10 Ways On How To Make Friends In Spain

Relocating to a foreign country can feel intimidating, but making friends in your new home can make it much more manageable. Living and building relationships within a different culture from the one you were raised in is an enriching experience that proves plenty of rewards as time goes on. This blog post shows you how to make friends in Spain. Here we’ll cover the unique Spanish customs around friendship and socialization so that you can get out there and establish meaningful connections with people.

Is it hard to make friends in Spain?

Making friends in Spain is a challenge, but it is possible. It can be rewarding and a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture. However, it can also be quite daunting, especially if you don’t speak Spanish. 

Luckily there are several ways to make friends with both Spanish people and the local community. As in any foreign country, most Spaniards prefer to keep social and cultural circles contained within the native population. But don’t be discouraged! Spain is full of life, abounding with culture and offering many chances to create friendships that will last a lifetime. The Spanish are warm-hearted and friendly people. Plus, numerous expats can relate to your situation and would love to interact with you.

Experiencing Spanish culture and making friends is a great way to make the most of your time abroad. Immersing yourself in the Spanish culture is a surefire way to ensure that your stay in Spain is enjoyable and memorable.

10 Tips On How To Make Friends In Spain

1. Learn to speak Spanish

Learning to speak Spanish is the best way to make friends with locals. Even if you’re not fluent, trying to learn even a few words in Spanish can go a long way toward making friends. If you rely solely on pointing and gesturing to get by, some Spaniards may be able to understand what you mean. However, the true way of experiencing Spain is through connecting with its people – something that is impossible without speaking their language. Being able to talk in Spanish will make people feel more at ease around you. It will also help you expand your social circle beyond just those who are English-savvy.

If you want to articulate Spanish like a local, pay attention to native accents and become immersed in the language. You may attend language exchanges or take a Spanish class. This is the perfect way to get help with your language skills while making new connections that can turn into friendships.

2. Do as the Spanish do

While learning the language of Spain is an essential part of settling in, it’s equally important to be familiar with its culture and traditions. You don’t want to make any blunders that might upset potential buddies who could become lifelong friends. You should also prepare yourself for what to expect when interacting socially with Spanish people. Understanding their social customs can help ensure smooth conversations and interactions during your stay. Some of the social norms include eating late, greeting with two kisses, and being punctual.

3. Get out of the house

If you want to make friends, it’s time to step out of your comfort zone. Spain offers a variety of activities that will help you meet new people and develop lasting friendships. Consider joining the gym, taking dance classes, or going on outdoor adventures; this way, you will experience unique growth opportunities and connect with individuals who share similar interests. Don’t stay cooped up in your room – explore all the possibilities around you!

Stepping out of the house can have added benefits when you meet a language partner. Whether that be an English learner from Spain or another expat like yourself aiming to practice their conversational skills, this is a suitable way to enhance your Spanish capabilities and make enduring friendships along the way.

5. Keep your eyes and ears open

Keep your eyes and ears open for local events or gatherings. There are plenty of festivals, concerts, and other events in Spain throughout the year that will enable you to socialize with the locals. You can also join a community center and attend their events to meet other people living in the same city as you. This is a great way to get to know the community and make friends who have lived there for longer than you.

6. Make use of the internet

The internet is a great way to meet people worldwide and make friends in Spain. There are many online groups and forums where you can meet people with similar interests or who are in a similar situation as yourself. Joining these social networks is a great way to make friends in the same city or country as you. Local Facebook groups, for example, can be a great place to get advice on where to go and what to do in the city.

Finding friends abroad is no longer problematic in this modern world. Social platforms open up an array of possibilities when it comes to socializing and networking with like-minded individuals. With increased interaction and even the choice to create your own group if you wish, there has never been a better time for expanding your social circle personally and professionally.

7. Stay open and positive

When you decide to relocate abroad, perhaps to a place with an unfamiliar language and culture, immersing yourself outside of your comfort zone is key. After all, living somewhere new means encountering novel events that will challenge you. Remain optimistic and you will find plenty of friends. People simply gravitate towards positivity after all.

8. Get to know your roommates and neighbors

Although it may be intimidating to approach strangers in a foreign land, making friends doesn’t need to be an uncomfortable experience. In fact, if you have roommates or live in a small town, meeting people will be much easier.

Take the initiative and introduce yourself to your roommates if you have any, or try to say “Hello” whenever you pass by your neighbors. This will help break the ice and make it easier for others to approach you. You will have so many friends in a few days that you won’t know what to do with them.

9. Go to a Bar or Coffee Shop to meet new people in your area

The great thing about meeting people in a bar or coffee shop is that you can easily start conversations over a cup of your favorite drink. The atmosphere is almost always warm and welcoming.

If you allow yourself the chance to talk to a stranger, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how many people are open to chatting. You may exchange numbers and stay in contact and sometimes even become friends.

10. Join a club, take a course, volunteer

Get yourself a course or join a club that you are passionate about – this is a great way to make friends in Spain. You can also join a language exchange group to practice Spanish and meet native speakers, which will also help you better your fluency.

Volunteering is another excellent way to get involved with the local community. It will enable you to meet many different people from all walks of life. You may meet new good Spanish friends who are in the same position as you and looking to meet people.

A word from SpainDesk

Are you in Spain to study, work or even relocate? Are you eager to make friends with the locals and explore this amazing culture more deeply? If so, then you can take these tips on how to make friends in Spain and start making friends today. At first, life abroad and navigating Spanish social circles may seem daunting due to language barriers or cultural differences. But don’t fear; making awesome friends in Spain is easier than it may seem. Good luck!