The Best Spanish-Language TV Shows to Boost Your Learning
Learning Spanish doesn’t have to be all textbooks and flashcards. One of the most enjoyable ways to immerse yourself in the language is by watching TV shows. Not only will this help improve your vocabulary and listening skills, but it also gives you a glimpse into the diverse cultures of Spanish-speaking countries.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, these Spanish-language TV shows are engaging, educational, and perfect for boosting your skills.
1. "La Casa de Papel" (Money Heist)
Country: Spain
Where to Watch: Netflix
This global phenomenon follows a group of robbers led by "El Profesor" as they attempt daring heists. The dialogue is fast-paced, and the story keeps you on the edge of your seat. La Casa de Papel is ideal for intermediate learners looking to get used to European Spanish accents while picking up slang and casual expressions.
2. "Club de Cuervos"
Country: Mexico
Where to Watch: Netflix
This comedic drama explores the cutthroat world of football club management. With plenty of humour and family drama, it’s an entertaining way to hear colloquial Mexican Spanish. The mix of business jargon and everyday dialogue makes it a great choice for learners.
3. "Élite"
Country: Spain
Where to Watch: Netflix
If you’re a fan of teen dramas, Élite is perfect for you. This series delves into the lives of wealthy students at a private school, weaving together themes of mystery, relationships, and betrayal. The language is modern and conversational, offering plenty of useful phrases for social situations.
4. "Gran Hotel"
Country: Spain
Where to Watch: Prime Video
Dubbed the "Spanish Downton Abbey," Gran Hotel is a historical drama set in the early 1900s. Its slower pace and clear enunciation make it a great choice for beginners. The story’s intrigue and romance keep viewers hooked while introducing formal speech and period-specific vocabulary.
5. "Las Chicas del Cable" (Cable Girls)
Country: Spain
Where to Watch: Netflix
This empowering drama centers on four women working at Spain’s first telephone company in the 1920s. The series blends historical context with themes of friendship and resilience. Its clear dialogue and emotional storytelling make it an excellent pick for learners looking to expand their vocabulary.
6. "Narcos"
Country: Colombia
Where to Watch: Netflix
This gripping drama about the rise and fall of Pablo Escobar is perfect for advanced learners. The mix of Colombian Spanish, American English, and regional slang provides a rich linguistic experience. Subtitles can help you navigate the challenging yet rewarding dialogue.
7. "El Ministerio del Tiempo"
Country: Spain
Where to Watch: RTVE Play (and other platforms)
This time-travelling series follows agents tasked with protecting Spanish history. Each episode dives into a different historical period, offering cultural and linguistic insights. The variety of accents and settings makes it both fun and educational.
8. "La Reina del Sur"
Country: Mexico/USA
Where to Watch: Telemundo/Netflix
Based on the novel by Arturo Pérez-Reverte, this action-packed series follows Teresa Mendoza, a woman rising to power in the male-dominated drug trade. The drama is gripping, and the dialogue is rich with regional expressions, particularly Mexican Spanish.
Tips for Using TV Shows to Learn Spanish
Start with Subtitles: Use subtitles in Spanish to match spoken words with their written form. Gradually challenge yourself to watch without subtitles.
Pause and Repeat: Don’t hesitate to rewind and listen to tricky sentences again. This helps
train your ear to pick up subtle sounds.
Take Notes: Jot down new words or phrases and look them up later.
Mimic What You Hear: Practise imitating the characters to improve your pronunciation and intonation.
Why TV Shows Are a Great Learning Tool
TV shows expose you to natural conversations, regional accents, and cultural nuances you won’t find in a textbook. They help you understand the rhythm and flow of Spanish, giving you the confidence to use it in real-life situations.
At Battersea Spanish, we encourage language learners to supplement classes with immersive experiences like watching Spanish media. Pair your favourite show with our expert-led courses to accelerate your progress.
Start Your Learning Journey Today
Ready to take your Spanish skills to the next level? Battersea Spanish offers a range of courses designed for all levels, from beginners to advanced learners. Combine the fun of TV shows with the structure of a professional course, and watch your confidence soar.
Explore our classes today and bring the Spanish language to life!