How to Learn Python for Free: 20 Best Online Resources of 2025

Python skills open doors in tech—whether you want to automate tasks, analyze data, or build web apps. 

Looking to learn Python for free? We’ve found 20 online resources to help you master the fundamentals.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• Free online Python courses and interactive platforms
• Top video tutorials for visual learners
• Free AI tools to enhance your Python learning
• Active Python communities where you can get help

Best free online Python courses 

Online courses are a great way to learn Python for free. They guide you step-by-step through Python basics and offer exercises to practice what you learn. 

Let’s explore the top free online Python courses you can try in 2025.

1. Mimo’s Python course and Python career track

• Best for: Complete beginners who prefer hands-on learning and want to build practical skills 

Mimo takes a unique approach to teaching Python. Instead of watching video lectures, you write code from day one in bite-sized, interactive lessons. 

The platform offers two learning paths, both offering official certification:

• A fundamental Python course covering core concepts through 14 modules of hands-on practice
• A comprehensive Python Developer career path with 8 sections and 23 coding challenges

The fundamental course breaks down Python basics into manageable chunks. You’ll learn everything from basic syntax to functions, classes, and error handling. 

Each concept comes with interactive exercises where you type real code and see immediate results.

The career path goes deeper into Python development. Beyond the basics, you’ll learn data analysis, web development, and AI applications. 

Throughout the course, you’ll build 8 portfolio projects—from simple games to AI-powered tools and API integrations. These projects give you practical experience and something to show potential employers.

What we like:

• Interactive lessons with a built-in code editor
• AI-powered hints when you get stuck
• Offers a mobile app you can also explore for free
• Real portfolio projects in the career path
• Active community for support
• Modern, easy-to-use interface

Note: Mimo Basic comes for free, whether you want to learn on desktop or mobile (or both). However, some of its lessons and features are limited—you can unlock them by getting a paid subscription (starting at $8.33/month).

2. Codeacademy’s ‘Python 2’

• Best for: Systematic learners who want clear milestones and structured progression

Codecademy’s free Python course offers lessons and interactive coding exercises exploring the very basics of Python. It includes 20 lessons and 9 projects, from simple calculators to text-based games.

You code directly in your browser while their AI assistant helps spot and fix errors. 

The course follows a clear curriculum—each new concept builds on previous ones, helping you learn as you go.

What we like:

• Zero setup required—code right in your browser
• AI-powered learning assistant
• Real-world projects to practice skills
• Active community forums
• Clear, structured learning path

Note: The free plan includes basic lessons and projects. Certificates and additional practice projects require a paid subscription.

3. Introduction to Python Programming on Udacity

• Best for: Visual learners who prefer a structured course with video explanations

The free Python programming course on Udacity covers Python fundamentals while showing how they’re applied in real tech companies.

The 7-lesson curriculum moves from basic syntax to practical scripting and data structures—skills you’ll need for data analysis and machine learning.

Each concept is taught by industry practitioners like Juno Lee, who built neural networks and recommendation systems at Looplist. They share real examples from their work, making abstract concepts more concrete.

What we like:

• Industry expert instructors with tech company experience
• Focus on data science applications
• Practical examples from real projects
• Advanced topics like iterators and generators

4. AI Python for Beginners 

• Best for: Beginners who want to learn Python specifically for AI applications

Created by Andrew Ng and DeepLearning.AI team, this 4-hour course combines Python basics with AI projects. 

You’ll learn through 35 video lessons and 25 code examples, building practical applications like recipe generators, smart to-do lists, and travel planners.

You’ll work with data visualization libraries, learn web data extraction with BeautifulSoup, and build applications using real-time data through APIs. All coding is done in Jupyter Notebooks—the same environment used by data scientists.

What we like:

• Focus on practical AI applications
• Integrated AI coding assistant for help
• Project-based learning approach
• Uses industry-standard Jupyter Notebooks
• Clear progression from basics to API integration

5. ‘Intro to computer science: Python’ by Khan Academy

• Best for: Complete beginners who want a structured, academic approach

Khan Academy offers a free Python course split into 6 units, focusing on real-world applications. It includes video lessons, text lectures, and interactive assignments where you can build recommendation engines, games, and population simulators.

The course covers all core Python concepts, with each unit building on previous knowledge. You’ll progress from basic syntax to complex data structures while creating functional programs.

What we like:

• Well-structured curriculum with 21 skills
• Hands-on projects in every unit
• Built-in programming platform
• Clear progression path

6. The official Python tutorial

• Best for: Self-learners who want comprehensive, technical documentation

The official Python documentation offers a thorough, text-based tutorial covering all language fundamentals. It’s maintained by Python’s core developers and stays current with the latest language updates.

The tutorial progresses from basic concepts through advanced topics like classes, modules, and virtual environments. Each section includes practical code examples that you can run in any Python environment.

What we like:

• Comprehensive coverage of Python concepts
• Official, up-to-date documentation
• Detailed code examples
• Self-contained lessons
• Available offline

7. Introduction to Python by JetBrains

• Best for: Visual learners who want to code in a professional development environment

The free course by JetBrains combines Python learning with hands-on practice in PyCharm—an integrated development environment (IDE) that helps you write code with features like autocomplete and debugging tools.

The course offers 10 lessons with 76 coding challenges and 8 theory tasks, teaching you both Python fundamentals and essential development skills directly in the IDE.

What we like:

• Learn in a professional development environment
• Interactive coding challenges
• Instant feedback on exercises
• Includes IDE productivity features

8. Bonus: Full Stack Python

• Best for: Learners with initial Python knowledge ready to build web applications

Full Stack Python is a free, open-source book that covers the entire Python web development stack. It’ll suit you well if you’ve already learned some Python basics and want to explore more advanced topics like deployment and databases.

The guide is organized by topic, letting you focus on what’s relevant for your project. Each topic explains technical concepts in plain language with practical examples.

What we like:

• Comprehensive coverage of Python web development
• Clear explanations of technical concepts
• Regular updates with modern tools and practices
• Well-organized learning paths

Free AI tools for learning Python

Another great way to learn Python coding for free is by using various AI tools. While we recommend pairing them with more structural learning materials like courses, they can speed up the process and help you practice. 

For example, AI chatbots can explain code, help debug errors, and even suggest improvements as you practice Python programming.

Let’s see which tools can help you out in 2025.

9. ChatGPT

• Best for: Getting instant help with Python coding and learning

ChatGPT can support your Python learning through immediate, interactive help. Ask it to explain concepts (“How do Python decorators work?”), review or debug code (paste your error message and code), and even explore practical exercises. 

For example, try to have a dialogue about programming concepts, with follow-up questions for deeper understanding:

<I’m trying to understand Python lists. What’s list comprehension and how does it work? Please give a practical example>

Ask it to create a custom learning path:

<I want to learn Python for data analysis. I can spend 10 hours per week on learning. Can you create a study plan?>

Or request code reviews:

<Here’s my function for calculating the average from a list of numbers. How can I make it more efficient and handle edge cases better?>

Here are two helpful resources to get started:

1. Mr. Ranedeer AI Tutor: A GitHub repository with optimized prompts that help you get the most out of ChatGPT for learning programming. It includes configurations for different learning styles and knowledge levels.
2. Real Python’s ChatGPT Guide: Comprehensive tutorial on setting up and using ChatGPT effectively as a coding mentor, with practical examples and prompt templates.

What we like:

• The AI chat interface provides extra support and guidance for learning Python
• Generates instant feedback on code and helps debug errors with detailed explanations
• Creates customized practice problems
• Adapts explanations to your learning level

Note: The free GPT-3.5 plan provides limited access to OpenAI’s latest models. The paid subscription with more usage limits and access to ChatGPT tools costs $20/month. It’s also important to verify code generated by ChatGPT as it can commit errors.

10. GitLab Duo

• Best for: Developers who want to learn Python through hands-on project experience with AI guidance

GitLab Duo helps you learn Python by providing AI assistance directly in your development workflow. While this tool costs $19/month, it offers a 60-day free trial—giving you enough time to explore it and practice. 

As you write code in GitLab’s environment, the AI assistant helps explain concepts, suggests improvements, and reviews your code.

The platform also integrates with GitLab’s version control system, letting you learn Python while building real projects. 

For beginners, it’s helpful in understanding proper Python syntax and best practices through real-time feedback. More advanced learners can explore automated code reviews and suggestions for optimization.

What we like:

• Lets you learn directly in a professional development environment
• Real-time AI explanations of Python concepts
• Automated code reviews that teach best practices
• Integration with version control for tracking progress

11. Code Llama 

• Best for: Python learners who want a free, powerful AI coding assistant that can run locally

Code Llama is Meta’s open-source AI coding assistant that’s completely free for both learning and commercial use. 

You can download and run Code Llama on your own computer, making it particularly useful for offline learning and experimentation. However, it’s also available online though specialized tools like HuggingFace.

The tool comes in three specialized versions, and you can use its ‘Code Llama – Python’ to learn Python for free. 

It can understand your natural language descriptions and convert them into working Python code, explain complex code snippets, and identify bugs in your programs. 

What we like:

• Completely free and open source
• Can run locally on your computer
• Handles both code generation and explanation
• Supports very long context lengths

Free Python video tutorials

Video tutorials offer another excellent way to learn Python for free. 

While courses and AI tools provide structured learning and interactive feedback, video tutorials can help you grasp concepts through visual demonstrations and step-by-step explanations.

Here are some of our favorite options.

12. Python for Beginners: Learn Coding with Python in 1 Hour

• Best for: Complete beginners who want a quick but thorough introduction to Python fundamentals

This popular tutorial by Mosh Hamedani (with over 20 million views) breaks down Python basics into digestible segments that you can complete in one hour. 

Despite its short duration, the video manages to cover all essential Python concepts through clear explanations and practical examples.

What makes this tutorial particularly effective is Mosh’s teaching style: he codes in real-time while explaining each concept. This helps you understand not just what code to write, but why you’re writing it. 

What we like:

• Concise yet comprehensive coverage of Python basics
• Clear, step-by-step explanations with real-time coding
• Well-structured content with timestamped chapters
• Includes practical exercises to reinforce learning and a free Python cheat sheet

 13. Python for Beginners 

• Best for: Newcomers who want a complete setup-to-coding guide with practical IDE experience

This comprehensive free video tutorial from former Microsoft developer Kevin Stratvert focuses on the entire development environment setup (vs only covering Python syntax). 

In just over an hour, Kevin guides you through everything from installing Python to writing and troubleshooting real code in Visual Studio Code.

Instead of jumping straight into coding, Kevin first explains why you might want to learn programming and why Python is a great choice. 

He then walks through the complete setup process that many other tutorials skip over.

What we like:

• Complete setup guide for Python and Visual Studio Code
• Clear explanations of both “how” and “why” for each concept
• Real-world troubleshooting scenarios included
• Practical examples using a free, professional-grade IDE

14. Learn Python – Full Course for Beginners 

• Best for: Committed learners who want a complete Python foundation with practical projects

With over 42 million views, Mosh Hamedani’s full Python video tutorial delivers six hours of in-depth instruction on learning Python and building real-world projects—for free.

Mosh starts with Python basics and then dives deep into three hands-on projects: automating tasks with Python, creating a machine learning application, and building a website using Django. 

The course feels like a professional bootcamp, with clear explanations and plenty of practical examples.

What we like:

• Deep coverage from basics to advanced topics
• Three substantial real-world projects
• Excellent audio and video quality
• Strong focus on programming fundamentals

15. Python full course 

• Best for: Detail-oriented learners who want a textbook-style deep dive into Python

Dave Gray’s free 9-hour Python video tutorial takes a methodical approach to teaching Python. Released in 2023, it provides modern Python instruction, starting from core fundamentals and progressing to advanced concepts like closures and recursion.

The course also incorporates practical exercises and coding challenges to reinforce learning. 

It reaches its peak with a hands-on Flask web application project, demonstrating how to apply Python skills in real-world web development.

What we like:

• Textbook-style organization with clear chapters
• Modern Python practices and conventions
• Builds to a practical web application project
• Extensive coverage of virtual environments

Free Python communities

Finally, programming becomes easier and more rewarding when you connect with other developers. 

Python has some of the largest and most welcoming online communities where you can ask questions, share code, and learn from experienced programmers.

Here are our top picks for you to explore.

16. Python.org Community

Best for: Python learners who want to access official resources and connect through established channels

The Python.org community serves as the central hub for Python’s official channels and resources. This platform offers several ways to engage with fellow Python developers, from IRC channels to mailing lists.

The community breaks down into different channels for specific needs. For example, the #python IRC channel helps with general questions, while #python-dev connects you with core Python developers. 

For structured learning, you’ll find FAQs, documentation, and guides written by experienced Python developers.

What we like:

• Official Python documentation and resources
• Active IRC channels for different skill levels
• Curated success stories from Python users
• Well-moderated discussion spaces

17. Python Discord

• Best for: Python learners who want real-time help and an active coding community

Python Discord (a virtual community platform) has grown into one of the largest Python communities online, with over 100 expert helpers available around the clock. 

The server combines casual chat with serious programming help, making it particularly welcoming for beginners while still attracting experienced developers.

The community runs regular events like code jams, hackathons, and seasonal challenges, often with prizes. 

Members can ask questions and contribute to the community’s open-source projects, including their custom Discord bots and web applications.

What we like:

• 24/7 help channels with expert volunteers
• Regular coding events and competitions
• Active open-source projects to learn from
• Organized channels for different topics

18. Reddit Python communities

• Best for: Programmers who want to learn from discussions, share code, and get project feedback

Reddit hosts several active Python communities, each with its own focus. These subreddits function as specialized forums where developers gather to share knowledge, ask questions, and showcase their work.

For example:

• r/Python serves as the main hub for Python news and discussions, with over 800k members sharing everything from the latest updates to advanced programming techniques
• r/learnpython offers a supportive space for beginners where members regularly help newcomers debug code and understand concepts
• r/PythonProjects2 lets developers show off their work and get feedback

What we like:

• Distinct communities for different needs
• Quick responses to questions
• Rich archive of past solutions
• Active code review culture

19. Stack Overflow

• Best for: Developers seeking verified solutions to specific Python problems

Stack Overflow is a massive technical library where developers help each other solve coding problems. 

With its extensive Python section, you can find various questions that have already been answered and get help from experienced developers.

Answers get voted up or down based on accuracy and helpfulness, so the best solutions rise to the top. 

This makes Stack Overflow especially valuable when you’re stuck on a tricky Python bug or need to understand a complex concept.

What we like:

• High-quality, verified answers
• Code examples you can test and modify
• Extensive archive of solutions
• Active Python tag community

20. GitHub

• Best for: Developers who want to learn by exploring real Python projects and contributing to open-source code

GitHub is one of the world’s largest collections of Python code, where you can explore everything from beginner tutorials to professional-grade applications. 

It’s a collaborative workspace where developers share code, work together, and learn from each other’s projects.

For Python learners, GitHub offers several unique opportunities. You can explore various free resources, try practical exercises, or join real-world projects. 

Many Python libraries also host their code on GitHub, letting you explore how experienced developers structure their code.

What we like:

• Large collection of Python learning resources
• Real-world code examples to study
• Project-based learning opportunities
• Active Python project communities

FAQs

Let’s address the most popular questions about learning Python online.

Can you learn all of Python for free?

You can build a solid foundation in Python using free resources. The tutorials, interactive platforms, and communities covered in this guide provide great starting points for learning core Python concepts and building basic applications. 

However, as you advance, paid resources like specialized courses, professional certifications, or mentorship programs can help accelerate your progress. They can also deepen your expertise in specific areas like web development, data science, or machine learning.

How long does it take to learn Python?

Learning Python’s basics usually takes 2-6 weeks of consistent practice. To become job-ready, expect 3-6 months of dedicated learning, including building projects and learning frameworks. 

The timeline varies based on:

• Your prior programming experience
• Time devoted to learning 
• Learning goals (web development, data science, etc.)
• Practice and project work

Which Python course is best for beginners?

For complete beginners, we recommend starting with either Mimo’s Python course or Mosh Hamedani’s Full Course for Beginners. Mimo offers structured, interactive learning with immediate feedback, while Mosh’s course provides detailed video instruction with practical examples. 

Start learning Python programming for free 

Getting started with Python doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. The resources we’ve covered offer different ways to learn, so you can pick what works best for you.

Here are our top picks based on different learning preferences:

• Mimo’s Python course and career track: Perfect if you like learning by doing and want quick feedback on your code
• Mosh’s 6-Hour complete course: Great for following along with clear video tutorials and building real projects
• AI Python for beginners: Excellent if you’re interested in AI and want to learn Python through practical AI projects
• ChatGPT: Helpful when you’re stuck and need someone to explain things in plain English
• Python Discord: Works great if you like asking questions and learning from other programmers
• Official Python tutorial: Solid choice if you prefer reading and working at your own pace

The most important thing?

Start coding regularly. Pick a resource, set aside some time each day or week, and stick with it. And remember—every programmer was a beginner once, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and participate in the communities.