The summer crowds have gone home but the weather is still warm, making this a great time to see Europe. Condor Airlines offers great flights out of Canada to Frankfurt, with connections to destinations all around Europe and other parts of the world. Here are a few tips on great things to destinations that are easily reached from Toronto with Condor and its airline partners.

LISBON

This is one of the world’s great cities, with stunning parks, hilltop forts and lovely shopping districts. The city’s famous Number 28 tram takes you on a rickety ride through the city and is justifiably famous. Take a walk along the river and admire the monument to Portuguese explorers, as well as the city’s famous, Golden Gate look-alike bridge. Wander up the streets of Alfama and check out the views from St. George Castle (Castelo Sao Jorge). Be sure to save room for some pasteis de nada, the famous custard tarts of Portugal. Don’t forget a day trip to see the marvellous hilltop buildings and gardens in Sintra.

ATHENS

One of the cradles of western civilization, Athens is riddled with historic sites, most notably the Acropolis, which dates back to the 5th century BC. Take a tour in the morning or evening while it’s not too hot, or try visiting in the off-season. The Plaka has tons of cool shops and sidewalk cafes, and Syntagma Square is a popular gathering spot. Be sure to take some time out to see one of the Greek islands. If you don’t have time for one of the outer islands like Mykonos, you can take a great trip to Hydra and enjoy beautiful seaside walks and fresh fish at cafes overlooking the water.

MUNICH

This is a city that’s famous for beer and sausages. You’ll find plenty of each, but there’s a lot more to Munich than food and drink. Nymphenburg Palace feels like a German version of Versaille, with a beautiful pond that sports regal-looking swans. Castle rooms feature tons of gold and ceilings high enough for a pole vault competition, not to mention fabulous works of art. Be sure to check out the Old City Hall Glockenspiel, with its spinning characters and chiming bells.

VALENCIA

Barcelona is often too crowded these days, so do yourself a favour and check out Valencia instead. It’s a lovely seaside city with an incredible market, graceful cafes and inspiring, Spanish architecture. Try a dish of paella, the local speciality made with fresh seafood and rice grown in the region. The City of Arts of Sciences is a stunning area designed by renowned Spaniard Santiago Calatrava. You’ll find a science museum, the largest aquarium in Europe, a 3D cinema and much more.

BOLOGNA

This Italian city has layers of history, with churches that are built in a wide variety of styles and mishmashed together into a surprisingly coherent whole. Wander the streets and markets and pick up local meats and cheeses. Be sure to go for a dish of Spaghetti Bolognese, which features thick, rich beef simmered for hours in a sauce that seems more like gravy than your traditional tomato and meat sauce. Check out nearby Modena, the home of balsamic vinegar, or the Ferrari Museum in Maranello. You also can try renting a car and checking out romantic, hilltop villages in the Emilio Romagna region, including San Leo and Verucchio.

BRUSSELS

For my money, this is one of the most underrated cities in Europe. You’ll find amazing architecture and perhaps the prettiest public square in the world; a dazzling open space surrounded by wedding cake buildings with turrets and towers. The food and beer are excellent, and you’ll also find lovely shopping areas. The Magritte Museum is a must-see, as is the Musical Instrument Museum and The Royal Museums of Fine Arts. Many tourists flock to see the Mannekin Pis (Peeing Boy) statue, but I don’t quite get the attraction.

Fly Condor Airlines from Toronto, Calgary, Halifax, Vancouver and Whitehorse.