Disneyland Paris is as much fun for grown-ups as it is for kids. With two overexcited little ones in tow, it can also be a lot. We went with a seven-year-old and a three-year-old, and this is what made our day magical rather than exhausting.
1. Plan Around Both Ages
Disneyland Paris has two parks, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. With two kids at different ages, the trick is finding rides that work for both.
- Fantasyland: Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World were gentle enough for our three-year-old and still loved by our seven-year-old. Dumbo the Flying Elephant was a hit with both.
- Adventureland: Pirates of the Caribbean was perfect for the seven-year-old but a bit much for a three-year-old, so we took turns.
Tip: while one parent rides with the older child, the other can explore nearby with the little one or grab a snack.
2. Use the Child-Friendly Zones
- Meet and greets: we booked characters early in the day, when energy was high. Seeing Mickey, Minnie and the princesses first thing gave everyone a buzz that lasted all day.
- Play areas: Alice’s Curious Labyrinth was a favourite. The three-year-old could roam freely while the seven-year-old worked out the maze.
3. Plan Breaks (and Don’t Skip Naps)
Disneyland is full-on, so build in downtime. We brought a pram for the three-year-old, which doubled as a nap spot.
- Sit-down shows: a show like Mickey and the Magician let everyone sit down for a while. The seven-year-old was entranced, and the little one could rest or doze off.
- Quiet spots: bring snacks and lunch if you can. Disney Village, just outside the parks, is calmer, or slip into the Disneyland Hotel lobby for a breather.
4. Keep Dining Simple
- Buffets work: Plaza Gardens Restaurant suited us, with something for fussy eaters and adventurous ones, and plenty of seating.
- Snacks save the day: popcorn, fruit cups and churros are great fuel between rides. Pack a few favourites from home too, for when the food queues get long.
5. Plan for Parades and Night Shows
- The daytime parade: arrive early for a spot near Main Street. Our seven-year-old was mesmerised by the floats and the three-year-old waved at every character.
- The evening show: it starts late. If little ones won’t make it, you can still catch the fireworks from outside the park or on the way back to your hotel.
6. Practical Tips
- Disney Premier Access: this paid add-on, which replaced the old free FastPass, saved us long waits on the rides our seven-year-old was desperate to try.
- Rider Switch: parents can take turns on a ride without queuing twice, while one stays with the little one.
- Pack for every weather: Paris is unpredictable. Layers and a poncho saved us more than once, and bring hats and sunscreen, because not every queue is shaded.
- Set realistic expectations: you won’t do everything in one day. Pick a few highlights and enjoy the moments when their faces light up.
The Verdict
Disneyland Paris with a seven-year-old and a three-year-old takes a bit more planning, but it’s completely worth it. Mix the classic rides with meet and greets and proper rest stops, and each child gets the day they dreamed of.
Spending longer in Paris? Read my Paris weekend guide and my Hôtel Les Jardins du Luxembourg review.
“Plan the breaks as carefully as the rides. A rested three-year-old is the real secret to a magical day.” – Lena
