Are you looking for a fun and effective way to learn Spanish? In today’s digital age, we are incredibly fortunate to have a wealth of resources at our fingertips, and one of the most entertaining and beneficial is right on your streaming services. If you have access to platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube, you’re in luck! Learning Spanish can be as simple as turning on your TV.
Forget boring textbooks and repetitive drills. Imagine improving your Spanish vocabulary, refining your pronunciation, and picking up new expressions all while enjoying captivating storylines and compelling characters. It’s time to transform your downtime into productive language learning with the power of Spanish television.
Instead of passively watching shows in your native language, why not make a small but impactful change? Start incorporating Spanish-language TV series into your viewing habits. You can even begin by watching familiar American shows dubbed in Spanish or with Spanish subtitles – a fantastic way to ease yourself into the language.
I personally used this technique with the sitcom “Friends” and was amazed at how much I absorbed. The possibilities are truly endless! To guide you on this exciting language-learning journey, we’ve compiled a list of the 7 Best Tv Shows To Learn Spanish. These shows are perfect for enhancing your listening comprehension and expanding your vocabulary, all from the comfort of your own couch.
Finally, we’ll share 5 essential tips to maximize your learning and ensure your Spanish TV show experience is as effective as it is enjoyable.
[Download our comparison charts of the Top 11 Spanish TV Shows and Movies to help you choose the perfect series for your learning journey!]
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Top Spanish TV Shows for Language Learners
To help you navigate the vast world of Spanish television, we’ve categorized our recommendations. We’ll start with shows specifically designed for Spanish language learners, ideal for beginners and lower intermediate students. Then, we’ll dive into five fantastic Spanish-produced TV series that cater to a broader audience and are perfect for intermediate to advanced learners.
Remember, the first two shows are explicitly created for language acquisition. The following five are authentic Spanish TV shows produced for native speakers, offering a more immersive and natural learning experience. We’ve aimed for a diverse selection, featuring different dialects and styles, so you can find the perfect fit for your Spanish learning goals.
2 Excellent Spanish Shows for Beginners and Lower Intermediates
1) Destinos: An Educational Journey Through Spanish-Speaking Countries
“Destinos,” meaning “Destinations,” is a 52-episode Spanish series meticulously crafted to teach Spanish in a practical, engaging way. It emphasizes everyday vocabulary and common phrases, making it perfect for those just starting their Spanish language adventure.
The narrative follows lawyer Raquel Rodríguez as she embarks on a quest to uncover secrets of a dying man, taking her across Mexico, Spain, Argentina, and Puerto Rico. As you follow the intriguing plot, you’ll be exposed to the unique dialects and accents of these four diverse Spanish-speaking countries.
“Destinos” is well-produced and specifically tailored for high beginner to lower intermediate Spanish learners. Its structured approach ensures that language acquisition is seamlessly woven into the storytelling.
While I personally found “Destinos” a bit basic for my level, especially with its early focus on the Spanish number system, I recognize its immense value for beginners. The storyline is genuinely engaging, and the dialogue is clear and well-paced, perfect for developing foundational Spanish comprehension as Raquel travels through Latin America.
[Download our comparison charts for a quick overview of “Destinos” and other top shows!]
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One potential drawback is its age; “Destinos” was created over 20 years ago, giving it a slightly dated feel in terms of production quality.
However, the advantages far outweigh this minor point. “Destinos” boasts a compelling plot and effective language instruction, making it an excellent educational tool for early-stage learners. If you seek a structured, educational approach to learning Spanish through television, this series is a top choice.
In my opinion, “Destinos” is undoubtedly the best Spanish TV show for beginners. Start your language journey today by watching “Destinos” here: https://learner.org/series/destinos.
Key Features of Destinos:
PROS
- Clear Spanish from Various Latin American Regions: Exposure to diverse accents right from the start.
- Designed for Language Learning: Purposefully built to teach Spanish through its narrative.
- Extensive Content: 52 episodes provide ample learning material.
CONS
- Dated Production: The series’ age is noticeable at times.
- Not Suitable for Advanced Learners: Content may be too basic for higher levels.
2) EXTRA: A “Friends”-Style Approach to Spanish Learning
“EXTRA” is another series explicitly designed for Spanish language learners. It draws inspiration from the immensely popular American sitcom “Friends,” making language learning relatable and entertaining.
The story centers around Sam, a native English speaker who moves to Barcelona to learn Spanish. He shares an apartment with two Spanish-speaking girls, creating a dynamic environment for language immersion.
The show uses humor and relatable situations, with characters constantly correcting each other’s Spanish mistakes and engaging in everyday conversations. A significant advantage of “EXTRA” is the deliberately slow and clear speech, making it exceptionally easy to understand for learners.
After exploring “EXTRA,” I found it particularly well-suited for intermediate learners. Like “Destinos,” it’s specifically designed to teach Spanish to non-native speakers.
“EXTRA” is a more recent production, likely from the last 10-15 years, and boasts higher production values and a format strikingly similar to “Friends.” The pacing of the Spanish is perfect for high-beginner to intermediate learners. For advanced learners, watching “Friends” dubbed in Spanish with Spanish subtitles might be more beneficial, as I personally found.
However, dubbed shows can be challenging to follow and locate online for those not yet at an advanced level.
With 13 episodes, each around 20 minutes long, “EXTRA” allows you to connect with the characters and follow a developing storyline within a manageable timeframe.
Are there any downsides? Some viewers find “EXTRA” a bit “cringey” or cheesy, as it closely mirrors “Friends” in its sitcom style. However, this format’s familiarity might be precisely what makes it appealing and effective for many learners, given the American version’s massive success.
Ultimately, if you’re an advanced learner, “EXTRA” may not be challenging enough. You’d likely benefit more from the authentic Spanish shows we’ll explore next. However, for those seeking a series with clear, slow Spanish and a relatable storyline, “EXTRA” is an excellent choice.
You can find “EXTRA” episodes readily available on YouTube. Start your Spanish learning adventure with the first episode: [link to YouTube].
Key Features of EXTRA:
PROS
- Slow and Clear Spanish: Easy to understand for beginners.
- Designed for Language Learning: Focuses on teaching Spanish through engaging stories.
- Concise Episodes: 13 episodes, each around 20 minutes, perfect for focused learning sessions.
- Ideal for Beginners and Intermediates: Tailored to these learning levels.
- “Friends”-Like Format: Familiar and engaging sitcom style.
CONS
- Slightly Cheesy: Some may find the acting or scenarios a bit contrived.
- Lacks Originality: Heavily borrows from the “Friends” format.
- Not Suitable for Advanced Learners: Content may be too simplistic for higher levels.
5 of the Best Spanish TV Shows for Immersive Learning
The following five TV shows are authentic Spanish productions, created for Spanish-speaking audiences. They offer a more immersive and challenging, yet highly rewarding, language learning experience. If you’re an upper-intermediate or advanced Spanish learner, exploring these series is highly recommended. You’re sure to find one that captivates you and significantly boosts your language skills.
If you need more options or want to compare a wider selection, download our comprehensive comparison chart with 11 top Spanish TV shows and 11 must-watch Spanish movies!
[Download our comparison charts of the Top 11 Spanish TV Shows and Movies to help you choose the perfect series for your learning journey!]
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1) Isabel: A Historical Drama from Spain
“Isabel” is a captivating Spanish historical drama that chronicles the life of Queen Isabella I of Castile. Set in a time when women were expected to be wives and mothers, the series vividly portrays Isabella’s arduous journey to secure her throne and the immense challenges she faced in maintaining the Spanish empire. To date, the show boasts three compelling seasons.
Initially, I started watching “Isabel” with the intention of improving my Spanish, but I quickly became engrossed in the dramatic storyline and intricate plot. At the time, English subtitles were my only option, and the dialogue, delivered in 15th-century Spanish, proved challenging. My focus shifted to following the complex narrative and reading the subtitles, which likely limited my language learning.
However, I was thoroughly captivated by the storyline, the compelling drama, and the exceptional acting. Queen Isabella is a fascinating historical figure, and the series masterfully blends historical events with theatrical drama, keeping you on the edge of your seat with each episode’s cliffhangers. Themes of love, political intrigue, and corruption are intricately woven throughout the narrative, making “Isabel” a truly spectacular show.
(Image courtesy of isabeltve.tumblr.com)
For advanced Spanish learners, “Isabel” is an ideal choice. However, beginners and lower-intermediate learners might find the fast-paced Spanish from Spain and historical vocabulary quite challenging.
If your primary goal is language learning, be mindful that the rapid Spanish dialogue from Spain might be difficult to follow initially. However, every bit of exposure helps. If you’re drawn to historical dramas and want to immerse yourself in a compelling story while learning about Queen Isabella I, “Isabel” is a fantastic option.
The series premiered in September 2012 and is still very current and widely acclaimed. With three full seasons, you have ample content for binge-watching. Episodes are approximately an hour long. You can find “Isabel” on streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu Plus.
Short Trailer of Isabel: [Link to Trailer if available]
Key Features of Isabel:
PROS
- High-Budget Spanish Production: Excellent production quality and visuals.
- Spain Dialect: Exposure to authentic Spanish from Spain.
- Ideal for High Intermediates and Advanced Learners: Offers a challenging and rewarding learning experience.
- Extensive Content: 3 seasons with 39 episodes provide substantial viewing and learning time.
- Availability: Streamable on Netflix and Hulu.
CONS
- Difficult to Follow Without Subtitles Initially: Fast-paced dialogue and historical vocabulary can be challenging.
- Telenovela Style Drama: High levels of drama might be a pro or con depending on your preference.
- Older Spanish Vocabulary: Some terms may not be in common modern usage.
- Not Recommended for Lower-Level Learners: Too challenging for beginners and lower intermediates.
2) El Tiempo Entre Costuras (The Time in Between): Intrigue and Fashion in Wartime Spain
“El Tiempo Entre Costuras,” translated as “The Time in Between” or “The Seamstress,” tells the captivating story of Sira Quiroga, a young seamstress who leaves Madrid just before the Spanish Civil War. Due to unforeseen circumstances, she establishes a high-fashion workshop in the glamorous world of haute couture.
This Spanish drama is exquisitely produced with a significant budget, evident in its stunning visuals and attention to detail. Premiering in October 2013, “El Tiempo Entre Costuras” garnered immense popularity, averaging over 5 million viewers per episode.
Set in the early 1930s, the series masterfully depicts universal human experiences – love, war, and betrayal – against a backdrop of political uncertainty and social upheaval.
[Download our comparison charts to compare “El Tiempo Entre Costuras” with other top Spanish shows!]
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However, like “Isabel,” the fast-paced Spanish spoken in Spain might pose a challenge, especially if you’re aiming to learn Latin American Spanish dialects. In that case, exploring series from Latin American countries might be more beneficial.
Despite this, with only 11 episodes, “El Tiempo Entre Costuras” is a concise yet deeply engaging Spanish drama that will quickly draw you in. It’s available on Netflix and Hulu Plus, making it easily accessible for your Spanish learning and entertainment.
Short Trailer of El Tiempo Entre Costuras: [Link to Trailer if available]
Key Features of El Tiempo Entre Costuras:
PROS
- High-Budget Spanish Production: Exceptional production quality and visual appeal.
- Spain Dialect: Exposure to authentic Spanish from Spain.
- Ideal for High Intermediates and Advanced Learners: Offers a challenging and enriching language experience.
- Concise Series: 1 season with 11 episodes, perfect for a shorter commitment.
- Availability: Streamable on Netflix and Hulu.
CONS
- Somewhat Difficult to Follow Initially: Fast-paced Spanish from Spain can be challenging.
- Telenovela Style Drama: High drama content might be a pro or con depending on your taste.
- Not Recommended for Lower-Level Learners: Too challenging for beginners and lower intermediates.
3) Escobar, El Patrón Del Mal (Escobar, Boss of Evil): A Gripping Colombian Narco-Drama
“Escobar, El Patrón Del Mal” is a Colombian series that provides a detailed and dramatic portrayal of the life of the infamous Pablo Escobar and the Medellín Cartel.
This series is exceptionally well-made and incredibly engaging throughout its 70+ episodes. I personally had to limit my viewing schedule because I was so captivated by the storyline and found myself binge-watching frequently.
A major highlight of “Escobar, El Patrón Del Mal” is its authenticity. The cast is primarily Colombian, offering an ideal opportunity to learn and familiarize yourself with the Colombian dialect and accent. While Netflix’s “Narcos” is popular, some critics point out inaccuracies and a lack of authenticity. For instance, in “Narcos,” Pablo Escobar is portrayed by a Brazilian actor, Wagner Moura.
While “Narcos” is entertaining for casual viewers, “Escobar, El Patrón Del Mal” provides a more in-depth and arguably more accurate depiction of Pablo Escobar and the Medellín Cartel. I found it excellent for following along with Spanish subtitles and immersing myself in the Colombian accent.
Unlike some series, including “Narcos,” “Escobar, El Patrón Del Mal” avoids excessive nudity and maintains a focus on the narrative. However, be warned: the series contains significant violence, killings, and depictions of corruption. If you are sensitive to such content, this might not be the show for you.
Personally, I was fascinated by the inner workings of the Medellín Cartel and found Pablo Escobar a chillingly brilliant manipulator and businessman. It’s tragic that his immense talents were used for destruction rather than for the betterment of Colombia.
“Escobar, El Patrón Del Mal” is recommended for high intermediate to advanced Spanish learners. You can find it on streaming platforms like Netflix or Hulu Plus. Be prepared – you might find yourself hooked after just a few episodes!
Short Trailer of Escobar, El Patrón Del Mal: [Link to Trailer if available]
Key Features of Escobar, El Patrón Del Mal:
PROS
- Authentic Colombian Story: More detailed and arguably more accurate portrayal of Pablo Escobar.
- Colombian Cast and Dialect: Exposure to authentic Colombian Spanish.
- Extensive Series: 74 episodes, each approximately an hour long, offering substantial content.
- Ideal for High Intermediates and Advanced Learners: Challenging and rewarding language learning experience.
- Availability: Streamable on Netflix and Hulu.
CONS
- Lower Budget Compared to “Narcos”: Visually, it may not have the same level of polish as the American-produced “Narcos.”
- Intense Violence: Contains graphic depictions of violence, murder, and blood.
- Not Recommended for Lower-Level Learners: Too complex for beginners and lower intermediates.
4) Gran Hotel (Grand Hotel): Mystery and Romance in Early 20th Century Spain
“Gran Hotel” is an intriguing Spanish series centered around Julio, a young man who arrives at the opulent “Gran Hotel” to investigate the disappearance of his sister, who worked there as a maid.
He soon discovers that his sister has vanished under mysterious circumstances, and as he delves deeper, he uncovers a web of secrets hidden within the walls of the spectacular hotel.
The series follows Julio’s determined quest to find his sister and unravel the mysteries surrounding her disappearance. It’s filled with romance, suspense, and plenty of dramatic twists. The plot unfolds in the early 20th century, and the show premiered in October 2011.
[Download our comparison charts to see how “Gran Hotel” stacks up against other Spanish TV series!]
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While I haven’t personally watched “Gran Hotel,” it comes highly recommended by many Spanish language learners.
“Gran Hotel” is another Spanish drama with excellent cinematography and production values. Currently, it spans three seasons with 39 episodes, offering plenty of content to immerse yourself in.
It’s a high-budget production, featuring the Spanish dialect from Spain. Keep this in mind if you are specifically focused on learning Latin American Spanish.
If you’re seeking a captivating series filled with intrigue, romance, and dramatic storylines, “Gran Hotel” is an excellent choice. It’s available on Netflix and Hulu Plus.
Short Trailer of Gran Hotel: [Link to Trailer if available]
Key Features of Gran Hotel:
PROS
- High-Budget Spanish Production: Excellent production values and visual appeal.
- Spain Dialect: Exposure to authentic Spanish from Spain.
- Extensive Series: 3 seasons with 39 episodes, providing ample viewing content.
- Ideal for High Intermediates and Advanced Learners: Offers a challenging and enriching language experience.
- Availability: Streamable on Netflix and Hulu.
CONS
- Telenovela Style Drama: High levels of drama might be a pro or con depending on your preference.
- Spain Dialect Focus: Less ideal if you’re primarily focused on Latin American Spanish dialects.
- Not Recommended for Lower-Level Learners: Too challenging for beginners and lower intermediates.
5) Mi Corazón Es Tuyo (My Heart Is Yours): A Lighthearted Mexican Telenovela
“Mi Corazón Es Tuyo,” meaning “My Heart Is Yours,” is a popular Mexican telenovela starring Ana Leal, who leads a double life. By day, she works as a nanny for a large family, and by night, she works as an exotic dancer to make ends meet.
Despite Ana’s unconventional nighttime job, the show maintains a PG-13 rating and avoids overly explicit content. Like many telenovelas, “Mi Corazón Es Tuyo” is packed with drama, romantic entanglements, and emotional storylines.
With a substantial 176 episodes, each around 40 minutes long, this series is a significant time commitment if you plan to watch it in its entirety.
If you enjoy telenovelas and want to improve your Spanish with a Mexican dialect, “Mi Corazón Es Tuyo” is worth checking out for a few episodes to see if it suits your taste. You can find it on Hulu.
Short Trailer of Mi Corazón Es Tuyo: [Link to Trailer if available]
Key Features of Mi Corazón Es Tuyo:
PROS
- Mexican Dialect: Exposure to authentic Mexican Spanish.
- Extensive Series: 176 episodes and still ongoing, offering vast content.
- Ideal for High Intermediates and Advanced Learners: Provides a good language learning resource for these levels.
- Availability: Streamable on Hulu.
CONS
- Telenovela Style Drama: High levels of drama and melodrama are typical of the genre.
- Numerous Love Interests: Complex romantic storylines might be a pro or con depending on your preference.
- Not Recommended for Lower-Level Learners: Too fast-paced and complex for beginners and lower intermediates.
5 Simple Tips for Effectively Learning Spanish with TV Shows
Want to ensure you’re genuinely improving your Spanish vocabulary and comprehension while watching TV shows? Before you dive into any of the series mentioned above, keep these five essential tips in mind to maximize your learning efficiency.
1) Spanish Audio and Spanish Subtitles: Your Winning Combination
This is absolutely crucial. If your goal is to learn Spanish while watching TV, you must use Spanish audio with Spanish subtitles.
Using English subtitles is counterproductive. You’ll likely become overly focused on reading the English words, hindering your listening comprehension and language absorption. You might even subconsciously tune out the Spanish audio, as I sometimes did initially.
2) Minimize Distractions for Maximum Focus
This might seem obvious, but it’s essential. If you can’t hear the show clearly or are easily distracted, your comprehension will suffer. You need to be in a focused environment where you can concentrate on the audio and subtitles.
Multitasking, like checking social media while watching, will significantly reduce your learning effectiveness. Dedicate your viewing time solely to engaging with the Spanish content.
[Download our comparison charts for a handy reference guide while you watch!]
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3) Embrace the Pause and Rewind Buttons
Unless you’re watching with someone else, keep your remote control handy!
If you encounter important dialogue you want to revisit, or a phrase you’d like to hear again, don’t hesitate to rewind. Pause the show if you want to look up a recurring word or phrase. I frequently did this while watching Spanish TV series, and it significantly enhanced my learning.
This doesn’t mean stopping for every unfamiliar word, which would be impractical. But if a word or phrase keeps appearing, take a moment to understand it.
Typically, I would have the streaming show open in one browser tab and Spanishdict.com open in another for quick translations.
4) Challenge Yourself with Live Spanish TV: Sports and News
This tip is best suited for more advanced Spanish learners.
You’ll need to have reached at least a high intermediate fluency level for this to be truly beneficial. Trying to watch CNN en Español as a beginner might leave you feeling overwhelmed and confused.
However, if you already plan to watch the news or a sporting event, consider switching to a Spanish-language broadcast. Many major sporting events are readily available in Spanish.
Who knows, watching a soccer match in Spanish might even make it more exciting!
5) Ditch Perfectionism: Embrace the Learning Process
It’s perfectly normal and acceptable not to understand every single word spoken.
Expecting to understand everything in a new language with limited exposure is unrealistic. Keep your expectations in check and avoid getting discouraged if you don’t comprehend as much as you initially hoped.
Even while watching “Escobar, El Patrón del Mal,” I didn’t understand every word.
However, I was still able to grasp the overall context and meaning of each episode. You’ll likely find that you can understand the gist of the storyline without comprehending every single word.
So, be patient with yourself and enjoy the learning journey!
What is the Best Spanish TV Show for Learning Spanish?
In this guide, we’ve highlighted two exceptional Spanish TV shows specifically designed for beginner and intermediate language learners, offering a structured and educational approach.
However, if you’re ready to push yourself further and are at a higher intermediate to advanced level, we strongly recommend exploring one of the five authentic Spanish TV series we’ve discussed.
Personally, I was captivated by the “Escobar” series and found myself hooked within just a couple of episodes. But it’s definitely not for everyone!
To help you navigate the choices and select the best series for your needs and preferences, we’ve created a simple comparison guide in an easy-to-read PDF format. This guide breaks down the top Spanish TV shows by plot, genre, and difficulty level, making it easier to find the perfect series for you.
Simply click the download button below to access these free PDF guides after entering your name and email.
[Download our comparison charts of the Top 11 Spanish TV Shows and Movies to help you choose the perfect series for your learning journey!]
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Undoubtedly, watching Spanish TV shows is one of the most effective and enjoyable ways to learn authentic, spoken Spanish from native speakers. TV shows are a fantastic learning tool because most people genuinely enjoy watching them. I certainly do!
To achieve advanced fluency in any language, you need a strong “WHY” – a compelling reason to learn – and ideally, you should enjoy the learning process. I can’t think of a better way to combine enjoyment with learning than by watching Spanish TV shows during your leisure time. The only difference is that now, your TV time becomes both entertaining and educational.
Just remember your primary goal: to learn Spanish! Enjoy the shows, but stay focused on your language learning objectives.
