If you want to be surrounded by friendly locals who appreciate good food and wine, head to Bilbao. Located in northern Spain near the French border, the city sits close to the mountains and the famous Rioja wine region. Bilbao is coming alive as a dynamic, innovative city while keeping its traditional roots — a true business hub and an excellent place to land for TESOL teachers, especially those who want to teach Business English.
A hidden gem for ESL teachers
Bilbao's population is around 1 million, so it's not as big as Madrid or Barcelona — but the job market is growing and competitive. The city is becoming known for sustainability and cooperative enterprise systems, drawing in more professionals and corporate language clients. An OnTESOL graduate recommended posting on Tus Clases Particulares to pick up private students — many new teachers grow their reach this way. For broader professional support, TESOL-Spain hosts conventions around the country with access to resources and publications.
A classic Spain experience
People from Bilbao are friendly and inviting — family-oriented, with close relationships across generations. If you get to know a Bilbaoíno, you'll likely be invited to family events; they'll also help you find a job and offer support whenever you need it. Beyond the warmth of the locals, you'll have more opportunity to actually speak Spanish here, because English isn't as commonly spoken as in Barcelona or Madrid. For a real taste of Spain, head to a bar to mingle and try the best tapas you've ever had with a local beer. Bilbao is also near La Rioja, one of the world's most acclaimed wine regions.
Add a Business English specialist to your TEFL
Bilbao's corporate market is its strongest job vertical — sustainability firms, in-company programs, and a steady demand for executive-level English. Pair OnTESOL's 120-hr TEFL with the Teaching Business English (TBEC) specialist to arrive interview-ready. Both are TESL Canada recognized and ACCET accredited — the documentation Spanish corporates and the Auxiliares de Conversación program expect.
View Business English Course →Perfect for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts
The Basque Country offers easy access to gorgeous landscapes. Get out of the city to kayak, swim, or surf along the coast, or take the shuttle boat to San Sebastián, which has a lovely beach and seaside resorts. A 5-euro trip (about 90 minutes) gets you to Zumaia and Zarautz; from there, you can hike a section of the legendary Camino de Santiago — a coastal stretch that will take your breath away. For nature closer to the city, head to Parque Abusu.
Discover Bilbao: old and new
Bilbao is redefining itself as a modern city while conserving its traditions, culture, cuisine, and landscapes. For a Saturday afternoon break, visit the Guggenheim Museum — the impressive structure designed by Frank Gehry represents the city's transformation. To get a feel for the festive side of the region, catch Semana Grande (Aste Nagusia) in August — the most exciting party in the city — or the Tamborrada in San Sebastián.