How long do I need to do nearly everything at Disneyland Paris?

Posted byKCPosted inDisneyland Paris, Disneyland Paris Attractions and TipsTags:, ,

Let’s be real; you cannot do everything. Even if you lived at Disneyland, there are so many unique experiences, attractions to do, characters to meet, that it’s like asking how long a piece of string is. To get the main things done, plus some extra unique experiences, plus a few repeat rides/attractions, I would suggest 4 days, 3 nights.

If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland Paris and want to experience around 80-90% of the top attractions, it’s essential to know how much time each one will take. Here’s a list of must-do rides and shows, along with an estimate of how long they take, including wait times and ride durations.

Disneyland Park Must-Dos

  1. Big Thunder Mountain
    • Approximate Wait Time: 20-75 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 4 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: This iconic roller coaster offers thrilling twists and turns through a Wild West setting. It’s one of the most popular rides in the park. Its unique being set on the island, going through two underwater tunnels, and producing the wildest ride in the Wilderness. Generally busy throughout the day.
  2. Peter Pan’s Flight
    • Approximate Wait Time: 30-60 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 3 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: A family favorite that takes you on a magical journey over London and into Neverland. The charming visuals and immersive experience make it worth the wait, but it is short!
  3. Pirates of the Caribbean
    • Approximate Wait Time: 10-45 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 8 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: This classic boat ride through pirate-infested waters is a must for its immersive theming and adventure. Times do vary throughout the day, quieter later at night, especially once Fantasyland is closed for the fireworks.
  4. Hyperspace Mountain
    • Approximate Wait Time: 20-60 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 2 minutes 30 seconds
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: This high-speed indoor roller coaster, themed around Star Wars, is a thrilling experience for adventure seekers. Quieter earlier and later in the day.
  5. It’s a Small World
    • Approximate Wait Time: 10-30 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 10 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: This classic Disney boat ride offers a colorful and musical journey through various cultures. It’s a relaxing, iconic experience. Wait times are generally always easy enough, even on very busy days queues are only about 20 or maybe 30 minutes at most. Long ride time as well!
  6. Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast
    • Approximate Wait Time: 20-45 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 5 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: An interactive shooting game where you help Buzz Lightyear defeat Emperor Zurg. It’s fun for all ages and brings out your competitive side. Does get popular throughout the day and times can increase quickly.
  7. Phantom Manor
    • Approximate Wait Time: 15-40 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 6 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: A haunted house ride with an eerie Western theme. It’s a unique take on the classic Haunted Mansion attraction. Definitely quieter at start and end of the day.
  8. Le Carrousel de Lancelot
    • Approximate Wait Time: 5-15 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 2 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: This beautifully designed carousel is perfect for younger visitors and offers a bit of nostalgia for adults.
  9. La Tanière du Dragon
    • Approximate Wait Time: 5-10 minutes (walk-through attraction)
    • Actual Experience Time: 5-10 minutes (self-paced)
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: Explore the lair of a giant animatronic dragon beneath Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. It’s a brief but impressive attraction.
  10. Disney Illuminations (Evening Show)
    • Approximate Wait Time: 30-60 minutes (to secure a good viewing spot)
    • Actual Show Time: 20 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: The evening fireworks and light show are a spectacular end to your day, featuring classic Disney scenes projected onto Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Remember some of the rides are very fun and unique at night!

Walt Disney Studios Park Must-Dos

  1. Crush’s Coaster
    • Approximate Wait Time: 45-90 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 2 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: This spinning coaster takes you on an underwater adventure with Crush from Finding Nemo. It’s a unique and thrilling experience but very popular, and very busy.
  2. Ratatouille: The Adventure
    • Approximate Wait Time: 15-60 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 4 minutes 30 seconds
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: A 4D dark ride that shrinks you down to the size of a rat in a Parisian kitchen. It’s immersive and fun for all ages.
  3. Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin
    • Approximate Wait Time: 5-20 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 2 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: A family-friendly ride where you spin around with Slinky Dog from Toy Story. It’s simple fun that younger kids will love.
  4. The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands
    • Approximate Wait Time: 30-60 minutes (for a good seat, without Premier Access)
    • Actual Show Time: 30 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: This live show is a stunning performance featuring music and dance from The Lion King. It’s a must-see for fans of the film.
  5. Tower of Terror
    • Approximate Wait Time: 30-60 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 4 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: For thrill-seekers, this drop tower ride offers an intense experience with a spooky storyline.
  6. Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure
    • Approximate Wait Time: 30-60 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 4 minutes 30 seconds
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: In this interactive dark ride, you help Spider-Man capture rogue Spider-Bots by using your own web-slinging powers. The immersive technology makes it fun for all ages and a standout attraction in the Campus.
  7. Heroic Encounter with Spider-Man
    • Approximate Wait Time: 15-30 minutes
    • Actual Experience Time: 5 minutes (photo opportunity and interaction)
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: Meeting Spider-Man is a dream come true for many fans. This character encounter offers a chance to snap a photo and chat with your friendly neighborhood superhero.
    • Avengers Campus Food Trucks
    • Approximate Wait Time: 5-20 minutes (depending on time of day)
    • Actual Experience Time: 15-30 minutes (to order, eat, and enjoy)
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: While not a ride, grabbing a bite at the Campus’s themed food trucks is a fun experience. The unique Marvel-themed snacks and meals add to the immersive environment.
  8. The Training Center
    • Approximate Wait Time: 15-30 minutes (reservation required)
    • Actual Experience Time: 10 minutes
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: This interactive experience allows guests to train alongside their favorite Avengers. It’s an engaging way for kids and adults alike to feel like part of the team.
  9. Avengers Assemble: Flight Force
    • Approximate Wait Time: 5-45 minutes
    • Actual Ride Time: 2 minutes 15 seconds
    • Why It’s a Must-Do: This high-speed indoor roller coaster is a thrilling experience where you join Iron Man and Captain Marvel on a mission to save the world. It’s intense and packed with Marvel-themed excitement.
Disneyland is big! Remember it takes time to get between attractions and rides.

Additional Tips

  • Use Premier Access: For popular rides like Crush’s Coaster and Big Thunder Mountain, consider using Premier Access (Disney’s paid skip-the-line service) to save time.
  • Extra Magic Time: If you’re staying at a Disney hotel, take advantage of Extra Magic Time to experience popular rides before the park officially opens.
  • Plan for Breaks: Disneyland Paris can be overwhelming, so make sure to include time for breaks, meals, and just soaking in the atmosphere.

Conclusion

With a well-planned 4-day visit and a Both Park Ticket Pass, you can comfortably experience about 80% of the best attractions and shows at Disneyland Paris. By focusing on these must-do rides and shows and managing your time wisely, you’ll be able to enjoy the magic without feeling rushed.

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