How to Visit Disneyland Paris from Paris by Train
Planning a magical day at Disneyland Paris? The easiest, fastest, and most budget-friendly way to get there from central Paris is by train. In this practical guide, you’ll learn exactly how to reach Disneyland Paris (Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy) on the RER A line, which tickets or passes to buy, how long the journey takes, and insider tips to make the trip smooth—whether you’re traveling with kids, luggage, or during peak times.
Why the train is the best way to get to Disneyland Paris
- Direct and simple: The RER A goes straight to Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy, the station right by the park entrance.
- Fast and frequent: Approximately 35–45 minutes from central Paris with frequent departures.
- Budget-friendly: Usually cheaper than taxis and dedicated shuttles; passes often cover the trip.
- Family-friendly: Easy with strollers and kids; no need to transfer multiple times.
Which train do I take from Paris to Disneyland Paris?
You need the RER A suburban line in the direction of Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy (sometimes abbreviated as “Marne‑la‑Vallée Chessy – Parc Disneyland”). On line maps, this is the A4 branch at the eastern end of the RER A.
Where to board the RER A in central Paris
Use any of these major RER A stations in central Paris:
- Châtelet–Les Halles (biggest interchange; good for Right Bank stays)
- Gare de Lyon
- Nation
- Auber/Opéra
- Charles de Gaulle–Étoile (near the Arc de Triomphe)
Important: The RER A has multiple branches. Always confirm the train’s final destination is “Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy” before boarding. Electronic boards on the platform and in the train will display this.
Tickets, passes, and prices (zones 1–5)
Disneyland Paris is in zone 5. You need a ticket or pass valid for zones 1–5. A single point‑to‑point RER ticket from central Paris to Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy typically costs around €5–€7 one way per adult (fares can change—check the latest price in the Bonjour RATP or Île‑de‑France Mobilités app).
Best options
- Single RER ticket (Paris → Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy)
Buy at station machines (look for “Tickets Île‑de‑France”) or staffed counters. Keep your ticket— you’ll need it to exit the gates at Disney. - Navigo Jour (1‑day pass) zones 1–5
Good value if you’ll make multiple trips in one day (e.g., sightseeing + Disney). Loads onto a Navigo card or smartphone (where supported). - Navigo Découverte (weekly pass) zones 1–5
Excellent if you’re in Paris for a week (Mon–Sun validity) and plan trips beyond zone 1. Requires a small photo for the card; buy at large stations. - Paris Visite Pass
Zones 1–5 version covers Disney and includes some partner discounts. Often pricier than Navigo; convenient for short tourist stays.
What is NOT valid
- t+ metro tickets (the basic metro ticket) are not valid beyond zone 1. You cannot use them to reach Disneyland Paris.
- Navigo Easy on its own is typically for t+ rides and does not cover zone 5 unless you add a valid zone 1–5 day pass product to it.
Child and family fares
- Children under 4 generally travel free when accompanied by an adult.
- Reduced fares for children (typically ages 4–9) are available on many tickets/passes.
- Check the fare rules on the ticket machine or app before purchase.
| Option | Best for | Validity | Approx. Cost | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single RER Ticket | One round-trip only | Paris ↔ Disney (zones 1–5) | ~€5–€7 one way | Machines, counters, apps |
| Navigo Jour 1–5 | Busy day with multiple rides | All day, zones 1–5 | Check current price | Machines, counters, phone |
| Navigo Découverte 1–5 (Week) | Staying a week (Mon–Sun) | Mon–Sun, zones 1–5 | Great value for 4+ days | Major stations |
| Paris Visite 1–5 | Short visits + discounts | 1–5 days, zones 1–5 | Higher than Navigo | Tourist points, stations |
Step-by-step: Paris to Disneyland Paris by train
- Find your nearest RER A station (e.g., Châtelet–Les Halles, Gare de Lyon, Auber, Nation).
- Buy your ticket/pass at a machine or counter. Select “Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy.” Keep your ticket.
- Follow signs for RER A. On the platform boards, check the final destination is Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy.
- Board and hold on to your ticket. The ride is about 35–45 minutes from central Paris.
- Get off at Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy (last stop). Follow the “Disneyland / Parcs Disney” signs.
- Walk to the gates (2–3 minutes). Security checkpoints are before entering the Disney Village and park areas.
How long does the train take? Frequency and typical times
Travel time depends on your departure station and service pattern on the day. Below are typical times in normal conditions:
| Departure Station | Direction | Typical Travel Time | Peak Frequency | Off-peak Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Châtelet–Les Halles | RER A → Marne‑la‑Vallée | ~40 min | Every 5–7 min | Every 10–15 min |
| Gare de Lyon | RER A → Marne‑la‑Vallée | ~35–40 min | Every 5–7 min | Every 10–15 min |
| Auber/Opéra | RER A → Marne‑la‑Vallée | ~45 min | Every 5–7 min | Every 10–15 min |
| Nation | RER A → Marne‑la‑Vallée | ~35 min | Every 5–7 min | Every 10–15 min |
Services usually start around early morning and run until shortly after midnight. Always check real‑time schedules on the Bonjour RATP or Île‑de‑France Mobilités app, especially if you’re staying for late fireworks.
From the station to the park gates and hotels
- Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy station exits directly into the Disney Village area, a short, signposted walk to Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.
- Most Disney Hotels are within a 10–20 minute walk or accessible via free shuttle buses from just outside the station/entrance area.
- Taxis and ride‑share pick‑up points are clearly marked outside the station.
Practical tips for a smooth journey
- Check the branch: Only board trains marked Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy. Other branches of RER A go to different destinations.
- Keep your ticket: You’ll need it to exit at Disney; fare gates won’t open without it.
- Travel off-peak if possible: Early mornings and late evenings are less crowded than mid‑morning weekends or holidays.
- Use apps: Bonjour RATP or Île‑de‑France Mobilités for live departures, platform changes, and disruptions.
- Mind your belongings: As in any busy city rail, keep bags zipped and valuables secure.
- Strollers & luggage: Allowed. Board near doors for easier maneuvering. Elevators are available at Disney station.
- Accessibility: Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy has lifts and accessible routes. Some central stations have platform gaps; seek assistance if needed.
When to consider alternatives (TGV, shuttle, taxi)
While the RER A is the default choice, a few alternatives may suit specific situations:
- TGV from Paris-CDG Airport: Direct high‑speed trains to Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy in ~10 minutes—great if you’re landing at CDG and going straight to Disney.
- Airport shuttles: Useful with lots of luggage or very late flights; check hotel shuttle options.
- Taxi/ride‑share: Convenient late night or with small children. Expect higher cost vs RER, especially with traffic.
| Mode | Typical Time | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RER A | 35–45 min | Cheap, frequent, direct | Can be busy at peak | Most travelers |
| TGV (from CDG) | ~10 min | Fastest from airport | Limited schedules | Airport arrivals |
| Shuttle | 45–70 min | Door-to-door | More expensive | Families with luggage |
| Taxi/Ride-share | 40–70 min | Comfortable, flexible | Traffic + cost | Late-night returns |
Sample day trip plan (from central Paris)
- 07:45 Arrive at Châtelet–Les Halles, buy zone 1–5 ticket or use pass.
- 08:00 Board RER A to Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy.
- 08:40 Arrive at Disney; clear security; rope drop at park opening.
- 12:30 Lunch in Disney Village (quieter than peak lunch inside parks).
- 21:30–23:00 Watch evening show/fireworks depending on season.
- ~00:00 Take RER A back to Paris (check last train in app).
Troubleshooting and safety
- Service disruptions: If RER A is disrupted, announcements will suggest alternatives (e.g., shuttle buses). Apps provide live rerouting.
- Missed last train? Consider ride‑share/taxi back to Paris, or an overnight near Disney.
- Tickets not working at exit? Use the staffed assistance gate near the turnstiles.
FAQs: Paris to Disneyland Paris by train
How often do RER A trains run to Disneyland Paris?
Every 5–7 minutes at peak times and about every 10–15 minutes off‑peak. Frequency can vary by time and day.
What time is the first/last train?
Trains typically start early morning and run until shortly after midnight. Always verify the final departures for your date.
Is the route safe with kids?
Yes. It’s a popular family route. Keep an eye on belongings and stick together on platforms.
Can I use a contactless bank card like on the metro?
Contactless tap-in works for t+ tickets in zone 1. For Disney (zone 5), use a valid zone 1–5 product or buy a point‑to‑point ticket; some devices and apps allow phone‑based passes—check availability.
Is Eurostar direct to Disneyland Paris running?
Direct Eurostar services to Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy have been suspended in recent years. Most travelers from London now connect via Paris or Lille; check current timetables before planning.
SEO tips for finding the right train in the station
Look for signs and screens showing: RER A → Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy (Parc Disneyland). If you see destinations like Boissy‑Saint‑Léger, Cergy, Poissy, or Saint‑Germain‑en‑Laye, that’s the wrong branch. Wait for the next train to Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy.
Costs at a glance
For most visitors, a return trip on the RER A will cost under the price of one taxi ride. Passes like Navigo Jour 1–5 or Navigo Découverte 1–5 can reduce the overall cost if you’re using public transport multiple times that day or week.
Key phrases to remember (and show station staff if needed)
- “RER A pour Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy (Parc Disneyland), s’il vous plaît.”
- “Billet zones 1 à 5 pour Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy.”
- “Où est la voie pour Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy ?”
Final checklist before you go
- Download Bonjour RATP or Île‑de‑France Mobilités for live info.
- Have a valid zone 1–5 ticket/pass and keep it until exit.
- Confirm the destination on the platform: Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy.
- Plan your return time and check the last trains.
- Pack water, snacks, and a portable charger—Disney days are long!
Conclusion: The simplest route to Disney magic
Visiting Disneyland Paris from Paris by train is straightforward, quick, and great value. Hop on the RER A, ride to Marne‑la‑Vallée–Chessy, and you’ll be steps from the park gates in under an hour. With the right ticket or pass, a little planning, and real‑time travel apps, your journey will be as seamless as the magic that awaits inside the parks.