Traveling with the Family – Disney World Orlando vs Disney Land Paris

Thanks to their immersive experiences and unparalleled entertainment, Disney theme parks are the best in the world. Dubbed the Happiest Place on Earth, the theme parks are known for their iconic attractions, enchanting lands, magical entertainment, and beloved characters. Disney World in Orlando and Disneyland Paris are two of the most popular Disney theme parks. Both destinations offer incredible experiences, so it can be daunting to decide which to visit. 

In this article, we’ll compare Disney World Orlando and Disney Land Paris to help you make the best decision. By considering value for money, size of the parks, and other factors, you can gain insight into which Disney destination suits you best.

Value for Money Dollars Vs Euros

When it comes to the value for money, currency plays a significant role when you compare Disney World Orlando and Disneyland Paris. Disney World in Orlando typically offers more value for money for visitors paying in dollars due to the favourable exchange rates compared to Disneyland Paris, which operates in euros.

In Disney World Orlando, visitors often find that their dollars stretch further, allowing them to experience numerous attractions, dining options, and accommodations within their budget. Additionally, Disney World frequently offers discounted package deals, meal plans, and multi-day tickets, allowing families to save even more.

Disneyland Paris is relatively more expensive for visitors paying in euros. Prices for tickets, dining, and merchandise are typically higher due to the stronger euro compared to the dollar, which can impact the overall value of money.

Disney World Orlando and Disneyland Paris both offer exceptional experiences. However, Disney World Orlando provides better value in terms of the variety of offerings and overall affordability, especially for those paying in dollars. However, personal preferences, travel logistics, and cultural experiences also play a significant role in determining the value for money of each Disney destination.

Size of the Parks

Disney World Orlando and Disneyland Paris differ significantly in size. Disney World Orlando is vast, encompassing four major theme parks, Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, occupying approximately 25,000 acres of land. This expansive layout allows for a wide range of attractions, two waterparks, entertainment options, and immersive experiences, making it a destination that requires several days to enjoy.

In comparison, Disneyland Paris is more compact. It has two theme parks, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, scattered on roughly 5,500 acres of land. While smaller than Disney World Orlando, Disneyland Paris still offers an array of attractions, shows, and themed lands inspired by classic Disney stories and characters.

The size difference between Disney World Orlando and Disneyland Paris can affect the overall experience in several ways. Disney World Orlando’s vastness means it requires longer travel times between parks and attractions, careful planning, and consideration of transportation options. However, its expansive layout allows families to enjoy various experiences and attractions.

On the other hand, Disneyland Paris’s more compact size offers the advantage of easy navigation and accessibility, allowing families to explore both parks more efficiently within a shorter timeframe. Despite its smaller size, Disneyland Paris still captures the magic and charm of Disney, offering a memorable and enchanting experience for families.

The size difference between Disney World Orlando and Disneyland Paris contributes to their distinct atmospheres and appeal, catering to diverse preferences and travel styles.

To Get there From Wales

For families from Wales, the travel time to Disney World Orlando and Disneyland Paris varies significantly in terms of the distance and transportation options. Since Disney World Orlando is in the United States, travelling to this theme park typically involves a longer journey than Disneyland Paris.

To reach Disney World Orlando from Wales, families can fly into Orlando International Airport from Cardiff Airport or Bristol Airport. The flight could take up to 10 hours, including layovers, followed by a transfer to the Disney World resort area, which can take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Overall, it takes 10 to 12 hours to travel from Wales to Disney World Orlando.

On the other hand, reaching Disneyland Paris from Wales involves a shorter journey. Families can take a direct flight from Cardiff Airport to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, which takes a mere 1.5 to 2 hours. From Charles de Gaulle Airport, Disneyland Paris is accessible via various transportation options, including train, shuttle bus, or taxi, with a travel time of approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Therefore, the travel time from Wales to Disneyland Paris can only take 2.5 to 3.5 hours.

While Disney World Orlando offers a more extensive array of attractions and experiences and is much bigger than Disneyland Paris, reaching it from Wales requires a longer travel time. Disneyland Paris is more accessible and reachable within a shorter timeframe for families from Wales. 

Best All-Inclusive Packages

Disneyland Paris and Disney World Orlando have all-inclusive packages to enhance the overall experience and provide convenience for families during their visit.

Disney World Orlando’s all-inclusive packages typically include accommodations at Disney-owned hotels, park tickets for multiple days, access to all four theme parks, which include the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and various additional perks such as dining plans, FastPass+ reservations, and transportation within the resort area. These packages allow families to customise their experience based on their budget and preferences.

On the other hand, Disneyland Paris offers similar all-inclusive packages, including hotel accommodations, park tickets for Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, and access to various attractions and shows. Guests can also opt for dining plans and other add-ons to enhance their experience. However, the options for accommodations and dining plans may be more limited than in Disney World Orlando.

Disney World Orlando and Disneyland Paris can provide families with comprehensive and convenient all-inclusive packages, depending on their needs and preferences. While Disney World Orlando offers a wider variety of accommodations, dining options, and attractions, Disneyland Paris provides a more compact and accessible experience.