Disneyland Paris with a teen: thrills and independence

For a trip with kids, I recommend Hotel Cheyenne: a very immersive Wild West atmosphere (saloon, Western streets, ponies) at an affordable price, and little ones love it. The Newport Bay Club is also an excellent choice thanks to its big pool with areas for children. Sequoia Lodge appeals to families who like Disney’s forest-style setting. Skip Davy Crockett Ranch if you don’t have a car, since getting to the parks from there is more of a hassle.

The price of a stay varies a lot depending on the hotel you pick. For a 2-day, 1-night stay for 2 adults and 2 kids with park tickets included, expect about €600 at the cheapest official Disney hotel and up to €1,100 at the most upscale one. On top of that, you need to add meals: the amount depends on the type of restaurant, but I recommend budgeting at least €300 for breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and dinner over the 2 days. All in all, plan on €900 to €1,400 for this kind of trip. For a single day only, the 1-day 1-park ticket starts at €49 per adult with a Bon Plan ticket: in that case, plan a budget of at least about €400 for a one-day visit for 2 adults and 2 kids, meals included.

No, selfie sticks aren’t permitted in the Disneyland Paris parks. The ban, which has been around for several years, applies to telescoping sticks used with phones and cameras. It exists to keep guests safe and undisturbed, on rides in particular. Taking regular photos with your phone or camera is of course fine.

Rider Switch (formerly Baby Switch) lets two adults take turns on a ride with a height requirement (or one that isn’t recommended for someone) without waiting in line twice. Explain your situation to the Cast Member at the ride entrance. One adult rides while the other waits with the child. When the first one comes back, the adult who waited outside goes straight through the priority line or the Premier Access line, depending on the instructions given. The service is free and works on most rides with a height requirement in both parks.

Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade!, at Disneyland Park, from November 7 to January 6. It has two performances a day, including a lit-up evening version that I absolutely love. I share the best spots in my dedicated article.