Finding Your 'Third Place' in Zurich: Where to Go When You're Not at Home or Work
We all have a "first place" (home) and a "second place" (work). But the magic of life, especially in a new city, happens in the "third place."
Think back to university. Maybe it was that café by the library where you'd go to "study," but secretly knew you'd run into your friends. It’s the Central Perk from Friends, where the orange couch was always magically free for the gang. It’s Luke’s Diner for every Gilmore Girls lover, where the coffee came with a side of town gossip and unwavering support.
A third place is a public space that creates a sense of community and casual interaction. It’s where you feel you belong, where you see familiar faces, and where you can simply be. It’s the antidote to a life that feels like a monotonous loop between your apartment and your office. For expats and locals, finding one is so important to start feeling truly at home in Zurich.
What Makes a Great Third Place?
It's low-pressure and chill.
You see "regulars". That consistency is crucial for building connections.
It has a welcoming, playful, and comfortable atmosphere.
It's a place for conversation and shared experiences.
How to Find Your Third Place in Zurich
Become a Regular Somewhere. Pick a local café, a cozy bar, or a bookstore and make a point to go once a week. Learn the barista's name. Bring a book. Over time, you’ll start to recognize other regulars, and that simple familiarity can evolve into conversation.
Find an Active Hub. Community-oriented spaces like bouldering gyms, yoga studios, or even a run club can serve as great third places. The shared activity becomes the foundation for a shared identity.
Join a Purpose-Built Community. The truth is, traditional third places are harder to come by these days. So, why not join a community that is the third place?
That's the entire philosophy behind Playhard. Our events, whether a game night, a picnic, or a brunch, are the backdrop for a consistent community of women to gather. It’s a space where you are celebrated for who you are, where you can let your guard down, and where you always have a place to go to feel seen and energized.
Don't just live in Zurich. Find the place where you belong.
