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Instituto Hemingway

4.99 Rating
101 reviews
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Why choose Instituto Hemingway?

Our Spanish School offers Spanish courses in Bilbao and other cities in Spain starting from one week on, Volunteer programs, jobs in hospitality management in Spain, Spanish intensive courses, unpaid internships and School trips to Spain for graduate and undergraduate students.

Our teachers are energetic, bubbling over with enthusiasm, and spontaneously combust from laughter on a daily basis. Instituto Hemingway is welcoming, friendly, happy, excited, LGTB friendly School, Cervantes accredited, and so fabulous it's out of this world!

Get out of your comfort zone and study in Northern Spain. Instituto Hemingway will give you more friends than Facebook, more professional skills than LinkedIn, more family than you can count to embarrass you on holiday, and will make your heart explode from loving your life too much.
You the student are the center of our universe. Like your new friends you come from all over the globe, are of all ages.

Website
www.institutohemingway.com
Founded
1999
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learning spanish actively
Program in Northern Spain
Class activity
discovering cultural activities programmed by School
Spanish courses in Bilbao
learning Spanish in Bilbao is fun
cleaning and resting
Cleaning beaches and mountains
learning online gives me plenty of free time
permaculture in Spain
Spanish courses in Bilbao
Fantastic Spanish courses
snakes are nice animals
Hard work in beach cleaning
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At the picturesque seaside

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Community Awards

  • Go Overseas Award
  • Go Overseas Award
  • Go Overseas Award
  • Go Overseas Award

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
Learn More
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

Reviews

Darren
20
Male
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Immersive Spanish Courses in Spain with Instituto Hemingway

From student to speaker: my experience at Instituto Hemingway

Apr 11, 2026

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
learning spanish actively
Marcus
21
Male
Germany
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Immersive Spanish Courses in Spain with Instituto Hemingway

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

Apr 11, 2026

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
Program in Northern Spain
Frank
19
Male
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Volunteer in Northern Spain

Sun, Friends & Purpose: A Volunteering Experience Like No Other

Apr 9, 2026

Volunteering at Instituto Hemingway was a truly unique experience. What made it so special was the perfect combination of meaningful work and an amazing lifestyle. I met incredible friends from all over the world, enjoyed a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and made unforgettable memories together. The good weather and beautiful beaches made every day even better, especially after volunteering hours. Everything was close and easy to reach, which made life very convenient. On top of that, the price was excellent for everything included. It was the perfect mix of fun, purpose, and connection.

What was your funniest moment?
My funniest moment was during a beach cleanup with Instituto Hemingway when a group of us tried to speak only Spanish for an hour. It quickly turned into chaos—mixing up words, inventing new ones, and laughing non-stop at our mistakes. At one point, I accidentally asked for a “fish umbrella” instead of a bag! It was hilarious, but also one of the moments where I learned the most.
Pros
  • Great opportunities to meet international friends and build connections
  • Beautiful location with beaches, good weather, and everything nearby
  • Fun, relaxed atmosphere that mixes volunteering, culture, and social life
Cons
  • Some activities can feel disorganized at times
  • Shared accommodation may lack privacy
  • Intensity of social life can feel overwhelming for people who prefer quiet time
Class activity
Peter
22
United States
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Immersive Spanish Courses in Spain with Instituto Hemingway

Why Instituto Hemingway Was Such a Unique Experience

Apr 5, 2026

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.
discovering cultural activities programmed by School
Tim
23
Male
United Kingdom
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Immersive Spanish Courses in Spain with Instituto Hemingway

Learn, Help, and Live Spain to the Fullest!

Apr 1, 2026

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.
Spanish courses in Bilbao
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Programs

Displaying 1 - 4 of 4

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Anna Aroca

Program
Online Spanish Lessons

Alumni Spotlight: Anna

Why did you choose this program?

I chose this program because it combines my passion for football with the opportunity to volunteer and gain experience, while also improving my Spanish through personalized classes. It allows me to learn the language in a practical, engaging, and meaningful way. Additionally, it gives me the chance to meet new people, immerse myself in a different culture, and develop both personal and professional skills that will benefit me in the future.
 

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

The program provider assisted me with arranging Spanish classes, providing learning materials, and giving guidance during my volunteering in football. They also helped with scheduling and adapting lessons to my level. On my own, I had to organize my travel, accommodation, and manage my daily schedule to balance classes and volunteer activities.
 

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

My advice is to embrace every opportunity to practice Spanish, both in classes and while volunteering. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—they are an essential part of learning. Stay curious, ask questions, and engage fully with all activities. Take advantage of every moment to immerse yourself in the language and culture. The more you participate, the more you will grow, gain confidence, and truly enjoy this unique and rewarding experience.
 

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

An average week includes private online Spanish classes tailored to my level and goals, combined with volunteering in football activities. Outside lessons, I review materials, practice vocabulary, and apply Spanish in real situations. The flexible schedule allows me to balance study, volunteering, and personal activities while making steady progress. Cultural activities the School programs every day is a plus.
 

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear was struggling to communicate in Spanish and making mistakes while volunteering. I overcame it by practicing daily, asking questions, and staying patient. Over time, I realized that mistakes are part of learning, which boosted my confidence and made me enjoy the experience more fully.
 

Write and answer your own question.

Prospective travelers would want to know that the program offers flexible, personalized Spanish classes and meaningful volunteering opportunities in football. They may also want tips on balancing lessons with activities, practicing the language daily, and being open to new experiences. Engaging fully will help them improve skills quickly and enjoy the cultural experience to the fullest.
 

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Penny Read

Program
Internships in Spain with Instituto Hemingway
Job Title
Receptionist/administration
Instituto Hemingway, based in Bilbao, Spain is a Spanish language school dedicated to helping students from around the world learn the language while experiencing authentic Spanish culture.
Penny smiles happily at camera

Staff Spotlight: Penny

What is your favorite travel memory?

The beaches in Bilbao are truely spectacular, a perfect escape from the city with dramatic cliffs and golden sand. Places like Sopelana and Plentzia are great spots for relaxing in the sun but also ideal for activities like surfing. The natural beauty of the Basque Country adds another dimension to the experience at Instituto Hemingway.
 

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

Since working for my current company, I've developed strong communication skills by engaging with people from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. I've also become more confident and independant stepping outside of my comfort zone to embrace new challenges and experiences. Along the way, I've learnt the importance of cultural exchange and teamwork and using Spanish in real-life situations, all skills that will serve me well in the future.
 

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

Coming to Bilbao and studying at Instituto Hemingway transforms your confidence with Spanish. At this school not only do you make lifelong friendships but grow as an individual as you live in the city and immerse yourself in its culture. By experiencing all the amazing opportunities Bilbao has to offer you don't only improve your language skills but a fresh perspective on life that stayes with you long afer the program.
 

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

The volunteer & Spanish language class program. This program combines intensive Spanish learning with volunteer work, such as helping in animal shelters, environmental and community projects. This option stands out because it not only improves your language skills but also provides a real cultural immersion with a chance to give back and support the local community.
 

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

What makes Instituto Hemingway unique is its combination of Spanish language learning with full cultural immersion through cultural activities, volunteer opportunities and community engagement. I was especially proud to see our team grow and come together - students, teachers and staff united as a true community where every individual is supported, respected and valued.
 

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

I believe that creating a strong culture of support and connection among everybody at Instituto Hemingway the students, teachers and staff is key to success. This comes from ensuring everyone feels supported not just in the classroon but throughout every acpect of their experience making the institution not just a place of learning, but a true community.