What comes to mind when we think of Madrid, the sunny capital of Spain ? This beautiful city, which has a captivating story, majestic architecture and a dynamic culture is also the perfect city to learn Spanish. Whether you are an adult or teenager on a language immersion programme or a simple traveler wishing to practice and improve your language skills, Madrid will amaze you. Spain's beautiful capital is full of varied activities that will allow you to learn Spanish while having fun. Let’s explore some of the best activities to do in Madrid to help you practice your Spanish.
Take a guided tour
Why not discover Madrid thanks to a guided tour? It’s a fun and entertaining way to dive into Madrid's secrets. You can also opt for a free walking tour, these tours are often organized by tourism students in exchange for tips and available in small groups. You will be able to chat to your guide and ask them any questions that come to mind. While tours are usually available in different languages, we recommend that you take thebull by the horns and choose to do it in Spanish. Do not miss Madrid's most iconic sites, from the Prado Museum to the Royal Palace and the Plaza Mayor.
Take a cooking class in Spanish
Spanish cooking is renowned worldwide and rightly so. Taking cooking classes with Madrilenians is a great way to explore the culture while practicing the language. Learn to cook paella, tapas or other traditional dishes that will awaken all your senses as well as your language skills. Besides preparing delicious meals, you'll also learn Spanish culinary vocabulary, the next step is to put it into practise when you eat out in local restaurants.
Attend a play or show
Like Paris in France and New York in the USA, Madrid is at the forefront of the Spanish theater scene. It goes without saying that attending a play, concert or show is a memorable experience. Book your tickets for performances in Spanish to immerse yourself in the language and culture. You may not understand every word, but the actors' gestures and facial expressions will help. And when the show ends why not talk about it with other spectators to continue practising your Spanish?
If you're more into cinema than theater, you'll easily find what you're looking for in Madrid, the capital does not lack cinemas, some of which are quite unusual. We particularly recommend the Sala Equis art cinema, with its trendy bar area. We guarantee you'll love it!
More than just a capital city, Madrid is a never-ending "fiesta". During your language stay in Madrid, you may have the chance to take part in a festival. Among the colorful celebrations not to be missed are the Feria de San Isidro (May), the Virgen de la Paloma festival (August) and the Madrid Carnival (February). Since we're talking about festivities, it's impossible not to mention soccer, a genuine religion for the Madrilenians. If you can visit the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, we highly recommend attending a match. A 100% Spanish atmosphere is guaranteed: you're certain to find football fans to chat with. But be warned, seats are hard to find and expensive, so it's best to plan ahead.
Meet Madrilenians in bars and cafes
Just like the stands in soccer stadiums, cafes and bars are great meeting places: perfect for practicing Spanish with the locals. Order your morning coffee in Spanish, start a conversation with the barista or talk to a few customers. Madrilenians are often very welcoming and open to discussion, giving you plenty of opportunities to speak Spanish.
Another not-to-be-missed place to "charlar", or chat in Spanish: the markets. From the Puerta de Toledo underground, you can go to the Rastro flea market, it is the biggest in Madrid. There will always be someone there happy to chat with you in the language of Cervantes. As the weather is often good in Madrid, you can also take the opportunity to get some fresh air and escape a little further afield. A hike in the Sierra de Guadarrama or a bike ride in Retiro Park are always good opportunities for socializing.
Depending on the length of your stay, why not organize a day trip? On your own or with a guide, don't hesitate to ask Madrilenians for advice on their favorite destinations. We particularly recommend Ávila, Segovia, Toledo, Zaragoza, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Alcalá de Henares and Aranjuez!
Book an Immersion Language Program in Madrid
The most efficient and complete way to enjoy Madrid while practicing your Spanish is however to book a language immersion program in Spain. We offer tailor-made language programs in Madrid to suit all levels, from beginner to advanced. Language lessons can include conversation, grammar, vocabulary and role-playing. We also offer cultural outings and varied activities to help you practice what you've learned! What better way to learn Spanish informally, while building rich intercultural relationships you will never forget?
Madrid is a bustling capital and a great place to learn Spanish and have fun at the same time. Whether structured lessons, a language stay or a culinary and cultural adventure, Madrid has plenty of surprises in store to help you improve your Spanish. The most important thing is not to remain quiet and to make the most of every opportunity to chat. So, « buena suerte »!