2-week itinterary: Spain for beginners

[bananaa]

Hi there,

My boyfriend and i will be traveling in Spain for 14 days in july. i've never been to Spain, and there's no way to go everywhere i want to see in just two weeks. so, i'm looking for the best sort of "introductory" itinerary. i'm thinking of flying into madrid and out of Barcelona, or vice versa. though round trip from just one city is a possibility as well. I think Barcelona and Madrid are two "must go" cities for beginner.

we are in out early 30's and ideally, the trip would include a combination of a good deal of historical sight-seeing; some places good for taking in (or participating in) interesting culture and food; and a little bit of beach/relaxation (preferably toward the end, though not necessary). we're also interested in a day or 2 really off the beaten tourist path. we're both native spanish speakers and would be interested in visiting a small town or village away from most tourists to sort of see the 'real' spain. also, should we take into consideration the july heat and stick to northern/cooler regions? it's hard, because there are so many places to go, but we also want to take it slow, have a relaxing vacation, and not spend every minute in transit from one place to the next! Thanks in advance for your recommendations.
ps, is it will be scorching in July?

[world trecker]

Bananaa,
First off your trip sounds like a good time no matter what. Keep your purse/wallet with you at all times, don't let no jokers take ir from you and you should come out ahead no matter what you do.

Since you'll be in the area for a good two weeks, I highly suggest the side trips off the "beaten path." Also especially since you're both capable with the language.

Between the two cities, I enjoyed Barcelona a bit more than Madrid. Avg temps in the Barcelona area only get into the low 80s though it can be humid. Madrid can be warmer (low 90s), but it's inland so it's more dry.

In Barcelona check out Guell Park and La Sagrada Familia. The latter is just a behemoth. You could spend all day there. I believe this site has a recommended itinerary for Barcelona that I don't have any qualms with. I also recommed a side trip to Seville.

The only thing that worries me about your trip is it's in the middle of the summer, which is peak time for tourism, so be prepared to be patient at certain touristy spots and maybe plan on more than a "day or two" in a small nearby village.

[nieves22]

Hi bananaa, I live in Barcelona.

I recommend you...
<Madrid>
Museo Prado(though too big to see all rooms...)
Reina Sofia Centre (museum,modern art)
Parque Retiro

<near Madrid>
Toledo (a little bit touristic, but it's a beautiful city)
Segovia(small and nice city you can enjoy eating "Cochinillo" )
Palacio Real de El Escorial

<Barcelona>
Sagrada Familia(of course)
Hospital Sant Pau(near Sagrada Familia)
Gaudi buildings Parc Guell etc...
Palau de la Musica Catalana
Ramblas

<near Barcelona>
Montserrat (Gaudi inspired from these mountains)
Girona( near boarder with France)
Vic(beautiful historical old town)
Manresa(small historical town)

and of course beach (Sitges Castelldefels, Platja d'Aro etc...)!

Have a good trip!