There’s something truly magical about a trip to Disneyland Paris - whether it’s your little ones meeting one of their favourite Disney characters for the first time, zooming through Space Mountain, or just soaking up that Disney magic (while sneaking in a coffee break for yourself). And the best part? Getting there from Cork is easier than you might think!
As a local, family-run travel agency here in Cork for over30 years, we’ve helped countless families plan their dream Disneyland Paris holiday. From flights out of Cork and Dublin to choosing the best park passes and hotels, we’ve got all the tips to make your Disney adventure as stress-free(and fun!) as possible.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know- from flight options and where to stay to the best times to visit and how to save on costs. We’ll even chat about combining your trip with a Paris city break for those who want a bit of extra adventure.
So, whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned Disney pro, let’s get planning! ✨
The good news for Cork families planning a trip to Disneyland Paris is that getting there is easier than ever, with two main flight options available.
Ryanair operates a year-round direct service from Cork to Paris Beauvais (BVA), with multiple flights per week. The flight takes around 1hour and 45 minutes, making it a quick and convenient hop from Cork. However, it’s worth noting that Beauvais Airport is located further from Disneyland Paris, so families landing here should plan for a private transfer, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
For those looking for a shorter transfer time, Air France offers a seasonal direct flight from Cork to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG),with the service running multiple times per week and daily during peak months. CDG is the closest major airport to Disneyland Paris, making it the preferred choice for many families.
Once you arrive at CDG, there are two main transfer options. A private transfer or taxi will take you straight to the park in around 40minutes, making it the easiest and most stress-free option, especially for families with young children and lots of luggage. Alternatively, for those looking for a fast and budget-friendly option, the TGV (high-speed) train departs from Terminal 2 at CDG and reaches Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station in just 10 minutes. This station is right at the entrance to Disneyland Paris, meaning once you step off the train, you’re just a short walk from the park gates or Disney hotels.
For families looking for the smoothest and most hassle-free journey, we typically recommend flying into CDG and arranging a private transfer or taking the TGV train, both of which will have you in the heart of the magic in under an hour.
When planning a Disneyland Paris trip, where you stay can make a big difference in your experience. While it might seem tempting to book a hotel in Paris city centre, keep in mind that Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Vallée, about 40 minutes away by train. This means staying in the city will add a lot of extra travel time each day. Instead, staying on-site or in the nearby area ensures maximum time in the parks with minimal hassle.
For the full Disney experience, staying in one of the official Disney Hotels offers exclusive perks like early park access and themed accommodations. Here’s a breakdown of the options:
1. Disneyland Hotel (5-star luxury) – Recently refurbished, this is the most luxurious option, located right at the entrance to Disneyland Paris. Perfect for those looking for a high-end stay with top-tier service.
2. Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel(4-star deluxe) – A stylish, Marvel-themed hotel with contemporary New York design, featuring exclusive Marvel artwork and an impressive superhero experience. A short walk (10 mins) or free shuttle to the parks.
3. Disney Newport Bay Club (4-star deluxe) – A charming, New England-style hotel with lake views and a nautical theme, offering an indoor and outdoor pool. Around a 15-minute walk or free shuttle.
4, Disney Sequoia Lodge (3-star moderate) – A cozy, woodland-themed retreat with a log-cabin feel, inspired by America’s national parks. It also has a great indoor pool and is about a 15-minute walk to the parks.
5. Disney Hotel Cheyenne (2-star value) – A Wild West-themed hotel, perfect for little cowboys and cowgirls. Budget-friendly and around a 20-minute walk (or short shuttle ride) to the parks.
6. Disney Hotel Santa Fe (2-star value) – A fun, Cars movie-themed hotel with a Southwestern feel. One of the most affordable Disney Hotels and about a 20-minute walk (or short shuttle ride).
7. Disney Davy Crockett Ranch (Self-Catering Lodges) – Ideal for families who prefer more space and self-catering. Located 15 minutes from the parks by car, but no shuttle service is provided, so a rental car is essential.
For those looking to save money while staying close to Disneyland Paris, there are a number of partner hotels nearby that still provide easy access to the parks via shuttle buses. These hotels range from basic 2-star options to high-end 4-star properties, and we can help recommend the best one depending on budget and availability.
When booking your Disneyland Paris tickets, we work with a preferred supplier to offer flexible options that suit your plans.
1-Day, 1-Park Ticket – Perfect for those short on time, allowing you to choose between Disneyland Park (classic fairytale magic) or Walt Disney Studios Park (home to Avengers Campus and Pixar adventures).
1-Day, 2-Park Ticket – Ideal if you want to experience both parks in one day, hopping between Disneyland’s iconic attractions and Walt Disney Studios' movie-themed experiences.
Multi-Day Tickets (1 to 4 days) – The best way to explore everything at a relaxed pace. These dated tickets don’t require pre-registration and can be cancelled free of charge up to 3 days before your visit.
For families visiting for more than a day, we recommend a 2or 3-day pass to fully enjoy both parks without feeling rushed.
While at Disneyland Paris, don’t forget to check out Disney Village, a lively entertainment district between the parks and hotels, featuring shops, restaurants, live music, and entertainment - perfect for unwinding after a magical day!
Choosing the best time to visit Disneyland Paris depends on what you value most - smaller crowds, special events, or milder weather. For those looking to avoid long queues and peak season pricing, midweek visits in the off-season (January–March and mid-September–November) offer a more relaxed experience. However, if you want to experience the parks in full festive mode, Halloween and Christmas are truly magical times to visit, with themed decorations, parades, and special shows.
The summer months (June–August) bring longer opening hours and more entertainment, but also larger crowds and higher prices. If traveling during school holidays, booking well in advance can help secure better deals. Similarly, visiting in May or early June strikes a good balance between decent weather and moderate crowd levels.
A Disneyland Paris trip can vary widely in cost, but careful planning can help you get the most out of your budget. Accommodation is a major factor, and while official Disney hotels offer convenience and extra perks like early park entry, there are also nearby partner hotels that can provide more budget-friendly options.
When it comes to park tickets, purchasing in advance is key and multi-day passes often offer better value than single-day tickets. Meal costs can add up quickly, so meal plans or even bringing snacks can help keep expenses in check.
One of the best ways to make the most of your visit is by downloading the Disneyland Paris app. The app allows you to check wait times, access park maps, and—most importantly—book dining reservations at Disney Hotels and on-site restaurants. This is particularly important during peak times when table-service restaurants can fill up quickly. Booking your meals in advance ensures you get a spot at your preferred dining location and avoids last-minute stress.
For families looking to save, traveling outside peak holiday periods and taking advantage of package deals (which sometimes include meals or extra park days) can make a big difference. Also, keeping an eye on seasonal promotions through a travel agent can help you secure the best possible price.
While Disneyland Paris is the main attraction for many families, adding a visit to the French capital can be a fantastic way to round out the trip. If you’d like to explore Paris without changing hotels, it’s easy to take a day trip from Disneyland. The RER A train connects Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station (right beside the parks) to central Paris in around 40 minutes, making it a hassle-free option.
For families looking to experience the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame, or even a boat cruise along the Seine, a well-planned day in Paris can be the perfect complement to the magic of Disney. Staying near the park allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds—immersing yourself in the Disney experience while also getting a taste of one of the world’s most famous cities.
A trip to Disneyland Paris is more than just a holiday - it’s a chance to create lifelong family memories. With direct flights from Cork, great accommodation options, and plenty of ways to tailor the trip to your budget, planning your magical adventure has never been easier.
Whether it’s meeting Mickey Mouse, zooming through Space Mountain, or adding a Parisian city break, we’re here to help make your dream trip a reality!!
