As a huge fan of Disney parks, I often get asked which is better: Disneyland Paris or Walt Disney World? Both parks have their unique charm and attractions, making it difficult to choose just one. However, after visiting both parks multiple times, I have gained some insights that might help you decide which park is right for you.
Disneyland Paris is located in France
it has two parks, while Walt Disney World has four and two waterparks. Both parks have their own unique attractions and experiences, making it difficult to choose just one. However, there are some key differences between the two parks that might help you decide which one is right for you.
Walt Disney World is based in Orlando, Florida
Location and Size
Location
When it comes to location, Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World are in vastly different places. Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Valle, which is just over 30kms east of Paris, France. On the other hand, Walt Disney World is based in Orlando, Florida, in the United States.
While Disneyland Paris is easily accessible by public transportation, Walt Disney World requires a car or shuttle service to get around due to its sprawling size. However, both locations offer a variety of accommodations for visitors, from on-site hotels to nearby rental homes.
Size
One of the biggest differences between Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World is the size of the parks. Disneyland Paris has two parks, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, while Walt Disney World has four theme parks, two water parks, and a shopping and dining district.
Disneyland Paris is the smaller of the two resorts, with Disneyland Park covering approximately 55 hectares and Walt Disney Studios Park covering approximately 25 hectares. In comparison, Walt Disney World covers a staggering 121.7 square kilometres, with each of its four theme parks covering between 50 and 100 hectares.
While Walt Disney World may be larger, Disneyland Paris offers a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great choice for families with younger children or those who prefer a slower pace.
In terms of crowds, both parks can get busy during peak season, but Walt Disney World’s sheer size means that visitors can spread out more, making it feel less crowded overall. However, Disneyland Paris has shorter wait times for attractions, making it easier to fit more into a single day.
Overall, both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World offer unique experiences and are worth visiting for any Disney fan. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for in a theme park experience.
Parks and Attractions
As a Disney fan, I have been fortunate enough to visit both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World. Both parks have their unique charm and attractions, but which one is better? Let’s take a closer look at the parks and attractions.
Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Vallee, France. It has two parks, Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney Studios. Disneyland Paris is the park that most visitors come to see. It has a classic Disney feel with the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle as the centerpiece. The park is divided into five themed lands: Fantasyland, Frontierland, Adventureland, Discoveryland, and Main Street, USA.
One of the standout attractions at Disneyland Paris is the Ratatouille ride. It is a 4D attraction that takes you through the world of the movie. Crush’s Coaster is another must-ride attraction at Walt Disney Studios. It is a thrilling roller coaster that takes you through the world of Finding Nemo.
Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida, USA
Walt Disney World is located in Orlando, Florida, and is the largest Disney resort in the world. It has four parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Magic Kingdom is the most visited park and is similar to Disneyland Paris with its iconic castle and themed lands.
Walt Disney World has some of the best attractions in the world, including the Haunted Mansion, Tower of Terror, and the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios is also a must-visit for fans of the franchise.
Attractions
Both parks have their unique attractions that make them worth visiting. Thunder Mountain at Disneyland Paris is smoother, much faster, and darker than the one at Walt Disney World. Pirates of the Caribbean at Walt Disney World is longer and has more scenes than the one at Disneyland Paris.
Space Mountain at Disneyland Paris is a must-ride attraction for thrill-seekers. It is a high-speed roller coaster that takes you through the galaxy. It’s a Small World is a classic attraction that you can find at both parks, but the one at Disneyland Paris is more visually stunning.
In conclusion, both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World have their unique charm and attractions. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you want to experience. Whether you choose to visit Disneyland Paris or Walt Disney World, you are sure to have a magical time.
Transportation and Tickets
Best Time to Visit
When planning a trip to either Disneyland Paris or Walt Disney World, it’s important to consider the best time to visit. The peak season for both parks is during the summer months and around major holidays, which means larger crowds and longer wait times for attractions. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider visiting during the off-season, such as November, January, or February.
Transportation
Getting to and from the parks is an important consideration when planning your trip. At Disneyland Paris, transportation is top-notch, with the RER/TGV train station stopping right at the park gates. If you’re staying in Paris, taking the train is a convenient and affordable option. However, if you’re hoping to avoid Paris hotel prices, it might be worth it for you to stay closer to Disneyland Paris for a night.
At Walt Disney World, transportation options include buses, monorails, and ferries. If you’re flying into Orlando International Airport, you can take advantage of the Magical Express, a complimentary shuttle service that takes you directly to your Disney resort hotel. If you’re staying off-site, renting a car may be the most convenient option.
Tickets
When it comes to tickets, both parks offer a variety of options to suit your needs. At Disneyland Paris, you can choose between one-day or multi-day tickets, as well as park hopper options. It’s important to note that some attractions, such as the popular Ratatouille ride, require a separate Fastpass ticket.
At Walt Disney World, ticket options include one-day or multi-day tickets, as well as park hopper options and Fastpass+. It’s worth considering purchasing a multi-day ticket, as it can save you money in the long run. Additionally, if you’re staying at a Disney resort hotel, you can take advantage of Extra Magic Hours, which allow you to enter the parks before or after regular operating hours.
Overall, both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World offer a variety of transportation and ticket options to suit your needs. It’s important to do your research and consider your budget and preferences when planning your trip.
Hotels and Accommodations
When it comes to hotels and accommodations, both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World offer a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Hotels
Disneyland Paris has several on-site hotels, including the Disneyland Hotel which is located right at the entrance of the park and offers luxurious amenities and themed rooms. Other options include the Disney’s Newport Bay Club, Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel, and the Disney’s Sequoia Lodge. Each hotel has its own unique theme and atmosphere, and all offer easy access to the parks.
Walt Disney World, on the other hand, has a much larger selection of on-site hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options like Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort to more luxurious options like Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. The latter is especially popular among animal lovers, as it offers views of exotic animals from the rooms and public areas.
Affordability
When it comes to affordability, Disneyland Paris generally offers better value for money than Walt Disney World. The on-site hotels at Disneyland Paris are generally cheaper than those at Walt Disney World, and some even offer park tickets included in the price.
In addition, there are also several off-site hotels located near Disneyland Paris that offer more affordable options. The Disney Village, located between the two parks, also offers a variety of restaurants and shops that cater to different budgets.
Overall, both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World offer a range of hotels and accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. While Walt Disney World has a larger selection of on-site hotels, Disneyland Paris generally offers better value for money and more affordable options.
Food and Restaurants
When it comes to food and restaurants, both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World have a lot to offer. As someone who has visited both parks, I can confidently say that the food at both parks is delicious and satisfying.
Food
One thing I noticed about Disneyland Paris is that the food is more affordable than at Walt Disney World. Meals, many of which are Indian and Mexican-inspired, were priced around £10, including a drink and a dessert. In comparison, meals at Walt Disney World can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from £15 to £30 per meal.
However, both parks offer a wide variety of food options to suit all tastes and dietary requirements. From quick-service restaurants to sit-down dining experiences, there is something for everyone.
Restaurants
When it comes to restaurants, both parks have their strengths and weaknesses. Disneyland Paris has more limited food experiences in terms of sit-down restaurants and character dining. However, the food I have had at the table service and character dining restaurants at Disneyland Paris has been superior to what I have experienced at Walt Disney World.
Walt Disney World, on the other hand, has a wider variety of restaurants and dining experiences. From character dining to signature dining experiences, there is something for everyone at Walt Disney World. However, the quality of the food can be hit or miss at some of the quick-service restaurants.
Overall, both parks offer great food and dining experiences. While Disneyland Paris may be more affordable, Walt Disney World has a wider variety of dining experiences to choose from.
Shows and Parades
As a Disney enthusiast, I always look forward to the shows and parades at any Disney park. Both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World offer a variety of entertainment options that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Shows
At Disneyland Paris, visitors can enjoy “Mickey and the Magician,” a Broadway-style show featuring Mickey Mouse and other beloved Disney characters. The show takes place in a beautiful theatre and includes stunning special effects and impressive illusions. Another must-see show is “Disney Illuminations,” a nighttime spectacular featuring fireworks, projections, and music from classic Disney films.
Walt Disney World also has its fair share of impressive shows. “Festival of the Lion King” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a fan-favourite, with acrobatics, music, and puppetry bringing the beloved film to life. “Fantasmic!” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is another popular show, featuring Mickey Mouse battling Disney villains in a stunning water and light show.
Parades
Disneyland Paris offers several parades throughout the day, including the “Disney Stars on Parade,” a colourful procession featuring floats and characters from classic Disney films. The parade ends with a show-stopping performance by Maleficent, the iconic villain from “Sleeping Beauty.”
Walt Disney World’s parades are equally impressive. “Festival of Fantasy” at Magic Kingdom is a grand procession featuring floats, characters, and music from popular Disney films. The parade includes a stunning finale featuring Maleficent in her dragon form.
Atmosphere
Both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World are known for their immersive atmosphere, with each park transporting visitors to a different world. Disneyland Paris has a distinctly European feel, with beautiful architecture and quaint streets reminiscent of a French village. Walt Disney World, on the other hand, is larger and more spread out, with each park offering a unique atmosphere and theme.
Maleficent
Maleficent is a popular character at both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World, with the villain making appearances in several shows and parades. Maleficent’s dragon form is a highlight of both “Festival of Fantasy” at Walt Disney World and “Disney Stars on Parade” at Disneyland Paris, with the impressive float breathing fire and wowing audiences.
In conclusion, both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World offer a variety of impressive shows and parades that are sure to delight visitors. Whether you prefer the European charm of Disneyland Paris or the larger-than-life atmosphere of Walt Disney World, there’s no denying that both parks offer world-class entertainment.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Disneyland Paris or Walt Disney World?
The best time to visit Disneyland Paris or Walt Disney World depends on several factors. If you’re looking to avoid crowds and long wait times, it’s best to avoid peak season which includes school holidays, weekends, and major holidays like Christmas and New Year. The low season, typically during weekdays in off-peak months like January, February, September, and October, is an ideal time to visit. The weather may not be as warm, but you’ll get to enjoy shorter lines and fewer crowds.
Which destination is more suitable for families with young children?
Both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World have a lot to offer for families with young children. However, I would say that Disneyland Paris might be a more suitable option for families with young children due to its smaller size and more compact layout. Disneyland Paris is much easier to navigate and you can easily get around with strollers. Additionally, the majority of the attractions are geared towards younger children, so they’ll have more opportunities to experience the magic of Disney.
Are there any differences between the parks in terms of accessibility for disabled visitors?
Yes, there are some differences between the parks in terms of accessibility for disabled visitors. Both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World offer a variety of services and accommodations for guests with disabilities, including wheelchair rentals, priority access to attractions, and assistance from Cast Members. However, it’s important to note that Disneyland Paris may not be as wheelchair accessible as Walt Disney World due to its older infrastructure and narrow walkways.
Can I use my Walt Disney World ticket at Disneyland Paris, or vice versa?
Unfortunately, no. You cannot use your Walt Disney World ticket at Disneyland Paris or vice versa. Both parks have separate admission fees and ticketing systems. However, if you’re a frequent Disney-goer, you might want to consider purchasing an Annual Pass for one or both of the parks to save money and gain additional perks.
Is it worth visiting both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World?
I would say that it is definitely worth visiting both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World if you’re a Disney enthusiast. While there are some similarities between the two parks, they also have unique differences in terms of attractions, entertainment, and overall atmosphere. Disneyland Paris has a more compact layout and a more European feel, while Walt Disney World is vast and immersive, offering four different parks and numerous accommodations. If you have the time and budget, visiting both parks can offer a more complete Disney experience.