We are three generations traveling together - my 20 year old son and I are proficient in Spanish but have never been to Spain. My father has been to Spain - specifically Barcelona - several years ago with my mother, who used to be our family travel planner. She recently passed away (is sorely missed but would be so happy to know we're going to do this tripand we are trying to learn the ropes. We fly into Barcelona the 9th of May and fly home from Barcelona the 23rd. My son loves to play and watch soccer, I love flamenco music and dancing (I know that this is not the correct region for this) and we all love food, wine, meeting people, nature & hiking, as well as the amazing architecture and art. I know there is so much to see and do in Barcelona. I'm guessing we'll want between 4 and 6 days there. What are your thoughts on then spending the time to get to another city or cities vs. staying in Catalunya, renting a car and taking it easy along Costa Brava, etc... maybe even heading to Adorra and Pyrenees? If taking it easy by car in Catalunya, what would be a good route for the time we'll be there? And if it's recommended to get to another major city, for example, which one is recommended? Valencia? Madrid? Sevilla? And what route would be suggested? My father has been to Alhambra, and says it's quite stunning. But anything my son and I see will be new and exciting. I guess we're having to choose between a faster pace and covering more ground, or a more relaxed pace and really beginning to get to know one region.
The Costa Brava looks so delightful and quaint. And distances are short. Would we need to book every night along the coast and in the little towns/villages or could we play it by ear as we go for that portion, given that it's not high tourist season?
We are grateful for any tips or thoughts you might have. And we're SO excited to begin exploring this beautiful country, meeting the beautiful people and learning their culture.