Thursday is a distinctive dating platform active in 60 cities worldwide. Every Thursday, it hosts live events designed to bring singles together in person. True to its name, the app is accessible each Thursday, allowing users to match and chat with others who plan to attend that week’s live event. Attendees can enjoy the event without the pressure of finding a date, focusing instead on real-life connections rather than screen-based interactions. The app also welcomes users from other dating platforms, but attendees must download the app to join the weekly gatherings for free.
Founded to counteract the impersonal nature of online dating, Thursday emphasizes the importance of meeting like-minded individuals in person to forge meaningful connections. For convenience, users can exchange details with potential matches through the app and meet them at the event. It’s an ideal choice for those who prefer to avoid lengthy online conversations.
Leading European Dating Sites
Top dating sites for Europeans include Match Group, Inc. (NASDAQ), along with its subsidiaries Tinder, Meetic, and Lovoo. Here are some recent updates from these major players:
- Tinder: Owned by Match Group, Inc., Tinder recently introduced new in-app warnings aimed at enhancing safety and user experience. On February 5, Tinder updated its community guidelines, introducing warnings like “Does This Bother You” and “Are You Sure” to combat harassment and promote respectful interactions. These features will be rolled out globally over the coming weeks.
- Meetic: Also under Match Group, Inc., Meetic is a popular French dating platform with a strong European presence. On February 6, Meetic announced a new partnership with Printemps, launching the “Les Soirées Roses” campaign. This collaboration includes exclusive date evenings starting on Valentine’s Day, offering personality tests, personalized coaching, and ice-breaking activities.
- Lovoo: A global dating app from The Meet Group, Inc., now part of ParshipMeet Holding GmbH. Lovoo is known for its user-friendly interface and hosts both live streaming and local events to connect singles in real life.
Top European Dating Sites Without Payment
Our list of the top European dating sites that don’t require payment is based on data from Sensor Tower, DatingAdvice, and Best Dating. The ranking is determined by total site visits from Similarweb, updated monthly.
Note that while we aimed to feature sites headquartered in Europe, platforms like Tinder and Bumble are included due to their significant regional impact despite being U.S.-based.
Parship
Site Visits (Feb 6, 2024): 68,127
A German-based platform from ParshipMeet Holding GmbH, Parship helps users find long-term relationships through detailed prompts and icebreaking activities. Profile verification is required, but registration is free.
Knuz
Site Visits (Feb 6, 2024): 74,100
Based in the Netherlands, Knuz is a completely free platform with over 200,000 members. It offers unrestricted chatting, browsing, and connecting via mobile.
UkraineBride4You
Site Visits (Feb 6, 2024): 90,675
Specializing in connections with Ukrainian women, UkraineBride4You requires profile verification and allows free registration and browsing.
Meetic
Site Visits (Feb 6, 2024): 263,786
French-based Meetic, available in 21 European countries, offers free registration. Paid subscriptions unlock additional features and profile suggestions.
EuroCupid
Site Visits (Feb 6, 2024): 663,846
Part of Cupid Media Network, EuroCupid supports over 2 million members with a freemium model. Free registration and profile creation are available.
LoveScout24
Site Visits (Feb 6, 2024): 853,923
German-based LoveScout24, part of Match.com Europe Limited, focuses on serious relationships. Basic membership is free.
Happn
Site Visits (Feb 6, 2024): 1.57 Million
Paris-based Happn, founded in 2014, is a location-based dating app that allows likes and chats only when mutual interest is shown. Free to use, premium features reveal who liked your profile.
For further details, you might also explore the best free dating sites in the United States or our guide on senior dating sites without payment.
