Welcome to Disneyland Paris! Located just outside the heart of Paris, Disneyland Paris consists of two parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. At its center, Disneyland Paris features Le Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant, or The Castle of Sleeping Beauty. This castle blends French charm with Disney magic, creating a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from other Disney parks.
Here’s what you need to know for your trip to Disneyland Paris:
Can’t Miss Experiences:
Nighttime Spectacular Firework and Drone Show
The park’s drone show combines cutting-edge technology with dazzling fireworks. Hundreds of synchronized drones perform choreographed routines to Disney music and storytelling, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Maleficent’s Dragon Form Beneath Sleeping Beauty’s Castle
Underneath the castle, you’ll find a giant animatronic dragon known as La Tanière du Dragon. This dragon, approximately 27 meters (89 feet) long, is one of the largest animatronics in all Disney parks.
French Dining
I have to admit that my favorite thing in Paris was the croissants I had each morning. This might disappoint my husband, who had booked an expensive Seine boat dinner cruise and a tour of Versailles. However, the food at Disneyland Paris didn’t live up to expectations. It was often underwhelming and not always very fresh. The standout treat was the character-themed macarons available at various bakeries and confectionery shops throughout the park.
Fortunately, there were temporary food booths around Walt Disney Studios Park offering raclette and sweet crepes or savory galettes.
Alternatively, we headed to Disney Village, just outside the parks. There, we visited familiar spots like Five Guys and Starbucks.
Bistrot Chez Rémy
We enjoyed dining at Bistrot Chez Rémy in Walt Disney Studios Park. This Ratatouille-themed restaurant offers a fine dining experience with French cuisine. Although the menu is limited, the meal was enjoyable. The highlight is the immersive theming, with oversized props that make you feel like you’ve been magically shrunk to the size of a rat.
Signature dishes include “Bœuf Bourguignon,” “Ratatouille,” and the decadent “Gâteau au Chocolat.” The charming ambiance makes it a must-visit for Disney fans. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as it’s likely you won’t find a table without one!
The Most Popular Rides: (By Park)
Disneyland Park: (The Classics)
- Big Thunder Mountain: This classic runaway mine train roller coaster takes you on a Wild West adventure. It’s similar to the versions found at other Disney parks, but still a must-ride.
- Hyperspace Mountain: Our top pick at Paris Disney, this roller coaster offers the best version of “Space Mountain” I’ve ever experienced. With its Star Wars theme, you’re thrust into a thrilling galactic space battle with exciting twists and turns.
- Pirates of the Caribbean: Enjoy a classic boat ride that immerses you in scenes from the iconic film franchise. Encounter Jack Sparrow and his crew as you navigate through their swashbuckling adventures.
- It’s a Small World: Take a gentle boat ride through scenes representing various countries around the world. The ride features the beloved “It’s a Small World” song, making it a classic Disney favorite.
- Star Tours: The Adventures Continue: A 3D motion simulator that takes guests on intergalactic adventures with Star Wars characters.
Walt Disney Studios Park: (The New)
- Ratatouille: The Adventure: Shrink down to the size of a rat and join a culinary adventure through Gusteau’s restaurant from the Disney-Pixar film Ratatouille. While it’s similar to Epcot’s version in Disney World, this ride is a must-see and one of my personal favorites!
- Crush’s Coaster: Spin and twist on this unique roller coaster as you journey through the East Australian Current with Crush, the sea turtle from Finding Nemo. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss!
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: Inspired by the classic TV series, this drop tower ride features randomized drop sequences and is a hit among thrill-seekers.
- Avengers Assemble: Flight Force: This thrilling enclosed roller coaster immerses you in the Marvel Universe. Team up with Avengers like Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor for an exhilarating ride. If you love thrill rides, don’t miss this one!
- Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure: Experience this interactive 3D ride where you wear glasses but no shooter equipment. Cutting-edge technology maps your movements as you develop your web-slinging skills. Help capture rogue Spider-Bots wreaking havoc on the Avengers Campus while aiming for the highest score. Spider values are as follows: red/blue (300 points), green (900 points), red (1,500 points), blue (3,000 points), and gold (6,000 points). This is a favorite ride for us, though the wait can be long. Aim for the higher-value spiders—my husband and I were outperformed by some 12-year-olds!
Staying in Disney
We stayed at Disney Newport Bay, a deluxe hotel inspired by New England’s seaside resorts from the late 19th century. Our room was spacious and comfortable, featuring classic Disney nautical themes. The hotel offers amenities such as indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, gift shops, and restaurants. Conveniently located within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from Disneyland Paris parks and the Disney Village entertainment district, Newport Bay Club provided us with the full “Disney Bubble” experience. We particularly enjoyed the early access it gave us to the parks.
Shopping
I mostly shopped around Disney Village but didn’t buy much. My main purchases were Disney-themed Starbucks mugs, Disney keepsake metal tins filled with cookies (for myself and as gifts), and a few reusable packable totes.
As a kid, my family visited all four Disney parks in one day to save money, and we bought souvenirs at the nearby Walmart that sold Disney merchandise. Now, I love a good plastic popcorn bucket like everyone else, but I can’t bring myself to spend around $70+ on a spirit jersey. In Asia, especially at Tokyo Disney parks, I find merchandise is more reasonably priced. In the US, I shop at the Disney store during sales and use my Disney credit card for extra discounts (which also helped me save hundreds during one stay at a Disney resort in Walt Disney World). I also love the Disney collection at Baublebar, which I often found at Marshalls. Lastly for truly unique t-shirts and Disney ears, I would checkout etsy.
How long do you need to visit Disneyland Paris?
You can experience the highlights of both parks in one day if you plan ahead, arrive early, and stay late. However, two days would be ideal for a more thorough exploration or if the parks are crowded. We stayed for four days, which was more than needed, but we took our time and enjoyed leisurely afternoons at our Disney resort.
My Perfect One Day Itinerary:
Start your day at Walt Disney Studios Park. Prioritize Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure, Crush’s Coaster, Avengers Assemble: Flight Force, and Ratatouille: The Adventure, in that order. Remember to prebook your lunch reservation at Bistrot Chez Rémy.
Afterward, head to Disneyland Park. Ride Hyperspace Mountain, explore Sleeping Beauty’s Castle with its giant dragon animatronic, and secure a spot for the nighttime spectacular.
Finish your day by shopping at Disney Village or grabbing a late bite, as many shops and restaurants stay open in Disney Village past park closing time.
See ya real soon…
So grab your Mickey ears and experience Euro Disney!
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