Disneyland Paris – The Ultimate Magical Experience ✨

I’ve just returned from a 3-day work trip to Disneyland Paris and honestly, it exceeded every expectation! From 5-star fairy-tale hotels to festive parades, mind-blowing shows, and magical hidden moments, this trip reminded me exactly why Disneyland Paris is such a special destination for families, couples, and Disney lovers of all ages.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular Disney dreamer, here’s a full round-up of my experience, with top tips, hidden gems, and insider recommendations to help you get the most from your visit.

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🏰 Where I Stayed: Disneyland Hotel – The Royal Experience

We were lucky enough to stay at the iconic 5* Disneyland Hotel, located right at the entrance to Disneyland Park. It doesn’t get any closer, or more magical, than this.

The hotel has just reopened after a major refurbishment and is now themed around royal Disney characters and stories, with every corridor and corner telling a tale. The majestic library-themed lobby feels like stepping into a storybook, and the bedroom detailing, from enchanted mirror frames to light-up canopies above the beds, is next-level.

You don’t have to be a child to be in awe, I was living my princess dream at 32! You might even bump into a character or two just strolling through the lobby, and if you really want the royal treatment, consider upgrading to Castle Club, where you can enjoy breakfast with the princesses in a private lounge.

✨ Insider tip: Head up the grand staircase inside the hotel and walk toward the Royal Banquet restaurant. Keep an eye out for the mezzanine balcony, we saw princesses waving down to guests from above! It’s not an official meet & greet, but it’s such a magical surprise moment for little ones (and big ones too!).

You don’t need to be a hotel guest to explore the lobby, just wander in and soak up the magic!

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🖼️ Site Visit: Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel

Another standout moment was our visit to Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel. If you’re a superhero fan, this one is a must!

Styled like a sleek Manhattan art gallery, every inch of this hotel is packed with Marvel-themed design. From Spider-Man web lighting to New York street map carpets, the attention to detail is amazing. Kids and adults can even create their own comic book characters at the Marvel Design Studio, and the hero photo stations make for unforgettable moments.

My favourite part? The Skyline Bar. Sip a cocktail with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and keep your eyes peeled for flying friends overhead!

This hotel is just a 10-minute walk to the parks and a stone’s throw from Disney Village, ideal for families or Marvel-loving couples.

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🌟 Don’t Miss: Night Shows & Parades

One word: WOW.

We were treated to the Disney Electrical Sky Parade followed by the Disney Illuminations show, and it was absolutely breathtaking. From fireworks and castle projections to drones dancing in the sky, the show was a highlight of the entire trip.

🗓️ Important update: This show ends in January 2025, making way for a brand-new “Tales of Magic” show featuring even more drones and projections down Main Street. If this show was already incredible, the next one will be on another level entirely!

Another unmissable moment was Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade. We watched from the reserved viewing area (approx. €21), and it’s 100% worth the upgrade. You get front-row views of the stage, dancing characters, and the parade route, plus the snow falling down Main Street with Christmas music playing is pure festive joy. ✨

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🎭 Must-See: Mickey & the Magician Show

If you do one indoor show, make it this one! It runs for around 30 minutes and is packed with surprise Disney appearances like the Genie, Lumière, and Rafiki. No photos or filming are allowed, which makes the experience even more magical; you don’t know what’s coming next, and it’s truly spellbinding!

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👸 Breakfast with the Princesses

We also had the chance to enjoy breakfast at Auberge de Cendrillon, located just behind Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. The setting is fairy-tale perfect, and the breakfast spread includes French pastries, waffles, sausages, cereals, fruit, and more.

This is one of the most sought-after dining experiences, so I recommend booking as early as possible. For anyone travelling with their own little princess, this will be a memory to treasure forever.

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📲 Top Tips for Your Trip

1. Download the Disney App (Disneyland Paris Official App):

This will be your lifesaver. It includes:
• Real-time queue updates
• Restaurant menus & bookings
• Live park maps
• Ride wait times
• Your itinerary & showtimes
• Link your tickets, room key, and PhotoPass

2. Get the Disney PhotoPass:

It’s around £77 and totally worth it. Every time a park photographer takes your picture, they’ll scan your card, and all images are added to your account—much better value than paying £20 per photo individually.

3. Book your dining in advance:

Character meals and special restaurants (like Auberge de Cendrillon) get booked quickly, so secure your spots early via the app or your travel agent.

4. Use the MagicPark App (or similar planning tools):

Great for planning your route through the park and keeping on top of show times, dining options, and your daily schedule.

5. Consider parade viewing upgrades:

For around €21, get reserved parade spots for the best views of Mickey and friends, especially valuable during the busier Christmas season.


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🎄 Christmas at Disneyland Paris = Pure Magic

Visiting at Christmas time made it all the more magical. The decorations, lights, music, parades, and festive snacks create a truly unforgettable atmosphere. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Disneyland Paris at Christmas is next-level.


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Ready to Plan Your Own Disney Adventure?

From storybook hotels and magical shows to unforgettable character moments, Disneyland Paris is full of joy, wonder, and memories waiting to be made.



✨ Whether you’re visiting as a couple, with kids, or going solo—you’ll find something truly special.

If you’re thinking about a trip to Disneyland Paris, I’d love to help plan your magical escape!


📩 Just get in touch and let’s start sprinkling some pixie dust on your plans…