We (my husband and I- active and in our 50s)are going to try one of those 'last minute travel' deals (yes, we have passports!) and make a decision based on what's available as of the postings next week. These are the usual locations that pop up on the site. If you had to chose only 1 to spend a few days in July...which?

amsterdam or barcelona for me. both have wonderful sites, restaurants, hotels, nightlife, etc.

Hey what site? I get emails from Delta each week but only for US travel - would love to look for some long weekends in Europe - if I had a choice between those listed I would check the weather for Barcelona and then chose between Barcelona and Amsterdam - if it was HOT in BCN then AMS would be the winner - otherwise its a toss up!

Haven't been to Madrid or Barcelona - yet! I would choose Amsterdam, it's lovely, especially away from the very centre, in the more residential areas. There is lots to do and the canals make it a bit unusual. Brussels is OK, good food and beautiful old architecture right in the centre. English spoken everywhere in Amsterdam and Brussels.
Kay

I have been to all four cities, loved them all.

Weather-wise I would choose Amsterdam over Spain becuase I hate hot summer weather on a vacation.