The European version of Disney turns 30 with new attractions

By Denise Bobadilha

The enchanting fantasy of the Disney world – and the efficiency of its parks – surrounded by classic French charm: with this accurate recipe, Disneyland Paris , opened 30 years ago, is a breath of fresh air for families traveling across Europe. Based on the outskirts of Paris , it fits into the itinerary not only of those traveling through France, as it is also quickly accessible from other major centers such as London and Brussels (an even faster route than the one from Miami to Orlando, for example). , for those visiting Florida parks). You can spend the day illuminated by the smile and charm of your children and end the night with dinner in a peaceful bistro with an incredible menu (with the children certainly asleep in the chairs after the adrenaline bath).

For those who already know other Disney parks, especially those in Florida, Disneyland Paris is very familiar. The complex’s two parks – Disneyland Paris Parc and Walt Disney Studios Parc – follow, respectively, the successful formula of Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, albeit in smaller versions. There are similar attractions and even the former’s Main Street combines bandstand and castle – with the difference that in France the palace belongs to Sleeping Beauty , and not to Cinderella, as on the other side of the Atlantic. The complex’s six themed hotels also have similarities and advantages (the main one being being able to enter the parks earlier).

Ready. Comparisons made, let’s talk about what is special and unique about the European Disney complex, which is located in the city of Marne-la-Vallée , about 40 km from Paris – the train (RER C), which comes from the French capital, to just a few steps from the park entrance. In time: it’s a good idea to buy tickets well in advance, as reservations are essential (tickets are not sold at the gates).

At Parc Disneyland, the first of the two parks, little ones are entertained with the Wonderland maze (“Alice’s Curious Labyrinth”), the Snow White ride (“Blanche Neige et les Sept Nains”), with the parades (even more special in 2022 due to the 30th  anniversary – a new and commemorative night stop, Disney D-Light, uses 200 drones ) and, for more adrenaline, in attractions such as the Indiana Jones roller coaster and the incredible “Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain.”

At Walt Disney Studios , the neighboring park – right next door, you can walk from one to the other –, the big attraction of 2022 is the brand new “ Avengers Campus ”, with Marvel characters , new rides, restaurants and even a hotel themed, New York The Art of Marvel . Note that none of this is available in Orlando, which is a plus for those who know Florida’s parks by heart. The long-awaited Frozen area, Arendelle (castle included), does not yet have an opening date but is already under construction. Meanwhile, you can get a few scares in the “Twilight Zone” (the elevator that plummets) and in the “RC Racer”, Andy’s car from Toy Story, which rises to a height of 25m. 

But what a real treat it is to live in the world of a typically French character from Disney Pixar: Ratatouille. There is a 4D multi-sensory adventure and a whole world inspired by the little mouse who is a chef de cuisine . Even better: a restaurant in the complex, Bistrot Chez Rémy, has a typical French menu (with wines to accompany) for parents to enjoy the local cuisine while the little ones are entertained by the countless references to the film Ratatouille throughout.

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In terms of gastronomy, in fact, the French house of Disney could not be left behind. In 2022, due to the 30th  anniversary, more than 60 themed sweets, snacks and drinks entered the menu of all the stalls and restaurants in the complex (also combining with various commemorative products and souvenirs to take home). At Disney Village , the collection of shops and restaurants between the two parks, there is that typical mix of the Disney brand ( Planet Hollywood , Rainforest Café , Five Guys , Earl of Sandwich ) with European offerings like the German King Ludwig’s Castle or the Italian Vapiano . But it is inside the main park, at Auberge de Cendrillon , that you will find French cuisine a la carte and, as a bonus, the presence of princesses for photos. Going beyond the parks, there are several interesting bistros in the city of Marne-la-Vallée. In other words, there are plenty of options to end the days with lifelong memories, including the sparkle in your children’s eyes and the satisfaction of memorable meals.

Another peculiarity not always found in Europe is the proximity to an outlet. And there are two shopping options there: the Val d’Europe shopping mall (next to the train station of the same name, one stop after Marne-la-Vallé), led by a Primark superstore and, next to it, the La Vallée Village outlet, full of brands like Burberry, Lacoste and Gucci. 

For those who prefer to fully enjoy their days in a fantasy world with a European flavor, the ideal is to stay in nearby hotels – in addition to the six themed Disney complex, there are several local accommodations, including inns and hotels. If you want the ultimate in luxury, choose a suite or villa at Les Villages Nature , an eco-resort complex from the Center Parcs group full of immersive experiences for the whole family (including cooking classes for all ages, recreation for the little ones and a spa for the adults). 

In this case, it’s worth reserving at least five days: two to enjoy the Disney parks to their fullest, one for outlet shopping and two to rest amidst nature, while the children experience the endless attractions of a resort with service. family, but with a typically French flavor.

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How to get:

Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy train station is accessible by TGV trains, Eurostar (coming from the United Kingdom) and Thalys (coming from the Netherlands and Belgium). From Paris, you need to take the RER A train from Gare de Lyon, Châtelet-Les-Halles or La Défense stations or the special Disney bus that leaves directly from Charles-de-Gaulle or Orly airports or from the city center .

Where to stay:

Those who want to stay in Marne-la-Vallée can look for Disney hotels , including the brand new Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel (the two-night package with park entry for two days for two people costs from 990 euros outside of the peak season – July and August). Outside of Disney, the Radisson Blu Marne-la-Vallée is spacious, close to the parks and next to a golf course, and with guaranteed good service (daily rates from 240 euros).