Theme parks are the perfect outing for families with children and anyone wanting to feel like a kid again. After all, there are few people for whom a ride on a roller coaster or merry-go-round does not bring a smile to their faces.
We, too, love amusement parks and visit several a year. These are our favourite amusement parks in Europe.
Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is one of the most famous theme parks in Europe. Here you will find the favourite characters from the Disney fairy tales, the pink castle, and more than 40 attractions and shows for the whole family.
More than one day here is needed with so many attractions spread over two theme parks. Want to stay overnight in Disney style? Then stay in one of the Disney Hotels within walking distance of the theme parks.
Europa-Park
Europa Park is an amusement park in southern Germany. This region, called the Black Forest, is known for its fairytale forests, where you can enjoy hiking and cycling.
But you definitely want to visit Europa Park too! Because this park is full of world-class attractions. In fact, the theme park’s owner is a well-known attraction manufacturer, and the park is their showcase.
Around the park, you will find all kinds of themed hotels and even a large water park. Enough for a mini holiday in this magical part of Germany.
Phantasialand
You also have to go to Germany for the next theme park in Europe. Just below Cologne is Phantasialand, a small theme park packed with attractions!
Here you’ll find some of the best roller coasters in Europe. Our favourites are Taron and F.L.Y. But even if thrill rides are not your thing, Phantasialand has attractions for all ages.
Surrounding the park are three themed hotels with their own entrance to the theme park.
Efteling
Efteling is the best-known amusement park in the Netherlands and is located in the south near Belgium. This amusement park has a fairytale theme, ensuring each attraction takes you to another world.
The park has thrill rides like the rollercoasters Baron 1898 and Joris en de Draak and attractions for the little ones like Droomvlucht and Symbolica.
There is even a fairytale forest where well-known stories come to life. And looking for a special place to stay? Then book a themed suite at the Efteling Hotel.
Legoland
Legoland is a place for families with young children. You will find this park in Denmark, about 1.5 hours’ drive from the border with Germany.
At this amusement park, you will find attractions with a Lego theme and famous buildings. The park focuses on young visitors, and thanks to the many accommodations around the park, you can turn it into a mini-holiday immediately.
Plopsaland
Plopsaland is an amusement park along the coast of Belgium. It is known for its many attractions for young and old. From thrill rides to playgrounds, you’ll find it all here.
Its location near the beach makes combining a visit with a holiday in Belgium easy. Would you like to spend the night near the amusement park? Then you can do so in the park’s own Plopsa Hotel. And would you like a refreshing dip? Then visit the PlopsAqua water park.
Bobbejaanland
Bobbejaanland is another amusement park in Belgium, east of Antwerp. This is also an actual family amusement park with attractions for young and old. And certainly doesn’t have the least thrill rides and roller coasters either.
Within a day, you will have seen most attractions here, but its location makes it easy to combine with a visit to the metropolis of Antwerp or a stay in the Belgian Ardennes.
Alton Towers
Alton Towers is genuinely the best amusement park in the U.K. In this amusement park, you will find not only many rides but also some legendary roller coasters. And the offer is constantly changing. New rides are regularly added, or existing rides get a new theme.
For visitors from outside the U.K., it is recommended to stay at least one night. That way, you can immediately use the swimming pool next to the theme park.
Port Aventura
And for the last theme park in Europe, we head to the Spanish coast. PortAventura is a nice change from the beach and the sea for many. It is a family amusement park with several themed areas with accompanying attractions.
The theme park is located near Salou, a well-known seaside resort in Spain, so it has plenty of places to stay nearby. But it will mainly be a getaway during a Spanish sun holiday.
