Barcelona has far better clubs than madrid if you are in to that sort of thing. Montserrat near barceloan is also well worth a visit if you want to do a small hike up the mountain. If you would like to gamble in an old castle try Figueres and visit the Salvador Dali Museum while you are there.
Food in Madrid is much better that is true(especially if you like meat), though best seafood is in the small fishing villages near Barcelona. Barrio Gotico is worth a visit as is the Sagrada Familia and a paseo down Las Ramblas will give you a nice flavor of the locals. Place to stay in BCN is Hotel Arts if it is within your budget.

If you are mainly in to the fine arts then Madrid will be right up your street, more so than Barca. If you want more of a festive beach holiday with some very good cultural attractions (though not as many or as varied as Madrid) then Barcelona is your city.

Either way Spain is a great choice. Have a great trip!

[This message has been edited by Mvic (edited 09-22-2002).]