A friend and I are going to spend nine days in Spain beginning in Madrid on June 29. We know that we want to spend a few days in Madrid, but are having a difficult time deciding what to do next. Should we head south to Andalucia or north to the Basque country. Both areas sound wonderful, so we need some help deciding what to do. I know that someone out there will have just the right answer.

My husband and I went to Madrid, then north a few years ago. He had to attend a conference in Santander. It was in September. WE had a rental car. We loved that part of Spain, and visited Burgos, Fuentearrabia, and a few other coastal places before heading back to Madrid. We are returning this summer, but to Barcelona, then flying to Seville a little later and seeing Granada also. <BR> Your preferences depend on what's important to you: seeing specific historic/cultural things, or just experiencing Spain. we have visited Toledo, Avila, Segovia and Madrid. Toledo is a must, as far as we're concerned, and we were quite happy with a bus tour from Madrid as a day trip. <BR> Don't know if I can answer any questions, but feel free to write. By the way, the food up north was wonderful. <BR>

Thanks for your quick answer, Karen. You must be one of those people, like myself, who spends far too much time on these forums. But they're so much fun. It sounds as if you vote for heading north. How was driving, how long did it take, how were the roads. Would you do it that way again or take the train? bus?

Joan: Nine days in the vicinity of Madrid is just about right, I think. If you plan on two or three days in Madrid itself, and then add day trips to Segovia, Avila, Toledo, El Escorial, Valley of the Fallen, Aranjuez, La Granja, etc. you will find the days go quickly. It isn't really necessary to spend a lot of travel time going north or south if you have not seen these other places. We stayed in the city the whole time and took bus tours to these other sites. If you prefer, you could stay at quaint spots, such as the paradors, in many of these places (Toledo, Segovia, Avila, for instance)--but make your reservations soon.

FWIW, whilst I can't make the comparisons, a very valid option would be to head up to Barcelona then a few days in the mountains either in or around Andorra. <BR>I did this 18 months ago and it was fantastic.

Joan, We spent 3 weeks in Spain last summer and loved it. Toledo is a real highlight and spending a night there (after the day tourists leave) is a wonderful experience. With 9 days to work with, I would suggest a trip to Seville -- the AVE train gets you there in just 2 1/2 hours. Seville has a very exotic atmosphere. The Alcazar has fascinating Moorish architecture and beautiful gardens. My favorite night of our trip was a night in Seville that begin with a flamenco show and ended with a horse drawn carriage ride to Plaza de Espana. Have a great trip!