A Magical Pre-Christmas Break at Disneyland Paris

Every year I ask my boys where they’d like to go or what they’d like to do. Sometimes that question comes back to bite me… but where’s the fun if it doesn’t?

After a summer break in Fuerteventura, we casually mentioned a winter, pre-Christmas trip. Without hesitation, they both said they wanted to go to Euro Disney “when it’s all Christmassy.” I wasn’t sure I could make it happen — but I did.

In November, for a belated birthday treat for my eldest, we headed off for a long weekend. We flew out of Gatwick after school on Thursday and stayed three nights at the absolutely amazing Fairy tale Fantasy themed Dream Castle Hotel, with two full days in the parks.

The trip started well with simple EasyJet flights into Charles de Gaulle, followed by a taxi to the hotel. We were travelling with my dad and step-mum, who flew in from Luton and met us at the airport, and I’d booked two rooms on the same floor — perfect. Our family room was more than big enough for me and the boys.

After a quick freshen up, we headed down to the lounge bar for a drink before an early night.

The first morning began with an early buffet breakfast, which was brilliant for me as someone with multiple allergies. There was a great selection of hot and cold, protein-packed options. Then it was time to hit the parks — starting with the Magic Kingdom. The shuttle bus was busy, but we managed to squeeze onto the second one.

The weather behaved on day one and we kicked things off with no queue at all for Hyperspace Mountain — what a way to start! Absolutely awesome. We followed that with Pirates of the Caribbean, It’s a Small World and a well-earned food stop for everyone else. I did find the gluten-free options in the parks quite limited, which was a bit of a challenge.

We made sure to position ourselves early for the final Christmas parade of the day, hot chocolates in hand. As always, Disney doesn’t do things by halves — the parade was nothing short of spectacular.

By then the rain had started, everyone was tired, cold and wet, and we decided to skip the fireworks and head back to the hotel.

Day two started early again with breakfast before heading to Disney Studios. We were especially excited for Crush’s Coaster and Stitch Live. The boys explored the shops while lunch was in the pub-style restaurant at Disney Village, then we headed back into the Magic Kingdom for repeat rides, the train, the steamboat and another parade viewing — this time from a different spot.

As much as I love Disney, two days was definitely enough to soak up the Christmas magic. We sadly missed the Lion King show because of the bad weather and the crowds — everyone had the same idea as us!

Our final evening was meant to be a relaxed drink and an early night ready for our early flight home… until the fire alarm went off at midnight. There we were, traipsing down the stairs in our pyjamas, only to be told it was a false alarm and sent back to bed.

Despite that, the kids had the most amazing time. It was a short, sweet break that added some very special memories to our adventure bank — although definitely not a cheap weekend away!

Tips & Takeaways for a Christmas Trip to Disneyland Paris

Go early for Christmas magic

Mid–late November is a brilliant time to go — all the Christmas decorations, parades and shows are running, but it’s usually quieter and cheaper than December.

After-school flights really work

Flying out after school meant we didn’t waste a holiday day travelling and could make the most of the weekend.

Consider off-site Disney partner hotels

The Dream Castle Hotel was fantastic — 4-star comfort, themed for the kids, free shuttle buses and much better value than staying inside the parks.

Allow time for shuttle queues

Shuttle buses can be busy at peak times. Factor in extra time in the mornings and evenings, especially with little ones.

Hit the big rides early

Arriving early meant we walked straight onto Hyperspace Mountain with no queue — always head for the popular rides first.

Plan food if you have allergies or intolerances

I struggled to find gluten-free options in the parks. Bringing snacks and researching allergy-friendly restaurants in advance would make life much easier.

Arrive early for parades and shows

For the Christmas parade especially, grab a spot early with a hot drink — it’s one of the highlights and well worth the wait.

Pack for all weather

November weather can change quickly. Ponchos, waterproof jackets and spare shoes saved us when the rain arrived.

Two days is perfect for a short break

For a festive trip, two full park days felt just right — enough to soak up the atmosphere without total exhaustion.

Budget carefully

It’s magical, but it isn’t cheap. Booking flights, hotel and park tickets early definitely helps keep costs down.

Hotel Mini Review: Dream Castle Hotel (Disney Partner Hotel)

Overall impression:

A fantastic family-friendly hotel with a fairy tale feel and great value compared to on-site Disney hotels.

What we loved:

• Spacious family rooms – plenty of room for luggage and for the boys to spread out.

• Themed décor – perfect for getting the kids into the Disney mood before even reaching the parks.

• Free shuttle buses – regular and reliable transport straight to and from the parks.

• Breakfast buffet – huge variety and excellent for allergies and special diets.

• Lounge bar – ideal for a relaxed evening drink once the kids were asleep.

Good to know:

• Shuttle buses can be busy at peak times, especially first thing in the morning and after fireworks.

• Being off-site means you don’t get Extra Magic Hours, but for a short festive break it really didn’t matter.

Would we stay again?

Absolutely. For comfort, space and value, it’s a brilliant choice for families.

Packing Checklist for a Winter Disney Trip

Essentials

• Passports & travel documents

• Park tickets / booking confirmations

• Travel insurance details

• Small backpack or day bag

Clothing

• Warm coats and jumpers

• Waterproof jackets or ponchos

• Comfortable walking shoes (plus spare pair if rain is forecast)

• Hats, scarves & gloves

• Pyjamas (easy to grab… just in case of midnight fire alarms!)

Park Must-Haves

• Refillable water bottles

• Snacks (especially important for allergies / gluten-free diets)

• Hand sanitiser & wipes

• Portable phone charger / power bank

• Autograph book & pens if your children love meeting characters

Extras that helped us

• Foldable shopping bag for souvenirs

• Mini umbrella

• Plasters / blister pads

• Hot chocolate sachets or tea bags for the hotel room