Karin’s Disneyland Paris First Timer Tips - 2024

[Karin1984]

I have been giving tips throughout the years and decided to compile them all in a thread. This is especially aimed at those who are used to the US parks.

My track record:
Disneyland Paris AP holder (highest tier) for over a decade. I do 3-5 trips a year, my trips are usually 2-3 days.
WDW: 3 visits (2012, 2015, 2022)
DL: 2 visits (2014, 2024)
Asia: 1 visit (2017)
DCL: 3 visits (2019 Bahamas, 2022 Transatlantic, 2023 Alaska)
I know Disney trips ;-)

I have threads like this before, but I thought it was time for a new one. This is an evolving thread, I'll add tips when I think of them.

Contents:
- Planning
- Culture
- Hotels
- Food & drinks
- Getting to the parks
- Rides
- Entertainment
- Premier Access
- Guaranteed Access
- Disability Access
- Merchandise
- Weather
- Miscellaneous

 

[Karin1984]

Planning:
When should I go to Disneyland Paris? Is there a crowd calendar?
If you are flexible with your days try to visit outside school holidays and weekend. Disneyland Paris still knows a low and high season and it’s mainly based on the school calendar.

School holidays: https://publicholidays.fr/school-holidays/
The city of Paris in zone C.

Public holidays: https://publicholidays.fr/

(School) Holidays in France have the biggest impact.

You can also have a look at the ticket-tool on the DLP website, tickets are priced according to season. The cheaper the tickets, the higher the chance to have low crowds: https://tickets.disneylandparis.com/en-gb/tickets

I am a planner and I am overwhelmed! What do I need to do?! Help!
Turn off your inner planner. Disneyland Paris is a lot easier to plan than Disney World.
Step 1: Get park tickets (if needed get park reservations)

That’s the bare minimum. Start there and add the rest on top.

Optional: Get a hotel (if you want to do more park days)
Optional: Make a park plan (if time is limited, it is wise to make some sort of plan)
Optional: Make table service reservations (if you want to do table service restaurants)

You do not need a minute to minute plan to visit Disneyland Paris.

How many park days do I need?
There are a lot of factors going into this question:
- How much of a Disney fan are you?
Do you want to see / do it all, or just get a snapshot?
- Are you going in high or low season?
- How many people are with you? Who is with you?
Bigger groups move slower than small groups, and if you travel with young children or elderly people (who might want/need breaks) you might need more time.
- How much money do you have?
- What do you like to do?
If you do not like shows, or don’t do big coasters, etc. you need less time.
- Do you go often to other Disney parks?
Some rides are the same around the world, and you might be able to skip some rides.

I would personally say that with 2 full days you can see and do a lot.
But if you can only do 1 day, then that’s better than no day. For a Disney fan

Should I plan my Disneyland Paris visit far in advance?
No, unless you want to eat at table service restaurants.
Of course there are factors like lower hotel rates or flight fares selling out further in advance.

Are there websites/books with park plans?
Not really, as Disneyland Paris is less complicated. This is not really necessary.

Are there travel agents specialized in Disneyland Paris?
Not like there are travel agents specialized in WDW or DL in the US. There are plenty of agents who sell the same packages as on the DLP website. But there are no major perks or discounts.

Where can I find updates on what is happening in the parks?
Best social media fansites to follow in preparation for a trip are:

ED92 (French only, daily reporters in the park): https://www.facebook.com/ED92Magic

DLP Report (FR & EN, daily reporters in the park): https://www.facebook.com/DLPReport

Pixiedust.be (EN & NL), weekly reporters in the park): https://www.facebook.com/pixiedust.be

I have to call Disneyland Paris about my booking, but I am in the US, how to avoid international phone fees.
Call Disney world and ask to be transferred to Disneyland Paris.
Keep the time difference in mind. There is a 6 hour difference with the US East coast, and 9 hour difference with the US West coast.
(10:00am in New York = 4:00pm in Paris).

I am a DVC member, can I use my points at DLP?
You can, but usually it's not a good deal.
There are very little DVC members on this board, best to ask the people here https://www.disboards.com/#disney-vacation-club.7

Are there discounted tickets?
Yes, there are, but the discount is not much. If you plan to stay onsite, always calculate what a package deal would cost you.
Disneyland Paris ticket prices vary by season, high season can cost up to 124 euro, while low season costs 81 euro.

Companies who offer discounted tickets:
https://www.attractiontix.co.uk/tickets/disneyland-paris
https://www.klook.com/activity/3969-disneyland-resort-paris/
https://goticketless.co.uk/

What else can I do to prepare for my trip?
Download the app or have a look at the website and go to the park map. Especially when your time is limited, get familiar with the lay out of the park. Disneyland Park is very similar to other parks, but there will be differences.

Also Disneyland Park is more spread out than Magic Kingdom or Disneyland in California. So be prepared for a bit more walking.

Where do I find the refurbishment schedule?
Go to the website to the park hours section, in the top right corner. Scroll down a bit and you will find the schedule.
https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-gb/calendars/park-hours/

However... Better is to check the app. The app also shows which restaurants and stores are closed.

Where can I store my luggage?
There are three options to store your luggage:
- At the entrance of both parks there is a paid luggage storage. Price is depending on size of your suitcase/bag.
- At the train station.
- At a Disney hotel, to my knowledge with the exception of the Marvel and the Disneyland Hotel, the Disney hotels do not ask for proof of stay or a room number to store your luggage. This service is free of charge.
However, this is of course not very convenient for a day trip as it can take 30-45 minutes just to walk back and forth between hotels and parks.

 

[Karin1984]

Culture:

Do I need to learn French?
Disneyland Paris is bilingual. 95-99% of the guest-interacting CMs will speak both French and English. At guest relations in the parks and at hotels CMs will wear language pins.

CMs who do not have to interact with guests often only speak French and maybe little English. Like housekeeping. If you run into your housekeeper and they do not understand English, go to reception / guest services to ask your question in English, or switch to French.

It is not necessary to learn French, however it never hurts to know some basic phrases.

Most shows are bilingual as well and written with a lot of repeats. Mickey says something in French, Minnie repeats it with an answer in English, so most people can follow what is happening.

It's usually around the 50/50 mark with 50% English and 50% French. but it can be 40/60, 60/40 etc.

The French are rude. I do not like that.
Let’s nuance that. Yes, there is the stereotype that the French are rude. However, there is a difference at Disneyland Paris.

It’s mainly a cultural difference between how the Americans and the French are. Generalization: Americans are very outgoing, uber positive people. That is reflected in CMs when you go to a US Disney park.

Customer service in the US is different from Europe. The customer isn’t automatically right here. It’s okay to tell a customer ‘no’. That also changes interactions.

Also for a lot of CMs in the US it is a lifelong dream to work for Disney. In France it is a job like any other. And with a lot of unemployment going around, any job is better than no job. In Europe we didn’t grow up with an Uncle Walt on television. Disney movies and series came to Europe, but much later than in the US. So there is a different level of nostalgia. Disneyland Paris was ‘only’ built in 1992. That is an almost 40 years delay in comparison to Disneyland in California.

Especially when you are in a shop or a restaurant expect a more business-minded CM. There is not a lot of time (or patience) for small talk.

I hear everyone smokes! How can they do that in a Disney park?!
No, not everyone smokes, but it is a huge part of French culture. It has been for many decades and that is hard to change. It is very noticeable for those travelling from the US.

There are designated smoking areas. These are used more and more, however sometimes CMs can find it hard to address this with guests, because it is part of the culture.
Covid & masks has improved things.

Most people who do smoke outside the smoking areas will do so when they walk from A to B. It can happen people smoke while waiting for a parade, but I personally don’t see that happen that often. Seeing people smoke in line is rare.

I love free refills!
Who doesn't love free stuff? Unfortunately, there are no free refills in France. It's not allowed by law, to help prevent obesity.

I love peanut butter!
Unfortunately the French don't. The French do love Nutella. So you will find a lot more Nutella than peanut butter at breakfast or in certain snacks.

Do they accept cash & card?
Yes, everywhere in the park you can pay with cash. Most major credit cards are accepted. It is possible during the summer that ice cream carts etc. do not accept card.
There are ATMs in the park.

 

[Karin1984]

Hotels:
Most important thing to keep in mind: Disneyland Paris has hotels, not resorts.
There are less amenities or décor around the hotel than there are in WDW and DL. Reason? Most people stay only for 1 or 2 nights, and spend most of that time in the parks.

The hotels are build with the French and other Europeans in mind.
Other cultural differences:
- Hotel rooms in Europe are smaller.
- Mattrasses are firmer.

Which hotel should I stay at?
The one you can afford and are willing to spend money on.

If you want to go back to the room to have breaks, then a bigger room or a hotel closer to the park can make sense.

If this is a once in a lifetime trip, or a special occasion (like a honeymoon), it might be a reason to splurge.

My personal preference is to stay in cheap rooms, because I often stay all day in the park. I need a place to sleep, with a shower, and that’s clean. I do not like pay extra money for branding. I prefer to spend money on experiences.

How likely is it that you will remember the hotel 10 years from now? Do you want to remember the hotel 10 years from now?
Staying at Santa Fe instead of the Marvel Hotel could save you 500 – 600 euro a night. This could be spend on a Premier Access, Guaranteed Access, or a character meal.

I just want you to think about what your plans are. Keep in mind:
How you do Disney in the US might be different from doing Disney in Europe. If you are staying onsite in the Florida heat for a week, you might do a resort / pool day and not go into the parks, or sleep in, doing half days. That is very different from doing a close-to-opening day at Disneyland Paris.

When you tell me “We always stay Deluxe at Disney World”, think carefully what that means to you, what do you expect from a hotel room? As Disneyland Paris is build differently, is culturally differently, what you value in a Deluxe might not be available in the same way as in the US.

Those hotels are expensive! (I am from the US):
Disneyland Paris knows that Americans are willing to pay more for hotels, therefore they do charge more.
You can change the country in the top right corner of the website to a European country and book a package deal for the EU markets.
It doesn't matter where you are from, everyone can book from every country.
Always do the math with exchange rates, but usually the US website is the most expensive site to book packages.

Any suggestions for offsite?
Near Disneyland Paris are a few partner hotels. There is a free bus service between the hotels and the parks (can get crowded and opening & closing times). There is no early entree included.

Other options are to look into the hotels in Val D'Europe, Bussy St. Georges and Torcy. These are 1 - 3 subway stops away and have plenty of cheaper hotels.
Cheap hotel chains are: B&B, Kyriad, Campanile and Premiere Classe. These are very basic hotels, but decent for the price.

Are there bad hotels? Which hotels should I avoid?
No… but people sometimes go in with wrong expectations.
Also there is a price/quality aspect. Newport Bay often get bad reviews because it’s more expensive than it should be. I like the hotel but often it's not worth the price they are asking.

I cannot book room only / I want to book less park days than a package deal
True. This is not possible on the Disneyland Paris website.
They only sell packages with hotel & park tickets combined. You can book a room only via platforms like hotels.com, booking.com etc. but it is possible this is not going to be a huge money saver. The package deals can include discounts or meal plans. Do the math.

Do I need a park reservation when I stay at a Disneyland Paris Hotel?
If you stay onsite, you do not need a park reservation. This is regardless of if you booked via Disneyland Paris directly, or via a third party.

Where can I do laundry?
There are self service laundry facilities at the Cheyenne Hotel. New Port Bay, The Art of Marvel and the Disneyland Hotel have a dry cleaning service. Everything against payment.

I am staying at an onsite Disney hotel, do I need to bring my own shampoo?
No, with the exception of the Davy Crockett Ranch, you do not need to bring your own shampoo, conditioner and bodywash. This will be provided for.
If you prefer your own products, you can of course bring them along on the trip.

 

[Karin1984]

Food & drinks:

Main thing to keep in mind is: Disneyland Paris is not a food destination. It never was. It never will be. It is perfectly edible, but it is themepark food. If you are used to the US parks, adjust your expectations.

I thought the French loved food? Why is the food so bad?
Yes, food is a big part of French culture, but not what they look for when they go to a themepark. If you are looking for great French food, look for it outside Disneyland Paris. Maybe even outside Paris. Avoid tourist traps when you go to the city.

And is it bad? Matter of perspective. Most is average themepark food.

When can I make ADRs / restaurant reservations?
If you are staying onsite, you can make your reservations after receiving your booking confirmation.
When you do not stay onsite you can make reservations 2 months in advance.

Does DLP have a penalty for when you do not cancel a table reservation (on time)?
No, there are no penalties, the table will be held for 15 minutes. If you do not show up, the table will be given to the next person.
However, it is of course polite to do so

What are the best places to eat?
Below you will find my personal favorites. Doesn't mean the others are bad, just what fits my taste.

My favourite table service restaurant in the parks:
- Walt’s (a la carte)
- Agrabah Café (buffet)
- Royal Banquet (buffet)

My favourite table service restaurants in the village:
- Royal Pub
- Annette’s
- Brasserie Rosalie

My favourite quick service meals:
- Hakuna Matata
- Colonel Hathis
- Cowboy Cookout.

My favourite bars/lounges:
- Royal Pub in the Village
- Skyline Bar in the Marvel Hotel
- The bar at Sequoia Lodge

Places for snacks:
- Victorias (end of main street, check the opening times, they can be weird)
- Cafe de la Brousse for chicken bites.
- If there are foodstalls near Small World or opposite Ratatouille, have a look what they offer.
- The Old Mill and the Bakery on Main Street sometimes also have good options.

How much time should I plan for a table service meal?
A table service meal in France takes longer than in the US. Especially outside a Disney Park.
Do not expect to be in and out within 45 minutes.
Waiters will not come to your table asking every 5 minutes if you are alright.
You will probably have to ask for the bill.

I hear something about champagne?
Yes, you can buy and drink champagne on Main Street. It's not available year round (usually during the summer months it is). Go to the end of Main Street, on your right there is a kiosk.

I have allergies
Each restaurant has a binder with all the details of allergies and ingredients. Ask the server or CM at the register about the options. CMs in restaurants are usually bilingual in French and English, but if you have specific allergies, it never hurts to know the translation of your allergy in French.

If you are looking for inspiration, go to youtube. There are several videos from people with allergies making videos on their experiences.

I am a vegan/vegetarian
For a long time France and vegetarians didn't really mix well. But it is definitely getting better. I think most, maybe even all, restaurants have vegetarian options.

Like with allergies, go to youtube for inspiration. There are people documenting where they get their food.

Are there supermarkets around?
Yes, there are supermarkets in Val D'europe, one subway stop away.
Also there are 2 Relay stores at the train station. Here you can buy bottled water, milk, snacks, bread, etc.

Where are my iconic Disney snacks?
Dole whip: We don't have that. We do sometimes have a similar drink at Cafe de la Brousse in the summer, sometimes pineapple, sometimes mango flavour.
Turkey leg: Small version is available opposite Big Thunder Mountain
Mickey bar: We have Mickey bars... not as widely available.
Mickey waffle: Eh... sometimes, at the Old Mill or at Victorias
Also no Mickey Pretzel, beignets, funnel cake...

We do have hot dogs at Casey's Corner.

Snacks change frequently. So some iconic snacks might become available (again) in the future.

Where to go for an early breakfast outside the parks?
There are several options to get some breakfast before parks open:
- Hotel buffet.
- Starbucks, there are three locations, in the hotels Santa Fe and Cheyenne, and there is one in Disney Village, this location opens at 8.
- Brasserie Rosalie in Disney Village, opens at 8.
- Go to the train station, there is Relay and Pret A Manger where you can pick food.

Once the park is open:
- The Main Street Bakery is open from 8:30. It's only open from the outside counters.

Is there mobile order in Disneyland Paris?
In the past few years mobile order is introduced to Disneyland Paris. It is not available at each restaurant. Participating restaurants are:
- Café Hyperion (Discoveryland)
- Au Chalet de la Marionette (Fantasyland)
- Cowboy Cookout Barbecue (Frontierland)
- Hakuna Matata (Adventureland)
- Casa de Coco (Frontierland)
- Last Chance Cafe (Frontierland)
- Casey's Corner (Main Street)

Are all restaurants open during opening hours
No... Many restaurants open around 11 or 11:30 for lunch, but sometimes they can stay closed or close early. This depends on the season. In the app you can see the opening hours.

 

[Karin1984]

Getting to the parks
From the city of Paris:
- RER (Subway) – 60 minutes
The A-line ends at Marne la Vallee / Chessy / Disneyland Paris. This is indicated on the signs.
If you do not get on at the A-line route, most likely you will have to transfer at Chatelet Les Halles, one of the biggest subway stations.
If you stay in the city and plan to do a lot by subway, consider staying near Chatelet les Halles.

It is busy during rush hours. Make sure you are all together. Keep an eye out for pickpockets.

Depending on where you get on it takes about 60 minutes to get from the city to Disneyland Paris.

- Car service – 60 minutes.
More expensive, but also more convenient especially when travelling with a bigger group and/or lots of luggage.

Depending on traffic this might take 60 minutes.

From the airport Charles de Gaulle:
- Train – 10 minutes:
Quick, but irregular schedule and hard to time in case of flight delays.
- Magical Express – 45-60 minutes
- Car service – 45-60 minutes

By international train:
- If you select Marne La Vallee / Chessy as your destination, you will arrive at the doorstep of the parks.

Staying at one of the partner hotels
When you stay at one of the partner hotels, there is a bus between the hotels, dropping you off at main entrance. The first buses go from 8:15, meaning if you have an eligible AP, you might not be able to be there before opening. Take an Uber or walk.

There are plenty Ubers around. It costs 10-15 euro per one way.
When you go to the parks, ask to be dropped off at the south end (near Vaipiano & Five Guys). This security entrance is much quieter than the main entrance.

Any suggestions for private car services?
Other people on these boards have used:
- EzyShuttle
- Blacklane
- ISprestige
- ParisDisneyTransfer

 

[Karin1984]

Rides:
Which rides are unique to Disneyland Paris

- Adventure isle & grottos. This is an explore/play area
- Avengers Assemble (same ride as Rock 'n Roller Coaster, but different theming)
- Big Thunder Mountain (It's the best of all 6 parks around the world. Fact. It's also more thrilling than the US counterparts)
- Cars Road Trip (however, I would skip this if you are over 6 years old and/or not a massive Cars fan)
- Casey Jr.
- Crush's Coaster
- Indiana Jones (this is not the same ride as in DL)
- La Galerie de la Belle au Bois Dormant (you can go up in the castle and look out over Fantasyland)
- La Tanière du Dragon (the dragon under the castle. To me it's just a big animatronic, but Americans seem to love it ;-) )
- Le passage Echanté d'Aladdin (nice little distraction)
- Les Mystères du Nautilus (this is a less nice distraction, especially after they replaced the practical effect with a screen)
- Pays des Contes Fees (very similar to Storybook Land, but no skipper)
- Phantom Manor
- Pirates of the Caribbean (yes, it is very similar, but I do think it's unique enough, 2 drops, an onride picture)
- RC Racer
- Slinky Dog Zig Zag Spin
- Space Mountain
- Twilight Tower of Terror (it is still the original theme, plus a little ghost girl is added)
- Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop

Which rides can I skip because I go to WDW/DL often?
Some rides are very similar / identical to the US counter parts. It can be fun to do these rides anyway and look for the (differences). Let it depend on how much time you have and how much you love a certain ride.

- Autopia (different lay out and theming, but the ride itself is the same)
- Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast
- Carrousel de Lancelot
- Disneyland Railroad, (Yes, the park looks different but basically the same)
- Dumbo
- It's a small world (longer European section and the order is different)
- Les voyages de pinocchio
- Mad Hatter Tea Cups
- Orbitron
- Peter pan's flight
- Ratatouille
- Snow white and the Seven Dwarfs (Snow White's scary adventures)
- Spiderman W.E.B.
- Star Tours

Does Disneyland Paris have single rider lines?
Yes, there are single rider lines. However, it can be that they are not used. Depending on the crowd levels of the day.
How much time they save really depends about being lucky and the ride system. Crush''s Coaster is already slow loading, so also the single riders line will go slower. Space Mountain's line moves a lot quicker and so does the single riders line

Disneyland park

• Space Mountain
• Indiana Jones

Studios

• Ratatouille
• Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop
• RC Racer
• Crush's Coaster
• Spider-Man W.E.B.
• Avengers Assemble

Where can I find the refurbishment schedule?
Go to the park hours section on the website (top right corner). Scroll down a bit, there you can see which rides are open or closed.
https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-gb/calendars/park-hours/
However... Better is to check the app. The app also shows which restaurants and stores are closed.

Made a little tutorial:

https://www.tiktok.com/video/7400429653929905441

I am pooh sized / I am heavier than most people, which rides can I do?
This is a recent thread with tips and advice: https://www.disboards.com/threads/plus-size-in-paris.3920264/#post-64836935

Does the left lane theory work?
Maybe not at all rides, but in my opinion, it does work at Big Thunder Mountain. The line splits very early on, and there can be a few minutes / trains advantage by taking the left lane. Another perk of the left lane is fresh air. The right lane snakes around inside the building, the left lane is wrapped around it next to the open air. If you are a bit claustrophobic / don't like to be caught within a line, go left.
At Pirates the lanes are split almost at the end, there is hardly a benefit and it's more about being lucky.

At which rides do they take your picture?
Photopass pictures are take on:
- Big Thunder Mountain
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Space Mountain
- Buzz Lightyear
- Tower of Terror
- Avengers Assemble

 

[Karin1984]

Entertainment
What kind of entertainment does Disneyland Paris have?
- Parades
A daytime parade. During certain seasons there can be a Christmas, Halloween/autumn, princess, spring parade.
- Night time shows
Depending on the weather there is always a drone and a fireworks show in Disneyland Park.
During certain seasons, there can be also a projection or drone show in the Studios on the Tower of Terror
- Hub show
Several times a day there is a hub show with a mini parade. Characters & dancers on floats ride from Main Street to the hub and have an additional show there. If the weather is bad (mild rain), it will be changed in just a parade.

- Other shows.
Disneyland Paris has several indoor shows in both parks. At the moment in Disneyland Park:
- Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands (Animation with the look and feel (ish) of the Broadway show)

In the Studios:
- Mickey and the Magician (Mickey is a Magician's assistant and tries to find his magic)
- Together (With a live orchestra, a compilation of Pixar characters)
- Disney Jr. Dream Factory (One of the factory workers doesn't have a dream!)
- Alice in Wonderland stunt show (Like a concert with a competition between Alice and the Queen of Hearts, two endings, vote for the Queen of Hearts)

Wait... Disneyland Paris doesn't have a night time parade?
No, unfortunately not.
With one exception. Since 2022 there is a night time version of the Christmas parade, Shine a Light. The parade goes out twice a day, during the day and after dark.

I heard something about less fireworks?
True. In Paris we have less fireworks in a show in comparison to the US parks. This has to do with environment regulations. There are more projections and fountains to balance it.

Which shows would you recommend?
I haven't seen Alice in Wonderland yet. But I think if you love shows you should see all of them, including Disney Jr. Dream Factory even if you are not the Disney Jr. target audience. It is really good in my opinion. Of course it also depends what kind of characters you like.
If you only have time for one, I would probably recommend Mickey and the Magician. It is a classic Disney show.

The drone show is a must.

Characters
Of course there are characters in Disneyland Paris! What is a Disney Park without character meet & greets?

Scheduled characters:
On the program and in the app you will see several meet & greet scheduled. There is a specific time and place where you can meet them.

I see sometimes '... or friends' on the program, what does this mean?
When you see 'Winnie the Pooh or Friends' at a meet & greet location, it could mean you meet Winnie the Pooh, or any of the other characters from that universe, so Piglet, Rabbit or Eyeore.

Unscheduled characters:
As the word says, there are also unscheduled character meet & greets. They will not roam around like in Disneyland California. There will be a line.
Possible locations in Disneyland Park:
- At the towers at the beginning of Fantasyland, near Bella Notte. (Mary Poppins, Rapunzel)
- Opposite Small World, near the gates (Pinocchio, Gepetto)
- The Fantasyland gate near Adventureland (Rapunzel or other princess characters)
- Near Casey Jr. (Winnie the Pooh)
- The Old Mill (can be anything, Fab Five, Winnie the Pooh, Princesses)
- Next to teacups (Alice)

Possible locations in Studios:
- At the end of the Front Lot on the left (not during the 2024 construction work) - (Mary Poppins)

Hotel characters
Each hotel has characters. You can ask reception for the times as they might change throughout the year. The morning hours are often 9.00-11.00.

The characters are usually themed with the hotel. Woody & Friends in Cheyenne, Mickey & Friends in sailing outfits in NPB. You can visit them regardless where you are staying. With the exception for the princesses at the Disneyland Hotel, those are for Disneyland hotel guests only.

Photopass photographers
Alas... photopass is not as popular here in Paris as it is in the US. On very rare occasion you might find photographers at the end of Main Street or on the hub to take castle pictures. But these are rare. Count yourself lucky when you see them!

There are photopass photographers at certain meet & greets, mainly the ones in-door (Mickey in the Fantasyland Theatre, the Princess Pavilion) and the meet & greet at the left at the beginning of Main Street.

Next to that Disneyland Paris often has some magic shot locations. What the magic shot is often changes per season.
Known locations in Disneyland Park:
- In front of Plaza Gardens
- Directly behind the entrance of Frontierland
- Left of the castle bridge

Studios:
- Toon Studio, near the Monsters Inc photo op.

 

[Karin1984]

Premier Access (Fastpass/Genie+/Lightning Lane equivalent)
In Disneyland Paris it is called Premier Access. https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-gb/attractions/disney-premier-access/

You can buy per ride, or a package deal. There are 2 packages:
1. Premier Access One: Book a time slot
2. Premier Access Ultimate: Go whenever you want.
Both packages allow you to do each eligible ride once.

My personal advice is to always go to the park and buy on the day off what the best option is for you. Most likely it will be to buy per ride.

There are rides that rarely have a long line, or rides are not aimed at all groups. If you are travelling with young children you might skip coasters, if you travel with adults only you might skip some kiddie rides.

Do your research on which rides you want to ride, if you are used to the US parks which rides are very similar, and keep an eye on the wait times in the parks. Many rides are open during Early Morning Hours, or there are moments when the lines slow down.

At which rides is Premier Access available?
Disneyland Park:
- Autopia (might be a good option, it's slow unloading, therefore lines can get long)
- Big Thunder Mountain
- Buzz Lightyear
- Indiana Jones
- It's a small world
- Orbitron
- Peter Pan
- Phantom Manor
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Space Mountain
- Star Tours

Studios:
- Avengers Assemble
- Cars Road Trip
- Crush's Coaster (Probably the best ride to buy Premier Access for, slow loading)
- Ratatouille
- Spiderman W.E.B.
- Tower of Terror

 

[Karin1984]

Guaranteed Access
For more information: https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-usd/entertainment/guaranteed-access/

Next to Premier Access, Disneyland Paris also has Guaranteed Access for shows.
You pay 15 euro per person and will get a guaranteed seat at the show of your choice. It will save you time waiting.

This is available at the following shows:
- Lion King - Rhythm of the Pride Lands
- Mickey and the Magician
- Together
- Frozen - A musical invitation.

The doors open about 15 minutes before showtime, I would advise you to be there before the doors open. You can arrive later and still have a seat, it might only not be at the premium spots.
First people with disabilities are let in, then guaranteed access, then the general public. Once the general public is in, the CMs in the theater focus on filling every available seat. They do not have time to get you in the premium spots at the last minute.

Are there package deals with Premier Access?
No, there are not. These are two separate services.

Sounds like a lot of money!
Depends. It's more bang for your buck, so to speak, in comparison to paying to skip the line for a ride. A show can take 20-30 minutes, a ride might last 2-8 minutes.
Both Premier Access and Guaranteed Access might save you an hour of waiting. What is the reward you prefer?

It also depends on how important a good seat is for you. With Guaranteed Access you will have a spot in the center of the audience (provided you arrive before the doors open) .

 

[Karin1984]

Disability Access
More information: https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-gb/guest-services/accessibility-at-disneylandparis/

Disneyland Paris has 2 versions: Easy access and a priority card.
Both require documentation from a doctor/health professional or local authorities with proof of disability.

Why they have made this difference is not entirely clear, it doesn't always make sense, but just go with it.

How do I get an easy access card?
Go to the DLP website and look at the list of approved diseases / conditions https://media.disneylandparis.com/d4th/en-gb/images/ALD-UK.pdf

If you have one of the conditions on the list, ask for your doctor / health professional to write you a note with your personal details (name, DOB) and the number of the condition. It doesn't require any explanation about the condition, how it impacts your life, or why you cannot stand in a conventional line. It has to be in French or in English. And cannot be over 3 months old.

You hand your note to a CM at Guest Relations (in the parks or at the hotel), they will create a card, take your picture, and give you a card for your return times.

You can read my experiences with the Easy Access card here: https://www.disboards.com/threads/easy-access-card-at-dlp.3912172/

What do I get with easy access card?
Easy Access means that you will go to the entrance of a ride, the CM will write a return time on your card and you return at said time. It can be you enter via the exit, sometimes via the Premier Access entrance.

Easy Access does not get you a spot for shows or parades.

How do I get a priority card?
You can request this in advance: https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-gb/guest-services/priority-card/
It's based on an 'officially recognized disability'. So your proof can be a disability card, parking card for disability people, proof that you get disability payments from the goverments etc. You first select your country and per country it shows which documentation is allowed.

What do I get with a priority card?
You get access to rides via the exit. You do not have to request a return time.

 

[Karin1984]

Merchandise
When people from the US come over they experience less merchandise offered or less variety than in the US parks.
This is very noticeable in clothing.

Will they have my size?
Depends. Sizes differ in France from the US, the UK or the rest of Europe. So you might be a medium sized person in one country and that might be a large in France. Try it on and go with the size that fits you, regardless of what the label says.

Sizes often do not go all the way up to XXXL.

Will people look at my funny if I wear ears/Disneybounding/other things....
Probably not. Certain things like ears are less popular in France then in the US, but you will still see people wearing it.
There will be less little girls wearing princess dresses, but no one will look at you funny.
Disney bounding is getting more and more popular.
Matching outfit for family trips etc. are not that popular either but you do see a handful of people wearing them.

Where can I find...
Usually most items can be bought in the Emporium on Main Street or World of Disney in Disney Village.

There are specialized stores. For example: Nightmare before Christmas merch can be found in the shop opposite Big Thunder Mountain or the shop when you exit Pirates of the Caribbean
Lion King merch can be found in the shop at the entrance of Adventureland

 

[steve_rob]

This is really great @Karin1984! I think we should ask for this to be sticky-ed, perhaps to replace the "First time" thread, which is now a little out of date.

 

[Karin1984]

Weather
What's the weather going to be like?
Go to weather website. Fill in Chessy as your destination and not Paris. Check the weather as close to your arrival / packing as you can.

On weather.com there is also a radar to track where the rain exactly is.

What if it rains?!
Disneyland Paris is built with bad weather in mind, almost all queues are indoors. There are the arcades that are parallel to Main Street and you can walk from the beginning of the park to Pirates on the other side, almost completely covered.

Bring umbrellas or ponchos. These are also sold in the shops, but against Disney prices An umbrella costs 30 euro! (They are very sturdy, I must admit).

Look into going indoors for snacks or a meal, or go see a show, which can take some time out of your day. Hopefully it'll clear up when you get out.

What kind of rain do you have?
It can go always, it is possible it's going to drizzle for the entire day. Or short showers.
In the last few years there have been huge downpours. This not necessarily stops operation. However, you do see that the drainage system isn't built for huge amounts of water. Do bring appropriate footwear if rain is predicted for your visit.

How should I dress?
It all depends on what you are used to. Florida heat is different from Texas heat is different from Paris heat. When it's hot, there is very little humidity in Paris.
For Spring and Autumn it's best to bring layers. These seasons can go all ways.

Can it snow in Disneyland Paris?
Yes, it can. In January-February there is a chance of snow. It's possible it will stay for a while or melt

What about A/C...
We don't really do air conditioning in Europe. Not in the same way as they do in the US. When it's warm, we open a window.
If there is A/C in your room, you won't be able to set it to very very cold. When you are visiting in the summer months and you really want A/C in your room... you have better chances of this staying at a Marriott or a Hilton etc. in the city center than in the Disneyland Hotels.

Water fountains
There are several water fountains throughout the park. However, it can be that these are not working during winter. Something to do with the plumbing freezing over.

 

[Karin1984]

This is really great @Karin1984! I think we should ask for this to be sticky-ed, perhaps to replace the "First time" thread, which is now a little out of date.

It sure was time for something new. A lot has changed over the last few years. Especially since Covid.
@tennisfan can we sticky this?

 

[tennisfan]

It sure was time for something new. A lot has changed over the last few years. Especially since Covid.
@tennisfan can we sticky this?

Done, thanks for taking the time to update the info

 

[Karin1984]

Miscellaneous:

Can I use US Disney gift cards in Disneyland Paris?
No, unfortunately not. The US gift cards are issued in dollars. Disneyland Paris only accepts euros, cash or card.

Where can I go to go Pin Trading?
Pin trading is not as big of a thing as it is in the US. However, there is a pin trading shop in Frontierland, near the Cowboy Cookout.
On Saturdays you will find traders here with binders filled with pins.
Each Saturday new pins are released.
There are Disneyland Paris branded pins and also others not available in other Disney parks.

 

[Karin1984]

I've created a Tiktok channel to share some tips. First video is of where to find the refurbishment schedule.
And to my surprise... The app is better than the website! The app also shows the which restaurants and stores are closed.

https://www.tiktok.com/video/7400429653929905441

 

[tink2424]

Disability Access
More information: https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-gb/guest-services/accessibility-at-disneylandparis/

Disneyland Paris has 2 versions: Easy access and a priority card.
Both require documentation from a doctor/health professional or local authorities with proof of disability.

Why they have made this difference is not entirely clear, it doesn't always make sense, but just go with it.

How do I get an easy access card?
Go to the DLP website and look at the list of approved diseases / conditions https://media.disneylandparis.com/d4th/en-gb/images/ALD-UK.pdf

If you have one of the conditions on the list, ask for your doctor / health professional to write you a note with your personal details (name, DOB) and the number of the condition. It doesn't require any explanation about the condition, how it impacts your life, or why you cannot stand in a conventional line. It has to be in French or in English. And cannot be over 3 months old.

You hand your note to a CM at Guest Relations (in the parks or at the hotel), they will create a card, take your picture, and give you a card for your return times.

You can read my experiences with the Easy Access card here: https://www.disboards.com/threads/easy-access-card-at-dlp.3912172/

What do I get with easy access card?
Easy Access means that you will go to the entrance of a ride, the CM will write a return time on your card and you return at said time. It can be you enter via the exit, sometimes via the Premier Access entrance.

Easy Access does not get you a spot for shows or parades.

How do I get a priority card?
You can request this in advance: https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-gb/guest-services/priority-card/
It's based on an 'officially recognized disability'. So your proof can be a disability card, parking card for disability people, proof that you get disability payments from the goverments etc. You first select your country and per country it shows which documentation is allowed.

What do I get with a priority card?
You get access to rides via the exit. You do not have to request a return time.

Great job on this Karin!! I just wanted to add one thing.

If you are using a wheelchair just for mobility issues you need the Easy Access card. They will NOT let you bring the wheelchair in line without that which is a big difference from the US parks. We didn't know this and for my Mom we did have to double back to Guest Services to get the card.

 

[NYCgrrl]

Very informative in many directions. Thanks for taking the time to write.