Disneyland Paris vs. Disney World: The Top 7 Differences
Dreaming of a European Disney adventure? While Disneyland Paris shares the magic of its American cousin, there are some key differences to consider.
Park Size: Disneyland Paris is significantly smaller than Disney World in Florida. It consists of two parks - Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park - compared to the four parks at Disney World. This translates to fewer rides and attractions, although iconic experiences like Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain remain.
Focus on Classics: Disneyland Paris boasts a stronger emphasis on classic Disney films. Expect to encounter more characters and attractions based on timeless tales like Peter Pan and Sleeping Beauty. While newer additions like Marvel and Star Wars are present, they have a smaller footprint compared to Disney World.
European Flair: Disneyland Paris embraces its European location. The architecture throughout the park reflects a charming European style, particularly in Fantasyland. Don't miss Sleeping Beauty's Castle, a true masterpiece that evokes a French fairytale chateau.
The Marvel Effect: Marvel cannot make a dent in Walt Disney World like it has at Disneyland California (due to these fun laws), so if you’re hoping to make it to Avengers Campus, Disneyland Paris is your best bet. Plus, Avengers Assemble: Flight Force was one of the best coasters I’ve ever been on (top spot still taken by Velocicoaster in Universal Studios Orlando).
You’ll See Subtle Differences: Haunted Mansion? Try Phantom Manor in Paris. Hyperspace Mountain? Try Space Mountain in Orlando. There are fun variations on the rides between both parks, and some are better than others (hello, Paris Pirates of the Caribbean, I see you!).
Showstopping Experiences: Hands down, the shows are better in Disneyland Paris. Heck, they even encourage you to “buy” a ticket to the shows (the shows are technically free) to guarantee a seat, and for good reason: the shows can and will “sell out” — a.k.a. reach capacity. We were bowled over by the production quality of such shows as Mickey and the Magician, Lion King: Rhythm of the Pride Lands, and Together: A Pixar Musical Adventure. That’s not to say that Finding Nemo: The Musical, The Festival of the Lion King, and Fantasmic (my favorite Disney show EVER) aren’t great quality entertainment — but Paris had an edge — a certain je ne sais quoi if you will.
Food Quality: Gotta say, I was super disappointed with the food quality in Disneyland Paris. It’s Paris, for the love of Pete! While we enjoyed the ambiance of places like Captain Jack’s and the Manhattan Restaurant (inside the Art of Marvel Hotel), we were disappointed with the service and food quality of Bistrot Chez Remy, along with many of the quick services offerings. The food in Orlando stands unmatched, with personal favorite dinner stops at Le Cellier, Yak & Yeti, Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, and so many more. Plus, when you have quick service offerings like Satu’li Canteen and the Polite Pig, you’ll feel wonderfully glutonous.
Planning Tip: Disneyland Paris is perfect for shorter trips or those seeking a more intimate Disney experience. The smaller size makes it easier to navigate, especially with young children, but it’s also a great add-on to a Paris stop. We spent two days there and that was more than enough.
