DW turned 50 this year and we are planning a one-week trip to Europe. First thought is Barcelona as neither of us has been. Any thoughts/suggestions on where to stay (both hotel and neighborhood) and things that are must see's? Is one week too long for this city?
It has been over ten years since I've been in Barcelona so I'm not sure my hotel experiences would be of use.
Barcelona is well worth visiting. As far as the amount of time it is like most cities. You can see the highlights in about three days or spend days and weeks immersing yourself in the city and surrounding area. Definitely see all things Gaudi especially the incomplete basilica "La Sagrada Familia". There are many other wonderful sites which any good guidebook will describe.
One of the best restaurants I've ever visited in the world is in Barcelona - Botafumeiro. I've eaten there several times and never been disappointed. However it has been 10 years since my last meal in Barcelona so times may have changed. Current reviews on Tripadvisor indicate most recent diners love it but a few believe the best days are in the past. Here is a link:
Botafumeiro Reviews
Lisbon, Portugal is also a great city and prices are much lower than Barcelona. We spent four days there, staying at the Four Seasons (special deal we worked with the hotel at less than $200 per night for a spectacular room). Two days we hired a car and driver to take us around. It only cost $90 per day. We definitely got our money's worth visiting sites in and around the city including Fatima. The other days we spent walking the city, exploring shops and seeing the attractions. There are some great restaurants in Lisbon as well.