Spain or Norwegian Fjords?

It is an apple and orange kind of question. Sort of Canadian Rockies vs Florida. Nothing bad about either so it more of a matter of what you like. And why limit Spain to Madrid and Barcelona? And what time of year are you traveling? Give us something to work with.

A lot depends on what time of year you are planning to go and your own personal preferences. I have been to both locations and if it were my choice, I would go to Spain. I enjoyed Norway, my grandmother was from there, and my time in the country was a lot of fun. Oslo is relaxed with a few days of entertaining sights. The weather in Spain is more predictably pleasant--my time in Norwegian fjord country in late summer was mostly rain and heavy mist, which kind of put a damper on it. Scandinavia is much more of a challenge to do on a budget, it can be expensive. Madrid and Barcelona have a wonderful energy and exuberance about them, with lots to see and do in the cities and great day trips close by--easily reached by modern public transportation.

We spent ten days in Norway in July 03. We traveled from Oslo to the Fjords with some Norwegian friends. It is amazingly green and beautiful. We visited museums, the palace, the mountain huts, and even went fishing at midnight. You can really get a feel for the culture. We had a great time. Very friendly people. But, be warned, Norway is expensive. make sure you do your research so you have an idea of costs. Our friends would drive to Sweden to buy their Coca-Cola...it was that much cheaper:) I'd also recommend taking a jacket, at least. It can get mighty cold at night.

I am planning to travel in late june to early july. I would love to go to other places in Spain, but since we have time limit I feel that going to a limited amount of locations will be better than spending the entire trip on the train. If you guys have any other places in spain that would be great, please do tell. I also have family from Scandinavia.