Madeira and Spain

Have not been to Madeira.

Madrid over Barcelona. It's more Spanish, less immigrant / tourist.

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Seville and Cordoba

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I was just in Sevilla for the first time last week. Stunning and relaxing city, truly spectacular, really all of Andalucía is a gem. I’d highly recommend Granada & Cádiz in addition to Sevilla in the region, both magical smaller cities. Have not yet been to Córdoba, heard great things but if you’re going between June - August be aware the temps are beyond sweltering there, this applies to all of Andalucía in that period but especially Córdoba.

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Also- thoughts on choosing between Barcelona and Madrid?

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Tough one, Barcelona is my go-to “favorite city in the world” if asked, and my first introduction to Spain, I lived and worked there very briefly and honed my español there, so it holds a special place in my heart.

On the other hand, I went to Madrid for the second time this past May, nearly 10 years after my first visit - and was really blown away by how beautiful, clean, in some parts lively yet calm and cosmopolitan the city is. If it had beach it would probably best Barcelona handily.

That said both are amazing cities. If access to the beach is part of your Spanish dream trip go for Barcelona (I recommend day trips or overnighters to the nearby Costa Brava region). If you want somewhere a little bit less touristy and chaotic, Madrid could be a better pick, if you give more context to what you’re looking for perhaps I can offer more insight…