Martinis & Miles

Bonjour, fellow travelers and Disney dreamers! If you are reading this, you are probably plotting your grand escape to the enchanting world of Disneyland Paris. Whether you are a Mouseketeer at heart or just along for the ride (and the churros), I’ve gathered some top tips to make your Parisian park adventure truly magical.

1. Stay at Disneyland Hotel

The Disneyland Hotel is the best place to stay in my humble opinion.  Not only is it stunning, and has its own private dedicated entrance to Disneyland Paris, but princesses just wander around the hotel doing meet and greets regularly! If you want to rope drop rides like the Indiana Jones rollercoaster or Phantom Manor, then this private entrance is the key. We used our early access prior to official opening to snap those iconic castle photos without a photobombing Olaf lookalike in the background.  FYI- they have a few photopass photographers but NOTHING like Magic Kingdom so adjust your expectations in that regard.

2. Master the Art of FastPass (and Premier Access)

Standing in lines is so last season. Disneyland Paris offers Premier Access, which is their version of FastPass—with a Parisian twist! Download the official Disneyland Paris app and reserve your time slot for popular attractions. Your feet (and your patience) will thank you. Bonus: You’ll feel like a VIP, minus the entourage (or maybe you bring your own). Not only can you reserve rides, but you can reserve character meet and greets like Stitch, Darth Vader, and Mickey Mouse on the app. If you are short on time and are trying to see as much as possible then this is the move.

3. Snack Like a Pro

Let’s face it: part of the magic is the food. From Mickey-shaped waffles to crepes that’ll make you say “ooh la la,” don’t shy away from the snack carts. But here’s an insider tip—this Disney park has a champagne cart!  For 20 Euros you can take home the glass and sip champs on Main Street while watching the parade or fireworks.  Elite move.

4. Parade and Showtime Shenanigans

Parades and nighttime shows are the crème de la crème of Disney entertainment. For the best spots, stake out your parade viewing area about 45 minutes early. Bring a foldable mat, wave to the princesses, and practice your best “I’m totally not crying” face during the fireworks spectacular. Pro tip: The closer to Central Plaza, the better the view—and the more confetti you’ll find in your hair the next morning.

5. Don’t miss the dragon under the castle!

At Disneyland Paris, you can go UNDER Sleeping Beauty’s castle and find a secret Dragon’s Lair. Walking through dark tunnels, you head under the castle and see a giant, moving, fire-breathing dragon! It is so fun and unique to this park.

6. Don’t miss Walt Disney Studios Park

Frozen land is set to open this spring and is sure to be a big hit. Marvel Studios was my favorite area with Spider-Man stunt shows (the Spider-Man ride here was actually my favorite) and Iron Man appearances.

7. Table du Lumiere

This might have been my favorite thing did the entire trip. Table du Lumiere is an upscale Beauty and the Beast themed restaurant in the Disneyland Hotel.  Hotel guests can make reservations, but guests not staying there can only walk up and hope for the best.  During your beautiful multi course dinner, Disney princesses along with their prince partners make the rounds speaking to every table and taking photos. 🎶 After all miss, this is France, and dinner here is never second best!🎶

Final Thoughts: Let the Magic Happen!

Above all, remember: Disneyland Paris is about creating magical memories with friends and family.  It is not a carbon copy of Walt Disney World in Orlando.  It is its own special place. Keep an open mind, embrace your inner child, and don’t forget to say “bonjour” to Mickey for me. Say oui to the adventure—your magical Parisian tale awaits!

If you love Disney then check out my article on VIP Tours at Walt Disney World Behind the Magic of a Disney VIP Tour

Always wondered about a Disney Cruise? Check out Star Wars Day at Sea on Disney Cruises!