Disneyland Park vs Walt Disney Studios Park: Which is better?

Planning a magical trip to Disneyland Paris? One of the most exciting decisions you'll face is choosing between Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios. Both parks offer unique experiences, but which is better for your family holiday? Don't worry—we’re here to guide you! Let’s explore the differences between these enchanting parks to help you make the perfect choice.

What's the difference between the two parks at Disneyland Paris?

Worlds

Disneyland Park: The Classic Magic

Disneyland Park, often referred to as the original park, is a realm of pure enchantment where all your dreams come to life. From the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle to the colourful atmosphere of Main Street U.S.A, Disneyland Park is designed to make you feel like a child again. It’s a place where stories you grew up with become reality!

This park is divided into five magical lands:

Main Street, U.S.A.: Step back in time to a charming, turn-of-the-century American town.
Frontierland: Venture into the Wild West with its rustic, adventurous spirit.
Adventureland: Explore exotic locations across the globe inspired by famous Disney tales such as Aladdin.
Fantasyland: Enter a fairytale wonderland where you can fly to Neverland or meet your favourite Disney princess.
Discoveryland: Blast off and experience futuristic attractions where new wonders await.

Walt Disney Studios Park: Behind the Scenes Magic

Walt Disney Studios Park offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at movie magic. As you wander through, you'll feel as though you've stepped onto a real movie set, making this park perfect for film enthusiasts and superhero fans alike! More than just a collection of attractions—it’s an immersive experience that celebrates the art of filmmaking.

It's divided into six production zones:

Front Lot: Feel like a star as you walk through Hollywood-inspired settings.
Toon Studio: Meet beloved characters and explore vibrant animated worlds from iconic Disney movies.
Production Courtyard: Discover the secrets of film and TV production through interactive exhibits and live shows.
Backlot: Experience thrilling action-packed adventures and stunning special effects.
Marvel Avengers Campus: Rub shoulders with the avengers themselves!
World of Frozen: A new glacial immersive land coming in 2026!

Main attractions and rides

When it comes to thrills and spills, both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park feature a number of exciting rides and attractions for all ages, including those for adults, teenagers, and children.

Disneyland Park Highlights

Sleeping Beauty Castle: This iconic castle is a key symbol of Disney magic with its stunning architecture making it perfect for memorable photo opportunities.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Embark on a swashbuckling boat ride through pirate-infested waters, with animated pirates and treasure-filled coves that bring the high seas to life.
Big Thunder Mountain: Brace yourself for a wild ride on this runaway train adventure set in the heart of a haunted gold mine.
It's a small world: Enjoy a gentle, whimsical boat ride, where you'll glide through scenes showcasing dolls from various cultures around the globe.

Walt Disney Studios Park Highlights

Avengers Assemble: Flight Force: Join the Avengers on an exhilarating high-speed mission that propels you into an epic superhero battle.
Ratatouille: The Adventure: Shrink down to the size of a rat and join Remy on a thrilling 4D culinary adventure through Gusteau’s restaurant.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: Plunge into the unknown on this thrilling drop tower ride, ascending through a haunted hotel filled with eerie, supernatural elements.
Crush’s Coaster: Dive into an underwater adventure, where you’ll ride the East Australian Current alongside Crush the sea turtle from Finding Nemo.

For more information, check out our guide to the best rides at Disneyland Paris.

Characters

Disneyland Park

Meet classic characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy. For encounters with Disney Princesses such as Cinderella, Belle, and Snow White, Fantasyland is the place to be. Seasonal events often bring additional characters into the park, ensuring a magical encounter for everyone.

Walt Disney Studios Park

Here, you can meet stars from Disney's animated and live-action films. Expect to see Buzz Lightyear and Woody from Toy Story, Sulley from Monsters, Inc., and The Incredibles. You might even bump into MARVEL superheroes like Spider-Man!

Read our blog for all the details on where to find and meet your favourite Disney characters!

Places to Eat at Disneyland® Paris

Dining at Disneyland Paris is as magical as the parks themselves, offering a variety of culinary delights to suit every taste. Whether you're craving gourmet meals or quick bites, both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park boast a range of dining options.

Disneyland Park

Auberge de Cendrillon: Dine with Disney Princesses in this elegant French restaurant.
Captain Jack’s - Restaurant des Pirates: Enjoy Caribbean cuisine in a pirate-themed setting.
Casey’s Corner: Grab a classic American hot dog or a refreshing soft drink on Main Street, U.S.A.
Pizzeria Bella Notte: Savour traditional Italian dishes inspired by Lady and the Tramp.

Walt Disney Studios

Bistrot Chez Rémy: Experience fine French dining in a Ratatouille-themed restaurant.
PYM Kitchen: For unique dining, head to PYM Kitchen, where oversized and miniature food creations bring the world of Ant-Man and The Wasp to life.
Walt’s - an American restaurant: An elegant eatery celebrating Walt Disney’s legacy, with a sophisticated menu of American and international dishes.
Laugh’N’Go!: A casual dining spot with tasty snacks and light meals in a fun, vibrant atmosphere, perfect for quick bites.

Need more advice? See our guide on where to eat at Disneyland Paris.

Book a family holiday to Disneyland Paris with PGL!

Why choose between Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park when you can enjoy both? PGL offers fantastic family holiday packages to Disneyland Paris, making it easy to experience the magic of both parks.

You’ll get a 5-night stay at our Château de Grande Romaine centre on the outskirts of the city, with a day trip to Disneyland Paris included.

Request a quote today to arrange your next French family adventure. Or, contact us if you’d like to find out more!