps in Italy.
2. Comehome
Comehome is another Italy-based social platform designed for people who want to make new friends through home gatherings and social events.
Popular Activities
- Board game nights
- Cooking sessions
- Movie evenings
- Book clubs
- Cultural exchanges
- Group dinners
Getting Started
Download the app, create your profile, verify your account, and browse events happening in Italian cities. Even if you’re not in Italy yet, exploring events helps you understand local social life and connect with hosts or participants.
3. Meetup
Meetup is widely used across Italy, especially in cities such as:
- Rome
- Milan
- Florence
- Bologna
- Turin
- Naples
You’ll find groups for:
- English conversation
- Italian language exchange
- Entrepreneurs
- Digital nomads
- Photography
- Hiking
- Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
Many Meetup groups also host online events that international users can join.
4. Couchsurfing
Although known for travel, Couchsurfing is also a great way to meet locals without staying at their homes.
Features
- Hangouts
- Local events
- Walking tours
- Coffee meetups
- Cultural exchanges
Many Italians use Couchsurfing simply to meet travelers and make international friends.
5. Telegram Communities
Telegram is extremely popular in Italy.
Search for public groups using keywords like:
- Italy Friends
- Roma Friends
- Milano Community
- Learn Italian
- Italian Culture
- English-Italian Exchange
Join conversations before sending direct messages.
6. Facebook Groups
Facebook is still one of the largest community platforms in Italy.
Useful searches include:
- Expats in Italy
- Friends in Rome
- Friends in Milan
- Pakistani Community in Italy
- Students in Italy
- Italians Learning English
These groups often welcome newcomers and host online discussions.
7. Tandem & HelloTalk
These remain excellent choices because many Italians want to practice English.
A simple message like:
“Hi! I’m learning Italian and would love to learn more about your culture. I’d be happy to help you practice English too.”
usually works much better than a generic “Hi.”
