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The best theme parks in Europe
Europe is home to some of the best theme parks in the world, and they are remarkably different from one another: from the huge themed resort to the century-old family park. This is a run-through of the ones you should not miss, and what makes each of them special.
Disneyland Paris (France)
It is the most visited park in Europe. It combines two parks — Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios — with the theming and the shows that are Disney trademarks. It is not the park with the most extreme coasters, but it is the one that looks after the overall experience and the family magic best.
Europa-Park (Germany)
Located in Rust, it is one of the largest and most highly rated parks on the continent. It is arranged in themed areas dedicated to different European countries and stands out for the sheer variety and quality of its roller coasters, which make it a pilgrimage for enthusiasts.
PortAventura (Spain)
In Salou, on the Costa Daurada, it is the great park of southern Europe. Six themed areas, top-tier coasters such as Shambhala and Dragon Khan and, right next door, Ferrari Land with Red Force, the tallest and fastest coaster in Europe. Sun, beach and theme park in the same trip.
Efteling (Netherlands)
One of the oldest and most charming parks in the world, with unmistakable fairy-tale theming. Less about adrenaline and more about fantasy and detail, it is a perfect family visit and a global benchmark in themed design.
Phantasialand (Germany)
In Brühl, it is a byword for extreme theming: its areas are built with an astonishing level of detail and its coasters rank among the best in Europe. A compact but intense park, much loved by enthusiasts.
Others worth the trip
- Parque Warner Madrid (Spain): DC superheroes, cinema and big rides on the outskirts of Madrid.
- Gardaland (Italy): the most famous park in Italy, next to Lake Garda.
- Walibi and Toverland: solid options in the Benelux to round out a park road trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the most visited theme park in Europe?
Disneyland Paris is by some distance the most visited theme park in Europe.
Which park has the tallest and fastest coaster in Europe?
Red Force, at Ferrari Land (next to PortAventura, in Spain), is the tallest and fastest roller coaster in Europe, with a launch from 0 to 180 km/h.
Put these tips into practice
Check the live wait times and the crowd forecast for your next park, free.
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Complete PortAventura guide: areas, rides and tips
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