The recommended amusement parks in France
Beyond the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower, the romantic alleys of Montmartre, and the peaceful beauty of the French Riviera, lies a kingdom of adventure full of adrenaline and fun. A place where the thrill seekers, the dreamers and the child in each and every one of us, regardless of age, fly over life in a colorful and adventurous experience. France, the land of art, history and wine, is also home to countless vibrant theme parks, ones that provide playful experiences and mesmerizing memories to last a lifetime. So fasten your seat belts, because we've gathered here today to talk about the most recommended parks in France - from the vibrant capital city to the extreme south, east and deep in the west.
The magic of France: when history meets fantasy
Famous around the world for its contribution to the worlds of art, cuisine and history, France contains another vibrant scene that often slips under the radar - its amazing theme parks. The unique parks symbolize the French joie de vivre, and proudly express the local culture - a world where ancient stories blend alongside modern fantasies, a place where everyone - from young to old - can relive their dreams.
The tradition of the amusement world has deep roots in French history, when already in the Middle Ages, fairs and traditions that included adrenaline-filled celebrations were held throughout the country. The parks have of course undergone renovations and developed since then, but you can still find a hint of glorious history in some of them.
And what makes the French amusement parks special? the mixture. These parks combine local folklore with international sensibilities, echoing the essence of France while seducing global pop culture. It's not just the Paris Disneyland park that attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year, but dozens of other unique parks, ones that dive into the worlds of French history while offering exciting and action-packed experiences. From the strange stories of Asterix Park to the authentic villages of Foy du Foy Park, one thing is guaranteed - your French experience is not going to be boring.
Whether you're an adrenaline seeker chasing the tallest roller coaster, a history buff who wants to step back in time or you're just into the worlds of literature and fairy tales, France's theme parks truly offer something for everyone.
So let's take a trip to eight of the most recommended theme parks in France, dive into their magical worlds and explore what makes each of them a paradise of adventure and fun. Ready to go on an adventure?
The 8 recommended amusement parks in France
Disneyland Paris: a magical European kingdom
You didn't really think that the list could be opened with another amusement park, did you?
Disneyland Paris, established in 1992 as a Euro Disney resort, is undoubtedly the most famous amusement park in Europe and one of the most famous in the entire world, with over 15 million people visiting it every year. The colorful and huge park stands as a testimony to the eternal magic of legends and beloved Disney characters, and it contains two main parks - Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. The resort combines classic Disney charm with French elegance, creating a unique experience for visitors from all over the world.
A visit to the park is not to be missed
Sleeping Beauty Castle: The central part of the park - amazing stained glass windows, tapestries and a dragon lurking underneath.
Pirates of the Caribbean: An iconic boat cruise that takes guests through pirate-infested Caribbean islands.
Phantom Manor: A scary and fascinating journey through a haunted mansion.
What makes Disneyland Paris special?
Often referred to as Europe's beacon of magic, Disneyland Paris offers to take you on an adventure out of this world. The mesmerizing architectural designs, the invested elements and the countless wonderful facilities make the park one of the most loved in the world, and rightfully so. The park seamlessly blends the timeless magic of Disney with European elegance and craftsmanship, blending traditional Disney narratives with touches of European folklore. From the regal Sleeping Beauty Castle with its stained glass windows and French Gothic influences to the park's adaptations of world classics with a distinctly French flair, Disneyland Paris offers a unique experience, a celebration of fantasy through the lens of European sophistication and heritage.
Where is it located: The Disneyland Paris theme park is located in the suburb of Marne-la-Vallée, which is about 30 km east of the city of Paris. The park is easily accessible by train and shuttles from the city center.
Nearby attractions: While the resort itself offers plenty of attractions, it's worth exploring nearby Marne-la-Vallée with its wonderful shopping centers, golf courses and local dining establishments.
Score from us: 10/10
Walt Disney Studios Park: When cinema comes to life
Walt Disney Studios Park, the second park in the Disneyland Paris resort, is dedicated to the glittering world of Hollywood, and offers a journey through the wonders of cinema, animation and television. Since it opened its doors in 2002, it has drawn millions of visitors every year who come to immerse themselves in the colorful and glittering world. The vibrant park is a tribute to the magic behind the scenes, a world where the glittering facades of Hollywood meet the intricate art of film production. From the moment visitors enter the park, they are greeted with an atmosphere reminiscent of a bustling movie set, and throughout the visit they will cross a mosaic of colorful cinematic universes. Walt Disney Studios Park celebrates the art of entertainment and makes visitors not just spectators, but active participants in the cinematic experience.
not to miss
Ratatouille: The Adventure: An immersive dark trip where guests shrink to the size of a rat and embark on a journey through the famous restaurant from the movie Ratatouille.
Crush's Coaster: A rotating train that takes you on a journey following the beloved movie "Finding Nemo".
Tour behind the magic: A guided tour that takes guests behind the scenes of famous film productions and shows how special effects are created in these iconic films.
What is special about the park?
The Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris is a unique testimony to the art, innovation and magic behind the scenes of the entertainment world. Unlike its counterpart, Disneyland Central Park, which takes visitors to legendary fantastical realms, Walt Disney Studios Park invites its guests behind the scenes, pulling back the curtain on the cinematic wonders and television shows that conquered the world. The park manages to capture the Hollywood spirit while providing flavors from European cinema and culture. His glimpse into both the spotlight and the shadows, the wonders on the screen and the magic behind the scenes, is what sets Walt Disney Studios Park apart, offering guests a richer understanding and appreciation of the world of entertainment.
Location and nearby attractions
Walt Disney Studios Park is located near Disneyland Paris in Marne-la-Val, and visitors to it often combine a visit to both parks. The Val d'Europe shopping center, a short drive away, offers a delightful shopping experience.
Score from us: 8.5/10
(Smaller compared to Disneyland Park, but still offers unique attractions worth exploring).
Parc Astérix: celebrate the Gaelic heritage
In the third and honorable place on the list is Asterix Park, a huge amusement park that covers an area of 850 acres, and is based on the stories of the adventures of Asterix and Obelix, the famous French comic characters created by René Gossini and Albert Oderzo. The park tells the story of the Gallic figures who resist the Roman occupation, and the design of the park and its attractions are influenced by these historical and mythological stories.
In the park you will find over 40 amusement facilities - from crazy roller coasters through water facilities to live performances and countless other experiences. The park is suitable for a wide range of ages and offers everything from crazy roller coasters for adrenaline seekers to calm and gentle facilities for young visitors and families.
What not to miss in the park
The park is divided into theme areas, including ancient Greece, where you will find one of the highest roller coasters in Europe next to the "Godorix" facility, a winding train that provides plenty of thrills. In addition, you will find the land of the Vikings, where you can try exciting rides, including "La Trace du Hourra", which is considered one of the most famous roller coasters in the park. In the heart of the park is the Gaelic village, where you will meet Asterix, Obelix and other favorite characters from the series. Don't miss the area of ancient Rome, where you can go rafting on the amusing river "Romus et Rapidus". And a final recommendation from us - you must not miss the OzIris facility, an inverted roller coaster that takes you on a journey through the world of the Egyptian god Osiris.
What is special about Asterix Park?
What makes Asterix Park unique is its strong cultural resonance. Unlike many international theme parks that offer a generic experience, Asterix Park provides a deep dive into French history, mythology and pop culture. It celebrates the wit, humor and spirit of the Asterix comics, making it a nostalgic destination for many French visitors and a unique cultural experience for international tourists. And beyond the roller coasters and the special facilities, Asterix Park offers live entertainment that includes dolphin and sea lion shows, theater shows and comic antics of Romans and Gauls on the park's streets. Over the years the park has expanded its offerings and continues to constantly introduce innovative facilities and new attractions, ensuring that while the park retains its classic charm, it remains fresh and engaging for repeat visitors.
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The park is located in the Plailly area, about 40 km north of Paris. You can reach the park by car, public transportation or organized shuttles, a trip that takes about an hour from the center of Paris.
Attractions nearby
Not far from the park is the amazing town of Chantilly with a mesmerizing ancient castle and a beautiful art museum.
Score from us: 9/10
Futuroscope Park: A look into the future
Next on the list is Photoroscope, a different and special amusement park, one that stimulates all the senses with futuristic architecture and the immersive multimedia experience it offers. The unique park was opened in 1987, and it's really not a standard amusement park, because here you won't find roller coasters and standard amusement facilities, but innovative technologies that create an adventurous and crazy world.
do not miss
In the park you will find several cinemas where futuristic films offer an immersive and three-dimensional journey on the worlds of tomorrow. In addition, you will find a futuristic 'time machine' in the park, one that takes visitors on a journey through history with a touch of humor and chaos. Don't miss the Futur L'Expo, an interactive exhibition exploring the future of our daily lives, from future technologies to futuristic homes and transportation. And if you feel like adding some action to the experience, go to the Aerobar, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while hanging in the air. Finally, don't miss the opportunity to dance with robots, in an exciting attraction that includes huge robotic arms that swing, lift and spin the guests to the rhythm of the music.
What is special about the park?
PhotoScope Park is unlike anything else, as its futuristic structures, thrilling experiences and the true immersion it provides into the worlds of the future, are something that simply cannot be missed. Along with the fun involved, the park also provides an educational experience, exposing its visitors to the worlds of the future, to the latest technological innovations and above all telling its guests what the world of tomorrow will look like. The park is considered the second largest in France in terms of the number of visitors, behind Disneyland Paris.
.: Park Futuroscope is located in Chasseneuil-du-Poitou near the city of Poitiers in the Noble-Aquitaine region in western France. The park is about two hours drive from the city of Nantes and about two and a half hours from the city of Bordeaux. Futuroscope has its own TGV high-speed train station, making it incredibly accessible.
Score from us: 9/10
Puy du Fou Park: When history comes alive
In the heart of the pastoral Venda region lies Lo Poy du Poy Park, a one-of-a-kind park that presents history in a delightful way. Here you will not find standard amusement facilities such as roller coasters, but restored villages that offer to take you on an authentic historical journey, alongside mesmerizing shows that bring you back to the spirit of different periods in history - from Roman gladiators to Vikings and medieval knights. The park, which opened in 1978, provides visitors with an opportunity to travel back in time, and witness epic stories from different eras.
The attractions of the park consist of two worlds - the restored villages and the historical shows.
In the park you will find 4 authentic villages that invite you to walk through history, from a French village from the 18th century, through a stormy Viking village and many other experiences. Throughout the park you will find spectacular shows that include a mesmerizing setting, dozens of actors and unique breathtaking elements. Don't miss the La Cinéscénie show, which is without a doubt the most iconic of the Puy du Fou. This nightly show features over 2,000 performers on a 230-acre stage, delving into the 700-year history of the county in which the park is located.
What's special about it?
Foy Du Poh Park has won many awards during its years of existence, including the title "Best Theme Park in the World" awarded by the prestigious Thea Awards competition. The park's dedication to historical authenticity, along with state-of-the-art special effects and world-class actors, make the journey through time fascinating and magical, one that simply cannot be missed.
.: Puy du Fou Park is located on the outskirts of the town of Les Épesses in the Vendée region of western France, about 80 km south of the city of Nantes, about 380 km southwest of the city of Paris. It is recommended to get to the park by car, but you can also get there by shuttle and by public transportation.
Score from us: 9.5/10
Nigloland park: family fun
Nigloland Park, which opened its doors in 1987, and covers 470 dunams, is now considered one of the leading amusement parks in France. The park is especially loved by families, as the attractions and facilities it offers are suitable for a wide variety of visitors - from small to large.
The huge park is divided into four main areas - the Canadian Village which was built inspired by the wild nature of Canada, the lively Rock'n'Roll Village which pays homage to the Rock'n'Roll era with colorful and boisterous facilities, the Swiss Village which imitates the peaceful landscapes of Switzerland and the Fantasy Village, which is mainly suitable for young visitors.
Not to be missed
Alpina Blitz: A roller coaster built inspired by the largest alpine mountains in Europe, offers a journey full of twists and turns, sharp turns and surprising drops.
The African cruise: A boat ride that takes visitors through African landscapes, alongside imaginary animals and full of fun.
The Donjon de l'Extrême: A free fall facility that is considered one of the highest in Europe. Offers a scary and exciting experience alongside a panoramic view of the park and the surrounding area.
What is special about the park?
Nigloland Park is everything you'd expect from a lively theme park, and more. The park contains four different and special areas, each of which offers different attractions and a unique atmosphere. Also, the park is located in one of the most pristine and mesmerizing areas of France, between dense forests and lush vineyards, and after visiting it, it is recommended to go out and explore the spectacular area.
Location: Nigloland Park is located in the magical Champagne region, next to the unspoiled Burgundy region of France. The trip from the city of Paris takes about two and a half hours, while the trip from the city of Dijon takes a little less than two hours.
Score from us: 8/10
The Little Prince Park (Le Parc du Petit Prince): a floating colorful world
Who doesn't love the story The Little Prince? The timeless novella story of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Located in the beautiful Alsace region of eastern France, near the border with Switzerland and Germany, this park stands as a heartfelt tribute to the much-loved novella. The amusement park, which covers an area of 240 dunams, was opened in 2014 and presents the insights, the wonder and the background of the beloved story, combining literary charm and amusement attractions.
While visiting the colorful park, visitors embark on a journey across the many planets in the book, each one carefully designed to reflect the themes and characters that accompany the novel. In the park you will find countless unique attractions, from a hot air balloon ride through a fascinating maze to XNUMXD animated films.
Not to be missed
Planet Balloons: Two balloons that rise to a height of 150 meters offer park visitors a panoramic view of the lush Alsace region.
The Fox's Labyrinth: An interactive maze where visitors can uncover quotes from the iconic book as they work their way out.
What is special about the park?
The unique park offers its visitors a true immersion in one of the most beloved and famous stories in the world. Every attraction, show and every feature in the park presents the story of the little prince. The park combines educational attractions with those full of fun and entertainment, and is suitable for everyone - from little ones to adults.
.: The 'Little Prince' park (Le Parc du Petit Prince) is located in the Alsace region of eastern France, north of the beautiful city of Mulhouse. From the city of Strasbourg, the trip will take you about an hour and a quarter, while the distance from the picturesque town of Colmar is about half an hour.
Score from us: 8.5/10
Parc Saint Paul (Parc Saint Paul): a family novel
Last on our list of recommended parks for today is St. Paul Park, a paradise for families that covers an area of 270 dunams and boasts more than 45 exciting and colorful attractions - from roller coasters full of adrenaline to a peaceful boat ride. The design of the park combines elements of nature with man-made wonders, offering visitors an opportunity to embrace adrenaline alongside serenity. And beyond the amusement facilities, the park offers a stage for live performances and events are held there from time to time. In essence, St. Paul's Park embodies the ultimate recreation spirit, a place where every visitor, regardless of age or interests, finds a piece of joy and fun.
major attractions
Wood Express (Wood Express): A wooden roller coaster, which was added to the park in 2018 and quickly became one of its highlights. It is a fast and stormy roller coaster, which offers countless twists, turns and drops along with a delightful rural atmosphere.
formula 1: An exciting train that simulates the speed and excitement of a Formula 1 race.
AquaSplash: Perfect for sunny days, a fun water feature that promises to provide a wet and delightful experience, with lots and lots of laughter.
.: Saint Paul Park is located near the city of Beauvais, about an hour and a half drive from the center of Paris by car, or two hours by public transport.
Score from us: 7.5/10
From the magical worlds of Disneyland in Paris to the historic villages of Foy du Foy Park, the Kingdom of France contains countless diverse theme parks, each offering adrenaline-filled adventures while immersing you in the history and culture of the country you're visiting. So if you feel like incorporating a colorful experience into your trip, diving into the worlds of fantasy, adventure and nostalgia, embarking on a formative experience with your family or friends, one that will create unforgettable memories, you've come to the right place.
