We're planning a trip in Spain in the fall and are tentatively committing 3 nights total to either Granada/ Rhonda or Barcelona. I like the idea of utilizing high speed rail to get from one destination to the other (which favors Barcelona) but Granada and Rhonda are appealing for for other reasons. We start and end our trip in Madrid, with 2 nights planned for Sevilla, 1 night for Toledo, and 4 nights in Madrid (with various day trips planned out of Madrid).
Allow me to correct my spelling - Ronda!
Assuming you've researched your options and have found enough to do in both locations based on your interests, I would vote for Barcelona. I haven't been to Ronda, so I can't speak to that. We went to Granada, and though the Alhambra was a marvel, we were pretty unimpressed with Granada. For us, Barcelona was the highlight of our trip. We loved it - Ramblas, Gothic Quarter, Cathedral, Gaudi's attractions, Picasso Museum, waterfront and beach.
Another vote for Barcelona. It remains my favorite city in Spain-each has a distinct personality but Barc is very special.
These are so different that there is no "right" answer. You really need to think hard about what you would enjoy the most. One rule of thumb says, if you are truly indifferent among choices, go with the one that is least logistically challenging. That would be Barcelona. But if the thought of that leaves you with feelings of regret, maybe you really want to see the Alhambra; if so, go south.
Thanks for the responses. With are other destinations agreed upon, we have to decide between the above stated locales to close out our itinerary. We have researched all destinations. I, personally, am in favor of Barcelona. My wife is somewhat concerned with thievery in Barcelona, but we know how to travel smart, so this really shouldn't be an issue. Granada and Ronda offer a more relaxing pace, but Barcelona packs more punch in terms of sites. Taking rail options into account, Barcelona is the most convenient choice (high speed - AVE), and discounted advance ticket purchases make the decision a little easier. We'll probably save Ronda and the Alhambra for a future trip.