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.

And Girona airport isn't as good as Barcelona. False economy , you waste too much time for a weekend . Stay in the city to get the most out of the weekend

Second Granada intifada you go outside of Summer take warm clothes ! Lots of snow on the mountains nearby , the wind seems to bring the cold straight off it . Alhambra is amazing - world heritage I think. Might be more awkward to get to though - check if direct flights, I think it's quite seasonal

I much prefer Madrid to Barcelona (so much so that DH and I moved there for 18 months!) but November is likely to be a bit chilly. Also prefer Valencia to Barcelona, it's a lovely city.

Had a great weekend in Madrid last winter for a big birthday. Got a great deal and then upgrade at a fab hotel and one of the best meals I've ever had at a v swanky restaurant that would have cost double I reckon in London etc. Snowed what we were there but surprisingly warm when the sun was out. Great value too and would be even better with the euro rate now.

I think Madrid would appeal to you more AF; it's the capital, so has a certain gravitas, take me or leave me vibe.

Barcelona always feels like it's floozying to the tourists.

The Gaudi stuff is divine though.

Haha, do both?

Helloalll, what was the name of the restaurant? DH and I are going soon. First time, so I can't comment on your dilemma, OP, but I'd also vote for Seville/Granada. Both are easy to get to from Malaga, which is really cheap to fly into.