Driving Guide: Travelling from the UK to Disneyland Paris®

05 Dec 2023 by Megan Maxwell

Are you planning an enchanting trip to Disneyland Paris® from the UK? While the Eurotunnel train no longer offers a direct route to the magical destination, fear not!

Embarking on a road trip from the UK to Disneyland Paris® can be an exciting and memorable journey for the whole family. Let’s explore the various options, essential tips for driving abroad, and everything you need to know to make this adventure smooth and enjoyable.

Disneyland Paris

Why Drive to Disneyland Paris® by Car?

To start, loading your car with everything you might need is a game-changer. No worries about baggage allowances—especially with kids who tend not to travel light. Having their familiar things around keeps them happier on the journey. Plus, driving to Disneyland Paris® often proves more cost-effective than opting for flights or booking the Eurostar.

Additionally, you can relish driving along the French roads, enjoying the scenic views without the pressure of flight schedules or train departures. The freedom to set your own pace is liberating—pausing at well-equipped service stations that line the route to accommodate frequent toilet breaks and the occasional hunger announcements from the back seats.

Driving-to-Disneyland-Paris

Finally, you’ll appreciate the flexibility to take a detour and do your grocery shopping before reaching Disneyland Paris®. French supermarkets are a delight—spacious, offering a wide array of choices, and filled with sights and scents different from British ones.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to practice your French, although speaking the language isn’t necessary as most French locals have at least a basic grasp of English. Transactions at supermarkets usually go smoothly. The kids adore soaking in the diverse sights and smells, adding a unique, enjoyable, and educational layer to the start of your family holiday at Disneyland.

Getting to Disneyland Paris® by Car

There are a couple of routes to consider when driving from the UK to Disneyland Paris®. The most common routes involve taking a ferry or the Eurotunnel to cross the English Channel.

Ferry to Disneyland Paris

Travel from Dover to Calais in just 90 minutes, with approximately 20 crossings available daily. While on board, indulge in a range of activities, from discounted shopping to dining at the various on-board restaurants.

After docking in Calais, it’s a straightforward three-hour drive to reach the magic of Disneyland Paris®.

Services

  • Kids’ Meal Offer: Receive a complimentary child meal when purchasing an adult meal.
  • Entertainment for Children: Keep the little ones entertained with diverse activities, including play areas and quieter spaces for watching videos.
  • On-board Amenities: Benefit from reduced prices on popular high street items. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on deck to stretch your legs, relishing the sea breeze and admiring the splendid sea views during the cruise to France.
  • Dining Options: Choose from a selection of restaurants for dining. Additionally, the on-board shop offers a variety of small toys, games, and confectionery to keep children entertained on the drive to Disneyland Paris.
Eurotunnel

Embark on a delightful journey across the Channel, making the most of the amenities available on-board while preparing for the enchantment awaiting you at Disneyland Paris®!

Eurotunnel (Channel Tunnel):

Although the Eurotunnel doesn’t offer a direct service to Disneyland Paris®, you can still take the tunnel!

Hop aboard the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle for a seamless journey from Folkestone to Calais in just 35 minutes! With up to 4 shuttles available per hour during peak times, you can relax in the comfort of your own car throughout the crossing.

Prior to boarding, both British and French customs are cleared, allowing you to drive straight off the train upon arrival and embark on a 3-hour drive from Calais to the enchantment of Disneyland Paris.

Journey Information

Access the Passenger Terminal via junction 11a on the M20 for your departure.

Services

Indulge in exclusive retail offers at the terminal before your departure for added convenience and enjoyment.

Restrictions

When making your booking, please inform the company if your vehicle or equipment exceeds 1.85 meters in height. Note that LPG vehicles are not permitted.

The Eurotunnel Le Shuttle provides a swift and convenient way to traverse the Channel, ensuring a hassle-free start to your magical adventure at Disneyland Paris!

Sat Nav Instruction for the Route to Disneyland Paris®

Street: Boulevard du Parc
Town: Serris/Coupvray
Department: 77700
Country: France 

Ferry from Calais

Driving Tips Abroad

Before setting off on your adventure, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth drive in a foreign country:

Documentation

Don’t forget your valid driving licence, vehicle registration documents, insurance papers, and passports for all passengers.

Road Rules

Familiarise yourself with French road rules, including speed limits, road signs, and tolls. In France, you must carry two breathalysers, reflective jackets, warning triangles, and headlamp converters for driving on the right-hand side of the road.

Get all your essentials from Car Accessories Plus!

Currency and Tolls

Carry some euros for tolls, as most French toll booths do not accept card payments from non-European bank cards.

Navigation

Ensure your GPS or maps are updated and reliable for navigating through France.

Rest Stops

Plan rest stops along the way, especially if you’re travelling with children, to stretch your legs and grab refreshments.


Travelling by car from the UK to Disneyland Paris® offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy picturesque landscapes en route to the magical destination.

Be sure to plan your route, acquaint yourself with driving regulations in France, and make necessary preparations for a stress-free and delightful journey to the land of fairy tales and dreams.

Buckle up, prepare for an adventure, and get ready to create lifelong memories at Disneyland Paris®!

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