Watching shows in Spanish is one of the most effective ways to improve your listening skills. You’ll hear authentic accents, everyday expressions, and cultural references you won’t find in textbooks. Below are three shows that not only entertain but also help you expand your Spanish vocabulary.

1.

La Casa de las Flores (Mexico)

What it’s about

A dark comedy about a wealthy Mexican family who owns a flower shop. Behind their polished image lie secrets, scandals, and plenty of drama.

Difficulty level

Medium. The actors use mostly clear Mexican Spanish, though fast-paced family arguments can be tricky.

Why it’s useful for learners

• Vocabulary around family life and relationships

• Upper-class expressions and formal vs. informal registers

• LGBTQ+ slang and witty humor

• Great exposure to Mexican cultural context

Sample expressions to catch

• “¡Qué oso!” = “How embarrassing!”

• “No me vengas con eso” = “Don’t give me that.”

2.

Machos Alfa (Spain)

What it’s about

A comedy about four middle-aged men who must redefine themselves in a world where traditional “alpha male” roles are being challenged.

Difficulty level

Medium. Castilian Spanish, spoken quickly but clearly. Dialogue feels very natural and conversational.

Why it’s useful for learners

• Informal, everyday slang

• Vocabulary about friendship, relationships, and modern society

• Insights into Spanish humor and cultural debates around gender roles

Sample expressions to catch

• “Estoy hecho un lío” = “I’m all mixed up/confused.”

• “Tío, no exageres” = “Dude, don’t exaggerate.”

3.

Dos tumbas (2 Graves, Spain)

What it’s about

A suspenseful series that begins with the murder of a young girl and the disappearance of another, dragging a grandmother into the heart of the mystery.

Difficulty level

Medium-Hard. Contemporary Spanish with dramatic dialogue and regional accents.

Why it’s useful for learners

• Vocabulary related to crime, investigation, and family tragedy

• Practice with tense, emotional speech

• Exposure to colloquial Spanish in a serious, dramatic context

Sample expressions to catch

• “No pararemos hasta encontrar la verdad” = “We won’t stop until we find the truth.”

• “Esto no fue un accidente” = “This wasn’t an accident.”

How to Learn with Spanish Shows

1. Turn on Spanish subtitles — not English — to match sound and text.

2. Pause and replay difficult scenes to train your ear.

3. Write down 5 new words or phrases from each episode.

4. Try to use those phrases in class, conversation, or writing.