When you hear the word “Spain” do you think of Madrid or Barcelona? For some people, this could be a tough question and maybe it is simple for other people to answer. Perhaps you do not think of either one of these cities at all. In any case, this article will deep dive into why Madrid is beginning to surpass Barcelona.

Madrid, which has long been overshadowed by Barcelona, is finally showcasing its own plethora of attractions, ranging from incredible art and architecture to revitalized neighbourhoods and game-changing new hotels.

The friendly rivalry between Spain's two largest cities has existed for a long time, and it extends well beyond sports. Madrid is, of course, Spain's capital city, and in addition to being roughly in the centre of the country geographically, it is also the country's political, economic, and cultural hub, as well as the seat of the Spanish monarchy.

Barcelona, however, is the capital of the autonomous region of Catalunya in northeastern Spain. It has a more Mediterranean ambience along the shore, which implies a more laid-back atmosphere and a bigger amount of tourists.

So, should you go to Madrid or Barcelona for your next city break? Here's a rundown of everything they've got to offer.

Aerial drone view of sagrada familia in Barcelona Spain

Culture-based experiences

Madrid, being the country's capital, is home to some of the country's – if not the continent's – most important art museums. The Prado is the country's primary art museum, with a collection of European art dating from the 12th to the 19th centuries.

The Reina Sofa holds the country's national collection of twentieth-century art, including Picasso's iconic Guernica, while the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza has about a thousand works of art on exhibit, including an American art collection. Madrid is one of the few cities in the world with as much historic art as it does.

Barcelona, on the other hand, has Gaud. From the still-unfinished modernist masterpiece that is the Sagrada Familia basilica to the magical, sculpture-filled Parc Güell, this Catalan architect certainly left his mark on the city.

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA), the Museum of European Contemporary Art (MEAM), the Picasso Museum, and the Miró Museum all have lots of modern art.

Cuisine-based experiences

Madrid is located inland, so its traditional cuisine is more hearty, there's a lot of stew. The Cocido Madrileño, a hearty chickpea-based stew, and the Callos a la Madrilena, a stew cooked with cow tripe and blood sausage, are two popular dishes. But it's not all about the meat: a typical fried squid sandwich, Bocadillo de calamares, can be found in the Mercado de San Miguel.

There are many restaurants in Madrid that serve various regional Spanish cuisines such as Andalusia and Galicia, as well as foreign food of all kinds, there is plenty of variety.

Because Barcelona is a more touristy city, food is more costly. The Barcelonans, on the other hand, take eating extremely seriously, and if you know where to go, you'll eat quite well here.

Thanks to acclaimed chef Ferran Adrià, who was born in Barcelona, Catalunya has a reputation for inventive cuisine, and La Boqueria on Las Ramblas is one of Europe's top food markets. Pa amb tomàquet, toasted bread covered with a delightful blend of tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and salt, is a staple of most meals, and you'll also find lots of Catalan cheese, mushrooms, and jamón.

One of the most notable distinctions between the two cities' culinary cultures is that in Madrid, receiving a free tapas meal with your drink is significantly more regular - in Barcelona, this is quite rare.

Aerial view Barcelona from the Mediterranean

Nightlife-based experiences

Madrid is reputed to have more bars per capita than any other European Union city, and we believe it because numerous streets in the city centre are lined with cafés and bars. You won't go thirsty at this place.

You could become exhausted, though, because the party starts late here; no Madrileo will even contemplate dancing before 2 a.m. For grungy pubs, go to Lavapiés, Barrio de Salamanca, or Chueca, which has the finest assortment of homosexual bars and clubs in the city.

Barcelona also boasts a lot of party atmosphere, as well as a more laid-back attitude. Go to Port Olmpic for luxury clubs, or avoid the tourists in the Gothic Quarter's modest yet cool bars. Things get started late here, and while not as late as in Madrid, a siesta the next day is required in both cities.

Shopping-based experiences

From department stores (mainly around the Gran Va) to designer boutiques in the Barrio de Salamanca, Madrid boasts a diverse assortment of businesses. Alternative styles may be found in Fuencarral, and don't miss the Sunday flea market El Rastro for antiques and odd apparel.

Barcelona is widely regarded as Spain's fashion capital, with a plethora of new and stylish brands as well as vintage apparel stores. The greatest boutiques may be found in the Born neighbourhood, while Sant Antoni, a new hotspot, has lots of vintage selections.

Beautiful architecture in Barcelona streets historic city centre of Las Ramblas

Trips-based experiences

Because of Madrid's central position, there are several day trip choices available. Toledo is only a half-hour train ride away and is a historical heavyweight, don't miss the cathedral or the Alcázar. Segovia, a two-hour train trip north of Madrid, is slightly less busy, with a spectacular Roman aqueduct, Gothic church, and fairytale-esque Alcázar.

Barcelona has a beach, and you don't have to travel far to enjoy it, La Barceloneta, which is only minutes from the city center and home to sandy beaches and seafood restaurants, is just minutes away. Tarragona, with its Roman forum and city walls, is only one hour away by rail down the coast, while Sitges, with its wonderful beachfront promenade and vibrant beach bars, is even closer (thirty minutes by train).

Closeup shot of dome with Victoria statue in Madrid

The conclusion

Well, it all depends on what you're after. If you're looking for traditional culture, Madrid may provide excellent museums and accessible day visits to historic places, but if you're looking for a more laid-back, possibly beachy getaway, Barcelona is the place to go.

Both cities are enjoyable, with excellent nightlife, dining, and shopping, so select one, you can always return to your second option later.

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— PAul Anthony Piccio Hernandez // Managing Director

Spain's luxurious capital seems to be winning