Best Disneyland Paris Itineraries for Families: 1-, 2- and 3-Day Plans
Planning a Disneyland Paris family trip can feel magical—and a little overwhelming. With two parks, shows, parades, character meets, and dozens of rides, a smart itinerary helps you see more and stress less. This guide shares the best Disneyland Paris itineraries for families of all ages, plus practical tips, time-saving hacks, and dining ideas to help you create unforgettable memories.
Why a Family Itinerary for Disneyland Paris Matters
- Beat the queues: Prioritize the right rides at the right time.
- Match your kids’ ages: Choose attractions and shows everyone will enjoy.
- Avoid burnout: Build in breaks, snacks, and quiet time.
- Maximize value: Leverage Extra Magic Time, Premier Access, and savvy dining.
Quick-Glance: Which Itinerary Is Right for You?
| Trip Length | Best For | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Day | First-time families, short layovers | Disneyland Park highlights + parade or nighttime show |
| 2 Days | Most families | Day 1: Disneyland Park; Day 2: Walt Disney Studios Park + repeats |
| 3 Days | Mixed ages, relaxed pace | Both parks, character dining, resort time, repeats of favorites |
Planning Essentials for Families
Tickets and Park Access
- Buy dated tickets in advance for the best price and guaranteed entry.
- Park Hopping is available on certain tickets—great for repeats and flexible evenings.
- Download the official Disneyland Paris app for live wait times, maps, show schedules, dining reservations, and Premier Access.
Where to Stay
- On-site Disney Hotels include perks like Extra Magic Time (early entry) and walking access or shuttles.
- Nearby partner hotels can be budget-friendly with shuttle service; factor in travel time with kids.
Dining and Characters
- Reserve popular restaurants (e.g., Plaza Gardens character breakfast, Bistrot Chez Rémy, PYM Kitchen) in the app—usually up to about 2 months in advance.
- Quick-service is faster and cheaper; some locations offer Mobile Order via the app.
Getting There
- By train: RER A to Marne-la-Vallée—Chessy stops next to the park gates.
- From airports: Dedicated shuttles and private transfers are available; book in advance for car seats.
Top Time-Saving Tools for Families
| Tool | What It Does | Where to Use It | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extra Magic Time | Early entry to select areas and rides | Both parks (on select attractions) | Hotel guests beating lines at Fantasyland and headliners |
| Premier Access | Paid fast-track for select rides (per ride or Ultimate) | App/selected kiosks | Saving time on Crush’s Coaster, Big Thunder, Spider-Man, etc. |
| Rider Switch | One adult waits with non-rider while other rides; then swap | Selected attractions—ask Cast Members | Families with babies/toddlers or kids under height limits |
| Single Rider | Faster queue for solo seats | Popular on Ratatouille, Spider-Man, and others | Teens and adults who don’t mind splitting up |
| Mobile Order | Order food ahead at select quick-service spots | In-app locations | Avoiding lunch rush with hungry kids |
Best Disneyland Paris Itineraries for Families
1-Day Family Itinerary (Focus: Disneyland Park)
Ideal for families with younger children or first-timers. You’ll stay mostly in Disneyland Park with the option to hop for one headliner at Walt Disney Studios Park if time allows.
Morning (Rope Drop to Late Morning)
- Arrive 45–60 minutes before official opening to clear security and be near the gates.
- If you have Extra Magic Time: go straight to Fantasyland for Peter Pan’s Flight, Dumbo, and Le Carrousel. Then ride Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast in Discoveryland.
- No Extra Magic Time: at rope drop, head to Peter Pan’s Flight or Big Thunder Mountain first; both lines build quickly.
Late Morning to Lunch
- Explore Adventureland: Pirates of the Caribbean (family favorite, usually steady lines), then walk through Adventure Isle and Skull Rock for fun, line-free play.
- Snack stops: grab a Mickey-shaped treat or a fresh crêpe en route.
- Early lunch around 11:30–12:00 to beat crowds. Family-friendly picks: Bella Notte (pasta/pizza), Toad Hall (fish & chips), or Casey’s Corner (hot dogs) near Main Street, U.S.A.
Afternoon
- Fantasyland classics: “it’s a small world” (when open), Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups, and Meet Mickey Mouse (queue can be long—consider later evening if you’re staying late).
- Frontierland: Big Thunder Mountain (consider Premier Access if wait is long) and Phantom Manor for brave kids.
- Save time for Disney Stars on Parade (usually mid-afternoon; verify in-app). Choose a spot near Central Plaza for great views and an easy exit to rides after.
Evening
- Dinner: Plaza Gardens buffet (variety for picky eaters) or Captain Jack’s (unique ambience overlooking Pirates).
- Nighttime spectacular at Sleeping Beauty Castle (subject to schedule and season). Arrive 30–45 minutes early for a good view if it’s a must-do.
Optional hop: If you have Park Hopper tickets and time, pop into Walt Disney Studios Park for Ratatouille: The Adventure or Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure (consider Premier Access or Single Rider).
Alternative 1-Day Plan for Thrill-Seeking Families with Tweens/Teens
- Start: Walt Disney Studios Park for Crush’s Coaster (queues build fastest), then Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure and Tower of Terror.
- Midday: Hop to Disneyland Park for Star Tours, Hyperspace Mountain (height requirement), and Big Thunder Mountain.
- Evening: Parade + castle show back at Disneyland Park.
2-Day Family Itinerary (The Sweet Spot)
This Disneyland Paris family itinerary gives you one full day in each park with time for repeats and character moments.
Day 1: Disneyland Park
- Morning: Fantasyland headliners (Peter Pan’s Flight, Dumbo, “it’s a small world” when available), then Buzz Lightyear. Use Rider Switch or Premier Access if needed.
- Late Morning: Adventureland wandering: Pirates of the Caribbean, La Cabane des Robinson, Adventure Isle playtime.
- Lunch: Chalet de la Marionnette (quick-service) or Agrabah Café (buffet with Middle Eastern flavors).
- Afternoon: Frontierland (Big Thunder, Phantom Manor), Liberty Arcade/Main Street shopping, treat break.
- Parade: Pick a curb spot 20–30 minutes early.
- Evening: Ride repeats with lower queues and enjoy the castle nighttime spectacular.
Day 2: Walt Disney Studios Park + Repeats
- Morning: Head straight to Crush’s Coaster (consider Premier Access if available), then Ratatouille: The Adventure and Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure.
- Midday: Toy Story Playland for family-friendly fun (Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin, Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop for bigger kids).
- Lunch: Bistrot Chez Rémy (book early; charming theme) or Stark Factory (quick-service in Avengers Campus).
- Afternoon: Tower of Terror for teens; Cars Road Trip and Animation Celebration for gentler options. Catch a show if offered—check app for times.
- Evening: Hop back to Disneyland Park (if you have Hoppers) for a favorite ride or nighttime ambiance on Main Street, U.S.A.
3-Day Family Itinerary (Relaxed and Magical)
Three days let you slow down, enjoy your hotel, and repeat must-dos without rushing.
- Day 1: Disneyland Park: prioritize Fantasyland and Frontierland. Book a character meal at Plaza Gardens or Café Mickey (if offered) for guaranteed meet-and-greets.
- Day 2: Walt Disney Studios Park: start with headliners, then take a midday hotel break (pool/nap), return for Avengers Campus in the evening.
- Day 3: Mix-and-match: repeat favorites, collect PhotoPass+ shots, do overlooked gems (Nautilus walkthrough, arcades on Main Street), and shop for souvenirs.
Best Rides and Shows by Age Group
| Age | Disneyland Park | Walt Disney Studios Park |
|---|---|---|
| Toddlers (2–4) | “it’s a small world”, Le Carrousel, Dumbo, Casey Jr., Alice’s Labyrinth | Animation Celebration, Cars Road Trip, Disney Junior shows (when scheduled) |
| Kids (5–8) | Pirates of the Caribbean, Buzz Lightyear, Autopia (with adult), Phantom Manor (if brave) | Ratatouille: The Adventure, Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin |
| Tweens (9–12) | Big Thunder Mountain, Star Tours, Hyperspace Mountain (height applies) | Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure, Tower of Terror (height applies) |
| Teens & Adults | Big Thunder, Hyperspace Mountain, Indiana Jones et le Temple du Péril (height applies) | Crush’s Coaster, Tower of Terror, Avengers Campus attractions |
Note: Height requirements vary by attraction and may change. Always check the official app or signage before queuing.
Family-Friendly Tips to Make the Most of Your Day
- Arrive early: The first 90 minutes often have the shortest queues.
- Pack smart: Ponchos, portable chargers, reusable water bottles, snacks, and layers for changing weather.
- Strollers: Bring your own or rent on-site. Label clearly; stroller parking is provided at most attractions.
- Breaks: Build in rest time—climb aboard the Disneyland Railroad, explore the arcades on Main Street, or enjoy a slow snack.
- PhotoPass+: Worth it for multi-day trips or character-heavy plans.
- Baby Care Centers: Located in both parks with changing facilities, high chairs, and feeding areas.
- Parade strategy: Choose a spot near the parade’s end to exit quickly to rides as the crowds disperse.
Family Dining at Disneyland Paris
Good food and a predictable schedule keep everyone happy. Book popular table-service and character meals in advance, and aim for off-peak dining times (11:30–12:00 or after 14:00).
| Restaurant | Type | Why Families Love It | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plaza Gardens | Buffet + characters (select meals) | Meet multiple characters without queuing | Book early; breakfast slots go fast |
| Bistrot Chez Rémy | Table service | Ratatouille theming delights kids | Plan around Ratatouille ride for an immersive duo |
| PYM Kitchen | Buffet | Giant/small dishes wow kids and teens | Combine with Avengers Campus attractions |
| Agrabah Café | Buffet | Flavorful, plenty of kid-friendly options | Good mid-afternoon meal to avoid rush |
| Bella Notte / Toad Hall | Quick-service | Fast, familiar menus (pasta, fish & chips) | Mobile Order when available; dine early |
Real-Life Case Study: Mixed-Age Family (4 and 9 Years Old)
Profile: Two-day trip, staying at a Disney Hotel with Extra Magic Time, moderate budget, one stroller.
- Day 1 Morning: Used Extra Magic Time for Peter Pan’s Flight and Dumbo, then Buzz Lightyear. Early lunch at Bella Notte.
- Day 1 Afternoon: Pirates (twice), Adventure Isle playtime, parade from Central Plaza, break for snacks, then Big Thunder with Rider Switch.
- Day 1 Evening: Character meet near Town Square, nighttime spectacular with stroller-friendly viewing at the back of the hub.
- Day 2 Morning: Walt Disney Studios Park rope drop: Ratatouille, then Spider-Man (Single Rider for parents; 9-year-old rode later with Premier Access).
- Day 2 Afternoon: Toy Story Playland, Bistrot Chez Rémy lunch, hotel pool break.
- Day 2 Evening: Returned to Disneyland Park for repeats: Pirates and Buzz, shopping on Main Street.
Result: Everyone hit their must-dos with minimal meltdowns. Total waits stayed manageable by arriving early, using Rider Switch, and one targeted Premier Access purchase.
Seasonal Considerations
- Winter: Shorter days, lower crowds; dress warmly and schedule indoor shows/meals to warm up.
- Spring/Autumn: Unpredictable weather; pack light rain gear and layers.
- Summer: Longer hours but higher heat and crowds; start early, take midday breaks, and use evening hours for rides.
- Special Seasons: Halloween and Christmas feature unique parades, decorations, and snacks—check the app and plan showtimes around your must-see seasonal entertainment.
FAQ: Disneyland Paris Itineraries for Families
How many days do families need at Disneyland Paris?
Two days is ideal for most families—one for each park. Add a third day for repeats, character meals, and a slower pace.
Is Premier Access worth it for families?
It can be—especially for high-demand rides like Crush’s Coaster, Big Thunder Mountain, and Spider-Man. Buy selectively during peak times to save hours.
What time is the parade and nighttime show?
The daytime parade typically runs mid-afternoon; the nighttime spectacular usually occurs at park closing. Always verify times in the official app the day of your visit.
Family Prep Checklist
- Book dated tickets and hotel; link them in the app.
- Reserve key dining 2 months ahead when possible.
- List 3–5 must-do attractions per family member.
- Plan your rope drop strategy for Day 1.
- Pack essentials: tickets, ID, power bank, snacks, water bottles, layers, stroller tags, ponchos, sun protection.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Disneyland Paris Family Itinerary
With the right plan, Disneyland Paris becomes less about waiting in lines and more about shared magic. Choose the 1-, 2-, or 3-day Disneyland Paris itinerary that best fits your family, arrive early, use time-saving tools wisely, and build in breaks. You’ll capture the highlights, discover hidden gems, and make memories your family will treasure long after you’ve said au revoir to Main Street, U.S.A.