Best countries to learn Spanish

By Marta Díaz on Thursday, February 27, 2025

Every year, thousands of foreign students look for destinations where they can immerse themselves in the Spanish-speaking language and culture. So, if you are here, it is because you have decided to take a step further and start living the Spanish language instead of studying it at home and you will find out which are the best countries to learn Spanish.

As one of the most widely studied languages in the world, Spanish is spoken in various countries around the world and there are certain destinations that students prefer to learn it.

Therefore, below, you will find a list of the 10 best countries to learn Spanish.

Spain: the cradle of the language

As the cradle of the language, Spain offers an authentic experience and a complete cultural immersion in the language. One of the best countries to learn Spanish in and a favorite among students is undoubtedly Spain.

Thanks to the wide variety of accents, rich history, vibrant culture, good climate and even better cuisine, Spain is one of the best countries to learn Spanish. Here you can discover big cities like Madrid and Barcelona, coastal cities like Valencia, Alicante or Malaga; and study a more neutral Spanish discovering Salamanca.

Students choose Spain because they can experience Spanish in its original context and explore its regional diversity. In addition, the wide range of academic programs and the possibility of visiting cities full of cultural heritage make Spain the first choice for many.

All cities have prestigious Spanish schools and academic institutions, as well as a wide range of the best programs to learn Spanish.

Learn Spanish in Madrid means living in a great capital city that never sleeps, enjoying streets packed with people at any time of the day and activities every day of the week. But if you choose a Spanish school in Valencia you can visit the famous Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences), eat paella by the sea and enjoy a warm climate all year round.

Or if you prefer to take any of our Spanish courses in Barcelona, you will be surrounded by Gaudí's architecture wherever you go, you can try calçots, experience Sant Jordi or stroll along the beach while also enjoying a city full of charm and fantastic urban corners.

Colombia: clarity and cultural diversity

The second most popular country for students is Colombia. Renowned for the clarity and neutrality of its accent, especially in Bogotá, Colombia has positioned itself as an attractive destination and among the top 3 best countries to learn Spanish.

The country's universities, such as the National University of Colombia or the University of the Andes, offer specialized programs for foreigners seeking to perfect their command of the language.

In addition, Colombia is especially well known for the cities of Bogotá and Medellín. This makes it an attractive destination for those looking for a Spanish that is easier to understand and learn. Not to mention that the warmth of Colombians and the country's cultural richness provide a complete immersion experience.

Students can travel from the Caribbean beaches to the Andean region while practicing in a variety of contexts and starting to learn Spanish in Colombia.

Mexico: history and linguistic diversity

Mexico is another country in high demand for learning the language. Cities such as Playa del Carmen, Oaxaca and Guanajuato offer schools specializing in the teaching of Spanish to foreigners. Mexico is the country with the most native Spanish speakers in the world, which allows for great diversity in the use of the language.

Students choose Mexico for its gastronomy, its history and its vibrant cultural life. The opportunity to practice Spanish in markets, museums and archaeological sites such as Teotihuacán or Chichén Itzá make this destination one of the best countries to learn Spanish and live a unique experience.

Its rich cultural heritage and a variety of dialects make Mexico another perfect destination for you.

Argentina: River Plate Spanish

Let’s continue with Argentina, particularly Buenos Aires, where students can immerse themselves in “español rioplatense” (River Plate Spanish) and enjoy a vibrant cultural scene.

The Argentine capital is the epicenter of Spanish language learning in South America. Here, students become familiar with River Plate Spanish, characterized by its intonation and the use of the voseo (vos instead of tú).

The city of Buenos Aires has a vibrant cultural scene, with theaters, literary cafes and an active nightlife. Students can learn the language while exploring tango, Borges' literature or the charms of the San Telmo neighborhood.

Peru: history and nature

Lima and Cusco are cities that combine history, culture and educational programs, three factors that attract numerous international students.

Lima, as the capital, offers a wide variety of language teaching institutions. Cusco, with its historical richness and proximity to Machu Picchu, attracts students who wish to combine studying Spanish with exploring the Inca legacy.

In addition, the Spanish spoken in Peru is considered clear and easy to understand, which makes learning easier for students.

Guatemala: learning in a colonial city

The city of Antigua is known for its schools and the opportunity to live in a colonial city with a rich tradition. One of the favorite destinations and best countries to learn Spanish thanks to the quality of its schools and its peaceful atmosphere.

This colonial city, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, offers intensive programs and the possibility of staying with local families for total immersion in the language.

The beauty of its cobbled streets, its history and the warmth of its inhabitants make Antigua one of the best places to learn Spanish for those looking for a more personalized experience.

Ecuador: learning in a natural environment

Cities such as Quito and Cuenca offer Spanish programs in environments full of history and natural beauty, making Ecuador one of the best countries to learn Spanish.

Both cities offer high-quality academic institutions and a clear and unhurried Spanish, ideal for those at the initial levels of learning. In addition, Ecuador offers the possibility of practicing the language in various natural environments, from the Pacific beaches to the Amazon rainforest and the Andean region.

Costa Rica: Spanish in a natural paradise

With its biodiversity and political stability, Costa Rica is another attractive destination for studying Spanish while enjoying nature.

Specifically, San José, the capital, is the country's educational center, with several internationally recognized Spanish schools. Students choose Costa Rica for its safety, political stability and the possibility of outdoor activities. Visiting volcanoes, beaches and national parks is an adventure not to be missed, while practicing Spanish with native speakers.

Chile: a combination of modernity and culture

Santiago de Chile has institutions that offer Spanish programs, as well as a vibrant cultural life. Santiago, as the country's capital, offers a modern urban life with access to universities and language centers that students demand in every city.

Although the Chilean accent can be a challenge for beginners, immersing themselves in the culture helps students to quickly improve their understanding of Spanish in a dynamic and challenging environment.

Uruguay: a peaceful and cultural destination

Finally, Montevideo offers a peaceful environment and quality language learning programs. The capital of Uruguay is an excellent option for those looking for a relaxed environment in which to study Spanish.

The city offers a perfect balance between modernity and tradition, with highly rated schools and a more relaxed pace of life compared to other large cities in the region.

In Uruguay, students will enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, the Atlantic coast and its culture, which includes mate, tango and Uruguayan literature.

Choosing the best country to learn Spanish is quite a challenge, it depends on your interests and preferences, but with this list, I'm sure most of your doubts have disappeared.

Whether it's because of the clarity of the accent, the cultural richness or the variety of activities, these 10 destinations are the best countries to learn Spanish and have an unforgettable experience.