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Gap year in Spain

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Gap year in Spain

A gap year in Spain is perfect if you’re looking to immerse yourself in a rich culture while developing your Spanish and making new friends. As the birthplace of Castilian Spanish, Spain offers a perfect environment to develop language skills through daily practice with native speakers in authentic settings. 

The country boasts a variety of vibrant cities, each with its own culture and personality, like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia, where you can take formal Spanish classes while exploring art, history, and modern European life. Spain's diverse landscapes—from sunny Mediterranean beaches to the rugged Pyrenees mountains — make it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Culturally, Spain is a mosaic of traditions. From the flamenco rhythms of Andalusia to festivals like La Tomatina and San Fermín, there is always something exciting to experience. Spain’s culinary delights, including tapas, paella, and churros, add a flavorful layer to your gap year.

Explore our Gap Year Destinations in Spain

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Language studies in Spain: Gap year

With 572 million speakers, Spanish makes up roughly 8% of the world's population! Making it the 3rd most spoken language in the world! Whether you’re planning to study in a country that speaks Spanish natively, work in an international environment, or simply want 572 million potential new friends — a gap year in Spain is a useful way to get there!

While you have 21 countries that natively speak Spanish to choose from, taking your gap year in Spain is the only way to learn the “original Spanish” from its source! As the birthplace of this vibrant language, you’ll embrace all of the cultural staples that have developed alongside Spanish: from flamenco to paella!

As the second-most visited tourist destination in the world, Spain also features endless entertainment options to keep you occupied during your time in the country. Whether it’s lounging in the hot sun all day on the beach or dancing the night away in a lively club or bar — you’ll have a great time either way on your gap year in Spain.

Cost of living for your gap year in Spain

Compared to other European countries, a gap year in Spain can be relatively cheap, and even more so if you choose the right city for your budget! Spain’s larger, most popular cities like Madrid and Barcelona are somewhat more expensive than others, you can expect to pay roughly 600-800 euros in either city before rent. However, if you choose a smaller city in the cheaper region of Andalusia, like Cordoba or Seville, you can expect to pay closer to 300-500 without rent. 

What makes Spain special for a gap year

Spain is a fantastic destination for a gap year, particularly for Spanish students, as it offers a rich blend of cultural, educational, and experiential opportunities. Spain’s rich history and deep cultural roots in art, music, and cuisine provide a perfect environment for personal growth and exploration. Moreover, Spain’s thriving economy and dynamic job market offer opportunities for internships or volunteer work, allowing students to gain professional experience while exploring their homeland. The country's strong sense of community and lively social life ensure that students can make lasting connections and fully enjoy their gap year.

Cultural life in Spain

Cultural life during your gap year in Spain is full of excitement and discovery. From vibrant festivals like Semana Santa to lively flamenco shows, there’s always something to experience. Students can explore Spain’s rich history through its stunning architecture, like the Alhambra in Granada or Gaudí’s works in Barcelona, and visit famous museums like the Prado. Everyday life is just as engaging, with tapas, local markets, and a warm social atmosphere that make it easy to feel connected and immersed in the culture.

The weather in Spain

One of the main reasons why so many students choose to do a gap year in Spain is its weather, and who can blame them? Spain is amongst the sunniest countries in Europe, with Malaga being the single sunniest city in all of Europe! You can expect the hottest weather in the South of the country (Andalusia). With cities like the aforementioned MalagaCordoba, and Seville offering scorching summers and mild winters. Whereas San Sebastian, in the Basque country, offers more temperate summers and cool winters (as well as incredible waves for surfing!)

Frequently asked questions about taking a Gap Year in Spain

What can I do in Spain during a Gap Year?

No matter where you go, you’ll be able to fill your gap year in Spain with plenty of fun activities to keep you entertained. If you choose Barcelona or nearby Valencia, you can balance life in a vibrant party city with leisurely trips to the beach and nearby mountains. If you want to have the ultimate Spanish experience, with cultural influences from all over the country in a huge metropolitan city, Madrid is for you! In Andalusian cities like Nerja, Malaga, Cordoba, Seville, or Granada, you can experience the sunniest weather in Europe while also sampling the regional flavour of Flamenco dancing and irresistible fried seafood. If you choose San Sebastien, get ready to try some of the best food that Europe has to offer while enjoying the city’s unique art scene or surfing incredible waves.

Can I work during my Gap Year in Spain?

Spain is home to many well-known international corporations, making it an attractive country to seek employment, but can you work during a gap year in Spain? Well, that depends on your passport. If you hold an EU passport from the Schengen Area, you will be able to work in Spain alongside your studies. However, if you don’t, we advise you to contact us so we can give you specific advice for your situation.

Do I need a Visa to take a Gap Year in Spain?

Many of our students ask us whether a visa is necessary for their gap year in Spain, however, the answer is usually not so clear-cut. If you hold a passport from the EU Schengen area, you will not need a visa for your stay, but in most other cases, you will. The type of visa you will need will depend on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Please get in contact to find out more about your specific situation.