Barcelona and Madrid in October 2016
 

Over the years, the Fodor's forums have been invaluable in helping us plan some great trips, among them to China, Italy and Peru. I need your help again.

We're planning a trip to Spain in October - flying to Barcelona, where we'll stay for three nights, then taking the train to Madrid for four more. We've booked Airbnb accommodations for all nights but would like suggestions for anything you think is must-see, must-do, must eat/drink, etc.

Has anyone done a similar trip and have recommendations? For example, is a day trip to the Rioja wine country feasible, or is it too far? Any suggestions for a good, "locals" places to eat and drink? I'm far from fluent, but my Spanish is passable. Anything we should make sure to avoid in either city?

I really appreciate any help you can provide. Thanks!

Bob

I think Rioja is too far. There's enough stuff in Barcelona to keep you busy. Also in Madrid plus Toledo and Segovia are nearby. Eat the usual things - jamon serrano, stews, etc. For a splurge and if adventurous, try percebes, angulas, conchas finas, etc. You should go to the library to look at some guidebooks. Have fun !

Trains - book early on high-speed AVE trains to Madrid for deep discounts - www.renfe.com but many have to use www.petrabax.com because the former is hard for novice American users to get to work. But booking (in stone) months in advance on a specific train that cannot be changed could save a lot of money.

You can always get full-fare tickets in Barcelona if you want flexibility. For lots on trains check www.seat61.com - up dates on discount ticket booking; www.ricksteves.com and www.budgeteuropetravel.com.

1st class also comes discounted and there is a significant difference as always between the two classes - especially for folks with bulky luggage.

avoid illegal rentals in BCN. Latest news in Spanish (sorry) suggests that neighbours grass up those that are illegal.
http://www.rtve.es/noticias/20160810.../1384303.shtml
Avoid eating in very tourist areas like LAs Ramblas or the Plaza Mayor.

and watch out for pickpockets - Madrid and Barcelona being two of the worst cities in Europe for this - proper precaution negates much of the problem - leave the family jewels at home - keep valuables like passport and money and c cards in a secure money belt not a neck pouch that can be snatched off - the Ramblas and crowded areas especially be careful.

Here is our trip report with photos from last year. First five chapters are Barcelona...last four chapters are Madrid. Should give you some good ideas and what you should get reservations for before you leave.

<B>http://travelswithmaitaitom.com/spain-2015/</B>

((H))

You are, IMO, trying to see two wonderful destinations with very little time to do either justice. I recommend that you get a very good guide book or two (I thought the <i>Michelin Green Guide</i> excellent) and decide in advance what your priorities are.

Or, as an alternative, visit just one of these two great cities, along with a day trip or (better) 1 or 2 night stay elsewhere (e.g., Madrid with 2 nights in Toledo, or Barcelona with 1 or 2 nights in Girona). Just a thought.

I think this sounds like a very good idea, will give you a fine taste of two fabulous and very different cities.

<Any suggestions for a good, "locals" places to eat and drink?>

A very short version:
Barcelona:
7 Portes from 1836, an institution in town, I always go here when in Barcelona. Traditional Catalan food and fabulous atmosphere: http://7portes.com/en/

The Poble Sec district: http://www.barcelonaturisme.com/wv3/...to-bodega.html

La Perla in Poble Sec on the way up to Montjuic is as Barcelona as it gets. Lunch only: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaura...Catalonia.html

Xemei just across the street is amazing for a late night dinner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Lvcjtoh0tU

Madrid:
I always come back to Casa Alberto from 1827, traditional food with an innovative touch. One Sol in the Guía Repsol, the Spansih equivalent to the Michelin guide, yet very affordable. http://www.casaalberto.es/en/

Small Casa Revuelta just off majestic Plaza Mayor, fabulous fried cod tapas (bacalao rebozado, the best in town) and lots of other goodies. As Madrid as it gets. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaura...ta-Madrid.html
Sunday at lunch-time here is jam packed, a higlight of the week for many madrileños: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHu8zGsFuy8

This is great, everyone. Thanks!

Bob

bookmarking