Paris, known as the City of Lights, where history, art, and romance fill the air, and the streets buzz with endless energy. I had the pleasure of visiting this extraordinary city back in 2015, and even though it’s been a decade, the memories remain vivid. The warm people, infectious atmosphere and unmatched picturesque views, made this a trip to remember. If you’re planning a European city break, Paris is undoubtedly a destination worth exploring, even though it has received some negative attention recently. Here is a bit of my personal experience Discovering the Heart of France, along with some reflections on how things have evolved.
A Vibrant and Lively City
From the moment I stepped off the plane at Charles De Gaulle, I could feel the pulse of Parisian life. The vibe of the city was undeniably captivating, with cafés spilling onto cobblestone streets, the scent of fresh pastries in the air, and the deeply iconic French culture luring me in. The energy of Paris is like no other city, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. The vibrant street life, the stylish Parisians, and the feeling that every corner holds a story, made it an unforgettable experience.
The Eiffel Tower: A Must-See with a Bit of Patience
One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower was at the top of my list. It’s hard not to be starstruck by the sight of this magnificent structure that soars above the skyline. While the view was surreal, the wait to get tickets for access into the Eiffel tower was not so much. For that reason, I 100% advise you to pre book if you can, ideally with a ‘fast track’ option such as this tour with a que jump! Even though the line for tickets was long, the wait was somehow worth it once I made it to the top and got to see the panoramic views of the city stretched out before me, I had never seen anything like it (until I visited the Burj Khalifa the following year, but the views of both cities are incomparable, like apples and oranges- you can check out my Dubai blog). It’s easy to see why this marvellous architectural achievement has captured the hearts of millions. Remember, if you’re visiting during peak season, pack some comfy trainers and prepare for the wait of your life!
The Louvre: A World of Art and Culture
Another highlight of my trip was a visit to the Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s greatest masterpieces. Walking through the grand halls, I marvelled at the incredible works of art, most notably the the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. The Louvre is a treasure trove of history, and even if you’re not an art enthusiast, it’s hard not to be impressed by the scale and beauty of this museum. With its stunning architecture and unparalleled collection, the Louvre is definitely a must-visit. But be prepared for crowds, especially near the more famous exhibits! And remember to snap a picture of Mona Lisa and see if her eyes follow you! (Non-flash photography is permitted)
Exploring Disneyland Paris
You cant possibly travel to Paris and not visit Disneyland! We spent a full day here, but many people visit over a couple of days to really experience everything. I had been eager to go to Disneyland (the OG one in the States), from when I was old enough to watch Mickey Mouse. When I learned of the Disneyland nearer to home, I thought it was too good to be true. Boy was I wrong!
Nestled just outside Paris, Disneyland Paris is the European version of Disney’s iconic theme parks and is a magical destination for families, friends, and Disney fans (there were so many adults without kids, so don’t think its just for them, we’re big kids too!!). Opening its door in 1992 (I thought it was much later?), it quickly became a huge hotspot in Europe. With its enchanting rides, beloved characters, and stunning shows, it’s no surprise that Disneyland Paris continues to draw millions of visitors each year. If you’re considering a trip to this magical kingdom, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
Disneyland Park
The park is made up of two main areas: Disneyland Park, and Walt Disney Studios Park. These two parks offer a variety of attractions, shows, and experiences that are perfect for visitors of all ages. Disneyland Paris truly captures the essence of Disney magic with a European twist, blending classic Disney elements with the unique culture and charm of France.
Five themed lands:
- Main Street, U.S.A. – The gateway to the park, this iconic street feels like a slice of the American culture, filled with shops, cafes, and parades. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the early 20th century seeing the stunning buildings and immersing in the nostalgic atmosphere.
- Fantasyland – Where the stories come to life, my favourite part! Home to some of the most beloved Disney characters and attractions, you can visit Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, ride the teacups in Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups, or experience the whimsical world of Peter Pan!
- Adventureland – For those seeking excitement and thrills, (not me, I was and am too scared), Adventureland offers daring attractions like Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril and Pirates of the Caribbean. This area immerses visitors in exotic lands with a sense of exploration and discovery.
- Discoveryland – A futuristic world where science fiction and adventure collide, home to Space Mountain, Star Tours, and Buzz Lightyear’s Laser Blast. It’s a great place for those interested in space, technology, and the thrill of intergalactic adventures.
- Frontierland – Inspired by the American Wild West, Frontierland is perfect for those who love cowboys and the great outdoors. Attractions like Big Thunder Mountain and Phantom Manor offer thrilling experiences.
Walt Disney Studios Park: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Disney Magic
While Disneyland Park focuses on the immersive Disney experience, Walt Disney Studios Park offers a look into the world of movie making. Similar to the Warner Brothers Studio: The Making of Harry Potter (keep your eyes peeled as I have SO much to speak about on this in my London blog!!), this park is divided into four distinct zones:
- Front Lot – A Hollywood-inspired area where you can visit a replica of the famous Hollywood Studios entrance, (if you grew up watching any American productions this is such a jaw dropping moment). It introduces you to the magic of movie-making and offers opportunities for behind-the-scenes experiences.
- Toon Studio – Dive into the world of animation with attractions like Ratatouille: The Adventure, where guests shrink down to the size of a rat and race through a 4D adventure, and The Art of Animation exhibit, which showcases the creative process behind Disney’s animated classics.
- There are a couple of others like the Production Courtyard where you can experience the thrill of movie magic with attractions like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. The Backlot zone offers exhilarating shows showcasing Disney’s action packed side.
Don’t Miss the Shows, Parades, and Character Meet-and-Greets!
One of the best aspects of Disneyland Paris is the immersive entertainment. The park is known for its spectacular parades, dazzling fireworks shows, and real life character meet-and-greets. The Disney Illuminations night show at Disneyland Park is a must-see, featuring fireworks, projections, and music that bring the Disney stories to life.
Additionally, be sure to keep an eye out for the iconic Disney characters roaming the parks. Whether it’s Mickey and Minnie, Elsa and Anna from Frozen, or Snow White, there are plenty of opportunities to snap photos and meet your favourite characters. My personal favourite is watching dogs meeting THEIR favourite Disney characters like Pluto 🙁
Dining and Shopping: A World of Choices
Disneyland Paris is not just about the rides and shows, it also offers a variety of dining and shopping experiences that’ll make your visit even more special. You can tell who has been to Disneyland in the streets of Paris, when you spot the Mickey ears from a distance!
There are numerous themed restaurants, from the French-inspired Auberge de Cendrillon to the classic Captain Jack’s – Restaurant des Pirates in Adventureland. Whether you want to enjoy a quick snack or sit down for a meal, there are plenty of options to satisfy your Disney hunger.
Shopping is an integral part of the Disneyland Paris experience and you can get your hands on some exclusive merchandise, and the perfect souvenir to remember your magical visit. Main Street, U.S.A. is home to many charming boutiques offering Disney-themed clothing, toys, and collectibles.
Tips for Visiting Disneyland Paris
- Plan Ahead: Disneyland Paris is large, and there’s a lot to see and do. Be sure to plan your visit and book your tickets in advance so you can make the most of your time at the park, again, this line was LONGG, so pre book your tickets folks!
- Use the Disneyland Paris App: The app allows you to check ride wait times, book restaurants, and get important park information. It’s a must-have tool during your visit.
- Get Fast Passes: To save time, make use of Disneyland Paris’s Fast Pass system, which allows you to skip the regular lines for certain attractions. It’s a great way to maximize your day.
- Arrive Early: If you want to experience popular attractions like Space Mountain, it’s best to arrive early before the lines get long.
- Take Advantage of the Parades and Shows: The entertainment in Disneyland Paris is incredible, so don’t forget to check the schedule and plan to catch a parade or show during your visit.
- There are a number of transfers you can book, we public transported’ it and it took a couple of hours’ bite out of our Disney fun due to delays, so I would recommend getting an organised transfer.
Disneyland Paris – A MUST visit!
Disneyland Paris is more than just a theme park; it’s a place where dreams come true, and memories are made. Whether you’re a Disney fan or simply looking for a fun destination, this magical resort offers something for everyone. With its blend of fantasy, adventure, and movie magic, it’s no wonder that Disneyland Paris continues to be a top destination for millions of visitors from around the world. So, grab your Mickey ears, gather your family and friends, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the magic!
Paris: The City of Contrasts
As much as I enjoyed my time in Paris and would love to visit again, it has recently came under scrutiny (no, not because of the Netflix series Emily In Paris which I LOVE!!), but about its current standards of living. For all its beauty and vibrance, there are concerns surrounding the city’s cleanliness and the increasing presence of rats in many areas, with local media branding them as a part of the ‘unsavoury Parisian décor’, and unfortunately becoming part of the city’s reputation- this is also an issue in many big cities around the world- New York, Amsterdam, London (which I have also mentioned in my London blog). While I didn’t personally encounter any issues during my 2015 visit, and its not something you are likely to encounter in major touristy areas, I’ve read that the streets can sometimes be less than pristine, particularly in less touristy neighbourhoods. You can read more about this here. Whilst Paris’ rats epidemic is unlikely to cause much harm to your trip, it is worth noting and being aware of before packing your bags and if you have a rodent phobia, don’t pack any cheese with you!
Conclusion: A City Worth Visiting
Paris may not be perfect, but it remains one of Europe’s (and the world’s) most captivating cities. Whether you’re eating a croissant or sipping coffee at a café (as it was so long ago now, I have sadly forgotten the names of the ones I visited, but you can click on this TripAdvisor Link for the best rated ones today), marvelling at art in the Louvre, or simply taking in the view from the Eiffel Tower, the Paris Dream is unforgettable. Despite the criticisms about the city’s rodents, the magic of Paris will always shine through. If you’re thinking about a European city break, don’t let the negative opinions discourage you. There’s so much more to Paris than meets the eye – and I can assure you, the memories will last a lifetime, and hey, you might even come home with a new pet 😛
Have you been to Paris more recently? What’s your take on the city? Let me know in the comments below!