Cultural
Join local clubs and associations: the key to integrating in Spain
Published: August 2025
One of the best ways to feel at home in Spain is to join local clubs and associations. Whether you’re passionate about sports, arts, volunteering, or simply want to meet new people, Spain offers an incredible variety of groups where expats and locals mix. Getting involved in clubs not only helps you build a social network, but also fast-tracks your language skills, cultural understanding, and sense of belonging. Here’s how you can make the most of Spain’s vibrant club scene.
Why clubs and associations matter for expats
Clubs are the heart of Spanish community life. From football and cycling to chess, hiking, art, and gastronomy, there’s a club for almost every interest. Joining a club is an easy way to meet people who share your passions, get insider tips on local life, and take part in events you might otherwise miss. Many expats find their first Spanish friends through these groups.
How to find the right club for you
- Check your local town hall (Ayuntamiento de Málaga) for a list of registered clubs and associations.
- Use Meetup.com to find international and local groups in your area.
- Look for flyers in community centers, libraries, and cafés—many small clubs still advertise offline.
- Ask neighbors, colleagues, or other expats for recommendations.
Popular types of clubs in Spain
- Sports clubs: Football, tennis, padel, running, cycling, basketball, yoga, and more.
- Hobby and interest groups: Photography, painting, chess, language exchange, cooking, book clubs.
- Volunteering associations: Animal rescue, environmental projects, social aid, Red Cross (Cruz Roja).
- Professional and networking groups: Young entrepreneurs, women in business, tech meetups.
- International clubs: Many cities have “International Friends” or “Expats in [City]” groups.
How to join and get involved
- Contact the club via their website, social media, or by attending an open event.
- Most clubs are happy to welcome newcomers—don’t worry if your Spanish isn’t perfect!
- Attend a few meetings or activities to see if the group is a good fit for you.
- Offer to help out or volunteer for events; you’ll make friends faster and feel more included.
Benefits of joining clubs and associations
- Meet locals and other expats with shared interests
- Practice Spanish in a relaxed, real-life setting
- Access to exclusive events, workshops, and trips
- Get insider tips on living in Spain
- Feel part of the community and reduce homesickness
Useful links
- Meetup.com – find groups in Spain
- Cruz Roja Española (Red Cross Spain)
- Ayuntamiento de Málaga – local clubs
- Expats in Spain Facebook group
Do I need to speak Spanish to join a club? No, many clubs welcome English speakers and are used to helping newcomers. Joining is a great way to improve your Spanish. How much does it cost to join a club? Most clubs charge a small annual fee (€20–€100), but many events are free or pay-as-you-go. Can I join more than one club? Absolutely! Many expats join several clubs to explore different interests and meet more people. Are there clubs for families and children? Yes, there are sports teams, music groups, and cultural associations for all ages. How do I find out about club events? Follow your club on social media, check their website, or sign up for newsletters. Is volunteering a good way to meet people? Yes, volunteering is a fantastic way to make friends and contribute to your community. What if I’m nervous about joining alone? Most newcomers feel the same way—clubs are used to welcoming people who come alone. Can I create my own club if I don’t find what I’m looking for? Yes, it’s easy to start a new group—use Meetup.com or Facebook to invite others. Are there online-only clubs? Yes, many hobby and language groups meet online or combine online and in-person events. How do I stay updated about new clubs in my area? Check your town hall’s website, local notice boards, and expat forums regularly.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always check club websites or contact organizers for the most up-to-date information.
