Things to do Disneyland
Things to do Disneyland
Disneyland Paris is located just 20 miles from the French capital, making it the perfect addition to your city break. Made up of two world-class theme parks - Disneyland Park and Disneyland Adventure World - it’s one of Europe’s top tourist destinations, home to iconic attractions like the Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Whether you fancy having a go on thrilling rides, meeting your favourite characters, or watching amazing live shows, read on to find out the best things to do at Disneyland for the most magical escape.
Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Vallée, around 20 miles east of Paris. Its convenient location makes it easy to reach from the capital and beyond, whether you’re travelling by car or public transport.
Thanks to direct motorway access, driving to Disneyland Paris is easy. Just take the A4 motorway (Autoroute de l’Est) and follow signs for Marne-la-Vallée/Disneyland Paris and then exit at Junction 14. The journey takes around 40 minutes from central Paris, depending on traffic, which can be especially busy around rush hour times of 7am-10am in the morning and about 5pm-8pm in the evening. Depending on your route, toll charges may also apply, so it’s worth planning your route in advance.
Having a car is especially useful if you’re combining your visit to Disneyland with a wider road trip around France, or if you’re arriving via ferry routes from Dover to Calais or Dunkirk. Once you’ve arrived at Disneyland, you’ll find a large paid car park onsite. The cost is approximately €30 per day, but hotel guests often get free parking.
A train is also a great way to reach Disneyland, with regular services available from central Paris and Charles de Gaulle airport. If you’re travelling from central Paris, the RER A line train operates direct services from stations such as Châtelet–Les Halles, Gare de Lyon and Nation to Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy, which is located right outside of the park gates.
The journey from central Paris to Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy takes around 35-45 minutes. If you’re travelling from Charles de Gaulle airport, you can also get a TGV high-speed train to Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy in just 10 minutes.
There are also shuttle services connecting central Paris with Disneyland. The Disneyland Paris Express shuttle offers day-return tickets and stops at 5 different locations in the centre of Paris - Gare du Nord, the Eiffel Tower area, Opéra, Montparnasse, and Bercy.
Passengers must arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. On board the shuttle, there’ll be a trilingual host to help you plan the perfect day at Disneyland. You can book the Disneyland Paris Express shuttle service when booking your Disney Park ticket. You will need to present your ticket when boarding the coach.
Approximate departure times:
Arrival times: between 9.30am – 9.45am depending on traffic.
The shuttle service will then depart Disneyland Paris at 9pm. Bear in mind that the shuttle service is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
It’s easy to get around Disneyland, with most attractions, hotels and transport links all located close together.
Walking is the easiest way to get around Disneyland. Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park are located next to each other. The parks are also within walking distance of Disney Village, where you can find many restaurants, shops and entertainment, along with Disney Hotels such as Disneyland Hotel and Disneyland Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel. Exploring on foot allows you to really soak up the magical atmosphere!
If you’re staying at one of the Disney Hotels, the Disneyland Paris shuttle is a free shuttle bus service connecting the hotels to the Disney Parks. It links all Disney Hotels other than Disney Davy Crockett Ranch and Les Villages Nature Paris with the SNCF Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy train station. The service runs every day of the week, with departures every 15 to 20 minutes between 6:30am and 11:45pm or 1am in summer. There are also specially adapted shuttle buses available for guests with reduced mobility.
If you’re staying at Les Villages Nature Paris, you can get a public bus to the Disneyland parks in around 20 minutes.
Disneyland is a great destination all year round, with each season offering something a little different. The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for - whether that’s warmer weather, fewer crowds, or special events. To help you out, we’ve put together a guide to each season in Disneyland.
With mild weather and fewer crowds than in summer, spring is one of the best times to visit Disneyland Paris. Daylight hours are also increasing, giving you more time to spend in the parks. Temperatures usually range between 10°C and 18°C, with occasional showers, so make sure you pack layers and a waterproof or an umbrella.
The comfortable temperatures make it a great time for exploring the parks and queuing for attractions without it being too hot or too cold. In spring in Disneyland, you’ll also be able to enjoy spring decorations such as floral displays, Easter celebrations and colourful spring parades. Bear in mind, though, that the parks can get busier during the school holidays, so make sure to plan ahead.
Perfect for: making the most of Disneyland’s attractions before the summer crowds arrive.
Summer is when Disneyland is at its most vibrant, with a lively atmosphere and a full schedule of events. Temperatures are now at their highest, usually between 20°C and 30°C, with long daylight hours making it ideal for spending the full day on the rides with extended park hours until 10 or 11pm. Due to the warmer weather, SPF and sunglasses are essential. Evenings may be cooler, so we’d also recommend a light layer.
This is also the season when there’s the most going on, with events such as Disney Music Festival with its live concerts, parties and interactive shows, which takes place throughout the summer. Disneyland Paris Pride also takes place in June, a vibrant parade with themed shows and live music.
Longer evenings also mean more nighttime shows, such as later firework displays over Sleeping Beauty Castle. However, summer is also the busiest time in Disneyland, so be prepared for bigger crowds and longer queues for attractions.
Perfect for: long days in the parks, late-night entertainment, and a packed events schedule.
Autumn is also a lovely time to visit Disneyland, with temperatures gradually cooler to a comfortable 10°C to 20°C, and the summer crowds disappearing. Mornings and evenings tend to be cooler, so we’d recommend bringing layers. Rainfall also increases at this time of the year, so make sure to pack a waterproof jacket or an umbrella.
One of the best things about visiting Disneyland in autumn is for the Disney Halloween Festival, where the parks take on a Halloween theme with spooky décor, special parades and meet-and-greets with Disney villains. There’s also a special Halloween party held on the 31st of October with extended opening hours.
Perfect for: Halloween-themed events, villain character meet-and-greets, and visiting with fewer crowds than peak summer months.
Although Disneyland is magical at every time of the year, it’s especially magical in winter when the festivities are in full swing. The Disney Enchanted Christmas season usually takes place from mid-November to early January, with amazing seasonal parades, live shows, twinkling lights and festive decorations – it’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit, especially if you’re travelling with little ones. The celebrations also include Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade, an award-winning parade featuring Disney characters, dance performances and illuminated floats.
Temperatures in winter are at their coldest, usually ranging between 2°C and 8°C. Rain is also common, with frost or even snow on occasions, so make sure to pack thick cosy layers and waterproofs.
Perfect for: festive family trips, especially for younger children wanting to experience Christmas-themed parades, character meet-and-greets, and magical light displays.
There are so many things to see and do at Disneyland.
The Sleeping Beauty Castle is the iconic centrepiece of Disneyland Paris, creating a magical backdrop for nightly firework shows. As well as admiring it from outside, you can also explore the inside gallery with its beautiful stained-glass windows and tapestries.
Located on an island in Frontierland, this famous rollercoaster is a high-speed mine train that speeds through the rocky landscapes. It’s a thrilling experience and a must for adrenaline-seekers.
Set in Adventureland, this immersive boat ride takes you through atmospheric pirate scenes and detailed sets inspired by the films. With animatronics, music, and storytelling throughout, it’s a must-do for fans and one of the park’s most iconic attractions.
Located in Walt Disney Studios Park, this famous ride is a 13-story drop ride that plunges you through a haunted 1939 Hollywood hotel. Expect sudden movements and a lot of screams!
Located in Discoveryland, this high-speed indoor roller coaster launches you into a Star Wars-themed space battle. With rapid acceleration, inversions, and immersive effects, it’s one of the most thrilling rides in the park.
There are plenty of outdoor activities at Disneyland. Many of the park’s rides are located outdoors, including Big Thunder Mountain, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril and RC Racer. Beyond the rides, you can stroll through themed areas - browse shops, restaurants, and boutiques along Main Street, explore Frontierland’s Wild West landscapes, or embark on an adventure through the caves and rope bridges of Adventureland.
If you want a quieter escape, Lake Disney offers a peaceful lakeside walk just outside the parks, and Les Villages Nature Paris, a green, eco-friendly park with themed gardens and a large water park, is just a 10-minute drive away. For golf enthusiasts, Golf Paris Val d’Europe has three 9-hole courses, open seven days a week, perfect for a relaxed outdoor round during your Disneyland trip.
Don’t worry if the weather forecast doesn’t look its best because Disneyland is home to many indoor rides and attractions. Popular indoor rides include Pirates of the Caribbean, Phantom Manor and Ratatouille: The Adventure.
There are also live shows and entertainment to enjoy indoors, such as Mickey and the Magician and the Broadway-style production of The Lion King, perfect for families looking for a break from the weather. Main Street, U.S.A. is another great rainy-day option - browse the themed shops for souvenirs, enjoy a coffee or snack, or have a relaxed meal in one of the restaurants whilst sheltering from the weather.
With a convenient location just outside Paris, Disneyland is well situated to explore the rest of the region. Popular day trips from Disneyland include:
The French capital is the top choice, located around 35–45 minutes by train via the RER A from Disneyland Paris to central Paris. Driving takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Paris is ideal for ticking off bucket-list sights like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, exploring charming neighbourhoods like Montmartre, or indulging in world-class French cuisine.
Versailles is about 1 hour by car from Disneyland Paris. If using public transport, take the RER A to Château de Vincennes, then switch to RER C towards Versailles Château Rive Gauche, which takes around 1 hour 20 minutes. Highlights include the Palace of Versailles, the Hall of Mirrors, and the beautiful landscaped Gardens of Versailles.
Located roughly 1 hour by car, Fontainebleau is a lesser-known gem that offers a mix of history and nature. Public transport options include a train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon, which takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, then a short bus or taxi ride to the town centre. Must-sees include the UNESCO-listed Château de Fontainebleau and the Forest of Fontainebleau, perfect for hiking, climbing, or cycling.
In the heart of the Champagne region, Reims is about 45–60 minutes by car from Disneyland Paris. You can also take a TGV train from Paris Gare de l’Est to Reims in around 45 minutes. Reims is famous for its cathedral, historic architecture, and champagne houses, offering tastings and tours.
Disneyland Paris was literally made for families. If you’re travelling with young children, then attractions like It’s a Small World and Peter Pan’s Flight are popular, along with Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast and Pirates of the Caribbean, guaranteed to keep them entertained.
Meet-and-greet experiences let kids interact with beloved characters like Mickey and Minnie, whilst play areas scattered throughout the parks give them room to burn off energy. Older children and teenagers will enjoy the faster, thrill-packed rides such as Big Thunder Mountain and Avengers Assemble: Flight Force.
Beyond the rides, Disneyland offers parades, live shows, and spectacular fireworks, providing entertainment for all ages. Many restaurants are family-friendly, with set menus, themed décor, and interactive dining experiences, making mealtimes just as magical as the rides.
A trip to Disneyland Paris doesn’t have to cost a fortune. If you’re travelling on a budget, here are our top tips: · Book tickets in advance: prices tend to be cheaper online rather than when you get there. The sooner you book, the cheaper the tickets usually are, too.
With many of the main rides stealing the spotlight, there are some lesser-known gems that are often missed. These include La Tanière du Dragon (Dragon’s Lair), a giant animatronic dragon which lies beneath the Sleeping Beauty Castle, and Adventure Isle’s hidden caves, rope bridges and pirate paths that make a nice change from the thrilling rides. With their interesting exhibits, Liberty Arcade and Discovery Arcade on Main Street are also a great places to escape the crowds.
Disneyland Paris is famous for its themed dining experiences, but you’ll also find plenty of French favourites. Cafés and bakeries serve classics like croissants, pain au chocolat, crêpes, and waffles, alongside savoury options such as baguette sandwiches and croque monsieur - ideal for a quick lunch between rides.
There are also several standout restaurants worth booking in advance. Bistrot Chez Rémy offers traditional French dishes like steak frites, ratatouille, and crème brûlée in a fun, themed setting inspired by Ratatouille. Meanwhile, Captain Jack’s – Restaurant des Pirates serves Caribbean-inspired dishes in a unique location inside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. For a more varied option, Plaza Gardens Restaurant features a family-friendly buffet with a mix of international cuisine.
For a more authentic and often better-value food experience, head just outside the parks to Val d’Europe, where you’ll find local restaurants, bakeries, and cafés serving traditional French dishes in a more relaxed setting.
Whether you fancy a full Disney experience on-site or fancy staying a little further out, Disneyland Paris offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every style and budget. If you do want to stay on site, there are plenty of Disney Hotels to choose from, including the 5-star Disneyland Hotel and the Wild West themed Disney Hotel Cheyenne.
With themed décor, Disney Hotels are perfect for families, especially those travelling with little ones. Plus, their location close to the park makes them the most convenient option.
They also have partner hotels located just outside of the parks, which are usually slightly cheaper and still convenient, such as Hôtel l’Elysée Val d’Europe and Staycity Aparthotels Paris Marne-la-Vallée. Or if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly stay, you’ll find plenty of hotels and apartments slightly further out in areas like Serris, Chessy, or Val d’Europe, with easy access to the parks via the RER A.
Whether you’re staying for a day, weekend or a longer getaway, Disneyland has something for everyone. Here are our suggested itineraries depending on how long you have:
Duration: 2 – 3 days
Arrive and head straight to Disneyland Park. Start with the main attractions like Big Thunder Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean, then explore Main Street and the area around Sleeping Beauty Castle. In the evening, watch the fireworks and the nighttime show before heading back to your hotel.
Spend the day in Walt Disney Studios Park, having fun on rides like Ratatouille: The Adventure and Avengers Assemble: Flight Force. After you’ve explored, return to Disneyland Park to watch a parade or enjoy dinner on Main Street.
Spend the final day relaxing and revisiting your favourite rides. Go shopping on Main Street, enjoy some character meet-and-greets, and visit Lake Disney or Les Villages Nature Paris before heading back home.
Why we love it: This 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors, couples, or families who are short on time. It allows you to cover all the main attractions, which also allows a day to relax and revisit your favourite rides. It’s also easy to combine with travel from the UK via ferry routes such as Dover to Calais or Dover to Dunkirk, followed by a straightforward drive to the park.
Duration: ~5 days
Check into your accommodation and then spend a relaxed afternoon exploring Disneyland Park, getting your bearings, enjoying character meet-and-greets and tucking into a delicious dinner on Main Street.
Dedicate a full day to Disneyland Park. Explore themed lands such as Adventureland and Fantasyland, and release some adrenaline on thrilling rides like Big Thunder Mountain and Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain. Afterwards, enjoy the parades and evening shows.
Spend today exploring Walt Disney Studios Park. Enjoy popular rides like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Ratatouille: The Adventure, visit family attractions like the World of Frozen and watch shows such as Mickey and the Magician.
Take a day trip to Paris, located around 40 minutes away, and spend the day sightseeing. Visit major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, before returning to Disneyland in the evening.
Use your final day to revisit your favourite rides, relax at Lake Disney or Les Villages Nature Paris or enjoy some shopping on Main Street.
Why we love it: This 5-day itinerary is ideal for families who want to explore all of Disneyland at a relaxed pace. It gives you time to experience both parks, watch shows and even visit Paris on a day trip.
While you can’t take a ferry directly to Disneyland Paris, the park is within easy driving distance of several major French ports. Ports such as Calais, Dunkirk, Dieppe, Le Havre, and Caen are all around 2.5 to 3.5 hours away by car, making it easy to combine a ferry crossing with a road trip to Disneyland. Popular ferry routes from the UK include:
Newhaven to Dieppe
Portsmouth to Le Havre
Dover to Calais
Portsmouth to Caen
Travelling by ferry is a great option if you want to bring your own car, giving you flexibility to explore beyond the parks and easily reach Paris or nearby attractions at your own pace.
Practical tips for your trip to Disneyland include:
Fancy avoiding the queues? The quietest days to visit Disneyland Paris are usually midweek - Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Mondays and Fridays can be busier due to long weekend visitors, whilst Saturdays and Sundays tend to be the most crowded.
For a more relaxed experience, it’s also best to visit outside of school holidays and to avoid peak periods such as Christmas and Halloween, when the parks are at their busiest with seasonal events.
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