Depart Minneapolis–Saint Paul (MSP) on an overnight transatlantic flight to Paris Charles de Gaulle; arrive in Paris the same calendar day depending on schedule. Book an overnight flight that lands in the morning to maximize Day 1.
Take a taxi, airport shuttle, or RER train to your centrally located Paris hotel and check in or leave bags; many hotels allow early check-in for a fee.
See highlights like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo; Louvre standard hours are typically 9:00–18:00 and it is closed on Tuesdays, so today (Friday) it is open — prebook tickets to avoid lines.
One-hour Bateaux Mouches/Bateaux Parisiens cruise for illuminated views of Notre‑Dame, Musée d'Orsay, and the Eiffel Tower; most companies run cruises into the evening.
Take a 30–40 minute guided boat ride on Bruges’ canals (services run through the day) and stroll the picturesque Markt with its Belfry (Belfry open most days 9:30–17:00).
Marvel at the stained glass at Sainte‑Chapelle (open daily, typically 9:00–17:00 in winter) and walk around medieval Île de la Cité and Notre‑Dame exterior.
Day-long rail journey (approx. 7–8 hours with changes in Basel/Visp); trains are frequent but book connections in advance. Expect beautiful Swiss scenery as you approach the Alps.
Take the cog railway to Gornergrat for classic Matterhorn views — services run year-round and last trains vary by season, check timetable and daylight; dress warmly in February.
Early breakfast and check-out/transfer to Zermatt departure platform; ensure Glacier Express reservations and window seat confirmed (panoramic coach recommended).
Classic panoramic train crossing the Swiss Alps from Zermatt to St. Moritz; full-route journey is typically ~8 hours — depart morning and enjoy lunch on board. Reservations required and panoramic windows provide sweeping views.
Scenic rail via the Rhaetian Railway and connections (approx. 4.5–6.5 hours depending on route); savor alpine valleys and passes en route to the Bernese Oberland.
Leisurely walk along the lake and explore the Niederdorf quarter’s shops and cafés; Kunsthaus and other museums typically open on weekends (check specific museum hours if desired).
Pre-book a taxi or use S-Bahn (approx. 10–15 minutes by car or 10–15 minutes by train) to arrive at least 2–3 hours prior to your intercontinental flight.
Board your return flight to Minneapolis–Saint Paul (MSP); flight time ~9–10 hours depending on routing — arrive home same day or next day depending on schedule and connections.