When should I go to Madrid and Valencia?

Question

I am pretty positive I will be spending 8 weeks in Madrid and 6 weeks in Valencia between August 24 - November 30

What I am unsure of is which city I should go to first..

I am thinking maybe Valencia to catch the Tomatina, but summer in Madrid (and the parties in nearby Toledo) is also supposed to be very exciting

Any suggestions?

Answer 1

First Valencia to enjoy the beach... many Madrileños will be there at that time since it is our nearest beach.

On the last wednesday of August ( 27th this 2008) the Tomatina is celebrated in Buñol. You will love it everybody throwing tomatoes at each other...check out the pictures:

http://www.spain.info/tourspain/eventos/...

¿looks like fun doesn't it?

In August Madrid is quite hot, but the worse is that in August Madrid is empty everybody takes their holidays in August and is gone,... there is still nightlife but not much.

So that's it. If you need any suggestions were to go out in Madrid... let me know.

Answer 2

Madrid is August is normally pretty hot - and being so far inland it can be quite unbearable at times.  Probably best to go to Valencia first, and enjoy the beach, then head to Madrid afterwards.

In Madrid most the loacls head to the coast or mountains in August - and they have good reason for it!

There's plenty to do in Madrid all year round, and October Noevember are normally fairy dry and mild.

Answer 3

Parties in Madrid...all the time...I would second what Twig said, if only to get to the Tomatina...it's only the 28th, and you won't have time to make plans and all if you are trying to get settled in Madrid.  

I think the climate considerations are important, too.  You don't want to spend all your time in Madrid, sitting around, wilting.  when  you could do it the other way around.

And I'm pretty sure the Tomatina is outside the city of Valencia in a smaller town, but I could be wrong...just check right away so you don't mess up and miss it.