Madrid or Barcelona? Any suggestions much appreciated. Post Reply

[Lou 5]

Afternoon everyone. I have a few days of holiday to take and am thinking of a long weekend/city break. Thinking Madrid or Barcelona. Never been to either and would love any thoughts about which might be better. Happy to do a bit of sightseeing but mostly want to soak up the atmosphere and try some authentic tapas and rose! It will be for myself and one possibly two girlfriends.

[Needcoffeenow]

I’d go for Barcelona at this time of year. Plenty of atmosphere, foodie attractions, see the Sagrada Familia before they finish it … and you have seafoody, arty Sitges just a short hop away along the coast.

[dudette]

I don’t think they’ll finish the Sagrada Familia in our life times given they started building it in 1882

I’ve been to both and both are lovely with lots of things to do and see. Barcelona is probably more touristy. Just toss a coin and whichever one doesn’t win you can go there next time.

[mememe]

depends on what you want to do there apart from eat & drink. both fab for restaurants. barcelona definitely more full of tourists. ive been to both so google and take whatever takes your fancy

[CamillaSuntayTravel]

I've been to both. I absolutely love Madrid, but Barcelona is very fun, is slightly easier to navigate and it's always nice to be by the sea! I would have a look at flights and prices, as in my experience Madrid generally proves more expensive.

I am a self-employed travel agent (under the Travel Counsellors umbrella), so if you'd like any help or advice, do give me a ring on 020 7112 0282 - I'd be very happy to chat.

[juliantenniscoach]

Madrid is great.  Been there many times for the tennis tournament in May.  Stay in the centre near Retiro Park for the best access to restaurants, bars, clubs etc.  Not as hectic as Barcelona but it is a stay out late city, with dining from 9pm often 10pm.  Lots of cultural things to do and see too.

[JoannSorbet]

I would also pick Barcelona, there are more places to visit around the city which you can visit.

[abdielmcin]

I would choose Barcelona cause you can visit much more around the city too.

[LunaLuminary]

If you wanting relaxed feeling with much art and history, go to Madrid. If you like mix of beach, culture, and night fun, choose Barcelona. If you're planning your trip, you might find these websites helpful:

https://www.spain.info/en/top/essential-sights/ and https://gowithguide.com/spain It's got some cool insights to eenhance your experience. Cheers 

[oliviiarhome]

It's a tough question because I've visited both cities and loved them.
When it comes to architecture, I love Madrid more, but Barca also has a lot of amazing places.
Food is good in both cities, but the atmosphere is Barcelona is better.
I'd choose it for sure, but think about visiting Madrid too!

[chorister]

Since July 2023 Barcelona has lost 60 acres (20%) of its beaches because of climate change induced winter storms, leaving pipelines etc exposed. Might be better to try and go somewhere that doesn’t involve flying ……

[ImNotSureNow]

You have a point @chorister … but seeing as we live on an island, what is the alternative? Rainy over-priced breaks with culture/food similar to what we have all year long. Slightly tongue in cheek, I’ll admit :)

[chorister]

@ImNotSureNow - by coincidence about 5 minutes ago I was watching on the news that in the Caribbean right now they are battening down the hatches for the strongest ever hurricane recorded at this time of year, again made much more likely by climate change, because more energy in the atmosphere means more violent storms. So not tongue in cheek - we are all going to have to get used to making sacrifices, or we will have to put up with change being forced on us. So - check out the European high speed rail network. But whatever you choose have a good break.