True Disney fans will know that you can experience Disney theme parks at five different locations: Orlando, Los Angeles, Paris, Japan, and Hong Kong.  While many similarities exist among the various parks, each one has its quirks, ensuring that the location offers a unique experience.  If you love Disney and find yourself in Paris, spending a day at Disneyland Paris will be worth the time and the money.

The Paris location is actually two separate parks, Disneyland and Walt Disney Studios.  Those who are accustomed to the Orlando parks will find that the European parks are much smaller; you will have plenty of time to experience all that both parks have to offer in one day.  No, tickets will not be easy on a tight budget, but a ticket to both parks costs only slightly more than a ticket to just one.  Splurge and go to both.  You will regret it if you don’t!

Transportation to the park could not be simpler.  We rode the RER A train from Paris.  It will take you directly to the park, and the stop that you need is conveniently marked “Disneyland Paris.”  Don’t forget to account for some travel time in your planning.  The train ride from downtown Paris to the parks will likely take about 30-45 minutes.

Anyone who has visited the US parks will find many familiar rides (Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups, Tower of Terror, It’s a Small World, and the Pirates of the Caribbean ride), in addition to some new favorites.  I have been to the Orlando park many times, but two Paris attractions earned a place on my list of favorites.  Alice’s Curious Labyrinth in the Disneyland park brings the Queen of Heart’s courtyard to life.  Wander your way through the maze, and don’t miss the queen’s castle!  You will find a beautiful view of Sleeping Beauty castle from its balcony.  Second, Crush’s Coaster in Walt Disney Studios, a Finding Nemo-themed indoor roller coaster, offers the perfect mix of excitement and adventure.

The Disneyland park will host an afternoon parade down Main Street, a classic and unforgettable Disney experience.  The Paris park remains true to its European roots, often emphasizing the Disney stories that take place in Europe.  After the sun sets, the day ends with “Disney Dreams,” a spectacular light show projected onto Sleeping Beauty castle, complete with music, fountains, fireworks, and lasers.  The show depicts Peter Pan and Wendy traveling through many Disney movies that showcase France (Ratatouille, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, etc.).  Even if you do not speak French, you will still enjoy the show.  Peter Pan spoke English, but Wendy spoke French, and all of the songs were played in English.  If you want to make sure you have a clear view for the show, be prepared to claim your seat on a bench near the castle and wait for about an hour before it starts.  Trust me, it will be worth the wait.

My friends and I loved the day that we spent at Disneyland Paris because we had no subways to catch or landmarks to find.  We simply entered the park and relived some of our favorite childhood memories.  Live out your own Disney dream and spend a day at this unforgettable European attraction.

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Planning to travel to this location?  Need recommendations on what to see and do?  Ask the author by leaving a comment below!  Have a great trip!

[accordion_tab title=”Collegiate Correspondent: Matt Thomas” default]

Matt Thomas recently graduated from Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, NY with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and Spanish. He studied abroad in Ávila, Spain during his sophomore year of college, igniting a passion for travel, culture, and language. In addition to traveling (and falling for) Spain, he traveled to four other European countries and spent some time in Africa. Since returning from Europe, he has also taught English to international students studying in the United States. A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Matt enjoys conversation, community, and iced coffee.[/accordion_tab]