How to build a social life in Spain: clubs, sports & community events

Published: August 2025

Moving to Spain is not just about paperwork and finding a place to live—it’s about building a life, making friends, and becoming part of the local community. For many expats, creating a fulfilling social life is both the most exciting and the most challenging part of settling in. Spain’s vibrant culture, love of gatherings, and wide range of clubs, sports, and community events make it one of Europe’s best places for meeting new people. Here’s a comprehensive guide to building your social life in Spain, whether you’re in a big city or a small town.

Why social life matters for expats

Having a strong social network is key to feeling at home in a new country. It helps combat loneliness, improves language skills, and provides practical support for navigating Spanish bureaucracy, finding jobs, or just discovering the best local spots. In Spain, friendships often start in groups—whether through sports, clubs, or neighborhood events.

Join local clubs and associations

Spain has a club for almost every interest, from hiking and cycling to chess, photography, and dance. Many cities have “casals” or “centros culturales” where you can join activities, workshops, and language exchanges. Don’t be shy—most clubs welcome newcomers and expect you to just show up and introduce yourself.

Get active with sports teams

Sports are a huge part of Spanish life. Football (soccer) is king, but you’ll also find basketball, tennis, padel, cycling, running clubs, and even yoga groups in the park. Many towns have municipal sports centers (“polideportivos”) with affordable memberships. Joining a team or regular class is a great way to meet locals and expats alike.

Tap into community events and festivals

Spain is famous for its fiestas, local festivals, and open-air events. Check your town hall’s website or local Facebook groups for upcoming events—everything from food fairs and concerts to charity runs and neighborhood parties. Volunteering at events is also a fantastic way to connect with people and give back to your new community.

Language exchanges and international meetups

Language exchanges (“intercambios”) are popular in all major cities and university towns. These are informal gatherings where locals and expats practice Spanish, English, or other languages over coffee or drinks. Meetup.com and Facebook are great places to find these events, as well as international dinners, pub quizzes, and cultural outings.

Making friends as an adult: tips that work in Spain

• Be proactive: Don’t wait for invitations—take the first step and suggest coffee, a walk, or a meal together.
• Say yes to invitations, even if it’s outside your comfort zone—you never know where you’ll meet your best friend!
• Follow up: If you meet someone interesting, send a message or invite them to another event.
• Be open to friendships with both locals and other expats—each brings unique perspectives and support.
• Don’t get discouraged by cultural differences—Spaniards may seem reserved at first, but are very loyal once you break the ice.

The role of food and shared meals

In Spain, sharing food is central to social life. Accepting an invitation to tapas, a family lunch, or a community paella is a great way to bond. If you’re invited home for a meal, it’s customary to bring a small gift (wine, dessert, or flowers).

Online communities and support networks

There are countless Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, and forums for expats in Spain. These are invaluable for asking questions, finding events, and even making your first friends before you arrive. Popular groups include “Expats in Spain,” “Madrid Expats,” “Barcelona Newcomers,” and many more.

Case study: making friends in malaga

When Sophie, a British expat, moved to Malaga, she joined a local hiking group and a weekly language exchange at a café. Within two months, she had a circle of friends from Spain, Germany, and the US. “The key was saying yes to every invitation and not being afraid to go alone,” she says. “Now, I feel like I belong.”

Overcoming mommon challenges

• Language barrier: Don’t let imperfect Spanish hold you back. Most people appreciate the effort, and many Spaniards want to practice English.
• Homesickness: Stay busy, stay social, and reach out if you need support—there are many expat and mental health resources available.
• Integration: Be patient. Building a new social life takes time, but every event or group brings new opportunities.

Useful Links

• Meetup.com – Find events in Spain
• Expats in Spain Facebook Group
• Intercambio Madrid
• New in Spain – Community Guides

How can I meet locals if I don’t speak much Spanish? Join language exchanges, sports clubs, or volunteer at local events—most people are welcoming and appreciate your effort. What are the best apps or websites for finding events? Meetup.com, Facebook groups, and local town hall websites are great for discovering events and activities. Is it hard to make friends as an expat in Spain? It can take time, but being proactive and open-minded helps. Spaniards are loyal friends once you get to know them. Are there clubs for specific interests or hobbies? Yes! From hiking and cycling to chess, photography, and dance, there’s a club for almost everything. How important is food in Spanish social life? Very important—sharing meals is a key way to build friendships and be included in the community. What is a “language exchange” and how does it work? It’s an informal meetup where people practice different languages with each other, usually over drinks or coffee. Can I join sports teams even if I’m not very athletic? Absolutely—many clubs are social and welcome all levels. It’s about having fun and meeting people! How do I find out about local festivals and events? Check your town hall’s website, local Facebook groups, and posters in your neighborhood. What should I bring if invited to a Spanish home? A small gift like wine, dessert, or flowers is always appreciated. How can I deal with homesickness while building a new social life? Stay busy, join groups, talk to other expats, and don’t hesitate to seek support if you need it.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and based on real expat experiences. Your journey may vary, but Spain offers endless opportunities to connect and belong.