Summer Study Abroad Programs in Bilbao, Spain

My experience with USAC study abroad in Bilbao was one of the greatest decisions I made in my undergraduate education. The program staff from start to finish were accommodating, empathetic, encouraging, and an overall fantastic resource. They supported me in getting connected and building relationships within the Bilbao/Getxo communities, allowing me to supplement my courses with Social Media Admin opportunities, Classroom experience as an English Language Conversation Assistant in a local elementary school, tutoring opportunities with local families, and several group excursions that piqued my curiosity and sense of adventure! They offered great recommendations for regional travel to explore all that País Vasco had to offer, provided a safe space for any concerns I had, and took interest in my experiences and day to day life! When it came to housing, my host family was an incredible placement. I lived in an apartment with the most amazing family who supported me far beyond providing room and board. My host mom and her daughters were friendly, and I spent many days with them laughing at the kitchen table, exploring the community, and creating a relationship that has lasted beyond my program’s end. I fell in love with Bilbao and Getxo as a host city, felt enriched by my curriculum and professors, and returned home more confident in my language fluency than ever before. The ease of travel from Bilbao to the rest of Spain and more broadly throughout Europe was a complete breeze! I often spent time traveling and exploring on weekends, expanding my cultural competency and my passion for learning about the world around me. I feel that the USAC program offered me a chance to test my boundaries and grow as both a student and a person, I would encourage anyone considering study abroad with USAC to take the leap of faith and know that you’ll love where you land!

My experience with private Spanish classes at Instituto Hemingway was outstanding. In just four weeks, I made remarkable progress thanks to the perfect balance between a relaxed and professional atmosphere. The lessons were tailored to my needs, which made learning both effective and enjoyable. A special mention goes to Alba, who is an incredible teacher—patient, engaging, and highly skilled. Every class felt motivating and dynamic. Overall, it was an amazing experience that I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to improve their Spanish quickly and confidently.

My experience at Instituto Hemingway was truly unforgettable. The classes were not only effective but also fun and engaging, thanks to teachers who are incredibly patient and supportive. They take the time to make sure everyone understands, creating a relaxed and motivating atmosphere. What makes this place special is the feeling that the whole school is one big team—a kind of family where you instantly feel at home. You’re not just learning Spanish, you’re starting a new chapter, meeting people, and growing every day. I also loved living in a shared flat with people my age, which made everything more social and natural. Being able to walk to school was super convenient, and the cultural activities added so much to the experience. The school is also fully inclusive, welcoming everyone with open arms. And the city? Simply amazing—vibrant, beautiful, and full of life. I’d recommend it to anyone.

If you're thinking about learning Spanish abroad, I honestly couldn’t recommend Instituto Hemingway more. From day one, everything just clicked. The classes are dynamic and fun, and the teachers are incredibly kind, patient, and genuinely passionate about helping you improve. But what really made the experience unforgettable was the lifestyle around it. I stayed in an amazing shared flat with people my age, which made it super easy to connect, hang out, and practice Spanish outside the classroom. Plus, being able to walk to school every day? Huge bonus. On top of that, the cultural activities were next level — always something exciting going on, from local events to group outings. It never felt like just a course; it felt like a full experience. And the city? Absolutely top-tier. Beautiful, vibrant, and full of life. I’d go back in a heartbeat. 10/10 recommend if you want to learn Spanish and actually live it.

As a former student of Instituto Hemingway, my personal experience was very positive and rewarding. The teaching method was practical and focused on real-life communication, which helped me gain confidence in speaking Spanish much faster than I expected. The teachers were professional, patient, and always encouraging, creating a comfortable learning environment. What I appreciated the most was the cultural immersion. Beyond the classroom, the institute organized activities that allowed me to practice Spanish while discovering local traditions and meeting people from different countries. This made the experience much more dynamic and meaningful. Overall, I believe it is an excellent option for anyone who wants not only to learn Spanish but also to live the language in an authentic and engaging way.

Studying Spanish in Bilbao with Instituto Hemingway was an unforgettable first immersion experience abroad. The classes were dynamic, friendly, and focused on speaking, which helped me gain confidence quickly. Living in such a vibrant city and joining cultural activities made learning feel natural and exciting. The welcoming atmosphere felt like a small family. It was a unique experience that helped me improve my Spanish while discovering a beautiful culture.

My experience at Instituto Hemingway in Bilbao was absolutely fantastic! The Spanish courses were engaging and effective, the cultural activities allowed me to fully explore the city, and the accommodation was conveniently close to everything. The combination of learning, cultural immersion, and comfort made my stay truly memorable. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn Spanish in Spain.

Studying Spanish at Instituto Hemingway was unforgettable. The city feels authentic, not overcrowded with tourists, and everything is easy to walk. My school accommodation was just 15 minutes away, making daily life simple. Best of all, the Spanish course was dynamic, practical, and led by truly amazing teachers who made every class fun and motivating.

Studying Spanish at Instituto Hemingway was an exceptional experience. The teachers are engaging and professional, classes are dynamic and personalized, and the full immersion helps you improve fast. Add Bilbao’s culture, food, and friendly atmosphere, and learning Spanish becomes truly unforgettable.

Studying Spanish in Bilbao is a rewarding and inspiring choice, especially if you are looking for something authentic and different. The city’s safe, walkable streets and warm community create an ideal setting for learning, while its strong cultural identity adds depth to the experience. Spanish courses in Bilbao are practical and dynamic, helping students gain confidence quickly. And if you are searching for a destination that is not typical and still untouched by mass tourism, this is truly your school and your city—an opportunity to learn Spanish through real immersion and genuine local life.

Taking a Spanish course in Bilbao is a truly enriching experience. The city offers the perfect balance between cultural authenticity and a modern, vibrant atmosphere. Learning Spanish here goes far beyond the classroom: you practice the language daily with locals, enjoy world-class cuisine, and immerse yourself in Basque culture while living in a friendly and welcoming environment. Bilbao is ideal for students who want high-quality Spanish courses combined with real cultural immersion, making language learning both effective and unforgettable.

My experience at Instituto Hemingway was excellent. The classes are well structured, engaging, and adapted to each student’s level. The teachers are supportive and professional, and the friendly international atmosphere makes learning Spanish both effective and enjoyable. I would definitely recommend this school. I love Bilbao by the way. The best ever city in Spain!!

Instituto Hemingway exceeded all my expectations. Highly qualified teachers, dynamic classes, and a welcoming environment that makes learning easy and enjoyable. The organization is excellent, and the cultural activities allow you to practice Spanish in real-life situations. A fantastic experience and highly recommended.

Great experience in Bilbao with Instituto Hemingway. Dynamic classes, friendly and professional teachers, and practical Spanish learning combined with well-organized cultural activities. International atmosphere and personalized attention. Highly recommended.

I had an amazing time with USAC! From start to finish, staff was very helpful. Classes were the perfect pace and structure. Teachers are aware that you may travel on weekends, so the structure of classes may be less homework based.

This program challenged me academically, socially, and personally. I grew so much as a person learning that I can adapt in an unfamiliar/foreign environment. I viewed this as a great way for personal growth. The classes were difficult but doable. Yes, you have to put in the work, but the instructors really enjoy watching students learn and grow. The location of the Bilbao program was perfect. Anything you might need is walkable. The support staff is great and ready to help all students, no matter what or no matter the time of day. Everyone in my group really enjoyed themselves! The only issue I have is that there were way too many emails beforehand, that some potentially important information could have easily gotten lost.

Excellent course. The teacher Magdalena was incredible. She makes learning fun and is an excellent teacher. I learned a lot. Overall really great experience, thank you. I would definitely recommend instituto Hemingway.

I had an incredible time and learned so much! I felt so safe while being in Bilbao and felt that the city was easy to navigate. I loved my apartment and all the friends I made. We went on so many cool trips like to san juan gaztelugatxe, art museums, wine tasting, surfing, a fancy spa as San Sebastian, and went to France. There were endless cool things to experience and I had the time of my life.

Studying in Bilbao truly changed my life. It broadened my horizons to the world around me, I grew so much as a person, I learned so many skills that will help me in my life, and I gained a love for new cultures and places. USAC did such a great job of making study abroad feel accessible and they helped me every step of the way. The program directors were amazing and I just went back to Bilbao this month and saw them and my host family! My host mom became my second mama and I am so grateful for her! Bilbao is a clean beautiful and safe city and i think of it as my second home! I couldn't encourage people enough to go study abroad!

I recently completed a Spanish course in Bilbao, and it was an experience I’ll never forget. The city itself is stunning, with its blend of modern architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture—it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Spanish life. The school provided a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, making it easy to feel at home. The teachers were highly skilled and patient, tailoring lessons to suit different levels and learning styles. Their dedication and enthusiasm truly made a difference in my progress. My accommodation was excellent—clean, comfortable, and conveniently located. It offered the perfect balance of privacy and the chance to connect with others. The cultural activities were another highlight. From exploring the Guggenheim Museum to tasting traditional Basque cuisine and joining local festivals, every moment was both fun and enriching. These experiences brought the language and culture to life in a way that goes beyond the classroom. I would wholeheartedly recommend this program to any adult learner looking to improve their Spanish while enjoying a rich cultural experience. Bilbao and this school exceeded all my expectations!