So, I have a big birthday coming up. Would like a weekend away to a city with DH. Barcelona or Madrid ?

[AnyFucker]

I love Spain, haven't been to either. Any thoughts ? I like to wander around pretty places, I like to sit outside cafes watching the world go by and I like to people watch. I want something luxury (ish) close to the cafe and people watching stuff.

Although Lisbon is very nice too, underrated. I went in late October last year and it was quite hot, mid twenties.

Sorry, so many posts! Valencia is lovely too. A chilled out Barcelona.

I want to go to Spain again now, or Portugal. All lovely.

I went early November and needed a cardi during the day. Blazer type coat on a night. Most locals are wrapped up by that time though.

A cardi? Fuck me I sound like my nana!

I love Madrid! Actually, I love both Madrid and Barcelona so the good news is whichever you choose you'll have a great time.

Madrid has beautiful classic European architecture, whereas Barcelona has really distinctive stuff - all the wonderful Gaudi.

Food is good in both.

I feel safer in Madrid - I was in perpetual fear of pickpockets in Barcelona whereas I've walked around Madrid by myself and always felt safe.

Either option is good. I'd slightly prefer B over M but only just.

Madrid is a very impressive, stately city . Went at Easter and saw the Easter passagios, amazing. More " Spanish" Barcelona is Catalonia and proud of it . But Barcelona - is BARCELONA ! My favourite European city ( possibly world city, San Francisco just has it pipped but the more I think of it .. ) if I ever win the lottery that's were you'll find my mansion. Great art, architecture ( gaudi), beaches, nightlife, the most amazing football club, cable cars, and just the buzz of it. Find something new and amazing every time I go

Just got back from B. Also been to M. either would be great, good to mosey around and soak it up.

No one has suggested Valencia. A fabulous city!

I loved both & have been to Barcelona 3 times but my top recommendation would be Seville. Stunning architecture, great food & wine & just a short day trip to see the Alhambra in Granada too

I went to Barcelona in November. During the day was warm enough for a t-shirt. Lovely beach,food and great sights!

Devilled ? hmm

*Seville

Or to stick a spanner in the works, if you love the grub, San Sebastián

how far is the airport from most of accomodation in Barcelona ?

About 20-30 mins. You can get the train in, pretty simple. Or a cab is about €25

There are 2 airports ?

What fresh hell is this ?

You need El Prat :-)

figures !

Are the airports very far apart ?

What about salou? It's a 40 minute train ride from Barcelona, and less than half the price.

It's a beautiful place, lovely promenade and there's an amazing night hippie market!

runs off to check flight prices now

I think Girona is about 1h30? Not totally sure though. Not Salou!

I vote for Barcelona. I went there for a significant birthday last autumn and had an absolute ball.
We stayed in a wonderful apartment in the El Born district which is the perfect location in my view...situated in the old town, walking distance to most main areas including the beach, El Born is a gorgeous historic area full of life with loads of quirky shops and great little bars. Loved it so much. Picasso museum was just round the corner and was great.
I used Habitat apartments and found them great. Would also consider using Air B&B as there are some gorgeous apartments on there such as this one in El Born.

Go to Barcelona!
I'd be back there in a flash if I could.

We had a great weekend in Malaga last year. Very underrated IMHO. Warmer than Barcelona in winter - definitely outside table an t shirts. And it's Andulucia so very Spanish if you can run to it , the Parador is just amazing. It's on the side of a mountain looking over the city and harbour. You can dine on the terrace with the city laid out below you . Wonderful .

....Or Granada!!

Granada is AWESOME too....love it...the Albaicin district, the moroccan quarter, the Alhambra....sigh...gorgeous

Barcelona or Granada!

God I love Spanish cities.