Visit Disneyland Paris: The Expert Planning Secrets You Need To Know

Visit Disneyland Paris: The Expert Planning Secrets You Need To Know
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If you want to visit Disneyland Paris and have started looking into the details, the reality of can feel a bit like herding cats instead of the magical day dream you’re looking for.

You’ve got park tickets, hotel bookings, dining reservations, shows, character meet-and-greets, and more to figure out, all while trying to avoid those overwhelming crowds. It’s no wonder so many people end up spiralling into decision fatigue before they even step foot in the parks.

But guess what? It doesn’t have to be that way.

I’m here to help you flip the script on your planning with a process that actually works—one that doesn’t involve drowning in spreadsheets or overcommiting every second. In fact, this guide is going to show you my signature strategy I use when I want to visit Disneyland Paris and create a plan without the stress; all while making sure you still get those magical, once-in-a-lifetime moments that make Disney, well…Disney.

We’re doing things differently here. No cookie-cutter advice or one-size-fits-all plans. Just a flexible process that puts you in control of creating your perfect Disney trip, without the rabbit holes and doom scrolls.

Sound good? Let’s get into it.
READER NOTE: This guide is fresh out of the pixie dust oven — the tips are ready to help you plan right now, but I may still sprinkle in extra magic (photos, polish, and new updates) over the next few weeks. Think of it as your go-to resource that only gets better from here.

Visit Disneyland Paris: The Expert Planning Secrets You Need To Know

You can already picture it right?—standing on Main Street, soaking in the music, and spotting the castle for the first time. But before you get ahead of yourself, there’s some magic-making behind the scenes we need to take care of.

We’ll start by getting real with the numbers (don’t worry, it’s not scary!), uncovering the perfect balance between your dreams and your budget; and answer that key question–how much does it cost to visit Disneyland Paris?

Then, it’s all about uncovering those hidden gems (I’m talking Disneyland Paris flights hotel and park tickets)–the deals that make you feel like you’ve scored something truly special.

With that sorted, the moment you click “book” is like unlocking your own Disney movie intro—suddenly it’s all happening. And that’s when the real fun begins—crafting your perfect plan, mapping out where to start, what to skip, and what must be part of your story.

With your itinerary locked and loaded, you’ll be ready to gather the essentials, pack with confidence, and walk into the magic fully prepared.

Are you ready for it? Let’s turn that dream into reality!

Visit disneyland Paris: Step 1

Research + Reality Check


Before you sprint to the first Google result advertising Disneyland Paris hotels with park tickets or book anything, take a step back and get clear on what kind of Disney trip you actually want.

This is where I see most people inadvertently getting it wrong—they start by focusing on the length of the holiday or their hotel, but the real game-changer is to first figure out how many Disney park days you need.

Disneyland Paris has a different vibe depending on when you visit. Whether you’re craving the spooktacular fun of Halloween, the twinkling lights of Christmas, or those perfect off-season days where the crowds are (thankfully) lighter, knowing what’s going on during your dates will shape everything else.

Take a minute to think about what matters to you: is it the characters, the rides, the shows? Or maybe you just want to stroll around, eat all the snacks, and soak up the atmosphere?

Ready for a my game-changing mindset shift?

It’s not about the length of your holiday.
It’s about how many Disney park days will give you the magic you’re after.

I normally recommend 2–4 days in the park for first timers or families with younger children. And my golden rule is to consider an additional day either side of your park days that are dedicated for travelling.

Despite being relatively close to France, travelling can still take the best part of a day, leaving you worn out and kids overstimulated. Those dedicated travel days give you the space to breathe, allow for any delays, and get a good nights rest before jumping headfirst into the magic.

Once you’ve pinned that down, you can dig into the specifics—like whether you want to stay on-site at one of the Disneyland Paris hotels with park tickets and all the Disney perks (hello, Extra Magic Time!) or go off-site to save a bit and still be super close to the action. This is also the moment to consider–like, really consider–how you’re going to get there.

Do you want to deal with airports and transfers, or would hopping on the Eurostar be a more chilled option?

By setting expectations from the start, you’re laying the foundation for a trip that’s actually what you want, not what you think you should want.

Pixie Tip: Weekdays in May and September? Chef’s kiss—great weather, fewer crowds, and shorter lines. Trust me, it’s the sweet spot.

✨ Plan Smarter, Book Sooner

Get my free Early Booking Cheatsheet with the timelines, tips, and quick-reference guide I use to save time, money, and stress on Disneyland Paris trips.

All from your disney bff who’s done this 13+ times
Visit Disneyland Paris: Step 2

Find the Sweet Spot

Now that you’ve set your expectations, it’s time to dive into the part everyone dreads—money. But don’t worry, because I’m about to show you how to crack the code on Disneyland Paris pricing, so you can make the most of your budget without sacrificing a moment of the magic.

Here’s where most people hit overwhelm: Should you splurge on an all-in Disney package or is staying off-site a better value? Then when you start weighing up dining plans and those endless add-ons, it’s enough to make anyone throw in the towel and settle for a “meh” trip.

But not you! Let’s get smart about how to approach this. Deep Breath. Here we Go.

Start with the Big Question: On-Site vs. Off-Site?

It’s the classic Disneyland Paris Trip dilemma. Staying on-site gives you all the perks: early park entry (aka Extra Magic Time), easy access to the parks (because let’s be real, no one wants to be crammed on public transport after a long day of magic), and the pure immersion of staying in the Disney bubble.

But the catch is that it can appear pricier; and if you’re looking to stretch your budget without skimping on the magic, staying at an off-site hotel (like one of the partner hotels or nearby Airbnbs) can be a serious win.

You’re still close to the action, and many offer shuttle services to the parks, so you’re not left high and dry when it comes to convenience. Plus, you can often find larger rooms or family suites that give you more bang for your buck.

Pixie Tip: For my fellow budget-conscious travellers, keep an eye on those early booking offers. Disneyland Paris is notorious for showcasing low prices on package deals if you book a few weeks in advance. For the lowest prices going, book as far out as possible–Disneyland Paris open 18 months in advance, every August/early September. And trust me, there’s nothing quite like snagging a deal that gives you more magic for less.

How much does it cost to visit Disneyland Paris?

Crunching the Numbers: How to Compare

Now, I’m going to let you in on a little secret—Disney math. This is where you need to think beyond the total cost that might seem WAY over budget on the surface, and break it down into a per-day or per-night comparison.

Packages for Disneyland Paris hotels with park tickets that may seem expensive up front might actually save you a ton when you look at what’s included—like those park tickets?

They’re for every day of your stay (not night you’re there) which often means a saving compared to individual day tickets. Add in a meal plan to spread out your foodie budget, and even those cheeky character dining meals–suddenly we’re looking at value.

And when in doubt, lock in your hotel and ticket package price; you can always add extras later at the same price but the cost of your hotel and tickets may change.

On the flip side, if you’re mixing in some non-Disney days (maybe a little Parisian adventure or two?), booking things separately can often work in your favour. By staying off-site when you visit Disneyland Paris and grabbing a couple of standalone park tickets, you’re keeping things flexible and less expensive.


Pixie Tip: The earlier you book, the more you save. It’s the golden rule of Disneyland Paris planning. Whether it’s park tickets, hotel rooms, or even flights, prices creep up the closer you get to your dates. Lock things in early for that sweet spot pricing.

Hidden Costs: Don’t Get Caught Out!

One of the biggest mistakes I see is people forgetting about the sneaky extras that pile up quickly. Sure, you’ve priced up the hotel and tickets, but what about getting there? Airport transfers, Eurostar tickets, parking at the parks or the airport—these little things can catch you off guard if you’re not careful.

Take a minute to list out all your travel options and compare the costs. Sometimes flying might seem cheaper until you factor in baggage fees, parking, and the hassle of getting to the parks. Meanwhile, the Eurostar might feel pricier upfront, but once you account for no airport faff and arriving right at Disneyland’s doorstep (don’t forget the huge included luggage allowance 👀), it can feel like the ultimate convenience.

Pixie Tip: If you’re driving, swot up on toll roads in France and parking fees at Disneyland Paris. You might want to download the Sanef Tolling app or ViaMichelin to calculate your toll costs in advance. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way in avoiding “what do you mean I need cash for this?” moments.

This is the stage where you’re starting to see the puzzle pieces come together. You’ve compared Disneyland Paris flights hotel and park tickets options, considered your budget, and figured out what’s going to give you the most magic for your money.

The next step? Locking it in and booking—because the sooner you secure that trip, the closer you are to the magic.

Visit Disneyland Paris: Step 3

Secure the Magic

By now, you’ve got a solid handle on your dates, your budget, and your accommodation options—you’re already halfway to the magic thanks to your Disneyland Paris planning

But the next step is crucial: locking it all in. Whether you’re splurging on an all-in Disney package or going for a more flexible off-site option, getting those bookings secured early is the real game-changer.

Here’s where you shift from “planning mode” to “it’s actually happening” mode, and let me tell you, there’s nothing like hitting that ‘book now’ button when you’ve lined everything up. It’s like getting your golden ticket straight to the magic!

How to Book: Full Package vs. Mix & Match

When it comes to booking, you’ve got two main options: an all-in Disney package or a more DIY, mix-and-match approach. Which one works best? It totally depends on your travel style, but let’s break down the pros and cons so you can lock in the right choice for you.

Thinking Disneyland Paris Flights Hotel and park tickets?

Disney Packages: Go All-In

Booking a Disneyland Paris package is the ultimate solution for those who want an easy life.

You’re basically paying for a worry-free trip—hotels, park tickets, and sometimes meal plans are all bundled into one neat little package.

And let’s be honest, there’s something magical about knowing everything is taken care of.

You can sit back and focus on counting down the days to your trip instead of sweating the small stuff.

Pixie Tip: Packages also offer flexibility with payment plans. If you want to spread out the cost of your trip, it’s a great way to lock in your dates without paying in full and upfront. Make sure to keep your booking flexible unless you’re certain about your dates and add-ons.

Mix & Match: Custom Disney Trip

If flexibility is key for you, a DIY approach to visit Disneyland Paris and Paris might be the best fit.

Booking hotels, tickets, and dining separately can sometimes work out cheaper—especially if you’re mixing Disney days with other adventures.

By booking things à la carte, you can hand-pick your Disney days while giving yourself the freedom to explore Paris on non-park days; perfect for balancing Disney Magic with sightseeing!

Pixie Tip: If you’re mixing up your Disney visit with a Paris city break, I recommend Go Ticketless for park tickets. Not only can you secure the best prices, but they also offer zero deposit and loyalty points. That’s what I call next level pixie dust.

Disneyland Paris Planning 101

When to Book: Timing is Everything

You’ve probably heard me mention this before, but it’s worth repeating: the earlier you book, the more you save.

Disney prices aren’t static, and they tend to fluctuate based on demand. That means locking in your trip as soon as possible is key to getting the best deals—especially on things like park tickets, hotels, and even flights.

If you’re booking a package, snag those dates the minute they’re released (seriously, there’s no such thing as too early). The same goes for park tickets, Eurostar seats, or flights. The earlier you’re in, the better deals you’re likely to score.

Currently Disneyland Paris packages are available to book until March 2025, with dates after that releasing for trips to Disneyland Paris 2026 and 2027 available to book from September 2nd. .

Pro Tip: Pay attention to your cancellation policies. Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to booking—because, let’s face it, things change.
Make sure you’ve got room to adjust without losing your deposit if life throws you a curveball. FYI booking direct means you can cancel with a full refund up to 7 days before your booking (terms and conditions apply).

Meal Plans: Are They Worth It?

One of the biggest questions I’m asked is should I add a meal plan? And my answer?

It depends.

Meal plans can be great if you know you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the parks and want the convenience of pre-paid meals. Disneyland Paris offers different levels of meal plans, from full board (where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are covered) to breakfast only (which, shockingly, just includes breakfast).

But if your Disneyland Paris planning includes mixing Disney days with non-park days or venturing off-site for meals, the meal plan might not give you the bang for your buck that you’re after. Especially since Disneyland Paris has some fab off-site dining options that you can’t access with the meal plan.

Pixie Tip: If you decide to go with a meal plan, choose based on your dining style. Do you love sit-down, table service meals? Add that meal plan to the basket, baby! If you’re all about quick bites and snacks on the go, maybe give it a miss.

Your Plan to Visit Disneyland Paris is coming together!

Time to Make It Official

This is where the magic really starts to feel real. Once you’ve made your decisions, it’s time to book! Whether you’re clicking ‘confirm’ on a package deal or piecing together your ideal Disney days, the key is to get that deposit down and secure your trip.

And here’s my no.1 piece of expert advice: Once you’ve locked it in, breathe.

You’ve done the hard part. You know your answer to that question, “How much does it cost to visit Disneyland Paris”. You’ve set up your trip for success and taken care of the most stressful part. Now, it’s all about planning your dream itinerary—and that’s where the magic really starts to feel real.

Now that you’ve booked your magical trip, we’re moving onto Step 4, where we take all the chaos of park days, shows, dining reservations, and character meets and turn it into a dream itinerary that works for you.

Visit Disneyland Paris: Step 4

Map Out the Magic

You’ve locked in your trip, the countdown has officially begun til you finally visit Disneyland Paris, and now comes the part where the magic starts to take shape: planning your perfect itinerary. The key to nailing this step is making sure your days are packed with magic, without turning your holiday into a military operation.

When you visit Disneyland Paris you’ll find it’s like a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences—rides, shows, parades, and yes, those epic character meet-and-greets. But here’s where most people go wrong: they try to do everything in one go.

Spoiler alert: you don’t need to. A well-planned itinerary will leave you feeling fulfilled instead of frazzled.

Get the Vibe Right: What Do You Want Out of This Trip?

Before you start slapping Fast Passes (aka Premier Access) on every ride and booking dinner reservations like it’s a competitive sport, take a sec to pause and take stock. What do you actually want from this trip? How can you really refine your Disneyland Paris planning? Whether you’re all about the thrill rides, soaking up every show, or snapping pics with characters, your itinerary should reflect the kind of magic you love.

Are you going full throttle with back-to-back park days, or would you rather keep a slower pace and really savor each moment?
This step is all about your perfect balance.

Pixie Tip: Break up your days. It’s easy to go full steam ahead in the mornings and burn out by 2 p.m. Instead, think about adding in some downtime—whether that’s a long lunch, a character meet, or heading back to the hotel for a swim before the evening’s fireworks.

Start With the Big-Ticket Items

Here’s a secret most Disney newbies don’t know: It’s not about cramming everything in. It’s about prioritising the big-ticket items and giving yourself space to enjoy them.

Think of your Disney trip as building a cake: start with the main layers (rides, shows, and must-do experiences), then add the frosting (character meets and dining), and finish with the sprinkles (shopping, downtime, and extra magic moments).

i. Must-Do Rides & Attractions

Grab a coffee, open up the Disneyland Paris app, and start building your dream list of rides. Whether you’re dying to hit Hyperspace Mountain or can’t wait to sail away on Pirates of the Caribbean, map out your ride priorities first.

But—and this is key—don’t overload your schedule. Disneyland Paris isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about living the magic. Choose 2-3 major rides per day and give yourself breathing room in between.

Pixie Tip: Save your top-tier rides for early in the morning or late in the evening. The wait times are lower, and you’ll have more time to enjoy everything without feeling rushed. If you’re short on time, look into Premier Access (think of it as Disney’s FastPass on steroids).

Pixie Tip: Booking directly also means you can grab those hard-to-get reservations like fireworks viewing areas and character dining experiences before other guests. Plus, children under 3 stay free, which makes it a win for families with little ones!

ii. Shows & Parades: The Hidden Gems of Your Itinerary

Disneyland Paris has some of the best shows and their parades are full pixie dusted productions; if you skip these, you’re seriously missing out.

From the Disney Stars on Parade that waltzes up Main Street every afternoon* to the heart-pounding Disney Tales of Magic that closes the night with fireworks, drones, and projections on the castle as well as down Main Street USA, these are the moments that give you all the feels.

Add these to the schedule around your meals or as a break between rides. If you’re doing it right, the parades and shows will feel like the perfect ‘pause’ moments in your day, not just filler. Pay special attention if you plan to visit Disneyland Paris during Halloween or Christmas as parade times shift as new seasonal shows join the roster.

Pixie Tip: Want the best spot for Disney Tales of Magic? Camp out in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle at least 45 minutes before showtime or grab a spot at the top of Main Street USA to experience the full projection show. It’s worth it!

iii. Character Meets: Get Those Insta-Worthy Pics

Now let’s talk character meets, because let’s be real: What’s a Disney trip without a Mickey hug or a princess selfie? Whether you’re waiting for a royal encounter at Princess Pavilion or lining up for a pic with Ant Man in Avengers Campus, character meets are an iconic part of your Disneyland Paris experience.

But character meet-and-greets can eat up a lot of time if you don’t plan them right. The trick? Slot them into the middle of your day when ride wait times are higher and you need a break from walking. Most Meet and Greets in the park start from 11:30 onwards.

Here’s what you need to know:

Use the App: The Disneyland Paris app is your best friend for tracking character meets. It shows real-time updates on where and when most characters will appear.
Book Character Dining: If you’ve locked in a character dining experience (I see you, Auberge de Cendrillon and Royal Banquet!), you’ve already got guaranteed meet-and-greet moments without the wait.
Aim for Off-Peak Times: Characters tend to be busiest right after parades or shows, so aim to meet them during less crowded times (like early mornings or right after lunch).

Pixie Tip: Keep your camera ready at all times—you never know when a character might pop up for a surprise meet-and-greet!

iv. Restaurant Reservations: Book ‘Em Early

One of the most important parts of your itinerary is securing those elusive Dining reservations. This is Disneyland Paris, not just any ol’ theme park, so trust me when I say that dining is part of the experience.

Whether you’re having breakfast with Mickey or treating yourself to a fancy meal at Auberge de Cendrillon, it’s worth locking in those reservations.

Restaurants inside the park book up fast, especially character dining, so you’ll want to get ahead of the game and secure your spots early. If you locked in one of the onsite Disneyland hotels with park tickets, you can book up to 12 months in advance–the super savvy of you might’ve even added them to your booking.

You can even pre-book and pay for character dining at the three main character restaurnats–Auberge De Cendrillion, Plaza Gardens and Royal Banquet–when booking your package, cutting the stress and spreading the cost.

If you’re staying off-site, aim to be ready to snag your reservations 60 days ahead and you can also get a helping hand over at DLP Tables; just pop in which restaurant you’re longing to try out and they’ll ping you when a table’s available. Disneyland Paris planning at its absolute best!

This will save you from scrambling (or worse, settling for quick service when you were dreaming of dining with the princesses).

Pixie Tip: Prioritise table-service meals during lunch hours. Not only will this give you a much-needed break in the middle of your day, but it’s also a great way to avoid the afternoon rush at quick-service spots.

v. Map Your Day Like a Pro (With Room for Magic)

Now that you’ve nailed down the core of your itinerary, it’s time to piece it all together into a smooth, magical flow–honestly, who’s been gatekeeping that Disneyland Paris planning can be this simple, and fun!?

The key here is balance—don’t jam-pack every second of your day or you’ll end up frazzled. Instead, create a flexible structure that allows for spontaneity. Trust me, some of the best Disney moments happen when you don’t have everything planned down to the last detail.

Here’s how I structure an ideal Disney day:

Morning: Hit the big rides first. You’ll be fresh, and the wait times will be shorter. If you’re staying on-site, take full advantage of Extra Magic Hour when some of the most popular attractions are open earlier.
Midday: Break up your day with a sit-down meal and a slower-paced activity. This could be a show, parade, or character meet. After a morning whizzing around, you’ll be grateful for a breather.
Afternoon: This is a great time for less crowded attractions, more character meets, or catching any shows you missed earlier. When you visit Disneyland Paris, step out of your comfort zone. If you would normally pass on musicals, take this as your chance to try something new.
Evening: Wrap up your day with Disney Tales of Magic or a final ride–the lines close at park closing, as the fireworks start. If the pixie dust is flowing, you might get the best view of them from Big Thunder Mountain. Either way, there’s nothing like ending your night with fireworks and Sleeping Beauty’s Castle glowing in the background.

Let the Magic Unfold

You’ve done it—created a dream itinerary that balances Disney magic, personal downtime, and all the essential must-dos. Remember, this is your trip, and the magic is yours to create. So, while having a plan is key, leave a little room for those spontaneous, magical moments that make Disney so special.

And if you need a hand fine-tuning that itinerary or want some insider tips to maximise your experience, you know where to find me.

Visit Disneyland Paris: Step 5

Pack, Plan & Prep Like a Pro

You’ve set the dates, booked the magic, designed your dream itinerary—now we’re in the final countdown! This is the part where we take care of all those little details in your Disneyland Paris planning that can make or break your Disney experience. Think of this step as your pre-game warm-up before stepping into the magic, so when you arrive at the parks, you’re 100% ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

I know the pre-trip prep can feel a bit overwhelming, but trust me, this is where the magic really takes off. A few smart moves now will save you from those “uh-oh” moments later on (like realising you forgot your charger while you’re trying to snap a pic of Mickey!). Let’s go through what you need to get done to feel totally prepared and excited for your trip.

Disneyland Paris Planning 101

The Ultimate Disney Packing List: Don’t Leave Home Without It

First thing’s first—let’s talk packing. We’re not just talking about clothes here; we’re talking about the Disney essentials that will take your experience from good to epic. You’re going to want a blend of practical items and a few Disney touches to really get into the spirit.

You already know you’re going to be walking a lot (think 20k steps kind of a lot), so comfort is king. But you’re also going to want to be prepared for changing weather and any Disney-specific needs (hello, autograph book and power bank).

The Basics:

Comfortable Shoes: Sneakers or well-broken-in shoes are a must. You’ll be on your feet all day, so make sure your shoes are as magical as your experience.
Layers, Layers, Layers: Disneyland Paris weather can be unpredictable, so pack for every possibility. Layering is your best friend, from a cozy sweatshirt to a light waterproof jacket.
Backpack or Crossbody Bag: Something comfy enough to carry all day, but big enough for essentials like snacks, a water bottle, and your phone. Go for a cute Disney-themed bag if you want to add some flair!

The Disney Essentials:

Autograph Book & Pen: If you’re meeting characters, you’ll want to have this ready. And bonus points if it’s themed!
Portable Charger: Between snapping pics, checking ride wait times on the app, and capturing those magical moments, your phone battery will need a boost.
Reusable Water Bottle: There are water fountains around the parks, so save a bit of cash by refilling throughout the day.
Poncho or Umbrella: Paris weather can be a bit moody, so be ready for those surprise showers!

Pixie Tip: Check the weather forecast from 21 days before you visit Disneyland Paris, and make any last-minute tweaks to your packing list.

Travel & Transport Hacks: Making the Journey Easy

You’re packed, now let’s talk about actually getting to Disneyland Paris. Whether you’re flying, taking the train, or driving, the journey to the magic can either be a breeze or a bit chaotic. Let’s make sure it’s the former with a few handy tips.

Flying in?

Make sure you’ve got all your flight details ready, and don’t forget to check if your airline offers early check-in or priority boarding—it’ll make things much smoother. Also, remember that Charles de Gaulle Airport is your closest option for Disneyland Paris, with the Magical Shuttle or TGV train waiting to whisk you straight to the parks.

Pixie Tip: If you’ve booked a flight arriving later in the day, consider booking a nearby airport hotel for that night and starting your Disney adventure fresh the next morning–that’s pure Disneyland Paris planning 101 and if you know, you know. It’ll save you from dragging tired kiddos (or tired you) straight to the parks.

Taking the Train?

If you’re coming via Eurostar, remember that while the direct route to visit Disneyland Paris isn’t running, you can still make an easy transfer in Paris or Lille. Once you hit Marne-la-Vallée, you’re literally stepping off the train into Disneyland!

Pixie Tip: Keep your Eurostar tickets on hand (paper or digital) because you might need them to access connecting trains or to show at stations.

Driving to Disneyland Paris?

If you’re taking the road trip route, download apps like ViaMichelin to calculate tolls in advance (France’s highways often come with a toll fee). It’s also worth looking into parking options—guests at Disney hotels get free parking, but if you’re off-site, budget for the daily parking fee.

Last Minute Tips Before You Visit Disneyland Paris

Setting Up for Success

You’re almost there! But before you leave, here are some final insider tips that’ll help you kick your Disney trip off like a pro:

Download the Disneyland Paris App

If you haven’t already, get the app. It’s your lifeline for everything from checking wait times, making dining reservations, finding showtimes, and even locating restrooms. Plus, you can use it to map out your day, so you’re not wandering around aimlessly.

Set Up a Disney Payment Method

Link a payment method to your physical MagicPass (if staying on-site) for easy purchases—whether it’s for food, souvenirs, or that last-minute Mickey ears purchase.

Get Ready for Early Mornings

If you’ve got Extra Magic Hours (on-site guest perk!), plan to arrive at the parks early. This is your golden window to enjoy popular rides with minimal waits. Make the most of it! Security normally opens at the Disney Village 30 minutes before the park, and the early morning queues can be long so leave plenty of time.

PhotoPass: Worth It?

If you’re all about capturing memories, the PhotoPass might be a good investment. It gives you unlimited access to official Disney photos taken on rides and during character meets. If you love a good keepsake photo, this one’s a no-brainer. You can get a free photo pass from any photographer around the parks, and collect up your photos over 3 days. Then just head to Flora’s to view them and upgrade to the PhotoPass+ which includes all your photos digitally if it makes sense for you and your budget!

Count Down to Magic

With everything prepped, you’re ready to step into the magic without any of that last-minute panic. Take this time to get hyped—maybe make a Disney playlist, watch a few Disney classics, or even grab some themed outfits for your trip. Now’s the time to really soak up the pre-Disney excitement because your adventure is just around the corner!

Pixie Tip: Don’t forget to leave a bit of space in your suitcase for Disney merch. Trust me, you’ll want to bring a little magic back home with you.


Ready to Step Into the Magic When You Visit Disneyland Paris?

You’ve got everything in place—from setting realistic expectations to locking in the best deals, crafting your perfect itinerary, and packing like a Disney pro. This isn’t just any ordinary Disneyland Paris trip—it’s your own tailored, stress-free, totally magical adventure. Now, you can skip the overwhelm and step straight into the pixie dust with a clear plan and a smile on your face.

The best part? You’ve done it all on your terms—your trip, your magic. And I’m here cheering you on, ready to help at every turn. So whether it’s fine-tuning that itinerary or adding the final touches to your character meet strategy before you visit Disneyland Paris, I’m just a message away. Together, we’ve made planning the perfect Disneyland Paris trip feel as exciting as the trip itself.

Final Pixie Tip✨

The magic starts the moment you decide to start your Disneyland Paris planning. So keep that excitement rolling—start your countdown, pack your ears, and get ready to make memories that’ll last a lifetime.

How’s your countdown looking? Ready to experience the magic? Comment below with your trip dates, and let’s plan together! 👇🏻✨

About the author

Sam Doyle is a Disney-loving mum of three and the creator of Pixie Dust Wanderlust — a go-to planning resource for Disneyland Paris trips. Known for her honest advice and magical practicality, Sam helps families and solo travellers simplify the planning process so they can actually enjoy their trip, not just survive it.

Her Mission: To inspire and guide Disney fans in creating unforgettable travel memories.

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