Madrid and Barcelona, Five Places to Visit in Each City

Spain's main cities are Barcelona, located in the eastern province of Catalonia, and Madrid, the country's capital. The two are connected by many daily flights, buses that trail along the region of Castille and a fast speed train service.

Barcelona.

Located in the region of Catalonia, the city is known for its architecture. The city is home to the Barcelona F.C., and tours can be organized around the Camp Nou stadium.

The Barceloneta Beach is the city's beach. It is a refreshing piece of nature in this city, with a large boardwalk, a mall with an aquarium and a cinema and statues that decorate the sandy shore.

The city's symbol is Gaudi's unfinished Cathedral of the Sagrada Familia. The structure is one of the city's most visited places, and visitors can climb up the hundreds of steps to the observation deck of the cathedral. Visitors who explore this city can visit another Gaudí's masterpiece, the Park Güell, which has views towards the city and the sea.

The Rambla is the city's main streets, with flower shops and street performers next to traditional coffee shops and restaurants. The Passeig de Grácia is another main street, with many boutiques and restaurants.

The Gothic Quarter is known for its Gothic architecture. Many religious buildings, including the Cathedral of Barcelona and several churches, are located in this neighbourhood known for its narrow cobbled streets, art galleries, chic coffee shops and vintage shops.

Madrid.

The capital city is known for its museums, nightlife and parks. The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, where Real Madrid plays, is located in the north of the city.

The Retiro Park is one of the city's largest park. Located between the Atocha train station and the posh Serrano area, the park hosts several art galleries. There is a large pond in the park where visitors can rent boats.

Malasaña is a district where visitors can enjoy chic cafés and retro shops during the day and bar crawls during the night. There are many bars, clubs and discos near several ethnic and local restaurants that serve traditional tapas, appetizers made with bread and seasonal ingredients.

The Palacio Real is the Royal Palace, located near the famous Plaza Mayor and Plaza de Sol. Guided tours are organized around several of the royal chambers and the gardens, the Sabatini Gardens.

The nearby Plaza de España is a large square with the statue of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza near a fountain. This spot is a popular meeting spot during the afternoons, since there are many bars, clubs and restaurants in the area. The Gran Via street, one of the city's main commercial streets, flows through this square.