Extra Magic Time – Perk of staying on site

Extra Magic Time 101 at Disneyland Paris: Your Guide to a Smoother Experience

Disneyland Paris offers guests staying at its official and select partner hotels an amazing perk called Extra Magic Time (EMT). This benefit allows you early access to certain attractions before the parks open to the general public, letting you experience shorter queues, quieter atmospheres, and more time to enjoy the magic.

What is Extra Magic Time?

Extra Magic Time is a period typically lasting from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM during which guests staying at certain hotels and higher-tier annual pass holders get early entry to the parks. This gives you the opportunity to experience key rides and meet Disney characters without the rush of the usual crowds.

EMT operates at both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, although not all attractions are open during this time. Checking which rides are available on the Disneyland Paris app is essential to formulating an effective plan.

Eligibility for Extra Magic Time

To take advantage of EMT, you need to stay at one of Disneyland Paris’ official or select partner hotels, such as:

Disneyland Hotel
Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel
Disney’s Newport Bay Club
Disney’s Sequoia Lodge
Disney’s Hotel Cheyenne
Disney’s Hotel Santa Fe
Villages Nature Paris by Center Parcs

Certain annual pass holders, including those with the Magic Plus or Infinity Pass, are also eligible for EMT.

Attractions Available During Extra Magic Time

Rides available during EMT can change depending on the day or operational issues, so always check the Disneyland Paris app for up-to-date information. Here’s a general list of what’s often open during EMT:

Disneyland Park:

Peter Pan’s Flight (Fantasyland)
Dumbo the Flying Elephant (Fantasyland)
Buzz Lightyear’s Laser Blast (Discoveryland)
Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain (Discoveryland)
Les Voyages de Pinocchio (Fantasyland)
Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups (Fantasyland)
Big Thunder Mountain (Adventureland, availability may vary)

Walt Disney Studios Park:

Crush’s Coaster
Ratatouille: The Adventure
Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin
Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop
Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

Character meet-and-greets may also be available, though times vary depending on the season.

How to Make the Most of Extra Magic Time

Step 1: Plan Ahead

Download the Disneyland Paris app to check which rides are open for EMT and map out a plan. Decide whether you’ll focus on thrill rides, family-friendly attractions, or character meet-and-greets.

Step 2: Arrive Early

Even though EMT gives you early access, many guests will take advantage of this perk. Arrive 20-30 minutes before EMT begins to be at the front of the line when the gates open at 8:30 AM.

Step 3: Start with Smaller, Popular Rides

During EMT, prioritise rides that typically have long queues later in the day, such as Peter Pan’s Flight or Buzz Lightyear’s Laser Blast. These attractions can have shorter wait times during EMT, allowing you to experience them quickly before the park fills up.

Step 4: Join a Long Queue Just Before General Park Opening

As EMT nears its end, around 9:20 AM, position yourself near the entrance of a major ride that will open at 9:30 AM. For example, Big Thunder Mountain or Pirates of the Caribbean are great options, as they build long queues shortly after regular opening time. By being in line early, you’ll avoid most of the wait.

Step 5: Prioritise Thrill Rides in Walt Disney Studios Park

If you’re in Walt Disney Studios Park, make Crush’s Coaster your first stop. This ride consistently has some of the longest wait times throughout the day, so getting on it during EMT will save you a lot of time. Afterward, head to the Toy Story Playland area for rides like Slinky Dog Zigzag Spin or RC Racer.

Extra Tips for Maximising Extra Magic Time

Keep the Disneyland Paris App Handy: This app is invaluable for checking which rides are open during EMT, real-time wait times, and any last-minute changes to ride availability.
Enjoy Breakfast After EMT: To make the most of your early access, consider eating breakfast after EMT ends around 9:30 AM. Some hotel breakfast services extend until late morning, giving you time to refuel after a productive morning.
Be Flexible: Although planning ahead is important, things can change unexpectedly—rides may close, or you may find shorter-than-expected queues at a different attraction. Stay flexible and adjust your strategy as needed.
Meet Characters: If meeting characters is a priority, you may find shorter queues for character meet-and-greets during EMT, especially for popular characters like Mickey or the Disney Princesses.

Conclusion

Extra Magic Time at Disneyland Paris is a fantastic way to get ahead of the crowds and maximise your experience. By planning, prioritising smaller rides, and positioning yourself for major attractions, you’ll make the most of your day. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or exploring with family, EMT can give you that extra touch of magic for a smooth and enjoyable visit.