Dating in Switzerland: finding love as an expat

Dating in Switzerland can be a slow burn, a bit like melting cheese for the perfect fondue. You’ve got to be patient, punctual, and prepared to play the long game. The Swiss might not lay their hearts on the table right away, but when they do, you’re in for the long-haul.

So, how do you break through those famously reserved exteriors? Should you expect grand romantic gestures or a pragmatic approach to relationships?

Let’s find out:

How easy is it to date in Switzerland?

Around 28.9% of men and 30.5% of women aged 18–80 are single (BfS, 2023). Within the 25–44 age group, the share of women without a partner is significantly lower: 26.6% of men are single, compared to only 20.2% of women.

So, it is fair to say that some people find dating in Switzerland challenging. But why?

According to one report, there are a number of factors at play. But most to blame are modern gender norms.

In Switzerland, women can afford a stable life without a partner and are no longer socially condemned for staying single. Indeed, many refuse to settle for the additional responsibilities that come with traditional long-term relationships, such as work, household chores, raising children, and carrying the mental load for both of them.

Meanwhile, men feel insecure about what they are really bringing to the table. (If not money and social standing, then what?) Women have raised their standards, and men presume they are incapable of meeting those.

It doesn’t help that Swiss singles have mismatched expectations when it comes to love. Whereas men typically go for someone (much) younger, women want someone who is the same age. And while men don’t mind a partner who is less educated and has less income, women like to be on equal terms (i.e., the same level of education and income).

However, expats thinking Switzerland offers great dating opportunities are in for a rude awakening. A 2020 study found that 70% of young people prefer to marry someone with the same cultural background.

How do you meet single people online in Switzerland?

The best dating websites in Switzerland

Unsurprisingly, in the modern era, one of the easiest ways to enter the Swiss dating scene is by going online.

To meet other single, like-minded internationals, try our own online dating service: Expatica Dating Switzerland. Popular with both men and women, it helps to connect people who share similar interests and passions and ultimately find love in Helvetia.

Other popular dating sites are Badoo, Be2, Lovoo, and Meetic, which are free to use but may require payment in order to access special features.

The best dating apps in Switzerland

International dating apps such as Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble are common in Switzerland. ElitePartner is also popular – this app is targeted at well-educated singles looking for long-term commitment.

If you don’t mind the swipe-right apps, Snoggle is a paid dating app that can offer some potential. Meanwhile, Fruitz is an app that has assigned fruit to relationship goals. For example, if you’re looking for a friends-with-benefits situation, you pick the watermelon, and a cherry means that you’re trying to find “the one.”

Singles looking for same-sex relationships will want to check out dating apps like Disco, Her, Newe, and Taimi.

As might be expected, users of dating apps tend to stumble upon the same issues as they would in other countries. For example, the apps are primarily focused on hooking up and are geared toward making rapid decisions. So, if you are looking for a genuine connection, you may be better off signing up for a website or meeting someone in person.

How do you meet singles in person in Switzerland?

If online dating is not for you, then in-person meetups can be a good alternative. You can start by attending social events organized by Meetup groups. There are numerous events throughout Switzerland that allow you to connect with people in a fun and safe way. Even if you don’t find the love of your life, you might make some new friends.

Another great way to meet new people is by joining a local sports club or association. From cooking classes to sports teams, this poses a great way for potential partners to meet and bond over shared passions and interests.

Meeting people through friends

Of course, you can also reach out to your social and professional network to find a date. If you have friends or close work colleagues you trust, see if they know of any suitable singles they could set you up with. Otherwise, keep an eye out for social gatherings and do some searching yourself.

If you’re feeling confident, Switzerland has plenty of opportunities to acquaint yourself with strangers, for example, in bars, at clubs, or at a local event or festival. You just have to be a little outgoing.

While this method requires more effort, it can be rewarding to find attractive singles without the worry that their online personality doesn’t match their real-life one.

Local speed dating events

Speed dating is another interesting way of meeting someone in Switzerland. This is where singles meet at a venue and are matched for a series of quick-fire conversations with potential partners to see if compatibility or a spark exists.

You can find events near you on websites such as Speeddating.ch, which advertises events all over the country. Social networking sites like Facebook and Instagram may also have details of upcoming mixers or speed-dating events.

What is the dating etiquette in Switzerland?

Generally speaking, people in French-speaking Switzerland tend to be more outgoing than those in the German-speaking part, where singles may come across as more reserved at first.

However, both like a casual conservative approach, and take some time to open up. Because of this, Swiss singles may come across as distant or disinterested, but you just have to see through that.

Here’s what to expect in terms of first dates and what might come next if things progress.

A typical dating scenario

In Switzerland, people typically meet for first dates at a local café or restaurant. Some singles are a little more adventurous and go for a walk in a botanical garden or visit a museum. As time goes on, dates will likely center around your shared hobbies and interests. For example, you could solve an escape room, go hiking in the mountains, or go sailing near Rütli.

Dates are typically friendly and relaxed but can be more direct than in other countries. Swiss men and women value honesty and will tell it like it is. This also means they don’t have time for playing games or second-guessing someone’s intentions and prefer to put their cards on the table.

While PDA (public displays of affection) tends to be on the conservative side, it is generally accepted in Switzerland. Holding hands, hugging, or a brief kiss are considered normal and won’t raise any eyebrows. Anything more intense and overtly passionate will draw disapproving looks.

The Swiss appreciate their personal space and a certain level of decorum, especially in a public setting. So, while affection is not frowned upon, there is an unspoken expectation to keep things tasteful.

Dating behavior in Switzerland

Although Swiss culture and social norms are distinct in many ways, first-date etiquette is fairly typical. People are generally friendly and relaxed, meaning that the dating atmosphere is usually casual and fun. Punctuality is a point of pride in the country, so you’ll want to be a few to 15 minutes early. The Swiss consider it very disrespectful to keep people waiting, and being late is a giant turn-off.

The dress code is laid-back and casual, although that doesn’t mean it’s not stylish. From formal attire to comfortable clothing, whatever they choose to wear, they will clearly have made an effort.

When it comes to talking points, you’ll find that Swiss men and women like natural conversations, even if it’s about local politics. Taboo subjects include discussing work, deep personal life issues, and world politics. Being overly serious (i.e., desperate) or having a negative attitude won’t go down too well either, and you’re unlikely to get a second date.

It’s worth noting that Swiss people aren’t famous for their flirting skills. Because they tend to be guarded, singles may not always pick up on subtle hints. If you’re interested in a potential partner, you have to tell them plain and simple. Of course, this is not to say you should get down on one knee after meeting them; keep things casual while still letting them know that you think they are cute.

It’s common for people to only date one person at a time. However, because the Swiss are quite straight-talking, they will usually tell their partners if they are seeing other people too.

Gender roles in Switzerland

Switzerland is pretty progressive when it comes to gender roles. Men and women are considered equal, and either gender can ask each other out. It’s also not offensive to split the bill; in fact, it’s assumed you’ll both pay 50/50.

However, this doesn’t mean men don’t like to be chivalrous. Indeed, most will open doors and help their dates with their coats. However, too grand of romantic gestures will not be appreciated. The Swiss are typically modest, and it will backfire on you tremendously.

What are Swiss relationships like?

In Switzerland, people like to take things at a steady and natural pace. Because of their reserved nature, it can take quite a few dates and months before people open up. However, that is not to say that they like to mess around or play games. They will typically let you know if they’re interested in a relationship or not.

The Swiss value personal space and independence, so they expect relationships to have a blend of commitment and independence. Even early on, weeks might pass between dates; this doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t interested, it’s just the culture.

Couples usually move in together after one to two years of dating. Living together is typically a sign that you both see a long-term future together.

When do you meet your partner’s family?

Another tell-tale sign that your relationship has become serious is when your partner wants to introduce you to their family. In Switzerland, this often comes after a period of steady dating, ranging from a few months to a few years.

During the early stages of dating, it’s common to keep things casual. Once you are more settled in the relationship, you can meet the in-laws but only when both partners feel comfortable with it.

Swiss families, like the culture in general, are warm but reserved. The first meeting won’t likely involve overly personal questions or dramatic displays of affection, but rather a more subtle approach to getting to know someone.

Getting married in Switzerland

The role of the family in weddings

Wedding proposals are a private affair in Switzerland. It’s not standard for the groom-to-be to ask the woman’s parents for her hand first. In fact, depending on the family, it may even be considered sexist and a genuine offense.

It’s way more common for couples to get engaged and announce it to their friends and family afterward. It’s also customary for the future bride to receive a simple (non-diamond) engagement ring from her soon-to-be spouse.

The challenges facing unmarried couples

Marriage isn’t seen as an absolute necessity for a committed relationship. Many couples live together and raise a family without feeling pressured to “make things official.” Choosing to not get married is especially common in cities like Bern, Basel, Geneva, and Zürich, where people have a more modern outlook on family life.

That said, couples might get asked when they’re getting married, especially if they’ve been together long. This shouldn’t be taken as societal pressure, more as people being nosy. Swiss people respect personal choices, also when it comes to marriage.

While not facing any societal challenges, unmarried partners don’t have access to the practical aspects of marriage, such as joint taxation and legal security. Indeed, without any partnership agreement in place, unmarried couples don’t have automatic rights to shared pensions, inheritance, hospital visitation, or decision-making in medical emergencies.

Things to keep in mind when dating in Switzerland

Is Switzerland LGBTQ+ friendly?

Switzerland has a long history of advocating for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people (LGBTQ+) rights. In 1978, the country held its first annual Christopher Street Day (i.e., Pride before Pride was a thing), commemorating the 1969 Stonewall riots. Same-sex marriage is legal in Switzerland, and the country ranks 29^th out of 197 in the world on the 2025 LGBT Equality Index.

Most large cities have an open and visible LGBTQ+ scene. For example, Zürich is known as one of the world’s most gay-friendly cities, home to many vibrant bars, cafes, clubs, and saunas. The city also hosts numerous events throughout the year, including lila. and (of course) Zürich Pride.

Other popular LGBTQ+ destinations include cities like Basel, Bern, and Geneva. And, if you’re into sliding any slopes, you’ll want to check out Arosa Gay Ski Week.

What are the views on mixed dating?

Switzerland prides itself on neutrality and respect for privacy. Most Swiss are open-minded and have a “live and let live” approach to life. So, mixed couples – whether interracial or interfaith – are accepted and don’t attract much attention.

That said, in smaller towns or rural areas, where the population can be more homogenous, mixed-race couples may occasionally encounter curiosity or (less commonly) subtle prejudice. Still, overt racism and discrimination are not tolerated in Switzerland, and mixed couples will find the country to be a welcoming place.

As with many countries, reactions from relatives can vary based on individual backgrounds, generational differences, and personal beliefs. Some families may embrace the diversity enthusiastically, while others need some time to adjust. However, because Swiss culture values discretion and politeness, reservations (if any!) will likely be expressed discreetly.

When it comes to marriage and raising a family, discussions around religion is usually dealt with privately within the relationship.

What challenges come with online dating?

Like elsewhere, online dating in Switzerland comes with its risks. People might not always be who or what they say they are on their profile or during initial chats. Romance scams have been on the rise, and Swiss Crime Prevention even launched a public campaign in 2025 (“True love doesn’t cost anything”).

Never agree to send money to someone, arrange your first date in a public place, and be sure to tell a friend or family member where you’ll be.

Useful resources

• National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) – government website with information on romance scams, including prevention tips
• Discover Germany, Switzerland & Austria – article on the dating culture in Switzerland