All the info you need for a magical day at Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is as much fun for adults as it is for kids, but with two overexcited little ones in tow, it can also be stressful! Here’s what worked for us to make the day memorable for both kids (and us parents!), from tips on managing energy levels to must-see attractions.

1. Plan Around Age-Appropriate Attractions

With two kids at different ages, balancing rides and attractions that suit them both is essential. Disneyland Paris has two parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. Here’s what worked best:

• Disneyland Park: The seven-year-old loved Fantasyland, particularly “Peter Pan’s Flight” and “It’s a Small World,” both gentle enough for the three-year-old as well. The classic “Dumbo the Flying Elephant” was a hit with both kids.

• Adventureland: The seven-year-old enjoyed “Pirates of the Caribbean,” though this might be a bit much for a three-year-old. We managed this by taking turns with the kids.

  Tip: If one parent goes on a ride with the older child, the other can explore nearby areas with the younger one or take a snack break!

2. Take Advantage of Child-Friendly Zones

• Meet and Greet Spots: We scheduled character meet-and-greets early in the day when energy levels were high. Mickey, Minnie, and the princesses are highlights, and seeing them first thing added excitement that carried through the day.

• Play Areas: The three-year-old found a lot to love in the Alice’s Curious Labyrinth maze. It was a great spot to let them explore freely while the seven-year-old enjoyed figuring out the winding paths.

3. Plan Breaks (and Don’t Skip Naps!)

Disneyland is a full-on experience, so it’s crucial to factor in downtime. We used a stroller for the three-year-old, which doubled as a nap spot. Here are a few tips to pace yourselves:

• Strategic Show and Parade Stops: Shows like “Mickey and the Magician” let everyone sit down and take a breather. The seven-year-old was completely entranced, while the younger one could relax or even doze off.

• Shaded Picnic Areas: Bring snacks and lunch if possible and take breaks in quieter spots. Disney Village, just outside the main parks, has more peaceful areas, or you can retreat to the Disneyland Hotel lobby for a short escape from the park’s buzz.

4. Dining with Kids in Mind

The dining options at Disneyland Paris are vast, but some are more suited to younger kids than others. For families, we found it best to keep it simple:

• Buffet-style Restaurants: Plaza Gardens Restaurant worked well for us, with its variety catering to both picky eaters and adventurous ones. Plus, it had lots of seating, making it easier to keep everyone happy.

• Snack Spots: Popcorn, fruit cups, and churros make great in-between fuel for kids. Packing a few favourite snacks also came in handy, especially when lines for food got long.

5. Prioritise the Parades and Nighttime Shows

The parades and evening shows are iconic, but it’s worth planning for them with kids of different ages:

• Parade Seating: For the daytime parade, we arrived early to secure a spot near Main Street for a good view. The seven-year-old was mesmerised by the floats, and the three-year-old loved waving at characters, so this was a hit with both.

• Evening Shows: The light shows can get late, so consider if you’d like to stay. If not, you can still watch fireworks from outside the park or on your way back to the hotel – an easier option for younger kids who may fall asleep.

  
  

  

  
  
  
  

6. Practical Tips to Make the Day Smoother

• FastPass for Must-Do Rides: This helped us avoid long waits, especially for attractions our seven-year-old was keen to try. Disneyland Paris also has a Rider Switch service, allowing parents to take turns on rides while one stays with the little one.

• Bring Layers and Rain Gear: Paris weather can be unpredictable, and having extra layers or a poncho saved us more than once. Don’t forget hats and sunscreen, as there aren’t always shaded waiting areas.

• Set Realistic Expectations: With little ones, you won’t cover everything in one day. Aim to enjoy a few highlights, soak up the atmosphere, and appreciate the moments where the kids’ eyes light up at meeting their favourite character or riding a new attraction.

  
  

  

  
  
  
  

Final Thoughts

A day at Disneyland Paris with a 7-year-old and a 3-year-old might take a bit more planning, but it’s completely worth it. With a mix of classic rides, meet-and-greets, and rest spots, we found a good rhythm that let each child enjoy the magic at their own pace. Watching them both soak up the Disney magic made for memories we’ll cherish for years to come