Flights to Europe from Canada

Condor offers non-stop flights to Frankfurt from three major Canadian airports: Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR) and Calgary (YYC). Toronto is served year-round, while Vancouver and Calgary are seasonal. 

Entry requirements vary by destination. Canadian citizens generally need a valid passport for travel to Europe and can usually visit the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa for tourism or short business trips. Additional travel authorizations may apply depending on the country, including the UK ETA and ETIAS once it becomes operational.

Check the official entry requirements for every country on your itinerary before departure. Travel insurance is also recommended, particularly for medical emergencies and unexpected disruptions.

The best month to fly to Europe can vary depending on your preferences and the specific destinations you plan to visit. During the spring and fall seasons (April to June and September to October) you will find mild weather, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, although summer can also be an ideal time to explore certain European destinations. With longer days, warmer temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere, summer offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the charm of coastal regions, enjoy outdoor activities, and attend popular festivals and events.

For your first trip to Europe, aim for 2–3 countries over a 10- to 14-day itinerary. This gives you roughly 3–5 nights per destination—enough time to explore beyond the surface, enjoy local neighborhoods, and get oriented with a walking tour before discovering hidden gems rather than rushing between train stations and airports.

Popular multi-country combinations include:

• UK – France – Italy: Classic capitals such as London, Paris and Rome offer iconic attractions, with London as a natural starting point for many travelers.
• Germany – Austria – Switzerland: A Central European circuit with stunning scenery, Alpine landscapes, and cities like Munich, Vienna, and Zurich.
• Spain – Portugal: An Iberian combination featuring fantastic food, history, and coastal charm.
• Italy – Greece: Southern Europe's best for ancient ruins, Mediterranean cuisine, and island escapes. Tours in Greece highlight ancient archaeological sites, while Italy is famous for its historic sites like the Colosseum.

Most european countries use the Euro, but notable exceptions include the UK (British Pound), Switzerland (Swiss Franc), Denmark (Danish Krone), and Czechia (Czech Koruna). Know which currency your destinations use before departure.

Generally, it's better to withdraw local currency from ATMs in Europe rather than exchanging cash at US banks, which tend to offer poor rates with higher fees.

English is widely spoken in many European destinations, particularly in major cities and tourist areas, but proficiency varies by country and region.

Comfortable shoes are absolutely essential - cobblestones, uneven pavements, and endless stairs are the norm in virtually every European city. Break in your walking shoes before your vacation.

Essential items beyond clothing:

• Universal travel adapter suitable for the countries on your itinerary (i.e. Type C/F for continental Europe, Type G for UK/Northern Ireland)
• Portable charger/power bank for long days of sightseeing
• Rain jacket or compact umbrella - weather changes quickly
• Lightweight daypack for daily excursions
• Copies of documents - both physical and digital backups of your passport and insurance

Three main options exist for staying connected during your European trip: an international roaming plan, a European eSIM, or a local physical SIM card. International roaming is usually the most convenient option, while eSIMs and local SIM cards can often be more affordable.

A European eSIM can usually be purchased and activated before arrival, making it a convenient option for travelers visiting one or several countries.

Yes. Europe generally uses 230V at 50Hz, compared with 120V at 60Hz in Canada, and plug types vary by country. Many continental European countries use Type C or Type F plugs with two round pins. France commonly uses Type E, Switzerland Type J, Italy Type L and Denmark Type K, while the UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta use Type G plugs with three rectangular pins.

Because plug types differ across Europe, a universal travel adapter is the most convenient option. Look for one that supports multiple European plug types and includes USB-A and USB-C ports for charging your devices.

A travel adapter does not convert voltage. Check that your device supports 230V; otherwise, you may also need a voltage converter.