Expanish Barcelona

Architecture buffs will love the location of this school, which is literally on the next block to the gorgeous Casa Batllo, Gaudi’s coral-coloured mansion, and not much further away from Casa Mila and the mighty La Sagrada Familia. You’ll certainly know you’re in Barcelona when you’re strolling past these UNESCO-listed wonders on your way to Spanish class!

The school itself is quite a work of art too. If you thought learning Spanish meant sitting around in drab classrooms with office-style strip lighting, then you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Expanish occupies a stunning palatial mansion, on a quiet side street, and its interior resembles a boutique hotel more than an academic institution, with 18 classrooms with natural light and multiple common areas, all equipped with air-conditioning and free WiFi. There’s even a mural by local artist Javier Mariscal.

Intensive courses start every Monday, and you can choose between either 20, 24 or 30 hours a week, with the option of additional private lessons. One of their most popular courses is called Intensive Explore and includes several classes taken outdoors or done as part of walking tours of the city.

Meanwhile, if you’re already living in Barcelona, then you can opt for two hours of evening classes every Tuesday and Thursday.

In all cases the classes have a maximum of 10 people and are taught by their professional, qualified staff using the engaging, communicative teaching method.

As well the classes themselves, Expanish can organise reasonably-priced accommodation for the duration of your stay in Barcelona, whether you prefer a shared student flat, private apartment or even a homestay with Spanish-speaking locals (if you really want to double down on the lingo!).

To complete your immersive experience, the school also organises a roster of social and cultural activities for their students, such as flamenco classes, dinners, football matches, fiestas and day trips.