Whether it’s your first or tenth visit to Disneyland Paris, these are some mistakes that you can avoid making if you want to have the best time. As somebody who’s been to Disneyland Paris way too many times—I mean, honestly, I’ve lost count—I couldn’t even tell you how many times I’ve been! I’ve been going since I was a child, and I’m really lucky to say that.
But something I’ve noticed, over my many visits, is that a lot of people make some very common mistakes.It doesn’t even have to necessarily be their first visit. I’ve seen people make these same mistakes over and over again.
After your day in the park, consider staying in luxury vacation rentals to unwind and make your trip even more memorable. So, today, I want to share with you some very common mistakes that I’ve noticed people make when they visit Disneyland Paris, that are avoidable. Hopefully, by sharing them, you won’t make these mistakes when you go.
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7 mistakes not to make in Disneyland Paris
Planning a trip to Disneyland Paris involves more than just booking tickets and showing up at the gates. There are plenty of small but important details that can make or break your experience. While the park is designed to provide fun for all, certain avoidable mistakes could lead to unnecessary stress or missed opportunities. By keeping a few key tips in mind, you can ensure your visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
1. Not Checking for Ride Refurbishments in Advance
The number one mistake people make happens before they even get to Disneyland Paris. This is something you can avoid by simply planning ahead. Always check the Disneyland Paris website for information about which attractions will be closed for maintenance or refurbishment. You can easily find this info on the official website or on fan pages.
Why is this important? Well, if there’s a specific ride you really want to experience, you can avoid disappointment by checking whether it will be open during your trip. If it’s closed for maintenance, you can adjust your plans or even choose another time to visit when the ride will be available.
2. Being Unprepared for the Weather
Weather can be a big factor in your Disneyland Paris experience, and unfortunately, you can’t always rely on the forecasts. It’s very easy to make the mistake of not packing appropriately for the weather. For example, if you hate the cold, definitely avoid the winter months when it can get very chilly and even snow. If you prefer cooler temperatures, maybe skip the summer months, as Paris can get quite hot.
The key takeaway here is that Disneyland Paris experiences almost all seasons, so be prepared. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go, and pack accordingly. That way, whether it’s rain or shine, you’ll be comfortable and ready for anything.
3. Eating at the First Restaurant You See
This is a mistake I see often, even with friends visiting for the first time. I understand—it’s easy to get hungry while you’re in the park and want to sit down and eat right away. But here’s the key: don’t settle for the first restaurant you come across!
Many people go to places like Studio One Restaurant or Café Hyperion because they’re convenient, but they often turn out to be disappointing experiences, especially when there are better options nearby. I’d suggest doing a little research or asking cast members about hidden gems or less crowded spots. It’ll save you from eating subpar food and wasting valuable time.
4. Not Taking Advantage of Early Entry
Whether you’re staying at a Disney hotel or not, missing out on early entry is a huge mistake. Early entry allows you to enjoy the most popular rides with significantly shorter wait times. You’ll be able to enter the park before the crowds, which means less time spent in line and more time enjoying the attractions.
So, always make sure to take advantage of that early entry period. It might mean waking up a little earlier, but it’s totally worth it.
5. Skipping the Smaller Attractions
While the big thrill rides are exciting, don’t miss out on the smaller attractions. Disneyland Paris is home to many hidden gems that are often overlooked but offer unique and magical experiences. This place is full of hidden gems that often get overlooked. Think of attractions like the Dragon’s Lair under Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, or Alice’s Labyrinth. These spots might not have the long queues, but they’re magical in their own right.
Take the time to explore these underrated attractions—they’ll give you a much more immersive experience and offer a break from the crowds.
6. Not Making Dining Reservations
Dining at Disneyland Paris can be a bit tricky if you don’t plan ahead. A lot of guests make the mistake of waiting until they’re hungry to look for a place to eat. And trust me, it’s not fun to wander around the park trying to find an available table. Popular spots can get filled up quickly, especially during peak times, and you could end up settling for whatever’s available, which might not be your ideal choice.
To avoid this, always book your dining reservations ahead of time. It’ll ensure you have a spot at the restaurant of your choice, and you won’t waste time searching for food.
7. Overpacking for Your Day at the Park
Another mistake that’s easy to make is overpacking for the park. While it’s important to be prepared for all kinds of weather and activities, carrying around heavy bags all day can be exhausting. Leave your big bags in your hotel or use lockers at the park to store anything you don’t need.
Take only the essentials—your wallet, tickets, sunscreen, and a small snack—and you’ll find yourself a lot more comfortable and able to move around the park more easily.
Final Thoughts
Disneyland Paris is an incredible destination, but small mistakes can affect the overall experience. By avoiding these 7 common missteps, you can have a more enjoyable and stress-free visit. It’s about being prepared, planning carefully, and making informed decisions throughout your trip.
Whether it’s checking ride refurbishments, packing for the weather, or choosing dining options wisely, these small adjustments can lead to a better experience. With these tips in mind, you can focus on enjoying your time and creating lasting memories.
FAQs
The best time to visit Disneyland Paris is during the off-peak seasons, typically in late winter (January to February) or early spring (March to May), and during the fall (September to November). These times offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and shorter wait times for rides.
For a thorough experience, 2 to 3 days at Disneyland Paris is ideal. This allows you to fully explore both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park without feeling rushed. If you have limited time, one day can still provide a fun experience, but it will require careful planning.
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or for special events. Purchasing tickets online can also save you time in line and sometimes offers discounts or special deals.
Yes, Disneyland Paris hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, including Halloween celebrations, Christmas festivities, and special character meet-and-greets. Check the park’s official website for a calendar of events during your visit.
Some of the top attractions at Disneyland Paris include Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, and The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Be sure to check out the parades, shows, and character meet-and-greets for a complete experience
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