Since it opened to the public in 1992, Disneyland Paris has been in the dreams of a fair chunk of the children across Europe.
On its opening day it cost the equivalent of €30 for a single ticket, according to one analysis of prices, which only rose 18% over the next decade.
By 2019 the average day ticket cost €73, a 140% price hike that is far above the 46% inflation during the same time period in France.
Today one ticket can cost as much as €99 per person in the high season, meaning a trip to the magical kingdom is not cheap, especially once transport and accommodation is taken into account.
While it's still an experience that is likely too expensive for a lot of people in these difficult economic times, the Disney experts at reseller AttractionTickets.com have shared their top tips to reduce your costs while still enjoying the magic.
Book your tickets in advance through an authorised reseller
As much as British people appear to enjoy queueing, purchasing your tickets for Disneyland Paris before you leave home means you can save time on arrival.
Make sure you get a gate-ready ticket, not a voucher, as those still need to be exchanged for a ticket which means - another queue.
Shop around for the best deal or added value offers and save up to 49% compared to buying tickets at the gate, Attraction Tickets claims.
Planning removes a lot of the fuss and wait times, and means you’ll get to make the most of your visit, and have access to some exclusive extras too…
Try the Eurostar
Whilst flying with a budget airline is often the cheapest way to travel to France, the true cost of flying can really add up.
With the potential for delays, queues and stress at airports, taking the train often means a shorter journey time and a more relaxing experience.
Plus no luggage restrictions, so you can bring home all the Disney souvenirs you’d like.
Visit off-peak or mid-week
Disneyland Paris is usually a family affair and it's not always possible to travel off-peak or mid-week with little ones in school.
However, it’s no secret that adults love Disneyland too. So if it's possible to visit at a quieter time, then you’ll find it’s much cheaper.
When it comes to Eurostar, mid-week fares are much lower than weekend prices, and this is generally the case with accommodation too.
As well as Eurostar, off-peak park tickets and overnight stays are often cheaper.
Think about visiting in March - around that time you can often get a couple of nights free because it is generally so quiet.
Park hotels are often much more affordable as the demand is lower.
Stay in a non-Disney or off-site hotel
When it comes to hotels, you have three options; stay at a Disney Hotel, stay at a Disney area hotel, or find accommodation off-site. All have their pros and cons.
Staying at a Disney Hotel may come with a premium but there are some amazing benefits.
You’re within walking distance to the parks or can take advantage of a free shuttle, you get Extra Magic Time - which means you get longer in the park as a hotel guest - and you may even get to meet some of your favourite characters in the comfort of your own hotel.
Sometimes it is cheaper to go to a Disney area hotel, such as Les Villages Nature Paris, which comes with free parking at the Parks which are around a 15 minute drive away.
Alternatively there are lots of hotels and self-catering apartments off-site that are not too far away.
Many hotels near Val d'Europe offer a transfer between the hotel and Disneyland Paris for free or you can take the metro to Marne-la-Vallée Chessy. The entrance of Disneyland Paris is right outside the station.
Staying off-site will be cheaper so if you’re on a budget and don’t mind being further away from the magic, this can be a good option. Just remember to include transportation costs in your planning.
Take advantage of freebies and vouchers
It’s no secret that everyone loves a freebie - but knowing when to find them is the real trick.
If it is your birthday you can go to the city hall on site to grab a free birthday badge, which mean you'll get lots of wishes as you walk through the park and plenty of freebies along the way.
Got a breakfast voucher included in your ticket price?
Head to Annette's around 9.30am to beat the queue before they open at 10am, and treat yourself to a full-cooked American breakfast with a hot drink and choice of juice paid for by the voucher.
You can use the free Fastpass to save on queuing times across the park. With little to no wait for certain attractions, a Fastpass will save you so much time meaning you can make the most of your visit.
Just pick up a pass from one of the dedicated machines.
Bring your own snacks
Before you know it, the cost of food inside the park can quickly add up, so why not bring some of your own snacks.
Things like packed sandwiches are a great option for lunch as this will save you money and can really make a difference when you’re on a budget.
It’s important to note that you’re allowed to bring in small snacks, just nothing in a large container, glass, or cooler.
Bring a bottle of water
If you’re spending the whole day in Disneyland Paris, you could easily drop a lot of money on water, so bring your own bottle.
There are loads of drinking water fountains dotted throughout the park where you can stop and refill your bottle.
If your little ones struggle with water and prefer squash or juice, then it might be a good idea to bring along a travel-size, high-concentrate squeezy squash to add to your water.
Buy your souvenirs before you arrive
Whether you’re visiting with kids or adults, it can be hard to resist all the merchandise when you’re inside Disneyland Paris’ souvenir shops.
There are hundreds of unique, independent retailers in the UK that make and sell Disney accessories, so why not buy prior to your visit to Disneyland Paris so you can look the part without breaking the bank.
