Tapas to practice Spanish (without making it look like a class)

In Madrid Spanish is practiced standing up, at the bar and with good humor. Between bravas, croquettes and a calamari sandwich you can train greetings, requests and opinions without opening a book. You just need curiosity… and hunger.

La Latina (Cava Baja): order and recommend

One street, many bars and a simple mission: ask for the specialty, ask for recommendations and give your opinion. Three phrases to break the ice: “What do you recommend?”, “Is it very tasty?”, “We share a portion”.

San Miguel Market: courtesy and “the bill”.

Perfect for practicing turns of phrase and useful formulas: “Can we have…?”, “Anything else?”, “The bill, please”. Bonus: try to say how you want to pay and if you can split the bill.

Lavapiés – San Fernando Market: accents and culture

Traditional and global atmosphere. Ideal for listening to accents, comparing customs (“En mi país…”, “En España…”) and expanding the socio-cultural vocabulary that will help you in everyday conversations… and also in the CCSE.

Escuela de Español Lavapies – Cultura y espanol scaled

If you are thinking about nationality: the essentials (DELE A2 + CCSE)

In order to apply for nationality by residence, two tests are normally required by the Instituto Cervantes:

  • DELE A2 (or higher): certifies your level of Spanish according to the CEFR.
  • CCSE: evaluates constitutional and sociocultural knowledge of Spain.

The official registration for both exams is always done through the Instituto Cervantes platform.

CCSE: tuition and official materials

  • Format: test on the Constitution, institutions, society and culture.
  • When to register: due to availability of places, it is advisable to register at least 10 weeks in advance.
  • Official registration: ccse.cervantes.es.
  • More info at CSB: see practical details here: Promotion DELE + CCSE Course – CSB.

DELE A2: practical requirements before you register

  • Start of the course: 2 or 4 weeks before the exam date (depending on your situation and availability).
  • Level: to take the DELE course you must have at least the same level as the exam for which you are registering.
  • Minimum age: 18 years old.
  • Official registration: you must register and pay for the exam at least 10 weeks in advance. More details on the CSB page: DELE – Official exam (CSB).

Quick tips for learning while living in Madrid

Mini-bar challenge

Before going out for tapas, choose three linguistic objectives: order, recommend and give your opinion. On your way back, write two lines about what you tried and what you liked. It’s fun and improves your vocabulary memory.

Active listening

Notice how the locals ask for it: intonation, diminutives (“una cañita”), colloquialisms (“vale?”, “¿te apetece?”). Copying the rhythm is half the learning process.

Words that you will use

Ration, half ration, bar, bill, sharing, recommendation, specialty, toasts, bocata, bravas, croquettes. Master them and you are already “talking Madrid”.

Escuela de Español mujer bebiendo cafeteria Madrid scaled

Would you like to take the CCSE or DELE A2?

Find out more and decide your next date

When you feel like taking the plunge, check out the practical information and preparation options at CSB (no obligation):
– CCSE and promotions: DELE + CCSE Course Promotion – CSB
– DELE A2 (registration and requirements): DELE – Official Exam (CSB)