Barcelona & Bilboa
 

A friend and I -- 2 energetic women "of a certain age" -- are going to Barcelona Sept. 15-25 and would like to do a side trip or 2. We'd like to enjoy the Merce in Barcelona, but our top choice outside the city is Bilboa. What's the best way to get there-- 6 hour train? Does it make sense to fly in and out of Barcelona, or leave from Bilboa and depart from Madrid?

Any other must see attractions near Barcelona and Bilboa?

Also, any suggestions on B&Bs or small hotels in Bilboa and Barcelona?

what to see in BCN is covered here: http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...-do-things.cfm
Given you only have 10 days I would stay in the same city. Travelling days cut down on sight seeing days.

You can fly into Bilbao from Barcelona and take a couple of days to enjoy the city. As far as B&Bs go, not many options, but there are some excellent small boutique hotels in both cities, depending on your options. Check out Maribel's Guides to Barcelona and the País Vasco for her recommendations.

Thanks to all for the thoughtful responses.

Have a look at Hotel Banys Orientals in the vibrant El Born district in Barcelona, close to "everything":
http://www.hotelbanysorientals.com/
About El Born district: http://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.c...s/el-born.html

And perhaps Iturrienea Ostatua in Bilbao:
http://www.booking.com/hotel/es/itur...statua.en.html

Several affordable (40-50€) flights between Barcelona and Bilbao every day in one hour. Check Vueling.