Best ways to learn Spanish [recommendations from real tutors]

Learning Spanish can feel like stepping into a salsa class with two left feet—awkward, confusing, and maybe even a little terrifying. 

From rolling your R’s without sounding like a purring cat to figuring out ser vs. estar, Spanish has its quirks. And don’t even get us started on verb conjugations—they change more often than fashion trends.

If you’ve ever googled “best way to learn Spanish,” you’ve probably seen everything—from apps promising fluency overnight (spoiler: they won’t) to people swearing that dating a Spanish speaker is the ultimate hack (tempting, but hardly foolproof).

With so much advice floating around, it’s hard to know what really works. So, we decided to clear the air. Instead of gimmicks, we went straight to real tutors who have helped countless students master Spanish. 

How long does it actually take? According to the Foreign Service Institute, Spanish is one of the easiest languages for English speakers, taking about 6–7 months to reach basic proficiency with consistent study. Full fluency? That takes longer, but with the right approach, you’ll be rolling your R’s like a native before you know it.

Whether you’re studying for an exam, boosting your career, or dreaming of confidently ordering una copa de vino tinto in Spain, we’ve got the best strategies for you. 

Let’s dive in—¡vamos!

Looking to learn Spanish? Get Spanish lessons from expert-vetted tutors, whether you’re preparing for an exam, traveling to Spanish-speaking countries, or aiming for fluency.

1. Private tutors: the fast track to fluency

Top executives and A-list celebrities don’t hire personal tutors for nothing—it works. Shakira, fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, credits one-on-one learning from tutors for her mastery in multiple languages. 

How private tutors for Spanish are beneficial?

• Personalized attention: Tutors assess your level and tailor lessons, fine-tuning pronunciation and fluency. Studies show that one-on-one instruction boosts learning efficiency by 40% compared to group settings.
• Real-time correction: Ever mixed up “el” and “la”? A tutor ensures you don’t make embarrassing mistakes in gender agreement and verb conjugations.
• Flexibility & motivation: Struggling with the subjunctive? A tutor adapts to your style—whether you prefer learning through real-life conversations or interactive exercises, they’ll adapt to your style—keeping you motivated and making sure the lessons never feel like a chore.

Where to find one?

• Wiingy: Find expert Spanish tutors on Wiingy with personalized Spanish lessons tailored to your needs. You can also get a free trial to experience one-on-one tutoring focused on practical usage like conversations and fluency—all at an affordable price.

Who is this best for?

It’s hard to think of anyone who wouldn’t benefit from personalized tutoring. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student prepping for exams such as AP Spanish or DELE, or a traveler wanting quick conversational skills, a tutor can help. If you want to learn new difficult words or improve fluency, this is for you!

It typically takes between 3-6 months to get fluent in the Spanish language, through private Spanish tutoring.

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Chris’s journey preparing for AP Spanish with a Wiingy Tutor

Chris, a high school student preparing for the AP Spanish exam, needed help specifically with the verbal section. He had a solid understanding of grammar and vocabulary but lacked the fluency to speak confidently under pressure. 

His tutor focused on conversational drills, simulating the kind of conversations Chris would encounter on the exam. Through targeted practice and real-time feedback, Chris was able to improve his pronunciation and fluency. 

By the time the exam came around, Chris felt much more prepared and was able to confidently navigate the verbal section, leading to a noticeable improvement in his score.

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2. Traditional classroom learning: structure and social connection

Learning Spanish in a classroom isn’t just about textbooks and drills—it’s about structure, interaction, and real-time feedback. Plus, learning with classmates keeps things exciting! Whether you’re acting out a restaurant scene or debating travel destinations in Spanish, you’ll improve your skills naturally while staying motivated. 

Why classroom learning is beneficial?

• Structured learning: Mastery over sentence structure and grammar rules comes naturally when guided by expert instructors.
• Real-time feedback: Immediate correction improves tricky areas like verb conjugation and pronunciation.
• Social interaction: Speaking with classmates enhances fluency and confidence. Learning with peers can boost language retention by 50% due to the “social learning effect.”

Top schools & programs to consider:

• Instituto Cervantes: Offers Spanish courses around the world. This focus on a balanced approach to grammar, conversation, and cultural nuances of Spanish-speaking countries.
• Local community colleges: Many community colleges offer Spanish language programs. These programs focus on cultural immersion, conversational Spanish, and practical use in real-world situations.
• The Spanish Language Institute: A well-regarded institution that provides intensive Spanish programs, both in-person and online, catering to different learning levels and goals.

Who is this best for?

Traditional classrooms can be ideal for learners who thrive in an environment with structured instruction and peer interaction. If you’re a student learning Spanish as part of your school curriculum, this method can be an effective way to improve your skills. 

It typically takes between 6 months to 2 years (depending on the intensity) to get fluent in the Spanish language, through traditional classroom learning.

3. Online courses & platforms: learn on your terms

Did you know that 50 million people are learning Spanish online? With platforms like Duolingo and Memrise, you can fit learning into your daily routine effortlessly.

• Learn at your own pace: Master verb conjugations, gender rules, and sentence structures before moving on.
• Focus on tough concepts: Take your time with accents, plurals, and tricky grammar rules.
• Stay engaged: Gamification techniques (like streaks and badges) keep motivation high—Duolingo reports a 32% higher retention rate in users who engage with gamified lessons.

Why it works?

Best online courses & platforms to learn Spanish:

• Duolingo: A free, gamified app with bite-sized lessons on vocabulary, grammar, and verb tenses.
• Memrise: Uses native speaker videos and interactive activities to teach phrases and regional dialects.
• Busuu: Offers structured courses with AI-powered feedback and speaking exercises to improve pronunciation and conversation skills.

Who is this best for?

Online courses can be beneficial for working individuals and self-motivated learners. Great for individuals who want to improve their skills without committing to a fixed classroom schedule.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to get fluent in the Spanish language, through online platforms. 

4. Apps & Youtube videos: bite-sized learning for a digital world

If you’ve ever binge-watched Netflix, you already have the attention span for learning Spanish through apps and YouTube. Language-learning apps have revolutionized education, making it accessible anywhere.

How they are beneficial?

• Learn anytime, anywhere: Squeeze in a Spanish lesson during your commute or coffee break.
• Engaging & interactive: Quizzes and games reinforce tricky grammar concepts like ser vs. estar.
• Visual & audio learning: YouTube videos teach common phrases, slang, and regional accents from Spain, Mexico, and Argentina.

YouTube & apps that make learning fun

• SpanishPod101: A YouTube channel and podcast providing lessons in grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights from native Spanish speakers. This is helpful for listening practice.
• Butterfly Spanish: A YouTube channel that explains complex Spanish grammar topics in easy-to-understand terms. Topics include how to conjugate Spanish verbs in different tenses.
• Beelinguapp: An app that helps you learn Spanish by reading stories side-by-side in Spanish and your native language, improving vocabulary and comprehension while making learning fun.

Who is this best for?

Apps and YouTube videos can be a great option for learners who want flexible, on-the-go learning. They’re accessible, convenient, and great for practicing vocabulary, pronunciation, and listening skills, especially during commutes or in your free time.

It typically takes between 6-18 months (depending on consistency) to get fluent in the Spanish language, through apps and Youtube videos.

5. Immersion programs & travel: learn by living it

There’s a reason people say that one of the fastest ways to learn Spanish is to live in a Spanish-speaking country. Science backs this up—studies show that immersion accelerates language acquisition significantly as compared to classroom learning alone.

How it’s beneficial?

• Rapid progress: Immersing yourself in a Spanish-speaking environment speeds up the learning process. 
• Cultural exposure: It allows you to understand idiomatic expressions, slang, and gestures commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries.
• Real-world conversations: Engaging in conversations in shops, cafes, or on the street exposes you to both formal and informal forms of Spanish. 

Where to go for the best immersion experiences?

• Tandem language exchange: Practice with native speakers while traveling, helping you learn authentic phrases and pronunciation.
• Cactus language: Offers immersive Spanish courses in Spain, Mexico, and other Spanish-speaking countries, where you can live and learn the language.
• Spanish homestay programs: Stay with a local host family, practice daily conversations, and experience Spanish culture firsthand for deeper language immersion.

Who is this best for?

If you’re ready for a full language immersion experience, traveling or joining an immersion program can quickly elevate your Spanish skills.

It typically takes between 1-3 months for conversational, 6-12 months for fluency in the Spanish language, through this method. 

6. Podcasts: learning Spanish with a cultural twist

Want to absorb Spanish effortlessly? Listen to it. Research shows that regular exposure to spoken language significantly improves comprehension and retention. Podcasts provide an engaging way to practice listening skills while learning about culture and real-world conversations.

Why podcasts are an easy way to learn?

• Exposure to native speakers: You hear authentic Spanish as spoken by natives, helping you pick up pronunciation and regional dialects like Mexican, Castilian, or Argentinian Spanish.
• Cultural context: Podcasts introduce cultural insights, traditions, and current events, deepening your understanding of the Spanish-speaking world.
• Improved listening skills: You get to hear different accents, speeds, and speaking styles, strengthening your comprehension and preparing you for real-life conversations.

Recommended podcasts:

• Coffee Break Spanish: Offers structured lessons for all levels, covering grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights.
• SpanishPod101: Provides bite-sized lessons on conversation, grammar, and practical Spanish for everyday use.
• Deutsche Welle’s Spanish podcasts: Covers diverse topics, from news to culture, perfect for intermediate and advanced learners.

Who is this best for?

Podcasts are perfect for auditory learners and those looking to improve listening skills while learning about Spanish culture. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, they offer a flexible and immersive way to practice Spanish comprehension and pronunciation.

Podcasts work best alongside speaking practice and lessons. Regular listening improves comprehension, pronunciation, and fluency over time.

7. Books, movies & music: entertaining education

Diving into Spanish books, movies, and music isn’t just a fun way to sharpen your language skills—it’s a gateway to the culture itself. The stories, lyrics, and dialogue bring Spanish to life, helping you pick up words and expressions naturally, just like native speakers use them.

How stories & songs help you learn faster?

• Vocabulary boost: Reading, watching, and listening to Spanish content introduces new words, idioms, and regional expressions, from Mexican slang to Castilian phrases.
• Cultural immersion: Books, films, and songs offer a deeper understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures, their traditions, and histories.
• Fun & engaging learning: Turning language practice into entertainment keeps motivation high and makes learning effortless.

Must-read books & must-watch movies for Spanish:

• Books: Easy Spanish Reader – A beginner-friendly book with simple texts to build reading comprehension.
• Movies & TV shows: La Casa de Papel (Money Heist) – A popular Spanish TV show featuring everyday expressions, slang, and regional accents. Coco (Movie) – A heartwarming film that introduces Spanish vocabulary and Mexican culture.
• Music: Listen to Latin artists like Shakira, Bad Bunny, and Carlos Vives on Spotify to familiarize yourself with pronunciation, rhythm, and idioms through song lyrics.

Who is this best for?

This method is perfect for learners who already have a basic grasp of Spanish and want to expand their skills by picking up slang, idiomatic expressions, and real-world language use in an enjoyable way.

Since books, movies, and music are supplemental methods, progress depends on consistency. Regular exposure helps you absorb vocabulary, expressions, and cultural nuances naturally over time.

8. Practicing with native speakers: the ultimate confidence booster

Fluency comes from real conversations. Polyglot Benny Lewis, who speaks seven languages, swears by practice with native speakers. Regular chats train your brain to think in Spanish, making fluency second nature.

Why talking to natives speeds up fluency:

• Real conversations: Chatting with native Spanish speakers throws you right into the heart of how the language is actually spoken—formal, casual, and everything in between.
• Cultural insight: Native speakers don’t just teach you words; they introduce you to the soul of the language—idioms, slang, and cultural references that make Spanish feel alive and authentic.
• Instant feedback: A native speaker can fine-tune your grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary on the spot, helping you improve faster and sound more natural.

Where to find native speakers to practice with

• Tandem app: A language exchange app where you can connect with native Spanish speakers. This helps you practice speaking in a one-on-one setting.
• Language exchange events: Many cities host in-person or virtual language exchange meetups. In these meetups, you can speak Spanish with native speakers.
• HelloTalk: A social language exchange app where you can chat, send voice messages, and get real-time corrections from native Spanish speakers.

Who is this best for?

Practicing with native speakers is a game-changer if you’re looking to level up your conversational skills. It’s the perfect way to build confidence, get real-time feedback, and nail your pronunciation. Plus, you’ll catch those little grammar quirks and slang that textbooks just can’t teach.

It typically takes between 3-12 months for fluency in the Spanish language, through this method. 

Summary

Method	Time taken	Effectiveness	Best for
Private tutors	3-6 months for conversational fluency	Fastest (Highly efficient, personalized learning)	Professionals, busy students, travelers, focused practice
Traditional Classroom learning	6 months – 2+ years (depends on intensity)	High (Balanced, depends on intensity)	Structured learners, students, and group learners
Online courses & platforms	6-12 months(self- paced)	High (Interactive, flexible, structured)	Self-motivated learners, busy individuals
Apps & YouTube videos	6-18 months (depending on consistency)	Moderate (Useful, but lacks personalized feedback)	Learners with limited time, auditory or visual learners
Immersion programs & travel	1-3 months for conversational, 6-12 months for fluency	Very high (Accelerated learning through exposure)	Learners ready for total immersion
Podcasts & music	Ongoing (supporting method)	Lower (Great for reinforcement, not structured learning)	Auditory learners, those wanting a cultural connection
Books, movies & TV shows	Ongoing (supporting method)	Moderate (Great for vocab & comprehension, but passive)	Auditory/visual learners
Practicing with native speakers	3-12 months	High (Effective, but depends on consistency)	Social learners, conversation skills

Tips to learn Spanish fast

Now that you have a clear idea of the different ways to learn Spanish, let’s talk about how to speed up your progress. If you’re looking to make the most out of your learning journey, here are some fast-track tips to help you reach your Spanish goals in no time!

Practice daily: Think of it like a workout for your brain—just 15-20 minutes a day can do wonders! Consistency is the magic ingredient, and trust me, it beats cramming once a week.

Start with the basics: You don’t need to know every word in the dictionary to get started. Focus on building your vocabulary with the essentials—verbs, basic sentence structure, and the words you’ll actually use day-to-day.

Speak as much as possible: The more you speak, the less you’ll hesitate. Yes, you’ll make mistakes—that’s part of the fun! Speaking will make you feel more confident and help you sound more natural.

Delicia Vega, a Spanish Star tutor with Wiingy, encourages learners by saying,
“Keep trying! it’s not something you can’t do—your brain just needs time to believe it.”

Flashcards are your best friend: Whether it’s an app like anki or a good old-fashioned set of paper cards, flashcards help your brain make those vocabulary connections faster. Plus, repetition is key.

Immerse yourself: No, you don’t have to move to Spain, but you can bring Spain (or Mexico, or Argentina) to you. Watch movies, listen to music, or read books in Spanish. The more you’re surrounded by it, the faster you’ll learn.

Set real goals: Whether you’re dreaming of ordering food like a pro in Spain or you’re prepping for an exam, setting clear goals gives your learning purpose and keeps you motivated.

Don’t be shy—ask for help: Stuck on something? can’t figure out that tricky pronunciation? it’s okay! a Spanish tutor can give you the support you need to break through those frustrating moments.

If these tips feel overwhelming or you’re unsure where to start, a tutor can make all the difference. Spanish tutors offer personalized guidance, helping you work through tricky rules, pronunciation, and grammar. 

At Wiingy, tutors will provide you with one-on-one Spanish lessons tailored to your pace and needs, making learning enjoyable and effective. Ready to take the next step? Let a tutor guide you to Spanish fluency—before you know it, you’ll be speaking like a pro!

Conclusion: choose the best method for you

Learning Spanish is an exciting journey, and the best approach depends on your learning style, schedule, and goals. Some people thrive with structured lessons, while others prefer flexible, self-paced methods. 

Whether you’re practicing with conversations or learning through music and movies, staying consistent is key. Finding a method that keeps you motivated is also important.

Experiment with different approaches to discover what works best for you. Combining various methods can also make the learning process more engaging and effective.

As Camila Obregon, an experienced Spanish tutor with Wiingy, says:
“You need to be in contact with the language, stay motivated, and enjoy the process—Spanish is a vast language to learn!”

If you’re looking for expert guidance, Wiingy connects you with tutors who offer personalized Spanish lessons, helping you reach your Spanish-learning goals faster. Whether you need help with conversations, exam prep, or learning Spanish for travel, you can easily find a tutor who fits your needs.

Plus, Wiingy is affordable! Sessions are just $28 per session, making high-quality tutoring accessible without breaking the bank. 

Start today, stay consistent, and soon, you’ll be speaking Spanish with confidence. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

Looking to learn Spanish? Get Spanish lessons from expert-vetted tutors, whether you’re preparing for an exam, traveling to Spanish-speaking countries, or aiming for fluency.

FAQs for how to learn Spanish