Study spanish in Spain, an experience of education and cultural immersion

Language tourism is thriving in Spain. In 2024, more than 158,000 students enrolled in federated centers, generating an economic impact of 454 million euros, according to the Spanish Federation of Spanish as a Foreign Language Schools (Fedele). This type of tourism not only promotes the teaching of Spanish, but also strengthens the local economy and fosters cultural integration in the destinations.  Germany, Italy, France, the USA, and the UK are the main sources of students coming to Spain, drawn by its educational quality, social stability, and rich cultural offerings. The factors influencing the choice of destination for a language immersion are diverse and closely linked to the specific objectives and needs of each student. As for the duration of the courses, there is an increasing trend in the number of weeks per student. In 2024, the average stay rose to 4.63 weeks, with an average of 8.3 weeks for individual students and 3.41 weeks for groups. This increase confirms the consolidation of long-term programs, with an interest in more extensive immersion experiences. What’s more, the country's linguistic diversity offers students the opportunity to become familiar with languages such as Basque, Galician, and Catalan.

Image of the famous cloister of the Pontifical University of Salamanca © Shutterstock

Madrid and Salamanca: tradition and academic excellence

Madrid, with its wide range of schools and universities, remains a key destination. The capital city combines high-level training with a complete cultural immersion. Salamanca, home to Spain's oldest university, stands out for its academic prestige and an environment that allows learners to practice Spanish in its purest form.

Andalusia and the Valencian Community: culture, sun, and learning

Andalusia remains one of the most popular regions, with Granada and Malaga continuing to be top choices for visitors. Their combination of historical heritage and friendly atmosphere make them an attractive option for students. The Region of Valencia , meanwhile, is another growing destination, with Valencia attracting students thanks to its quality of life and varied educational offerings.

Barcelona and its international charm

Barcelona has become a strategic destination for students from remote markets—as has Madrid, thanks to its airline connections and cultural dynamism.