Whether it be Finding Nemo, Toy Story, or my personal favourite- Lion King, there is always a reason to visit Disneyland. I will never be too old for it. As the pioneer of Disney once quoted, “Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.”

Disneyland Paris is located on the outskirts of the city, but there’s a train (RER A) from Paris that commute to Disneyland in only 40 minutes. You will exit directly to the entrance of the magic kingdom. You can book tickets for the park, the studio, or both of them. Since I figured I was quite short on time, I bought ticket for the park only. Book tickets to skip the queue, but book them only from the official website of Disneyland Paris! If you’re also worried about where to stay, (especially since Disneyland is quite far away from the city, and firework show during summer last ’til 1 am!!) they have a package for Disney Hotel. And, for the icing of the cake, you get to meet characters there. Waving to Mickey as you eat your croissant? Yes, you can.

The first thing that will greet you as you pass the security clearance and ticket control is a row of shops, all full of every kind of disney merchandise you could dream of. You are going to consider buying everything, 10 stuffed animals and about 15 cups, and I’m not going to judge, because that’s exactly how I felt.

And guess what, you can even have a haircut in Disneyland. It is, truly, the land of imagination, isn’t it?! If you want to find out more about the shops there, there is an extensive explanation in their website! God, I wish I knew that there was a list of things I should buy. I missed the star wars socks! (wails sadly)

However, I recommend doing your shopping at the very end, as you exit Disneyland, since there’s “World of Disney”, the big central shop which has everything. These small Disneyland shops vary in things they sell, which might make you regret buying something in a shop since you found something better in the next one. In Winter, World of Disney is still open even after the fireworks show is completely finished. (Not really sure about summer, though)

After the row of shops, you will be welcomed by the sight of this pretty castle, inspired by the Sleeping Beauty. What awaits you behind that is disney-themed attractions from Star Wars to Dumbo. A small tip: visit everything, even if you think that you wouldn’t like the ride or that it’s only suitable for a child. The decorations and the settings are all worth visiting!

You can also ask questions in the office to know if your favourite character is going to be present for pictures that day. Their official website also shows where and when you can meet your favourite character! Click this link to see information about the shows and parades.

For lunch, you might have heard that meals in Disneyland are quite expensive. While that is partially true, doesn’t mean you can’t find an affordable and reasonable price when you dine there. In the maps of Disneyland, they categorise restaurant based on the price as well, so no worries! You could have a meal set for about 10-15 Euros.

Anyways, now that we’re talking about food, you can actually sign up for a meal with disney characters! This might give your children/little bros and sis the time of their life. Hey, *I* would have the time of my life. More about it here.

I went to Paris in January, two months before was the release of Coco. I’m quite surprised that in such a short amount of time they have already built a Coco-themed restaurant. I’m not complaining though. As I watch the movie, I was in awe of the bright colours that were present as the ‘theme’ for this movie, but to see it in real life? I was wonderstruck.

At the evening, there is this parade from the Castle up to the primary entrance. Now, real advice, whatever you do, you should not miss this parade. Whatever you’re doing, drop it and go running to see your favourite disney character on a carriage. Personally, for me it’s Olaf. And yes, I screamed his name along all the 7 year olds who were present.

The grand spectacle of Disneyland Paris is for sure the fireworks show, Illumination. Hours vary depending on season, since a fireworks show with a bright sky wouldn’t be spectacular. But no matter how late this show starts, this is the obvious, definite, compulsory show you need to see in Disneyland. It’s a combination of fireworks, special lighting on the castle, and even a fountain show lighting up the dark night. It’s really like entering a magic dream away from reality.

Post contain affiliate links. Refer to my disclosure.