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Gap Year Programs in Spain

Sipping sangrias, dancing the flamenco, and exploring diverse architectural styles — aww, sííí, why not live the good life with a gap year in Spain? ¡Es la caña! With 44 World UNESCO Heritage sites, hundreds of fiestas, and millions of Spanish speakers, you’ll experience something new every day. Give yourself a break from the hubbub of school or work to create a better version of yourself, learn some Spanish, and make lifelong friends. Take it despacito with a gap year abroad in Spain: lounging on beaches, exploring palaces, and savoring gazpacho on warm, sunny days.
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81 Gap Year Programs in Spain

Seamester

Featured Provider of the Month

The Intern Group - Spain
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The Intern Group

9.36

90

International Internships in Madrid

We provide first-class international internships in Madrid! We ha...

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CIEE Gap Year Spain

CIEE High School Grads Abroad

9.5

2

CIEE Gap Year in Seville, Spain: Spanish Language & Culture

Your gap year in Seville offers the perfect balance of structure ...

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Spain
Impact Gap Year logo

Impact Gap Year

10

3

Cultural Explorer Gap Year

Take on an 8-month trip of adventure, community service, and comm...

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Traditional Dance in Spain - IGS
Institute for Global Studies logo

Institute for Global Studies

8.33

3

Spain’s Most Interesting Internships: Over 41 Options

Travel to Spain where some of our best-reviewed internships take ...

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Spain
EF Education First logo

EF Education First

0

0

EF Language Year Abroad – Malaga, Spain

Immerse yourself in the Spanish language and Mediterranean lifest...

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Spain

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

9.55

794

Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 9...

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.68

37

GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

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Seamester Study Abroad at Sea

9.76

51

Seamester Study Abroad and Gap Year Voyages

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

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Semester at Sea

9.64

44

Semester at Sea: Global Study Abroad on a Floating Campus

Unlike traditional study abroad or tourism experiences, Semester at Sea offers a unique opportunity for deep, authentic engagement with countries and cultures around the globe. It's more than just the adventure of a lifetime. It's a transformative experience that will give you a global perspective to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Fall 2026: European, African, South American, and Asian Adventure Embark: September 9, IJmuiden, The Netherlands Disembark: Dec 22, Bangkok, Thailand Itinerary: Portugal, Morocco, Brazil, St. Helena, South Africa, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Hong Kong Spring 2027: Asia, Africa, and Europe Embark: Jan 5, Bangkok, Thailand Disembark: Apr 20, Bremerhaven, Germany Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, India, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Morocco, Scotland

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Gapforce

9.22

9

Europe Tour with Gapforce

Experience the ultimate European adventure every summer, traveling safely and comfortably between cities via train so you have the maximum time exploring. Get ready to marvel at the history and culture of the Old World, from the art and violence of Renaissance Italian city-states via the high refinement of Viennese coffee houses to the color of Barcelona and the Romantic drama of the French Alps. Join a group of like-minded travelers for this fully escorted four-week adventure of a lifetime. This trip will take you sightseeing across Europe's finest cities.

Linguistic Horizons

10

1

Gap Year: Spanish or English Language Immersion

Take a life-changing gap year abroad with Linguistic Horizons! We offer internships in various fields, volunteer, study abroad programs, foreign language immersion, nutrition, and alternative medicine programs. Our program destinations include South America, Europe, and Oceania. Choose from Spain, the UK, Peru, or New Zealand! You may also combine destinations or add side trips to other countries. Our programs range in length from 2 weeks to 1 year. Choose the duration that works best for you!

Spanish Institute for Global Education

9.5

6

Study Abroad in Seville: Full-Semester Study Abroad Programs

Would you like to embark on a life-changing university experience abroad? The Spanish Institute offers international students the opportunity to study for a semester or full academic year in Seville, one of Spain’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities. Our Study Abroad Program combines high-quality Spanish language and area-studies courses at the Spanish Institute with the chance to enroll in classes at one of three prestigious local universities: the University of Seville, Pablo de Olavide University, or EUSA University Center. These options allow students to personalize their academic experience while gaining deep insight into Spanish life and culture. Students benefit from intensive language courses, internships, and service-learning opportunities, all while living with Spanish host families, exploring Seville and the Andalusian region, and refining their Spanish skills both in and out of the classroom. This immersive experience is ideal for adventurous, motivated, and responsible students seeking a new perspective, global connections, and a transformative educational journey that will have a profound and lasting impact on their lives. Live the Spanish dream!

Where There Be Dragons

0

0

Morocco & Spain Semester: Culture & Borderlands (Gap)

Experience the westernmost outpost of the Arab world. Travel from forested mountains to the Sahara Desert while studying different languages, faiths, and cultures across the Straits of Gibraltar. From the rise and fall of empires to the cross-cultural exchanges that have left an indelible mark on both nations, this program emphasizes migration patterns, international relations, and religious influence across continents. By following the path of conquests, intellectual growth, and artistic achievements, we will gain a profound understanding of how history has shaped the present-day connections between Morocco and Spain.

Absolute Internship

9.67

46

Intern in Madrid with Absolute Internship

Spend a rewarding summer during this award-winning internship opportunity abroad. Develop your professional skills while taking on full-time responsibilities in a real work environment. Live and work in the Spanish capital, building a unique experience that will help you stand out in an increasingly competitive job market. Choose from over 30 industries including Entrepreneurship, Marketing/PR, Business, Finance, Fashion, and Tourism. Develop your professional skills at career workshops, company visits, and career speaker events. Explore Madrid on cultural visits and day trips whilst discovering more of Spain on weekend trips to either Barcelona or Seville. Ours is an all-inclusive program, including high-quality housing in central Madrid with breakfast and dinner, cultural activities and 24/7 on-site support from our Program Coordinator. Absolute Internship has been featured in the New York Times, BBC News, Bloomberg, and Forbes Magazine. We have placed 4000+ interns at over 800 companies worldwide.

Academic Programs International

9.46

46

API: Experience Granada, Spain (Scholarships Available)

Beautiful Granada is the capital city in the province of Granada. Seated at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and having four rivers running through the city, it remains only an hour from the Mediterranean Sea. It has even hosted the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships back in 1996. In Granada, you can experience local highlights like: - Festivals: International Music and Dance Festival, International Jazz Festival, Granada Festival South Cinemas, the International Tango Festival, and many others! - Concerts: There are lots of concerts throughout the year in the Manuel de Falla Auditorium and theater on top of opera performances in the Congress Palace - Parties: Throughout the year, several parties are held on significant dates for religious, civil, or cultural reasons. Granada has something for everyone. With API, you, too, can take a part of Spain as your own!

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IES Abroad

9.64

11

IES Abroad - Study Abroad in Spain

Studying abroad in Spain with IES Abroad means immersive cultural excursions, hands-on classes, afternoon siestas, and evenings strolling through winding streets to find your favorite tapas. You will explore UNESCO world heritage sites, wander through acclaimed art museums, and marvel at unique architecture as you stroll through winding streets, all while experiencing the wonders of this diverse country when you study abroad in Spain. The extensive Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline has made Spain one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, but beyond the veneer of tourism, Spain has a long and complicated history of Roman, Catholic, Jewish, and Arab influences. This mix has produced stunning and varied architecture, a strong tradition of academic scholarship, some of the 20th century’s most influential artists, and a complex sense of modern national identity. From the modern European cities of Madrid and Barcelona, to the medieval university of Salamanca and the Moorish flavor of Granada, Spain has a place for everyone to explore and better understand Spanish culture, which is far from easy to define. If you're looking for adventure, Spain will not disappoint!

Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

0

0

Study Abroad at UAB: GAP Semester/Year

Sign up for this gap year program, which provides the opportunity to spend one or two semesters in Barcelona. The UAB welcomes students who have completed secondary education and wish to prepare for their next academic step. Whether you have already decided on a degree or are still looking for new opportunities, this program offers you some valuable experience at university lectures with students from around the globe. Learn the Spanish language and choose electives that allow you to undergo a lifetime adventure. Upon successful completion, you can earn a UAB certificate that can be validated for credits in the future. This program includes • 4 elective subjects and 1 language course on Campus UAB Barcelona • UAB certificate

Centro MundoLengua

9.85

13

Gap Year Program in Spain

What makes a great gap year in Spain? Adventure, new culture, exploring new places, making amazing friends, and knowing you're in a safe environment. If you want to boost your Spanish and improve your academic standing before university, our gap year program in Sevilla is perfect for you! Spain has everything for the ideal gap year, with Centro MundoLengua’s program and our partner EUSA (associated with the University of Seville). Our gap year in Spain immerses you in Spanish life with cultural activities, semester seminars (up to 5), language classes (4h/week), community work, and the chance to live authentically in one of Europe’s most magical cities. In Sevilla, you'll be surrounded by beauty, culture, and history. Our activity program includes trips to other cities in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. There’s never been a better time for a gap year in Spain, and with Centro MundoLengua, it’s never been easier. You'll also develop new life skills and give your college application a boost with international experience, including language study, educational travel, volunteer service, and full cultural immersion! Program dates | January 21st - May 16th, 2026 Price | $12,100

Intern Abroad HQ

9.42

163

Affordable Internships in Spain | Intern Abroad HQ

Intern in Spain with Intern Abroad HQ and experience award-winning, accredited programs in Valencia, Madrid, Barcelona, Tenerife or Seville. Whether you're a student, recent graduate, gap year traveler, or career changer, you’ll gain real-world experience in fields like Business, Psychology, Animal Care, Ecological Agriculture, Arts and Culture, Early Childhood Education, and more. Choose your start date and stay from 2 to 24 weeks - fully flexible to fit your schedule. Soak up Spain’s subtropical Mediterranean climate while exploring its world-famous cuisine, beaches, parks, and iconic architecture. Intern Abroad HQ handles everything: a guaranteed internship placement, accommodation, airport pickup, orientation, 24/7 in-country support, and a reference letter from your host organization. Intern alongside English-speaking professionals or practice your Spanish as you gain course credit and save thousands on tuition fees. With the most affordable internship programs abroad, Intern Abroad HQ empowers you to boost your resume and launch your global career with confidence.

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Soccer Camps International

0

0

Youth Summer Soccer Camp with Pro Club in Barcelona, Spain

Soccer Camps International’s selection of Spanish soccer camps (football camps) in Spain includes intensive summer programs for boys and girls from 10 to 16 years old at the FC Barcelona Soccer Camp “Barça Academy Summer Program Clinic" and Atletico de Madrid High-Performance Soccer Camp Spain. FC Barcelona Football Clinic “Barça Academy Summer Program” is a unique Barcelona Soccer Experience and an exciting opportunity for boys and girls ages 10 – 16 to practice international summer soccer training in Barcelona, Spain, with one of the world’s most successful football teams. You’ll play at Barça Academy's professional facilities, do the museum immersive tour experience, and more. A great Football Camp at Barcelona Soccer Summer Experience! Atletico de Madrid Soccer Camps participants will experience being a high-performance football player at the Atletico de Madrid Academy. Players will live in the official Atletico de Madrid Academy players' Residence and train at the Atletico de Madrid Sports Complex in Madrid, Spain, under the adapted football methodology of Atletico de Madrid Club Soccer Academy A fantastic soccer camp experience awaits boys and girls this summer!

A Guide to Gap Year in Spain

Best Cities

Spain’s geography ranges from mountains to rivers to islands to coasts, but whatever city you’re in, you’re probably just a high-speed train ride or an economical flight away to another stunning place. The best gap year destinations in Spain that offer a variety of programs include Barcelona, Seville, and Madrid. 

Barcelona. Let the seaside city of Barcelona brisk you away with its Mediterranean fresh air, dramatic Gothic architecture, and salivating gastronomical delights. As one of the largest financial capitals of the world, Barcelona offers gappers internships in a variety of fields to get their feet wet in the office while you soak in the sun outside of the office. Experience the whimsical Park Güell, the jaw-dropping sight of the Sagrada Familia, and the succulent paella. 

Seville. Slip into your heels and shimmy on over to this historic city with some of the biggest flamenco dance events in the world. From the Moorish-Renaissance palace Alcazár to the Plaza de España, Seville will overwhelm you with its gorgeous baroque and modern architecture. Seville offers gappers small-group private Spanish classes to help you acquire skills in this romantic language. Cobbled alleys lined with orange trees, tapas ricas, and local museums makes this city a cultural haven.

Madrid. The third largest European city and capital lies in the heart of Spain. With a welcoming atmosphere, hot night scenes, and artistic sights, no day will be like the next. Madrid offers gappers language and art classes, internships, and volunteer opportunities. The royal palaces, legendary cocktail bars, artistic masterpieces, and plazas and parques will sweep you off your feet. Some of most delicious food in Spain is here from huevos rotos to chocolate con churros to orejas a la plancha.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! You can take a gap year in Spain. However, if you want to spend an entire 12 months in Spain, you will need to explore which long stay visas you're eligible for, as a typical tourist visa only lasts for 90 days.

It depends on what the focus of your gap year will be and how long you actually intend to stay. For example, Spain offers both an Au Pair Visa and Working Holiday Visa, which have their own stipulations and requirements.

Benefits of taking a gap year in Spain include improved Spanish language skills, broadened horizons, and new perspectives. To enjoy the benefits of a gap year in Spain, be sure to be intentional and set goals for yourself.

The most popular types of gap year programs in Spain are au pair programs, language programs, and English teaching programs. However, in such a big country with so much to explore, you can do almost anything with a gap year in Spain!

Popular destinations for a gap year in Spain are Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and more. Spain is extremely popular with international students, and as such, there are tons of places that make great gap year destinations in Spain.

Latest Program Reviews

Best of both worlds

July 03, 2025by: Daniela Busse - GermanyProgram: Hybrid Spain by Train x Future Leaders Program
10

My daughter had a blast during her time with the hybrid Spain by Train and Future Leaders program! Extra language classes helped her deepen her Spanish skills, she saw so much of beautiful Spain and got exposed to its culture with hands-on activities. Her internship in Sustainability research & communication was hand-selected and incredibly helpful for her to crystallize a potential career direction. The Entrepreneurship program was a very effective introduction into the world of business and leadership. Arantxa is a gem and the team responsive, super friendly, and always helpful! Loved our experience with them and this amazing program.

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