Which is a better city to visit in Spain? Madrid or Barcelona?

Question

I'm travelling with my girlfriend for a Romantic escape. Both mid 20's. We're travelling on a budget but dont want to stay in a hostel. Want to experience a mix of nightlife and local art scene (museums, flamenco, archtecture, etc)

Answer 1

Barcelona.

it just is.

its on the coast.

its one of the most fashionable cities in europe.

the people are friendly and patient (if your spanish is rusty).

but like all spanish cities its a bit polluted (car pollution mainly).

Answer 2

It really depends on what your preference is.  Barcelona is a coastal city meaning that you get a beach.  It also is a popular destination so you will find a lot of other vacationers like yourself looking for parties and clubs and just a goodtime overall.  

Madrid is amazing!  But yet kind of different.  Its the caapital so its going to politically and historically advanced.  It museums and archtecture are amazing as well. To be honest... you cant lose with either one.

Answer 3

Both are great places to visit. Madrid nightlife is unequaled. Both have great art Musuems -- Madrid has the Prado, Reina Sofia and others. Barcelona has Picasso Musuem, Joan Miro Musuem and Gaudi Architecture.  Barcelona is a much older city and has more varied architecture.  Probably easier to find Flamenco in Madrid.

Answer 4

Barcelona is simply buzzing - its one of the worlds coolest cities and a near essential stop off on any serious tour of Europe

http://europe4vacations.com/barcelona.ht...

Madrids a great city but to put it very simply, Barcelona is world class

Answer 5

Im from Madrid, but i love Barcelona!!!!

Answer 6

both are awesome! madrid is more popular and is more for tourists. barcelona is more cultural. i think if you want to see museums and archtectuture go to madrid! have fun wherever you go though.

Answer 7

I love both cities but I lived in Madrid for 3 months so I am a bit biased. Heheh. Barcelona is so beautiful. The whole city feels like a museum or art gallery, but my heart belongs to Madrid! The night life is superb, architecture incomparable. It boasts of so many museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia. Getting around is very easy. Ultimately, the decision is yours. Have fun!