Disneyland Paris, located just 32 kilometers (20 miles) outside of central Paris, is a place where dreams come to life. As Europe’s most visited theme park, it offers a blend of Disney magic, thrilling attractions, and enchanting experiences. Opened in 1992, Disneyland Paris comprises two parks: Disneyland Park, with its iconic fairy tale castle, and Walt Disney Studios Park, focusing on the magic of movies. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, Disneyland Paris guarantees an unforgettable adventure.
What to See and Do in Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Park:
The heart of Disneyland Paris, Disneyland Park features five enchanting lands:
- Main Street, U.S.A.: Step back in time to a nostalgic American town of the early 20th century. This charming boulevard is lined with shops, eateries, and an iconic view of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.
- Fantasyland: Meet your favorite Disney characters and explore attractions inspired by beloved fairy tales, such as Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World.
- Adventureland: Embark on swashbuckling adventures with Pirates of the Caribbean or explore the mysteries of Aladdin’s enchanted passageways.
- Frontierland: Discover the Wild West with thrilling rides like Big Thunder Mountain and eerie experiences in Phantom Manor.
- Discoveryland: A futuristic land featuring innovative attractions like Space Mountain: Mission 2 and Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast.
Walt Disney Studios Park:
This park celebrates the magic of movies with thrilling rides and behind-the-scenes experiences. Key attractions include:
- Ratatouille: The Adventure: Shrink to the size of Remy and race through Gusteau’s kitchen in a 4D experience.
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: A spine-chilling drop ride through an abandoned Hollywood hotel.
- Avengers Campus: Step into the Marvel universe with superhero encounters and cutting-edge attractions like Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure.
Seasonal Events:
Disneyland Paris is renowned for its seasonal events, including Halloween Festival, Disney’s Enchanted Christmas, and Disney Princess Week, each adding extra sparkle and charm to the parks.
Parades and Fireworks:
Don’t miss the spectacular daily parades, where beloved Disney characters come to life on dazzling floats. In the evening, the Disney Illuminations show lights up the sky with fireworks, music, and projections on Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.
Dining and Shopping
Disneyland Paris offers an array of dining experiences, from quick bites to themed restaurants like Captain Jack’s in Adventureland and Chez Rémy in Walt Disney Studios. The Disney Village, located between the parks, is perfect for grabbing a meal or browsing shops offering Disney merchandise, souvenirs, and memorabilia.
What to See Nearby
Combine your Disneyland trip with nearby attractions like La Vallée Village, a luxury shopping outlet, or explore the charming town of Val d’Europe for additional dining and leisure options. Paris city center is just a short train ride away, allowing you to add an Eiffel Tower or Louvre Museum visit to your itinerary.
Tips for Visiting Disneyland Paris
- Plan your visit: Check the park’s schedule and prioritize must-see attractions. Download the Disneyland Paris app for real-time updates on wait times, show schedules, and dining options.
- Book tickets in advance: Purchasing tickets online can save time and money. Consider multi-day passes for a more relaxed experience.
- Use Disney Premier Access: Skip the lines for popular rides by purchasing Premier Access passes for select attractions.
- Arrive early: Get to the park before opening to enjoy shorter lines and make the most of your day.
- Stay on-site: Disney hotels offer perks like early park access and themed accommodations, adding extra magic to your visit.
- Pack wisely: Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and pack snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day.
- Visit mid-week: Avoid weekends and holidays to experience smaller crowds and shorter wait times.
How to Reach Disneyland Paris from Paris
Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Vallée, about 32 km (20 miles) from central Paris. There are several ways to get there:
- By Train (RER A): The RER A train is the fastest and most affordable option. Depart from central stations like Châtelet-Les Halles or Gare de Lyon, and travel to Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy, the last stop. The ride takes about 35–40 minutes, and the station is a 2-minute walk from the park entrance. Tickets cost around €5–€10.
- By Car: Drive along the A4 motorway toward Metz/Nancy and follow signs for Disneyland Paris. The trip takes 40–50 minutes, with parking fees starting at €30 per day.
- By Shuttle Bus: Use services like the Disneyland Paris Express, departing from Gare du Nord, Opéra, and Châtelet. It’s a convenient option, taking about 1 hour, including round-trip transportation and park entry.
- By Taxi or Ride-Sharing: A taxi or Uber ride takes around 40 minutes, with fares ranging from €50–€100, depending on traffic.
- By High-Speed Train (TGV): High-speed TGV trains from stations like Gare de Lyon reach Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy in just 10–15 minutes, though this is usually more expensive.
Disneyland Paris is a magical destination that offers an escape from reality and a journey into the world of dreams and imagination. With its thrilling attractions, unforgettable shows, and enchanting ambiance, it promises joy for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re meeting Mickey Mouse, exploring pirate-infested waters, or soaring through space, Disneyland Paris is a place where cherished memories are made. So, pack your bags, embrace the magic, and let the adventure begin!
