Should I spend longer in Madrid or Barcelona? (2024)

Should I spend longer in Madrid or Barcelona?

Cheaper, with more variety, better food, and generally more to do than Barcelona, Madrid gets the top prize for a longer trip. If you're in the south of France and want a quick weekend in Spain and to experience Gaudi's architecture, Barcelona is the one for you.

Is it better to spend more time in Barcelona or Madrid?

Overall, Barcelona has more to do and see, is more enjoyable to wander, boasts old-world charm, and has some incredible day trips to choose from. Madrid feels a bit more modern and there aren't as many sights (though there are more museums).

How many days should I stay in Madrid and Barcelona?

For most travelers, 6 to 9 days is the perfect amount of time for a Spain trip with stops in both Barcelona and Madrid. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as about 5 days.

Which is nicer Barcelona or Madrid?

If seeing the sites of Antoni Gaudí, enjoying a lively culinary scene, and spending time on the beach is important, Barcelona is the perfect destination. On the other hand, if you're seeking a less crowded, more affordable experience diving into Spain's history and art galleries, Madrid is the way to go.

How long should you spend in Madrid?

When planning how many days in Madrid and also taking the most popular day trips to nearby destinations, you should plan to spend at least 4-5 days in the city. This will allow you to see the main sights and attractions of Madrid at a comfortable pace, while also giving you enough time to take a few day trips.

Should I go to Madrid or Barcelona first?

So which one should I go to? Well, it depends on what you're looking for. If it's traditional culture, Madrid can offer classy museums and easy day trips to historic cities, but if it's a more laidback, perhaps beachy break then it has to be Barcelona.

How many days in Barcelona is ideal?

Barcelona is easily worth two days, and no one would regret having a third day (or a fourth, or a fifth…). If you can spare only one full day for the city, it will be a scramble, but a day you'll never forget.

Is train ride from Madrid to Barcelona scenic?

The Madrid to Barcelona route is one of the most popular, and it's easy to see why. The scenery is stunning, and there's so much to see and do along the way. Whether you're looking for breathtaking mountain views, stunning coastal scenery, or charming Spanish towns and villages, this journey has it all.

Can Barcelona be a day trip from Madrid?

Whether you're short on time or looking to make a quick exploration of Barcelona before moving on to other sites in Spain or beyond, this day trip is a great option. Start your Barcelona day trip at 7:30am, leaving from Madrid's Atocha station, where you'll climb aboard a high-speed train bound for Barcelona.

Is 4 days in Madrid too long?

Rest assured, you can see the very best of Madrid in 4 days. Even with just 2 days, you can tick off a decent number of attractions on your first visit. However, if you are spending more than 4 days in Madrid or this is your second visit, you might want to consider investigating a day trip.

What is the main difference between Madrid and Barcelona?

The biggest difference between Madrid and Barcelona is that Madrid is a larger city more rooted in Spanish culture whereas Barcelona is a coastal tourist destination with a strong Catalan influence. Madrid has a higher elevation with colder winters while Barcelona is more humid but located on the Mediterranean.

How long is the high speed train from Barcelona to Madrid?

The fastest trains from Barcelona to Madrid take around 2 hours and 29 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 503 kilometres. On weekdays, the first train leaving Barcelona is scheduled to depart at around 05:50. The last departure is usually at around 21:25.

How far apart are Madrid and Barcelona?

Distance from Barcelona to Madrid

The shortest distance (air line) between Barcelona and Madrid is 313.75 mi (504.93 km). The shortest route between Barcelona and Madrid is 382.30 mi (615.25 km) according to the route planner. The driving time is approx. 6h 50min.

Is Madrid a walkable city?

Two Spanish cities make the list, with Barcelona and Madrid in the top 20 most walkable cities in the world.

Is Madrid worth visiting as a tourist?

With so much to offer, Madrid is one of the best places to visit in Spain for first-timers. With low crime rates and plenty of safety resources available, travelers can feel secure while exploring this amazing city. So if you're considering a trip to Spain – make sure Madrid tops your list.

What is the best month to visit Madrid?

The best time to visit Madrid is in the fall (September to November) or spring (March to May), when balmy temps blow through the city, making it come alive.

Is it better to fly from Madrid to Barcelona or take the train?

Without a doubt, taking the train is faster, cheaper, more convenient, and greener than flying. By taking the train you: Don't have to make your way to and from the cities' airports which are located out of town, unlike the train stations which are located in the city centers of Madrid and Barcelona.

Is Barcelona too touristy?

Overtourism in Barcelona

At times it's too popular, for years Barcelona has been facing a problem with overtourism. 27 Million tourists visiting Barcelona every year! And less than 2 million people live in Barcelona. So it's no wonder the city can become very crowded and sometimes overwhelming.

Can you take luggage on train from Madrid to Barcelona?

As with most European trains, suitcases & backpacks can be taken at no extra cost, you just take it with you and put it on the luggage racks inside each car.

How long is the train journey from Barcelona to Madrid?

It takes an average of 2h 42m to travel from Barcelona to Madrid by train, over a distance of around 314 miles (506 km).

Is Madrid or Barcelona more walkable?

Madrid is more walkable.

Both city's metro systems are extensive and easy to navigate (even though Madrid's takes the cake for its cleanliness and renovations.) But aside from that, Barcelona is just harder to get around.

How do people travel from Madrid to Barcelona?

Traveling by high-speed train

The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Barcelona is by taking the AVE high-speed train. This modern and luxurious train will get you to your destination in just under 3 hours.

How many days in Madrid is enough?

A first-time visitor could easily spend a week here, but many tourists often allot just 2 days in Madrid (maybe 3) before moving to the next city. Don't worry if you find yourself crunched for time, you can easily see all the main sights on a well-organized 2-day Madrid itinerary.

Is 7 days in Madrid too long?

As Spain's capital and largest city, Madrid offers a lifetime's worth of things to see, do and experience. However, if you're just passing through, we think 7 days in Madrid is perfect for getting to know the city.

Where to go in Spain for 4 days?

If you only have 4 days in Spain and you don't want to be stressed out, stick to Barcelona only. Spain is a very big country. You can do a day trip to Girona, Tarragona, Montserrat, Pyrenees or Costa Brava if you want to get out of the city although there is enough in Barcelona to keep you occupied for 4 days.

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