Immersive Spanish Courses in Spain with Instituto Hemingway

Immersive Spanish Courses in Spain with Instituto Hemingway

Location
  • Spain
    • Bilbao
Length
1 to 52 weeks
Language
Spanish

Program Details

Language Level
BeginnerIntermediateAdvanced
Immersion Level
Intensive Standard
Certifications
DELE (Spanish)
Specialized Courses
Business Specific Purposes Teaching
Class Size
Private Lessons Small Class (1-7) Medium Class (8-15)
Weekly Classroom Hours
20
Housing
Apartment Host Family
Age Min.
14

Pricing

$145
Price Details
Prices vary, starting at 145$
1-52 weeks
Primarily small classes (1-7 students per group)
We offer both standard and intensive courses.

All students will receive a textbook which uses a communicative approach to ensure you progress rapidly.
Teaching hours vary depending on the course. Though our most popular courses are 20 hours a week, students can choose to do 23, 26 or 30 hours as well.
What's Included
Activities Classes Visa Wifi
What's Not Included
Airfare Airport Transfers Some Park Fees SIM cards
Jan 26, 2025
Apr 11, 2026
7 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Looking for an unforgettable trip to Spain that will improve your Spanish and expand your resume? Look no further: the Instituto Hemingway’s courses are designed to immerse you in Spanish language and culture. You, the learner, are at the heart of everything we do.

We offer a wide range of courses at all levels and for all ages to fit your specific aims, be it learning more about this wonderful country, progressing your Spanish, or preparing and taking an Official DELE exam with us.

With us you don´t need to be worried about dealing with accommodation and visa subjects on your own, we will be there to help!

Our highly qualified teachers will quickly help you find your feet, working with you throughout your stay with us to get the most out of every minute of your course. After lessons are done for the day, kick back with your new friends as you explore our city with our much-loved daily program of cultural activities.

COMMUNITY REVIEWS SUMMARY

Students appreciate the small, dynamic classes with patient, professional teachers who focus on practical communication and cultural immersion.

Program Highlights

  • Bilbao is a city that’s off the beaten tourist trail, so it’s the perfect place to truly practice your Spanish in day-to-day situations. Why not explore some of the many other cities in Spain while you’re here, thanks to Bilbao’s great transport networks!
  • Join us for our free cultural activities including trips, wine tastings, salsa lessons, cooking workshops and tapas tours.
  • We have a range of accommodations available, including with a Host Family, in Shared Apartments or in Private Accommodation.
  • Our courses start every Monday all year round! We cover all levels, from A1 (Beginner) to C2 (Proficient). At the end of your course you'll receive a certificate which states the level of Spanish you’ve acquired.
  • Our experienced and accredited in-house lawyer who specializes in Study Abroad programs helps handle the VISA process with no hidden costs, to make your arrival in Spain a breeze.

Preparing to study and volunteer in Spain

Video and Photos

Diversity & Inclusion 💙

Instituto Hemingway offer sBIPOC support through inclusive, safe, and culturally responsive environments. We prioritize respectful community engagement, often providing supportive, curated housing and staff dedicated to ensuring students of color feel comfortable, seen, and supported during their immersion experience
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals, creating a safe space where all students can express their true selves while learning a new language.
At Instituto Hemingway Spanish School we are dedicated to providing inclusive and supportive learning environments for neurodivergent individuals. Our experienced instructors are trained to accommodate diverse learning styles, ensuring that every student, regardless of their neurodiversity, can thrive in our language programs. We offer personalized support and resources to help neurodivergent learners excel in their language studies and achieve their language learning goals.
At Instituto Hemingway, We are dedicated to ensuring accessibility for all. We provide a range of accommodations to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities, including accessible facilities, materials in various formats, and support services. Our goal is to make language learning an inclusive experience, where everyone can participate fully and thrive in their language studies.

Impact 🌎

Environmentally-conscious students choose Instituto Hemingway because many of our volunteer programs are held here in Bilbao, a sustainability accredited city. There are options to take volunteer programs in sustainability and the environment, as well as field trips and studies where students can leave a lasting impact on their host country
Instituto Hemingway provides ethical, sustainable volunteer abroad programs in Spain designed to address genuine community needs rather than short-term charity. Programs focus on long-term impact through local partnerships, cultural sensitivity, and supporting local employment, ensuring projects are responsible and respectful

Popular Programs

Permaculture in Spain

In our Spanish courses and volunteering program, you’ll immerse yourself in the language while contributing to meaningful projects like animal welfare, social media, permaculture, beach cleanups, soccer and community, art and therapy, social entrepreneurship, or teaching English to children.

You’ll stay in comfortable apartments or with welcoming host families and enjoy a variety of cultural activities. It’s a complete program where you combine learning Spanish with giving back to others.

DELE Exam preparation

Working towards your DELE exam? We can help: as an accredited DELE exam centre, we know the best ways to prepare you for your exam. The course offers DELE preparation alongside general Spanish classes - you’ll be dreaming in Spanish by the end! If you don’t have much time, we’ll help your Spanish improve in leaps and bounds with our SIELE preparation course. As the first certified digital Spanish exam with international recognition, SIELE is a quick and easy way to highlight your Spanish skills.

Teaching in class

If you’re a Spanish language teacher looking to brush up on current methods for teaching Spanish as a second language (ELE), this is the course for you! Covering both foreign language acquisition and specific classroom techniques, we aim to supply you with the latest advice on how best to teach Spanish. Our classes also explore Spanish culture and history. We offer this course in an online version too.

Spanish Junior course

Searching for a fun and educational trip for your son or daughter? Our courses for teens will be perfect for them. We aim to playfully introduce kids to Spanish without making them feel they have to sit in school. In 210 min per day, your child will learn to communicate in Spanish, play language games, sing Spanish songs, do handicrafts, listen to Spanish music and role play everyday situations. We will provide accommodation too. Free leisure and cultural activities in the afternoons

Spanish course seniors

We know many people aged 50+ are looking for much more than just learning Spanish or improving their skills. That’s why our courses for seniors, at all language levels, have cultural activities tailored to your individual interests - be it tasting the delicacies of Spanish cuisine, exploring Bilbao or discovering the secrets of Spanish culture. With no more than 12 people per class, our teachers can dedicate more time to each individual student, incorporating your needs into the class content.

Live and Learn Spanish with an Instituto Hemingway Teacher

What better way to learn Spanish than to live with your own private Spanish teacher! This program is the most effective way to develop your language skills in a short space of time whilst being fully immersed in Spanish culture. You’ll get 10-20 private lessons per week in your teacher’s own home. Please note some teachers take more than one student, but we don't place two students of the same nationality or language in the same homestay unless requested. Contact us directly to learn more.

Student School and University Trips with Instituto Hemingway

Are you a teacher seeking a flexible educational school trip or university program for your students? Our subject-specific academic travel programs, customised to fit your requirements, are just what you need! We combine intensive Spanish studies with enjoyable afternoon activities, ensuring students gain in-depth insights into the Spanish way of life and practise their Spanish. Thanks to our high-quality professional service, many schools return regularly to relive their experiences with us.

Program Reviews

5.00 Rating
based on 41 reviews
  • 5 rating 100%
  • 4 rating 0%
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  • 1 rating 0%
  • Instruction 5
  • Support 5
  • Fun 5
  • Housing 5
  • Value 5
Showing 1 - 8 of 41 reviews
Darren
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

From student to speaker: my experience at Instituto Hemingway

As a former student at Instituto Hemingway in Bilbao, I can say the experience was both fast and highly effective. The teaching method is very communicative, so you start speaking Spanish from day one. Classes are dynamic, practical and never boring. I improved much faster than I expected thanks to constant interaction. The international environment made it easy to practice outside the classroom too. Bilbao itself is perfect—safe, lively, and surrounded by beaches and mountains. It felt like learning Spanish while living a real cultural experience, not just attending a course.

What was your funniest moment?
One of the funniest moments I had at Instituto Hemingway was during a speaking activity when I confidently tried to explain a simple story in Spanish… but completely mixed up the words. I wanted to say I “missed the bus,” but instead I accidentally said I “married the bus.”

The whole class burst out laughing, including me, and even the teacher couldn’t stop smiling. What made it even better was that instead of feeling embarrassed, everyone helped me fix it and we turned it into a running joke for the rest of the week.

It was the perfect reminder that making mistakes is part of learning—and sometimes the funniest part of the experience.
Pros
  • Fast improvement through active learning
  • International and social environment
  • amazing location in Bilbao
Cons
  • Cost of living in Bilbao
  • Unpredictable weather
  • Intensive and sometimes challenging method
25 people found this review helpful.
Marcus
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A complete Spanish learning experience in the heart of the Basque Country

As a student at Instituto Hemingway in Bilbao, I can honestly say this has been one of the most enriching and enjoyable experiences of my life. I came to Spain expecting to improve my Spanish, but I found much more than just a language course — I found a lifestyle, a community, and a city that feels both exciting and welcoming at the same time. From the very first day, I noticed that the classes were focused on real communication. Instead of only memorizing grammar rules, we were encouraged to speak, interact, and express ourselves in Spanish constantly. This made a huge difference in my confidence.

The teachers are not only professional but also very patient and supportive. They understand that students come from different countries and levels, and they adapt the lessons so everyone can follow and improve. I never felt pressured — instead, I felt motivated to participate and make mistakes, which is part of the learning process.

The small group sizes also helped a lot. It felt more like a conversation than a traditional classroom, and that made learning much more natural and enjoyable.

🎉 A fun and social environment

One of the things I enjoy most about studying here is the social atmosphere. At Instituto Hemingway, you don’t just meet classmates — you meet friends from all over the world.

There are students from Germany, the United States, France, Italy, and many other countries. This creates a very international environment where we all speak Spanish together, even outside class. It is amazing how quickly you improve when Spanish becomes part of your daily life.

The school also organizes activities such as city tours, cultural visits, and social events. These moments are not only fun but also help us practice Spanish in real situations. I have made memories here that I will never forget.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
If I could give advice to anyone planning to come to Bilbao to study Spanish at Instituto Hemingway, I would say this: don’t just prepare for a language course — prepare for a life experience. Everything you do here, inside and outside the classroom, will become part of your learning journey. 1
1- Speak Spanish from day one (even if you make mistakes)

One of the biggest lessons I learned is that progress comes from using the language, not just studying it. At the beginning, it is normal to feel shy or unsure, but the more you speak, the faster everything improves.

Even simple conversations in cafés, shops, or with classmates make a huge difference. People in Bilbao are generally friendly and patient, and they appreciate the effort to speak Spanish.

2. Be open to meeting people from everywhere

At Instituto Hemingway, you will meet students from all over the world. This is one of the most valuable parts of the experience.

My advice is: don’t stay only with people from your own country. Try to mix, speak Spanish with everyone, and learn from different cultures. You will not only improve your language skills but also make international friendships that can last for years.

3. Take advantage of Bilbao’s location

One of the best things about studying here is how close everything is. In less than 20 minutes, you can be at the beach, and in a short trip, you can be surrounded by mountains and nature.

Don’t miss this. After classes, go to the coast, explore nearby towns, or join weekend trips. The Basque Country is incredibly beautiful, and it becomes part of your learning experience.
Pros
  • Fast and practical Spanish learning
  • International and social environment
  • Amazing location: city, beach, and mountains
Cons
  • Cost of living can be high
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • Intensive learning can feel challenging
22 people found this review helpful.
Peter
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Why Instituto Hemingway Was Such a Unique Experience

What made my experience at Instituto Hemingway truly unique wasn’t just the Spanish classes—it was the feeling of living something real and meaningful every single day. The teachers were incredibly patient and made every class fun and engaging, so learning never felt like a chore. You could tell they genuinely cared about each student’s progress.

But beyond the classroom, the whole school felt like a team, like a big family where everyone supports each other. From day one, I felt at home, surrounded by people from all over the world but connected by the same goal.

Living in a shared flat with people my age made everything even more special, and being able to walk to school gave a sense of routine and independence. The cultural activities brought the city to life, and little by little, it felt like I wasn’t just visiting—I was starting a new life in Spanish. That’s what made it unforgettable.

What was your funniest moment?
One of the funniest moments in class at Instituto Hemingway was during a speaking activity when we had to improvise a conversation like we were in a restaurant. I tried to order something simple, but I mixed up a few words and ended up saying something completely ridiculous instead of what I meant. The whole class burst out laughing—including me—and even the teacher couldn’t hold it in.

What made it so great was how relaxed and supportive the atmosphere was. The teacher, with so much patience, turned it into a learning moment without making anyone feel embarrassed. In fact, it helped me remember the correct words much better.

Moments like that made the classes so enjoyable. You learn, you laugh, and you feel comfortable making mistakes—which is honestly the best way to improve.
Pros
  • Amazing teachers – super patient, friendly, and classes are always fun and interactive.
  • Great atmosphere – the school feels like a big family where you feel at home from day one.
  • Full experience – accommodation, cultural activities, and the city itself make learning Spanish feel natural and immersive.
Cons
  • Time flies – the experience goes by way too fast!
  • Hard to leave – you get attached to people and the lifestyle.
  • You’ll want to stay longer – one course never feels like enough.
23 people found this review helpful.
Tim
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Learn, Help, and Live Spain to the Fullest!

y experience with Instituto Hemingway was truly unforgettable. The Spanish courses were dynamic and focused on real communication, helping me gain confidence quickly. At the same time, participating in volunteer activities made the experience even more meaningful, as I could give back to the community while improving my language skills. Another highlight was the accommodation, which was fantastic and very well located, making it easy to explore the city and enjoy daily life. Overall, it was a perfect combination of learning, culture, and personal growth.

What was your funniest moment?
One of my funniest moments at Instituto Hemingway happened during a volunteer activity. We were cleaning a park and trying to communicate in Spanish while organizing tools. I accidentally mixed up words and told everyone to “pick up the trees” instead of “pick up the trash.” Everyone laughed so hard, including the local staff, and I couldn’t stop smiling.

It was a little embarrassing at the moment, but it made the day so much fun and showed me that mistakes are part of learning—and laughing together makes the experience unforgettable.
Pros
  • Immersive learning – Classes focus on real-life communication, which helps you improve Spanish quickly.
  • Volunteer opportunities – You can give back to the community while practicing the language, making the experience meaningful.
  • fantastic accommodation – Well-located and comfortable, making it easy to explore the city and enjoy daily life.
Cons
  • Intensive schedule – Courses and activities can be fast-paced, especially for beginners.
  • Age mix in some programs – Some housing or classes may include a range of ages, which can affect group dynamics.
  • Limited free time – With language classes, volunteering, and cultural activities, personal downtime can be short.
21 people found this review helpful.
irache
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

More Than a Course: A Spanish Adventure to Remember!

My experience taking a Spanish course at Instituto Hemingway was truly unforgettable and enriching. From the first day, I felt welcomed by both the teachers and fellow students, which created a friendly and motivating learning environment. The classes were dynamic and focused on real communication, allowing me to improve my speaking and listening skills quickly and naturally.

The teachers were highly professional, patient, and always ready to help, adapting lessons to our needs and levels. What made the experience even more special was the cultural immersion. The institute organized activities such as city tours and social events, giving us the chance to practice Spanish outside the classroom while discovering local traditions.

Overall, it was much more than just a language course—it was a complete cultural experience that helped me grow personally and academically.

What was your funniest moment?
One of my funniest moments at Instituto Hemingway happened during a class activity where we had to act out everyday situations in Spanish. I was trying to order food in a role-play exercise, but instead of saying “pollo” (chicken), I accidentally said “polo” (polo shirt). Everyone burst out laughing, including the teacher, and I was completely confused at first!

It turned into a great moment because the teacher used it to explain pronunciation differences, and I never made that mistake again. It was a bit embarrassing at the time, but also hilarious and memorable. Moments like that made learning much more fun and helped create a relaxed atmosphere where making mistakes was part of the process.
Pros
  • Practical learning approach – Classes focus on real-life communication, helping you speak Spanish confidently in everyday situations.
  • Supportive teachers – The instructors are patient, experienced, and create a friendly learning environment.
  • Cultural immersion – Activities outside the classroom allow you to practice Spanish while experiencing local culture.
Cons
  • Intensive pace – The course can feel fast, especially for beginners who need more time to absorb the material.
  • Mixed-level groups – Sometimes students have slightly different levels, which can affect the class rhythm.
  • Limited class time – You may wish for more hours to practice, especially if you want faster progress.
27 people found this review helpful.
Lin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

An Unforgettable Spanish Learning Experience in Bilbao

My time at Instituto Hemingway was an amazing experience. The teachers are very supportive and make the classes interesting and interactive. I improved my Spanish a lot while enjoying a friendly and international atmosphere. The school also organizes great cultural activities that help you discover Bilbao and its culture. I met wonderful people from different countries and felt very welcome from the first day. I would definitely recommend this school to anyone who wants to learn Spanish and have a great experience abroad

What was your funniest moment?
One of the funniest moments at Instituto Hemingway was during a group Spanish game. We were supposed to act out words without speaking, and I completely misunderstood “lluvia” (rain) and started pretending to swim! Everyone burst out laughing, including the teachers. It was hilarious, and we all ended up laughing so much that it made the lesson unforgettable. Such moments made learning Spanish really fun!
Pros
  • Friendly and professional teachers who make learning Spanish enjoyable
  • Small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and interaction
  • Great cultural activities that let you explore Bilbao and practice Spanish in real life.
Cons
  • Classes can feel intensive for complete beginners at first.
  • Accommodation is shared apart, which might not suit everyone.
  • Some cultural activities depend on the weather, so outdoor plans can change.
37 people found this review helpful.
Lorie
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Discover Bilbao the Hemingway Way

The Instituto Hemingway program is unique in Bilbao because it offers much more than traditional language learning. Students do not only study Spanish in the classroom; they experience the culture of the city every day. The program combines quality teaching with cultural activities, local experiences, and contact with people from Bilbao. Participants explore the history, gastronomy, and traditions of the Basque Country while improving their language skills in a natural environment. The friendly atmosphere and international community make students feel welcome and motivated. At Instituto Hemingway, learning Spanish becomes a real adventure that connects language, culture, and unforgettable memories.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
The most surprising thing I experienced was how quickly I felt part of the local culture. Walking through the old streets of Bilbao, trying traditional pintxos, and speaking Spanish with local people made every day exciting. It was amazing to see how friendly everyone was and how much you can learn outside the classroom.
Pros
  • You improve your Spanish quickly
  • You experience the real culture of Bilbao through food, traditions, and activities.
  • You meet people from many countries and make international friends
Cons
  • At the beginning it can be challenging if your Spanish level is low.
  • The weather in Bilbao can sometimes be rainy.
  • Exploring the city can require extra spending.
38 people found this review helpful.
Mary
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Why Choosing Instituto Hemingway for Spanish is the Best Decision

Choosing Instituto Hemingway for learning Spanish was one of the best decisions I’ve made. The school offers small, dynamic classes where teachers are professional, friendly, and always ready to help. The lessons focus on practical communication, which means you learn to speak Spanish in real-life situations from day one.

Beyond the classroom, the school organizes cultural activities that allow students to practice Spanish while exploring Bilbao. From visiting the Guggenheim Museum to tasting local pintxos or walking through the Old Town, every activity makes learning fun and engaging.

The school also provides a welcoming international environment, where you meet students from all over the world, share experiences, and make lasting friendships. Combined with Bilbao’s pleasant climate, excellent public transport, and beautiful surroundings, studying at Instituto Hemingway is not just about learning a language—it’s a full cultural immersion that leaves you more confident, independent, and inspired.

In short, Instituto Hemingway offers high-quality teaching, cultural enrichment, and a supportive community, making it the perfect choice for anyone serious about improving their Spanish while enjoying an unforgettable experience in Spain.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
One of the most surprising things I experienced while in Bilbao was trying txangurro, a traditional Basque dish made with spider crab. I had never eaten anything like it before—the flavors were rich and unique, and the presentation was impressive. It was a memorable culinary adventure that really showed me how much Basque cuisine values creativity and fresh, local ingredients.
Pros
  • Immersive Learning
  • Cultural Experiences
  • Supportive Environment:
Cons
  • budget considerations
  • new culture
  • homesickness
51 people found this review helpful.

Questions & Answers

Thanks but in our opinion and experience this program is better for non-single mothers or fathers.

Pleaes let me know your citizenship and reasons to come to Spain.

Not at all. This program is totally flexible in terms of dates to join us but also time to stay (2 weeks minimum) and degrees required. We will give you training upon arrival and in that sense no degrees required either.