suggestions for Madrid and Barcelona
 

We will be in Barcelona on July 17 and will be leaving Spain from Madrid on July 24. Please give suggestions as for a good trip during this time, places to visit, places to stay, transportation, train, or plane and why.
It is the first time we visit Spain. We will appreciate any suggestions and information you give.
Thanks.

I need to find out how long it takes to get from the Port of Barcelona to the airport.. What is the best way to get there?

In 7 days, there is so much to do in Barcelona and Madrid that I wouldn't think of planning any day trips, with perhaps the exception of Toledo.
I would fly between Madrid and Barcelona. Your time is limited, and the train ride would take most of a day, whereas plane is an hour or so.
Barcelona museums are incredible, the old part of the city near the Cathedral is good for just walking around, as are the streets with Gaudi architecture. This is one city where I didn't care for the hop on and off tours, like Citirama.
Madrid has much to offer. Again, museums are world class. The Palace gives you a great historical view.
Leave plenty of time for tapas bars, it makes for a good and fun evening meal. Lunch is a good buy at most restaurants when selecting the menu of the day, usually 2-3 courses plus wine or beer at a most reasonable price.
It will be quite warm in Spain. You may want to make sure your hotels have real a/c.

Aleta...another question for you. I love the hop-on and hop-off tours in most cities and was planning to do this in Barcelona on our first morning. Can you tell me why you didn't care for this city's tour busses? Thanks again, Martha

Thanks for your advice and suggestions. At this time, we plan to stay in Barcelona for 3 days, then we will take a train to Vallencia where we will stay for 2 days, then fly to Madrid. I heard that Vallencia is a very pretty place, thought we would like to visit. And also the train will give us a good opportunity for scenic view along the coast. We have to figure out where to stay in Vallencia, any suggestion? Thanks so much.