[Monza_dh]

Both are great cities, but just that.... cities. I would try to hit a few towns on the coast or Segovia or Toledo near Madrid if you can. Definitely hit the Prado and have a drink outside at the Ritz next door, They have a great ouside area. Around the Plaza Mayor, Salamanca are decent and Parc Del Retiro is worth a trip.

As for Barcelona I would stay away from the lower Ramblas and hit the upper Garcia area, the Gothic qtr and the areas on the beach, again by the Ritz. You also have to see the Sagrads Familia and Parc Geull. If you can swing it I would also recommend hitting a soccer game if Royal or Barca are in town. I hit a Barca game and it was one of the best parts of the trip.

Barcelona: