I am making my second trip to Spain in September! From Madrid, I am going to meet a friend who has been studying in Salamanca. From there, we are thinking of heading up to Galicia or across to Valencia. Eventually, I want to visit both areas, but I do not think I can do both on this trip. Does anyone have some suggestions or strong preferences for one over the other that might help my decision? Thanks in advance!

Weather could be a factor, but as far as I'm concerned, September is a great time to visit Galicia. The first time I visited Galicia was in September of 1988, and I remember that, especially in Santiago de Compostela, the fall crisp air, together with the occasional "llovizna" [misting rain] added something mystical to the ambience.

If you're into a little warmer weather, and that's your only criteria, you would better be served by visiting Valencia. We're not talking toasty hot, but certainly a little more temperate than Galicia.

I vote for Galicia...

I vote for Galicia also. I have visited Spain three times, for a total of nine weeks. I have been to almost all the provinces. Galicia is my favorite, particularly Santiago and La Coruña. Galicia has fantastic food, friendly people, beautiful coastlines, great architecture and history, few tourists. Weather could still be excellent in September, but do expect some rain. Have a great trip!

VALENCIA VALENCIA VALENCIA
They have the best Paella in Spain, GREAT nightlife, great people, and a beautiful warm coastline!

Thank you for your helpful suggestions. It looks like my trip may not happen after all as the friend I was going to see had to cut his stay short because a good friend was killed in San Francisco. I feel terrible for him.