Fall in love with the Gran Via and other European destinations during our Europe sale through June 5.

By Valerie Moloney

Europe, we’re in lust with you — you of haunting ruins, rustic food, couture and ancient art. What we would sacrifice to walk with your kings, your artists, your ingenues.  As a destination, you cannot be sampled in one itinerary — nor would we want you to be.

The timing couldn’t be better for a Europe vacation, what, thanks to Orbitz’s sale on flights and major Starwood hotels through June 5. If we don’t strike now, there’d be tons to regret — like that first pint of creamy Guinness in Dublin’s Temple Bar — and we just couldn’t have that.

London
There’s more to London than her monarchs and posh accent. Moving at a pace as fast as its signature Tube, Londontown is a stew of diversity simmering with excitement in every pub, football stadium, theater and nightclub. Find London hotels now.

Paris
Now here’s a blanket statement: Everything feels, tastes and looks better in Paris. Your mood only brightens with one visit to Versailles, a bite into a silky macaroon and of course, that obligatory kiss – French, of course – by the Eiffel Tower.

Rome
Rome’s historical imprint is palpable everywhere—through grand piazzas, opulent churches and more relics that marked the growth and fall of an empire. Expect the people watching to be almost on par with the sightseeing. Romans drip in designer fashions.

Barcelona/Madrid
Barcelonins live in Catalonia and Madrilenos call Spain home, but both denizens share a love of tapas, fashion, architecture and art. In either city, get ready for days of leisure, whether it’s tanning on La Playa or catching a flamenco street show.

Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s reputation as a free-wheeling, hedonistic city fuels its appeal. Look under the surface, though, and find what the locals love: peaceful, picturesque canals, frosty mugs of Dutch beer and some of the world’s most notable museums.

Dublin
Dublin’s Guinness factory gets its share of visitors thirsty for the famed ale, but it shouldn’t be your only stop on a tour of the capital. From Georgian mansions to rocking venues, this chic city appreciates culture as much as the perfect pint.

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