Disneyland Paris Holiday

Traditions and culture at Disneyland Paris

The plan to mirror the successful Disney-based theme parks in California and Florida with a similar resort in Europe was hatched back in 1972.

The rural town of Marne-la-Vallee was eventually chosen as the destination due to its central location, with a reported 68 million people located within a four-hour drive and a further 300 million capable of arriving on cheap flights within two hours.

The concept was the subject of controversy in France as contracts for construction were negotiated, with prominent politicians voicing their dissent and labour unions protesting.

However, the Euro Disney Resort was successfully opened and the name was changed to Disneyland Paris following poor initial attendances, hotel bookings and revenues.

Things to do at Disneyland Paris

Considering the fact that the resort covers a huge area (4,800 acres or 19 km sq), it is easy to imagine that there will never be a dull moment during a holiday to Disneyland Paris.

It is split into two theme parks, the first being Disneyland Park, which is based on the original California park but displays a more retro-futuristic feel and has 48 attractions split into five areas.

Secondly, there is the Walt Disney Studios Park, which was opened in 2002 and is basically themed on a working film studio, with the majority of its attractions being imported from other Disney parks.

In addition, the Disney Village also offers a wide range of restaurants, bars, shops and other venues which continue business after the theme parks close for the day, while there are also nine-hole and 18-hole golf courses.

Anyone about to book flights to the resort and considering options for accommodation will be pleased to know that the complex features seven hotels and that there are a further six in close proximity which provide free shuttle buses.

Weather at Disneyland Paris

The weather at the resort tends to be at its best during the spring, despite the occasionally oppressive rain, while the summer climate can be sizzling.

The average yearly temperature is 12C (3C in January and 19C in July) but the mercury can either drop below zero or as high as the mid-30s in its extremes.

Destination checklist for Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is one hour ahead of GMT/UTC time.

The official currency is the euro.

French is the official language spoken.

The resort's international dialling code is +33.