Ultimate guide to Disneyland Paris resort
Welcome to your ultimate guide to planning a magical adventure at Disneyland Paris Resort! Whether you dream of stepping into fairy tales at Disneyland Park or exploring cinematic worlds at Walt Disney Studios Park, this comprehensive guide is designed to make your journey seamless and unforgettable. From securing the best deals and navigating the parks like a pro to finding enchanting dining experiences and understanding accessibility, we've gathered all the essential tips to ensure your visit to this iconic European destination is nothing short of spectacular. Get ready to unlock the magic and create cherished memories!
history of disneyland paris resort
Disneyland Paris Resort, originally known as Euro Disney Resort, officially opened its gates on April 12, 1992, bringing Disney magic to Europe. Initially, the resort featured just one theme park, Disneyland Park (then called Euro Disneyland Park), which is based on the classic Magic Kingdom concept with its iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.
A decade later, on March 16, 2002, a second theme park was added: Walt Disney Studios Park. This park was designed to immerse guests in the world of cinema, animation, and show business, offering a "behind the scenes" look at movie making. While the original Disneyland Park focuses on classic fairy tales and adventure, Walt Disney Studios Park (which is currently undergoing a significant expansion and will be renamed Disney Adventure World) provides experiences themed around films, Pixar, and Marvel.
Today, Disneyland Paris Resort encompasses these two distinct theme parks, along with hotels, Disney Village, and other entertainment options, making it Europe's most visited theme park destination.
Combined Tips for both Theme Parks
PRE-PLANNING
- Book Tickets and Accommodation in Advance: Both parks get incredibly crowded, especially during peak seasons (school holidays, weekends, and special events). Booking your park tickets and accommodation well ahead secures your spot, often provides better deals, and ensures your preferred dates are available. Consider multi-day, multi-park tickets if you plan to explore both thoroughly.
- Download and Master the Official Disneyland Paris App: This is your essential "magic wand" for navigating both parks! It provides real-time park maps, current wait times for all attractions, detailed show and parade schedules, and allows you to manage your booking and make dining reservations on the go. Crucially, you can also use it for mobile ordering food from select counter-service restaurants, saving significant time.
- Check Park Schedules and Showtimes: Before and during your visit, familiarise yourself with the opening and closing hours for both parks. Pay close attention to specific show times, parade routes, and nighttime spectaculars (like Disney Illuminations at Disneyland Park, or upcoming shows at Studios) as these can vary daily and are often highlights. Planning your day around these events is key.
- Make Dining Reservations in Advance: Table-service restaurants across both parks and in Disney Village fill up quickly, sometimes months ahead. If you have specific dining experiences in mind, especially character dining, make reservations as early as possible (up to 2 months ahead, or 12 months for Disney Hotel Guests via the app). Utilise the mobile ordering feature for quick service.
Transport to the parks
Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Vallée, just outside central Paris.
- RER A Train: Often the most convenient and cost-effective option from central Paris. The RER A train goes directly to "Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy" station, which is a 2-minute walk from the park entrances.
- Shuttle Buses: Various official and private shuttle services operate from different points in Paris directly to the parks.
- Private Transfers/Taxis: Offer maximum convenience, especially with a group or lots of luggage, but are the most expensive.
want to visit both parks?
- Understand Park Hopping: A park hopper ticket allows you to enter both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park on the same day. The two park entrances are very close to each other, making hopping easy.
- Strategize Your Order: Many seasoned visitors recommend starting your day at Walt Disney Studios Park right at opening (especially if using Extra Magic Time). This park tends to be smaller with fewer attractions and closes earlier than Disneyland Park. You can hit its most popular rides (like Crush's Coaster, Avengers Assemble: Flight Force, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and Ratatouille: The Adventure) and then hop to Disneyland Park for the afternoon, evening parade, and nighttime spectacular.
- Prioritise in Each Park: With limited time, identify your absolute must-do rides, shows, and character meets in each park. Don't try to do everything.
- Utilise Premier Access Wisely: If you're doing a park hopper, consider purchasing Premier Access for high-demand rides in both parks to save significant time. Crush's Coaster in Walt Disney Studios Park is notorious for long waits and is a prime candidate for Premier Access.
- Dining Location: If you have dining reservations, consider booking them in the park you plan to be in around that time, or in Disney Village (located between the two parks) for flexibility.
Disneyland Paris tips
- Explore the Lands Systematically: Disneyland Park is much larger than Walt Disney Studios. Tackle one land at a time (e.g. Fantasyland, Frontierland, Adventureland, Discoveryland, Main Street U.S.A.) to minimise backtracking.
- Don't Miss the Parades and Nighttime Spectacular: The parades on Main Street U.S.A. and the evening fireworks/projection show over Sleeping Beauty Castle are quintessential Disneyland Park experiences. Find a good spot at least 30-60 minutes before showtime.
- Discover Hidden Gems: Explore the Sleeping Beauty Castle's walkthrough, venture into the dragon's lair beneath the castle, and walk through the various "Arcades" (Liberty Arcade, Discovery Arcade) on Main Street for unique details and sheltered walkways.
- Classic Rides: Prioritise classics like Pirates of the Caribbean, Phantom Manor, Big Thunder Mountain, "it's a small world," and Peter Pan's Flight.
DURING YOUR VISIT @ DISNEYLAND PARIS
- Leverage Extra Magic Time (if applicable): If you're staying at an official Disney Hotel, take full advantage of Extra Magic Time (EMT). This perk allows you early access to select areas and popular attractions in both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, typically one hour before general opening. This is a golden opportunity to experience popular rides with much shorter queues.
- Consider Disney Premier Access: While an additional cost, Disney Premier Access allows you to buy speedy access to some of the most popular attractions, bypassing the regular queue. This can be purchased for individual rides ("Premier Access One") or as a package for multiple rides ("Premier Access Ultimate") via the Disneyland Paris App. It's a useful tool if you're short on time or want to maximise ride experiences.
- Hydrate & Bring Snacks: Theme parks involve a lot of walking and can be dehydrating. Bring a refillable water bottle (there are water fountains available) and some snacks to save money and avoid waiting in lines for quick bites.
- Manage Your Expectations and Pace Yourself: Both parks are huge, and it's impossible to see and do everything in a single day, or even two. Prioritise your must-do rides, shows, and experiences. Allow for breaks, enjoy the atmosphere, and remember that part of the magic is simply being there.
- Arrive Early: Get to the parks before opening to beat the crowds and maximise your time.
- Take Advantage of Single Rider Lines: If you're willing to ride separately, single rider lines can significantly reduce wait times.
- Meet Characters: Check the app for character meet-and-greet locations and times. Be prepared for queues.
- Use Rider Switch: If you are travelling with a small child that is too small for some rides, use the rider switch option. This allows one parent to ride, and then switch with the other, without having to wait in line twice.
walt disney studios tips
during your visit to walt disney studios
- Focus on Key Areas: This park is smaller and more focused on movies, animation, and superheroes. The main attractions are concentrated in Avengers Campus, Worlds of Pixar, and Production Courtyard.
- Thrill Rides: Walt Disney Studios Park offers several thrilling experiences for adrenaline seekers, including the iconic free-fall drop of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (Hands down, this ride is my top pick. The theming and the ride experience itself are incredible—highly recommended for those who dare!), the high-speed launch coaster Avengers Assemble: Flight Force, and the unique spinning coaster Crush's Coaster. (Photo three above (right) is loading area for the Tower of Terror ride).
- Early Bird for Crush's Coaster: If you don't plan to use Premier Access, head directly to Crush's Coaster at park opening as its queue builds up extremely fast and stays long all day due to its popularity and lack of Premier Access One availability (often only available with Ultimate).
- Enjoy the Shows: Walt Disney Studios Park is renowned for its high-quality indoor shows, such as "Mickey and the Magician" and "Together: a Pixar Musical Adventure." Integrate these into your day as they offer a great opportunity to rest your feet in air-conditioned comfort.
- Avengers Campus Strategy: If Marvel is a priority, head to Avengers Campus early to experience Avengers Assemble: Flight Force and WEB Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure.
- Upcoming Expansions: Keep an eye on news regarding the park's ongoing expansion, as new areas and attractions will significantly change the park experience in the coming years.
disney village tips
Disney Village at Disneyland Paris is a fantastic entertainment and dining district located right outside the theme parks, offering a vibrant atmosphere that extends the magic long after the parks close. Here are some top travel tips for making the most of your visit:
Location of Disney Village
Disney Village boasts a prime and highly convenient location, nestled between the entrances of Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, the Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy RER/TGV station, and various Disney Hotels. This central position makes it easily accessible for all visitors, including park-goers, hotel guests, and day-trippers. Furthermore, transportation is a breeze, with the RER A train providing direct access from central Paris, and many Disney Hotels offering shuttle services or being within walking distance.
Admission to disney village
Unlike the theme parks, there is no entrance fee to Disney Village itself. You can walk in and out freely, making it a great option for an evening out or a break from the parks.
dining @ disney village
- Variety: Disney Village boasts a wide array of restaurants, from quick-service options to themed table-service experiences. You'll find American diners (Annette's Diner, Five Guys, McDonald's), unique themed spots (Rainforest Cafe, The Royal Pub), Italian (Vapiano), and more.
- Reservations Recommended: For popular table-service restaurants like Annette's Diner or The Steakhouse, especially during peak meal times (lunch and dinner), it's highly recommended to make reservations in advance, either directly with the restaurant or via the Disneyland Paris App.
- Budget-Friendly Choices: If you're looking to save money, quick-service options like McDonald's, Five Guys, Earl of Sandwich, and New York Style Sandwiches are generally more affordable than table-service restaurants within the parks.
- Late Night Eats: Many establishments, especially McDonald's, remain open late into the night, long after the theme parks have closed, perfect for a late snack or meal.
shopping @ disney village
- World of Disney: This is the flagship store, offering a massive selection of Disney merchandise, souvenirs, apparel, toys, and collectables. It's an excellent place to do your souvenir shopping, especially on your way out of the resort.
- The LEGO® Store: A huge and popular store for LEGO enthusiasts, featuring Disney-themed sets and opportunities to build custom mini-figures.
- Other Themed Shops: You'll also find speciality stores like Disney Fashion (apparel), The Disney Gallery (art and collectables), and the Rainforest Cafe Retail Village.
- Duty-Free Shopping: Remember that standard French retail laws apply, so consider if any duty-free shopping benefits your overall trip.
entertainment @ disney village
- PanoraMagique: Take a ride on one of the world's largest tethered hot air balloons for breathtaking 360-degree aerial views of Disneyland Paris and its surroundings. This is a unique perspective, especially at sunset.
- Gaumont Cinema: A large multiplex cinema showing the latest blockbuster films, including IMAX, 4DX, and D-Box technologies, offering a great option for downtime or a rainy day.
- Live Music & Shows: The Disney Village Stage frequently hosts live music, dance performances, and seasonal entertainment. Billy Bob's Country Western Saloon often has live bands playing various genres.
- Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show: While a separately ticketed dinner show, it's a long-standing and popular evening entertainment option for those looking for a unique Disney experience.
best time to visit disney village
- Evenings: Disney Village truly comes alive in the evenings. With illuminated decor, live performances, and a bustling atmosphere, it's the perfect place to extend your magical day after the parks close.
- Avoid Peak Meal Times (if just visiting): If you're not planning to dine, consider visiting outside of typical lunch (12:30 PM - 2:30 PM) and dinner (6:30 PM - 9:00 PM) hours to avoid the biggest crowds coming from the parks.
- Relaxed Afternoon: It can also be a nice spot for a relaxed lunch or a break from the parks in the mid-afternoon.
accessibility @ disneyland paris resort
Disneyland Paris is committed to providing an accessible and comfortable experience for all guests with disabilities and specific needs. The resort offers various services, including specially-adapted vehicles and equipment for smooth boarding at certain attractions, and dedicated viewing spaces at outdoor shows, parades, and theatres. For guests with visual impairments, the AudioSpot mobile app serves as an audio guide, and a tactile map with audio is available on a Virtuoz tablet. All restaurants and shops are wheelchair accessible and welcome guide and assistance dogs. Accessible toilets and changing rooms are provided, and guests can rent wheelchairs and strollers/pushchairs. Additionally, a free wheelchair-accessible shuttle service operates between the Disney Parks and Disney Hotels (excluding Disney Davy Crockett Ranch).
Discover my Ultimate Guide to Hotels at Disneyland Paris Resort.
Last Updated: 3 June '25
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