Originally Posted by tsastor

Welcome to FT, Pamela!

Yes, you should really visit both cities. If not now, then later. Along with Paris, they are my favorite cities in Europe. I don't see what difference it would make to which city you are going first. I might like Lisbon a little bit more if it weren't for Barcelona's beaches, which make things even.

To be honest neither of the Marriott chain hotels I've stayed at in these cities have been really luxurious or close to the nightlife.

The Marriott in Lisbon was comfortable, maybe a little old, but the rooms have balconies and the breakfast is great. The location is a bit out of the way but within walking distance to the Zoo and its subway stop.

In Barcelona I have stayed at the Renaissance Airport. Nice modern hotel with free shuttle to the city, but because of the location I can't really recommend it except in conjunction with an early morning flight / late arrival. There should now be a Marriott property downtown as well I think.