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Picture the perfect summer. You’re out in the sun, perhaps at the beach or in the mountains. You’re meandering quaint and winding streets, listening to those around you passionately chat amongst themselves. You’re enjoying an outdoor snack with friends while people-watching. Okay, now picture that but even better — that’s what it’s like to spend a summer in Spain. Spain is the quintessential summer study abroad destination and you’re about to find out why. 

Here are a few of the many reasons why doing a study abroad program in Spain will help you get the most out of your summer:

1. The Beaches are Beautiful 

With roughly 3,000 miles of coastline, it would be hard for Spain not to boast having the best beaches in the Mediterranean — and some would say, the entire world! Why is this? First of all the beaches are gorgeous! It is basically impossible to take a bad photo of, say, Portinatx, Ibiza, with its perfectly clear water and golden sand. On top of that, they’re safe for both beach goers and the environment. The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) awards Blue Flags (Bandera Azules) for meeting the organization’s standards of safety and sustainability. Spain’s beaches have 600 Bandera Azules, 153 of which are from beaches in Valencia alone! 

When you study abroad in Spain this summer, you’ll love spending your time outside of class at the beach! Enjoy daily life in a coastal city like Barcelona, or take a day trip from host cities like Granada, Seville or Madrid. 

2. The Weather is Perfect 

If you like your summers to actually feel like summer, Spain has you covered. The average temperature in the summer months there is 86°F. But don’t worry about the heat ruining your day-to-day — Mediterranean summers can be warm, but the humidity tends to be low. You’ll love spending your time outside, both leisurely and during experiential class excursions!

3. The Culture is Unique 

If heat isn’t your thing, you can spend your time inside one of Spain’s 1,500 museums. At the height of its power, the Spanish Empire was one of the most powerful nations in the world. With that comes a rich, well-recorded history and an inspired art scene. Glimpse the extraordinary wealth of the Spanish royals at the Museo del Prado in Madrid, designed in 1785 and commissioned by King Charles III himself. Or if you’re looking for something more modern, there’s the Dalí Theatre and Museum in the artist’s hometown of Figueres, Catalonia — just a short trip from Barcelona — which features some of his most famous works… and is his own elaborate crypt. 

4. The Food is Delicious 

You can’t talk about Spain without mentioning about the food. A foodie’s Spanish summer menu should include tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelet) or pan con tomate (toast with tomato) in the morning, a chilly bowl of gazpacho for lunch, and jamón serrano (cured ham) with tapas for dinner. Each region of Spain, from Catalonia to Murcia, has its own unique cuisine. A great way to get to know these regions is to explore with your stomach. 

5. Fútbol is fun  

Even if you’re not a soccer fan, you have to experience a fútbol match while you study abroad in Spain during the summer. Some of the sport’s most internationally popular teams call the country home, including FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. With 67% of the population of Spain having a favorite club, you simply can’t appreciate Spanish culture without experiencing a match live. Even if you can’t get a ticket, just going to a local bar and watching with fans is a thrill like no other. 

Want to spend the summer in the Spanish sun? Study abroad!  

If you’re considering spending your summer doing a study abroad program in Spain, you’ve come to the right place. Here at AIFS Abroad, we offer a variety of program options in many Spanish cities, including Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, Seville, and Salamanca. International internship programs are also available. With inclusions such as tuition, housing, insurance, excursions and activities, on-site staff, and emergency support, you’ll have a stress-free global education experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in Spanish life and culture while earning college credits in between spring and fall semester. Are you ready?