Disneyland Paris with Kids: What I Learned

Experience the magic of Disneyland Paris - where fantasy becomes reality with princesses, Marvel superheroes, and immersive lands. An unforgettable European family getaway.

 

Imagine taking a trip to Europe, filled with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and delicious cuisine. But what if I told you that tucked away in the outskirts of Paris lies a magical world filled with princesses, superheroes, and even a Ratatouille-themed ride? Yes, I'm talking about Disneyland Paris - a place where fantasy becomes reality, and where adults can relive their childhood memories while creating new ones with their children. 

As someone who grew up with Disneyland in Southern California, I was thrilled to experience the magic of Disneyland Paris with my family. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. From the stunning Sleeping Beauty Castle to the Marvel Avengers Campus,, Disneyland Paris offers an experience that can't be replicated anywhere else in the world. Plus, with its convenient location only an hour outside of Paris and accessible by train, it's the perfect addition to any European itinerary. So come along with me as I take you on a journey through the magical world of Disneyland Paris.

One of the great things about traveling to Disneyland Paris is that it’s surprisingly easy, especially if you’re within the EU. Thalys has direct trains from many major European cities that go straight to the park

One of the great things about traveling to Disneyland Paris is that it's surprisingly easy, especially if you're within the EU. Thalys has direct trains from many major European cities that go straight to the park. We traveled from Amsterdam and were easily able to book a direct train, which was a huge relief, especially with two young kids in tow. We also had premier tickets, which gave us access to a private lounge with food and drinks, a dedicated boarding area, and spacious seats for added comfort.

During our visit, I learned a few things that I would definitely recommend to anyone planning a trip to Disneyland Paris. 

  • Leave the stroller at home if you can. Unless you have an infant and need a bassinet-style stroller, strollers are readily available for rent at the park. 

  • Slow down and don't feel like you have to be at the park from opening to closing. With the cost of tickets, it can feel like you need to get the most for your money, but taking breaks throughout the day can make the experience much more enjoyable for everyone. 

  • Staying at a hotel in the park. We stayed at the Hotel New York, Art of Marvel and it was one of the best decisions we made for our trip. It's located right next to the parks, so we could easily go back for naps and have a home base to rest and relax. Plus, it's a superhero lover's dream, with tons of Marvel-themed decor throughout the hotel.

  • Food and drinks are surprisingly affordable at Disneyland Paris. Compared to other Disneyland parks in the United States, prices were much lower, and there were plenty of options for every taste. 

  • Download the Disneyland Paris app to be incredibly helpful. It allowed us to keep track of our priority passes, make reservations for restaurants and shows, and access interactive maps that helped us navigate the park and plan our day.

  • Take the train! We debated flying and I am so happy we took a direct train with Thalys! The train was easy, we didn’t have to show up hours before and as soon as we arrived we were there! There was no security lines to wait in, or luggage delays. Talk about easy :)

Overall, our trip to Disneyland Paris was truly unforgettable. It's a great destination for families with kids of all ages, and there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it's the colorful and immersive lands, the fun and exciting rides, or the amazing parades and shows, there's no shortage of magic at Disneyland Paris. So, if you're planning a trip with your little ones, I highly recommend putting Disneyland Paris at the top of your list.