Disneyland Paris Guide for Families (2026)
Must-do rides, airport transfers, queue-beating tips — the ultimate guide for your family visit to the magic kingdom.
Mar 8, 2026
How to Get to Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Vallée, 32 km east of Paris. From CDG airport, a private car takes about 45 minutes — the most convenient option when travelling with children and luggage. From Orly, the journey is roughly 50 minutes.
The RER A (Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station) is an alternative from central Paris, but it often requires a change and isn't ideal with pushchairs and suitcases. The Magical Shuttle from CDG (€23 per adult) runs on fixed schedules that don't always match flight times.
The Two Parks: Which to Choose?
Disneyland Park is the original park with the iconic castle, Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain roller coasters, and classics like Pirates of the Caribbean. It's perfect for families with children of all ages.
Walt Disney Studios is more thrill-oriented with Avengers Campus, Ratatouille, and the Tower of Terror. For a full day, the 2-park ticket lets you hop between both. In peak season, arrive at opening for the most popular rides.
How Can You Beat the Queues at Disneyland?
Disney Premier Access (formerly FastPass) is paid but worth it in peak season. It lets you book time slots on top rides via the app. Download the Disneyland Paris app before your visit.
The best days to visit are Tuesdays and Wednesdays outside school holidays. Start with rides at the back of the park — crowds always cluster near the entrance. Plan to return in late afternoon for the drone show over the castle.
What Are the Best Tips for Families at Disneyland?
Disneyland offers baby-changing facilities in every land, pushchair hire (€25/day), and luggage storage. Character dining restaurants (Inventions, Auberge de Cendrillon) require booking several weeks in advance.
For families arriving straight from the airport, our V-Class service is perfect: free child seats on request, space for suitcases and souvenirs, and a chauffeur who drops you right at the park entrance.
Where to Stay at Disneyland
Disney hotels (Disneyland Hotel, Newport Bay, Sequoia Lodge) offer Extra Magic Hours — 30 minutes of early park access. The recently renovated Disneyland Hotel is the most premium but also the priciest (from €600/night).
Partner hotels in Val d'Europe (Radisson Blu, B&B) are more affordable and connected by a free shuttle. The Val d'Europe shopping centre with its Sea Life Aquarium is a good option for an afternoon break away from the parks.
