Traveling to both cities next spring and May Day falls halfway between the trip. Given that it falls on a Sunday this year, which city will have less crowds and possibly open restaurants. We can stay in Madrid or make it our train day to Barcelona. TIA!
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
I'd make it a train day, as many things seem to close on May 1. To give just one example, the Prado is open every day (no Monday closing), and only closes three days a year - Jan 1, Dec 25...and May 1.
Posted by
Westerville
242 posts
I will be in Barcelona from April 30-May 2 and wish to visit Montserrat. I have heard that there is a pilgrimage on May 1st there making it VERY crowded and even tour companies won't take visitor on that day. How do you think it will be on May 2nd or April 30? Thanks.
Posted by
Ohio, USA
32 posts
I made the mistake of day-tripping from BCN to Figueres on May Day. The Dali museum was unGodly crowded with no control. It was a can of sardines. Bars that typically were open for breakfast in BCN were not open and restaurants that were open for lunch were crowded in Figueres. I personally would make it a travel day.
I can't guess while city would have less crowds since I was in Madrid in October.
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
2335 posts
I was in Barcelona on May Day 2010 (a Saturday). Though usually open, La Boquiera market was closed (it is always closed Sunday). Many restaurants, etc. were closed and the streets were quiet. But churches and some tourist sites (Casa Mila) were open as usual, though on holiday hours. I heard that many turn the May Day holiday into a long weekend - so you may not be able to avoid the crowds no matter where you end up. If I were you, I'd use May 1 as your train day (buy tickets in advance to be sure you have them), and be sure to research any attractions/restaurants ahead of time to be sure they're open.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9363 posts
May 2 is also a regional holiday in Madrid, so you will want to take that into consideration, too.