You’ve purchased a 1-day 1-park ticket for Disneyland Paris but aren’t sure which park to visit? Are you looking for a detailed comparison between Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park to determine which one best meets your expectations? Then you’re in the right place!
In this article, I’ll guide you through a detailed comparison between Disneyland Park, also known as “Park 1” or “Main Park,” and Walt Disney Studios Park, often referred to as “Park 2.” You’ll discover the distinctive features of each park and the criteria to consider when choosing the one that best suits your expectations. Additionally, I’ll provide valuable tips and recommendations to help you make the ideal decision for an unforgettable day at Disneyland Paris.
The main differences between Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park
There are many differences to consider between Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. From the overall theme to the size of the park, and the number of attractions and shops available, each park offers a unique experience. Understanding these distinctions is essential for making an informed decision on which one to visit, especially if you can only choose one for your visit to Disneyland Paris.
Data as of February 2024, subject to change according to season, new products and renovations.
The features to consider to make the right choice
When choosing between Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, several criteria must be taken into account:
- Theming: Disneyland Park offers extensive theming inspired by the original American parks, showcasing classic Disney stories, while Walt Disney Studios Park focuses more on newer Disney, Pixar, and Marvel franchises.
- Lands: Disneyland Park includes the 5 classic lands of Disneyland, offering thematic diversity, whereas Walt Disney Studios Park features lands such as Toon Studios, Worlds of Pixar, Marvel Avengers Campus, etc.
- Closing time: Both parks have different closing times, with Walt Disney Studios Park typically closing at least an hour earlier than Disneyland Park.
- Children’s attractions: With its larger number of attractions and a dedicated land for children (Fantasyland), Disneyland Park is often more appealing to families.
- Thrill rides: Walt Disney Studios Park offers attractions such as RC Racer, Tower of Terror, Flight Force, and Crush’s Coaster, providing thrills for adventurous visitors.
- Indoor shows: Walt Disney Studios Park stands out with impressive shows like Mickey and the Magician and Together.
- Parade: Disneyland Park distinguishes itself with its legendary parade (e.g., Stars on Parade in 2024), while Walt Disney Studios Park does not offer one.
- Nighttime shows: Disneyland Park excels in this criterion with shows like Disney Dreams projected every night of the year, although Walt Disney Studios Park occasionally offers nighttime drone shows.
- Dining options: A weak point of Walt Disney Studios Park is its dining offerings, which are clearly less rich and diverse than those of Disneyland Park. The latter offers a variety of themed restaurants and international cuisines, providing visitors with a broader and more satisfying culinary experience.
My advice and recommendations
As you’ve understood, both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park offer very different entertainment experiences! By taking into account the various important criteria for you, you’ll be able to choose the park that suits you best. However, if you’re still undecided, I recommend prioritizing a visit to Disneyland Park, especially if it’s your first time at Disneyland Paris! This park will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the Disney experience, with its iconic castle, beloved attractions suitable for all ages, and a magical atmosphere that will transport you to a world of magic and adventure.
