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After years of canceled plans and passport delays, we were finally in Europe.

For days we had wandered through Paris, admiring cathedrals, museums, historic neighborhoods, and famous landmarks. Through it all, our daughter patiently followed along. She climbed towers, toured churches, walked mile after mile through the city, and even managed to show interest in places that probably held very little appeal for a child.

Traveling with kids is different than traveling as adults. Their interests, energy levels, and memories often look very different from our own. As parents, we try to balance seeing the places that matter to us with making room for experiences that matter to her.

So when it came time to decide how to spend another day in Paris, we changed our plans. Instead of visiting the Palace of Versailles, we headed to the other royal palace of our trip—Disneyland Paris.

Theme parks are not everyone’s idea of international travel. We even received a few eye rolls from family members when they learned where we were going. But after several days spent exploring the city on our terms, it felt right to dedicate a day entirely to her.

As longtime Disney fans who had visited Disneyland in California and spent countless weekends at Walt Disney World when we lived in Florida, I was also curious to see how Disney’s European park compared to its American cousins.

What we discovered was a park that felt familiar, uniquely French, and surprisingly different from any Disney park we had visited before.

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Disneyland Paris: A Disney Park with a French Twist

The first thing that surprised me about Disneyland Paris was the price.

Compared to the Disney parks in the United States, a day at Disneyland Paris was remarkably affordable. Tickets were roughly a third of the cost of a day at Walt Disney World and about half the cost of Disneyland in California. As a family that had spent plenty of time at both American parks, it was a pleasant surprise.

Of course, the lower price wasn’t the only difference.

From the moment we arrived, Disneyland Paris felt distinctly European. The beautiful pink entrance hotel, elegant fountains, and carefully landscaped walkways created a first impression that felt a little more refined than the American parks. It still had all the excitement and anticipation of a Disney day, but with a uniquely French flair.

While Disneyland Paris is now one of Europe’s most popular tourist attractions, its beginnings were not particularly smooth. When plans for the park were announced, many people in France viewed it as an unwelcome symbol of American culture. Protests were held, criticism was widespread, and Disney executives were met with open hostility during public presentations.

Despite the controversy, construction continued, and Disneyland Paris officially opened in April 1992. And over time, attitudes changed.

Today, the resort welcomes millions of visitors each year and has become one of the most visited theme parks in Europe. During our visit, the park was celebrating its 30th anniversary with special decorations, colorful costumes for the characters, and anniversary-themed treats throughout the park.

Standing at the entrance that morning, watching families stream through the gates with excitement, it was hard to imagine the resistance that once surrounded the project.

What began as a controversial idea has become a place where families from around the world come to create memories together.

And with that, it was time to step through the gates and see what made Disneyland Paris so different from the Disney parks we already knew.

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Fantasyland & the Magic of Storytelling

Our first stop was Fantasyland, the heart of classic Disney storytelling.

Stepping into Fantasyland felt like walking into the pages of a storybook. Colorful cottages lined the pathways, whimsical details appeared around every corner, and even the landscaping seemed designed to spark the imagination. Beanstalks climbed up buildings, music drifted through the air, and every path seemed to lead to another fairy tale.

One thing Disney consistently does well is immersion. No matter your age, there is something about these carefully designed lands that makes it easy to leave reality behind for a little while and step into a world of stories.

One of the most unique attractions in Fantasyland is Alice’s Curious Labyrinth, a walk-through attraction inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Rather than waiting in a queue for a ride, visitors wander through twisting green hedges while encountering familiar characters from the story along the way. We spotted the Cheshire Cat grinning from hidden corners, playing-card soldiers standing guard, and references to many of the beloved scenes from the film.

The maze eventually leads to the Queen of Hearts’ Castle, where visitors can climb to the top tower and enjoy views across Fantasyland and the rest of the park. It was one of those attractions that encouraged you to slow down and explore rather than rush to the next ride.

Nearby was another Disney classic: It’s a Small World.

This ride seems to inspire strong opinions among Disney fans. People either love it or avoid it at all costs. I’ve never considered myself one of its biggest supporters, but I have to admit that the Disneyland Paris version won me over more than any other. The attraction felt brighter, more colorful, and more representative of cultures from around the world. Instead of simply riding through it, I found myself paying attention to the incredible details and craftsmanship throughout the scenes.

More than anything, Fantasyland captured exactly what Disney does best. It creates places where imagination feels real, where adults can rediscover a bit of childhood wonder, and where kids can fully lose themselves in the magic of the story.

And for our daughter, that magic was just beginning.

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Adventureland & Frontierland

After the storybook charm of Fantasyland, we headed into the worlds of pirates, explorers, and the Wild West.

Adventureland was one of my favorite areas of the park. Rather than focusing solely on rides, it felt like a place that invited exploration. Massive pirate ships sat anchored in the water while rope bridges swayed overhead and hidden pathways disappeared into caves carved through the rocks. It felt less like a theme park and more like a giant playground designed for adventure.

One of the highlights was exploring the pirate areas that surround Pirates of the Caribbean. We wandered through caves and tunnels, crossed bridges, and climbed aboard a full-sized pirate ship. Even without riding an attraction, there was plenty to discover.

Of course, we couldn’t pass up a voyage with Captain Jack Sparrow and the pirates. While the ride itself was familiar from our visits to Disney parks in the United States, hearing the famous pirate songs and dialogue in French gave the entire experience a different feel. Listening to a chorus of pirates sing “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me)” in French was one of those small moments that reminded us we were still very much in Europe.

Nearby, the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse offered another opportunity to slow down and explore. Climbing through the massive tree and seeing how the family supposedly built a home among the branches was a fun reminder of Disney’s classic storytelling roots.

From there we made our way into Frontierland for one of my longtime Disney favorites: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

I’ve always loved this ride because of its resemblance to the red rock landscapes of southern Utah and northern Arizona. The rugged cliffs, mining structures, and desert scenery feel remarkably familiar to anyone who has spent time in the American Southwest.

This ride was especially fun because our daughter was finally tall enough to experience it. It had been several years since our last Disney visit, and hearing her screams of excitement as we raced through the tunnels and around the sharp curves made the ride even more enjoyable than I remembered.

We also took a leisurely cruise aboard the steamship Molly Brown. The paddlewheel boat felt like a tribute to a different era of America and reflected Walt Disney’s love of the Missouri River towns of his childhood. It was a peaceful break between attractions and a chance to enjoy a different view of the park.

One attraction we were disappointed to miss was Phantom Manor, Disneyland Paris’s version of the Haunted Mansion. Unfortunately, it was closed for refurbishment during our visit. It has a reputation for being one of the most unique Disney haunted house attractions in the world, which only gives us another reason to return someday.

By the time we left Frontierland, we had crossed pirate hideouts, explored caves, raced through abandoned mines, and sailed aboard a riverboat. It was exactly the kind of adventure-filled afternoon that makes Disney parks so memorable.

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Discoveryland & Space Adventures

From the Wild West of Frontierland, we traveled forward into the future in Discoveryland.

One of the things that makes Disneyland Paris unique is that its futuristic land feels different from the Tomorrowlands found in the United States. Rather than focusing on modern technology and predictions of the future, Discoveryland draws inspiration from the visionaries and dreamers of the nineteenth century, particularly the works of Jules Verne.

The result is a world of brass, iron, rockets, and imagination—a future imagined through the eyes of the past.

The most striking landmark in Discoveryland is Hyperspace Mountain. The giant cannon-like structure dominates the skyline and immediately draws your attention. Originally designed as a space exploration attraction, the ride was later reimagined around the Star Wars universe and now launches riders into an intergalactic battle among X-Wings, TIE Fighters, and Star Destroyers.

Even standing outside the attraction, it is easy to appreciate the incredible design. The massive telescope and launch cannon give it a distinctly European feel that sets it apart from the versions found in other Disney parks.

Discoveryland is also home to Jedi training experiences, space-themed attractions, and plenty of opportunities for visitors to embrace their inner adventurer. Whether you dream of exploring distant planets or simply enjoy the excitement of a high-speed roller coaster, this area captures the spirit of discovery and imagination that Walt Disney loved so much.

As fun as Discoveryland was, there was one place we kept finding ourselves drawn back toward throughout the day.

At the center of the park stood Sleeping Beauty Castle, and unlike any Disney castle we had visited before, this one invited us to step inside and explore.

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The Best Disney Castle We Have Ever Visited

At the center of Disneyland Paris stands Sleeping Beauty Castle, and of all the differences between Disney parks around the world, this was the one that impressed me the most.

Having visited both Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida, I expected the castle to be beautiful. What I didn’t expect was how much there would be to explore inside.

From the outside, the castle looks like something pulled directly from a fairy tale. Its soft pink walls, blue rooftops, and delicate spires rise above Fantasyland and create one of the most recognizable views in the park. Unlike some of the other Disney castles, this one feels intentionally whimsical, almost as though it belongs in the pages of a storybook rather than at the center of a theme park.

But the real magic begins once you step through the doors.

Visitors are invited to climb the winding staircase to the upper level, where the story of Sleeping Beauty unfolds through magnificent stained-glass windows and elaborate tapestries. Sunlight pours through the colorful glass, illuminating scenes from the classic fairy tale while massive woven tapestries depict other moments from the story.

The space feels more like a small museum than a castle walkthrough attraction.

One detail that particularly caught my attention was the spinning wheel tucked quietly into a corner. It was such a simple addition, yet it immediately brought the story to life and reminded visitors of the curse at the center of the tale.

From the upper balcony, we were treated to beautiful views across Fantasyland and the rest of the park. It was one of those rare moments where it felt worth slowing down and appreciating the details rather than rushing to the next attraction.

Then came one of the most unique features of any Disney castle.

Beneath the castle lies a dungeon inhabited by a massive animatronic dragon. Hidden among the stone arches and dim lighting, the dragon shifts, growls, breathes, and opens its glowing eyes as visitors cautiously make their way through the cavern.

It is both impressive and slightly intimidating.

The dragon is unique to Disneyland Paris and adds a darker fairy-tale element that perfectly complements the castle above. While children can enjoy the beauty of the stained glass and fairy-tale story upstairs, the dragon below reminds visitors that every great fairy tale needs a villain.

Of all the castles we have visited at Disney parks, this one felt the most complete. It wasn’t simply something to admire from a distance or photograph as you walked past. It was an attraction in its own right—one that encouraged visitors to step inside the story.

Long after I forget which rides we managed to fit into the day, I suspect I will still remember wandering through Sleeping Beauty Castle and discovering the dragon hidden beneath it.

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Why Disneyland Paris Felt Different

As the day went on, I found myself thinking less about the rides and more about how different Disneyland Paris felt from the Disney parks we had visited in the United States.

The most obvious difference was Sleeping Beauty Castle. Being able to walk through the castle, admire the stained glass, and encounter the dragon below made it feel like an attraction rather than simply a symbol at the center of the park. It remains my favorite Disney castle that I have visited.

Beyond the castle, the park itself felt more intimate. Disneyland Paris is smaller than Walt Disney World and easier to navigate in a single day. Rather than feeling like we were constantly racing from one reservation or attraction to another, the pace felt more relaxed and manageable. We were able to enjoy the details of the park without feeling rushed.

I also appreciated how the park embraced its European setting. From the architecture and landscaping to the influences of Jules Verne in Discoveryland, Disneyland Paris felt like its own destination rather than a copy of the American parks. There were familiar attractions everywhere, but they often had their own unique twists and personality.

One difference we noticed was in the cast member experience. At the Disney parks in the United States, employees often become part of the show itself, enthusiastically participating in the storytelling and magic of the park. In Paris, interactions felt more straightforward and less theatrical. The cast members were helpful and professional, but the experience reflected a different cultural approach. Rather than feeling like part of a performance, it felt more like visiting a well-run attraction where people were simply doing their jobs.

Neither approach is necessarily right or wrong—it was simply one of the differences we noticed during our visit.

What surprised me most was that Disneyland Paris never felt like a substitute for seeing Paris. Before our trip, I worried that spending a day at a theme park might feel like we were missing out on something more important. Instead, it became one of the most memorable days of our visit.

It gave our daughter a day that was entirely her own, allowed us to revisit a part of our family’s past, and reminded me that some of the best travel memories come from experiences you never originally planned.

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FAQ: Disneyland Paris

• Is Disneyland Paris worth visiting?

Yes, especially for families. While it may not be on every Paris itinerary, Disneyland Paris offers unique attractions, a beautiful castle, and a more affordable Disney experience than many U.S. parks.

• How much time do you need at Disneyland Paris?

Most visitors can enjoy the main attractions in one full day, though Disney fans may prefer two days to explore both parks.

• What makes Disneyland Paris different from other Disney parks?

The biggest differences are the stunning Sleeping Beauty Castle, the dragon beneath the castle, European-inspired design, and attractions with unique Parisian touches.

• Is Disneyland Paris good for kids?

Absolutely. From Fantasyland and Alice’s Curious Labyrinth to classic Disney attractions and character experiences, there are activities for children of all ages.

• What was your favorite part of Disneyland Paris?

Sleeping Beauty Castle was our favorite part of the park. Unlike other Disney castles, visitors can explore the interior, view beautiful stained glass windows, and even encounter a dragon hidden beneath the castle.

• Can Disneyland Paris be done as a day trip from Paris?

Yes. Disneyland Paris is located about 20 miles (32 km) east of central Paris and is easily reached by train, making it a popular day trip option.

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One of the lessons I continue to learn as a parent is that travel is not just about seeing the places that matter to me. Sometimes it means setting aside the famous palace or historic site and making room for the things that matter to your child.

Looking back, I never regretted missing Versailles. The palace will still be there another day, but this day belonged to our daughter. We spent it riding roller coasters, exploring pirate caves, eating treats, and watching our daughter experience the magic of Disney. Years from now, I don’t know if she will remember every museum, monument, or cathedral we visited in Paris. But I know she will remember standing beneath Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Traveling with children means understanding that childhood is its own kind of adventure. The castles and landmarks will still be there someday, but the years when your child still believes in a little bit of magic disappear far too quickly.

Looking back, choosing Disneyland Paris wasn’t a detour from our trip. It became one of the memories that made the trip special.

Thanks for joining me on this visit to Disneyland Paris. May you remember those moments of pirates, fairy tales, and dragons as you grow up.

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Follow along for more adventures near and far!

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