Disneyland and Parc Asterix

Paris has two world class theme parks, attracting millions of visitors on its own. Trying to make trade-offs, I finally gave up and decided what the heck. Let's go to both!

Disneyland was however the biggest damp squib of our trip, both literally and figuratively. It was raining on the day we went. The rain by itself was a blessing in disguise though, for queues were nonexistent in all rides, and we could do most of the riders twice or even thrice, something unthinkable on a normal day. We had the foresight to bring in raincoats, and the only loss was six Euros, to buy an umbrella.

However, the park itself leaves much to be desired, especially if you have visited Disneyland Hong Kong, or any other Disneyland before. If you have been to another Disneyland before, or if all your kids are above ten years, skip this one altogether, and spend the day at Parc Asterix instead. If this is your first Disneyland visit, or you have young children enamored by the likes of Pinocchio, by all means go ahead. You are your kids will be enchanted by the experience.


If you are going, bear in mind there are two parks – Disney Park and Disney Studio, next to each other. A one-day-two-park ticket will not give you enough time to cover everything, rain or no rain. Either select one park after reviewing what appeals to you, or take a two day two park ticket. We didn’t go to the Disney Studios which is more shows than rides, though it does have a couple of very good rides.


Parc Asterix is the most underrated attraction in Paris. I was strongly tempted to take a two day Disney pass and skip Parc Asterix altogether, but I am glad I resisted the temptation, and split up the theme park time between the two. The park is much smaller than Disneyland, and cheaper than the way overpriced Disneyland as well. There are around 36 rides, but the highlight is five or six adrenaline pumping rides, and a similar number of rides that wow small kids. Plus the overall ambience, complete with Asterix's Gaulish village, and the druid Getafix roaming around with his magic potion, add to the fun. There are some good shows as well, but in French. If you are there just for a day, skip the shows and enjoy the rides.

Mementos are available in plenty at both the parks, but as always, not worth the price. Food is available in abundance as well. The fries we had at parc Asterix was the tastiest we encountered in all Europe.

NEXT: Versailles