The Sleeping Beauty Castle is a well-known sight at Disneyland Paris; its pink towers are topped with golden orbs that are easily visible from all over the resort. People come from far and wide to take pictures of this iconic attraction, and we will provide information to ensure you get the most out of your photo experience, such as the optimal time and place to take pictures and what can be found inside.
About Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Paris
To see the pink castle, you must go to Disneyland Park, one of the two parks at Disneyland Paris. As soon as you get inside, go underneath the train tracks and look straight ahead. At the end of Main Street U.S.A., you will quickly spot the Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Take your first photo at the beginning of Main Street U.S.A., with the castle in the background. Usually, there are Disney photographers who will take it for you so everyone can be in the photo. Don’t forget to scan your Disney Photopass to download the photos later.
The castle is the entrance to Fantasyland, the part of Disneyland Park dedicated to classic Disney films and fairytales. Fantasyland is the land with the most rides for little ones and the perfect place to meet all your favourite characters.
What’s inside the Sleeping Beauty Castle?
When you are at Disneyland Park, take some time to explore Sleeping Beauty Castle. You can enter the castle from the Main Street U.S.A. or Fantasyland side. In the castle you will find:
La Galerie de la Belle au Bois Dormant
Once you step into the castle, ascend the stairs to the top level. There, you will be introduced to the enchanting tale of Sleeping Beauty as depicted through books, wall hangings, and stained glass windows. While it may not be the most exciting experience, don’t forget to go outside onto the balcony to take pictures of the Fantasyland scenery and greet those below.
Shops
The iconic Disney Castle at Disneyland Paris is home to two stores that offer a wide variety of items. The Christmas shop has all sorts of Disney-themed decorations that can be purchased throughout the year, while the jewellery and glass store has collectables and tiaras. Going down the stairs leads to a special surprise.
La Tanière du Dragon
Disneyland Paris is home to a mysterious and thrilling location known as the Dragon’s Lair. Here visitors can witness the dragon slumbering beneath the castle, but it is not recommended to rouse it – as when the dragon is awoken, children can be heard shrieking in fright and running away in fear. It may be too scary for young children, so it is advised to take caution.
Best spot to take pictures by the Sleeping Beauty Castle
Taking photos at the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland Paris is a must-do for anyone visiting the parks.
The best spot to take photos are:
- on the left side of the castle near the entrance to La Tanière du Dragon
- on the bridge going up to the castle on the Main Street U.S.A. side
- in the centre of the hub in front of the castle
- at the start of Main Street U.S.A.
Take your photos at the beginning of the day to avoid crowds or during the golden hour (the last hour before sunset) to get the most beautiful light.
Where to propose near the castle?
We’ve seen many proposals near the castle during our visits to Disneyland Paris. If you are looking for a quiet spot, go to the wishing well on the right of the castle behind the stage. Or on the left side of the castle near the La Tanière du Dragon entrance.
One of the best times to propose is during Extra Magic Time, when only Disney Hotel guests can enter the parks. That means there are fewer crowds and you can have a private moment.
If you don’t mind the onlookers, propose on the hub in front of the castle or Main Street U.S.A. with the castle in the background.
Shows near the Castle
The Disneyland Paris castle is also the backdrop for some of the best shows in the resort. During Christmas and Halloween, the stage on the side is used for shows exclusive to the season.
And during the 30th Anniversary of the resort, the Dream… and Shine Brighter! the parade will stop in front of the castle for a little character dance party.
The castle is also used for projections during the Disney D-Light and Disney Illuminations (replaced by Disney Dreams! starting April 12th). These shows start around the closing time of Disneyland Park, but make sure to be there at least 30 minutes early to find a good spot.
