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France is famous for the Eiffel Tower, Château de Versailles, and Notre-Dame. There’s a whole world of neat places just outside the theme park. You can explore without spending too much time or money on travel. Let’s jump in and discover 15 awesome things to do near Disneyland Paris!
Things to Do Near Disneyland Paris
There’s much more to enjoy around Disneyland Paris than roller coasters and parades. Once you’ve had your fill of fairy tales and fireworks, you’ll find the area packed with exciting things to see and do. Every spot brings new fun, from peaceful gardens and storybook towns to epic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower.
1. Marvel at the Eiffel Tower
You can’t visit France without seeing its most iconic landmark. The Eiffel Tower rises tall above the Paris skyline. It stands on the Champ de Mars park beside the River Seine. It takes about an hour and twenty minutes to get there from Marne-la-Vallée. You can climb its stairs or ride the elevator. Either way, you get amazing views of Paris.
- Location: Av. Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris, France
- Height: 312 m, 330 m to tip
- Hours: 9:30 am – 11:00 pm daily
Read More: Eiffel Tower to Disneyland Paris: Transport Options Explained
2. Explore the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a huge part of history. It’s around 50 m high and sits at the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle. From the top, you can gaze down the twelve roads that fan out from its base. The view of the Eiffel Tower down the Champs-Élysées is gorgeous.
- Location: Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France
- Height: 50 m
- Hours: 10:00 am – 10:30 pm daily
3. Shop and Visit Sea Life at Val d’Europe
Val d’Europe is just one train stop (less than 5 minutes) from Disneyland Paris. It’s not just a mall, it’s a whole experience with nearly 200 shops and 30 restaurants. Bonus: The Sea Life aquarium lets you feed turtles and watch sharks and stingrays glide by.
- Location: 30 minutes to the east of Paris
- Entry: Free
- Hours: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm daily
4. Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) are one of Paris’s most loved green spaces. They feature fountains, tree-lined paths, and colourful flower beds. Today, the French Senate is located near the palace. This garden gives you a taste of calm city life.
- Location: 75006 Paris, France
- Entry: Free
- Hours: 8:00 am or 7:30 am to 5:00 pm(winter) / 9:00 pm (summer)
5. Visit Château de Champs‑sur‑Marne
If you love old buildings and French style, this beautiful castle should be on your list. It was built in the 18th century and embodies neoclassical design. Located in Torcy, it’s just some train stations away, peaceful, historic, and elegant.
- Location: 31 Rue de Paris, 77420 Champs-sur-Marne, France
- Opened: 1699
- Hours: 10:00 am – 12:15 pm, 1:30 – 6:00 pm (closed Tuesday)
6. Stroll Around Disney Village
You don’t need a park ticket to enjoy Disney Village. Shops, restaurants, and live entertainment capture the Disney feel. Grab American-style food at Annette’s Diner or relax with a drink in a bar. It’s free to enter, but still full of magic!
- Location: 2 Av. Paul Séramy, 77700 Chessy, France
- Theme: Outdoor entertainment area
- Hours: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
7. Explore the Quaint Town of Meaux
It is around 35-40 minutes from Disney by train. Meaux offers a change of pace from crowds and noise. Meander through the old city centre and visit Saint‑Étienne Cathedral. Local history museums and galleries showcase charming French culture.
- Location: Meaux, Seine‑et‑Marne
- Entry: Free
- Hours: Cathedral open 24 hours
8. Take a Seine River Cruise
Hop on a gentle cruise along the River Seine. The boat travels past iconic landmarks like Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre, and Grand and Petit Palais. It’s a calm way to see Paris from the water, and trains from Marne‑la‑Vallée make it easy to get there.
- Departure: Pont de l’Alma, Paris
- Hours: Daily (hours may vary)
9. Ride the PanoraMagique Hot Air Balloon
Over at Lake Disney, this giant tethered balloon lifts you 100 meters into the sky. You get panoramic views of Disney Studios, Val d’Europe, and sometimes even the Eiffel Tower. It’s calm, peaceful, and totally special.
- Location: Lac de, 77700 Chessy, France
- Located in: Disney Village
- Hours: 9:00 am – 11:00 pm
10. Hike in Fontainebleau Forest
This forest is a breath of fresh air east of Disneyland Paris. Once a royal hunting ground, it’s now a favourite for rock climbers, hikers, and anyone who wants nature. Towering old trees, gentle trails, and hidden castle ruins make it a peaceful escape.
- Location: Fontainebleau, Seine‑et‑Marne
- Hours: Daily (hours may vary)
11. Visit the Brie‑Comte‑Robert Town
This medieval town is enchanting, with walled streets, a feudal castle, and old churches. Stroll along canals, find cute cafés, and soak in local life. It’s quiet, charming, and an easy day trip from Disney.
- Location: Brie‑Comte‑Robert (Located 28 km from Paris)
- Entry: Free to walk around
12. Enjoy Local French Cheese Tasting in Meaux
Meaux isn’t just pretty; it’s famous for its cheese. Specifically, Brie de Meaux is a delicious creamy cheese with a soft rind. Visit a farm or cheese shop, taste fresh Brie, and learn what makes it special. It’s a tasty way to explore local culture!
13. Learn History at the Château de Ferrières
This stately mansion sits in the forest just south of Disneyland Paris. It was a luxury hotel built in the 19th century before becoming a historic site. The stunning architecture and grand rooms give you a glimpse of French high society.
- Location: Rue du Château, 77164 Ferrières-en-Brie, France
- Construction started: 1855
- Hours: Tours by appointment (10:00 am – 5:00 pm)
- Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture
14. Spend Time at the SEA LIFE Aquarium
The SEA LIFE Aquarium in Val d’Europe is a gem if you love marine life. Touch pools, tunnels, and colourful fish let you dive into an underwater world.
- Address: Ccial Val d’Europe, 14 Cr du Danube, 77700 Serris, France
- Located in: Centre Commercial Val d’Europe
- Hours: 10:00 am – 6:30 pm daily
15. Explore the Louvre Museum Quick Tour
You don’t need tons of time to taste the Louvre’s magic. Take a short visit to see the Mona Lisa and a few highlights. It’s a super-quick cultural boost, easily done in a few hours, and will give you that art-lover feel.
- Location: 75001 Paris, France
- Cost: Around 20 AUD
- Hours: Wed-Mon, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (or 9:00 pm). Closed on Tuesdays.
Final Words
Disneyland Paris brings magic, but the real charm lives nearby. Stone castles, wild forests, charming towns, and Parisian landmarks await you. Pack your energy. Choose a mix of Disney fun, art, history, and nature. Make your Disney holidays beautiful and culturally significant.
FAQs
Can I visit Paris on the same day after Disneyland Paris?
Yes, you totally can. Paris is just about 40 minutes away by train from Disneyland Paris. If you start your Disney day early and leave by afternoon, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the city’s big sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre.
Is Disney Village free to enter?
Yes, it’s completely free. It’s packed with cool restaurants, Disney-themed shops, a cinema, and even live music sometimes.
How far is Val d’Europe from Disneyland Paris?
It’s just one train stop away, less than 10 minutes by RER train. It’s one of the biggest shopping malls, with many brands, restaurants, and even an aquarium.
Can I take a hot air balloon ride without entering the parks?
Yes! The PanoraMagique hot air balloon is in Disney Village, so it’s open to everyone. You don’t need a Disneyland ticket. It’s a short ride but gives you amazing 360° views of the parks and beyond. It’s perfect for photos too.
Are there any nature spots near Disneyland Paris?
Definitely, one of the best is Fontainebleau Forest.. There are huge trees, rocky paths, and old royal hunting trails. It’s a quiet, green break after the excitement of Disney.
What’s the best small town to visit near Disneyland?
Meaux is a great pick. It’s a peaceful town where you can stroll through cobbled streets, visit the big cathedral, and visit local museums. It’s very French, very cosy, and not full of tourists.
Do I need a car to visit places near Disneyland Paris?
Not really. Most places are well-connected by RER trains or local buses. Val d’Europe, Paris city centre, Meaux, and even the Château de Champs-sur-Marne can be reached without a car. But if you want to explore more rural spots or travel at your own pace, renting a car might be helpful.
Is it worth leaving Disneyland Paris for a day trip?
Yes, especially if you have more than two days. Spending one full day at the parks and another at nearby spots like Paris, Val d’Europe, or a relaxing garden makes your getaway feel more rounded.
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