Explore The 15+ Best Amusement Parks In Europe
Europe’s amusement parks are renowned worldwide for their breathtaking attractions, impeccable craftsmanship, and abundant family-friendly entertainment. And if you’re like me, then you love theme parks, of course, I haven’t visited them all yet. But, with the help of fellow travel bloggers, I compiled a list of the best amusement parks in Europe!
Europe’s amusement parks are renowned worldwide for their breathtaking attractions, impeccable craftsmanship, and abundant family-friendly entertainment.
So, fellow adventure seekers and thrill enthusiasts, go on an exhilarating journey through the finest amusement parks Europe offers!
Read more: Explore The 15+ Best Amusement Parks In EuropeWhether you’re a lifelong adrenaline junkie or simply looking to rediscover your inner child, this blog post is your ultimate guide to the best theme parks in Europe.
Join us as we uncover the best theme parks in Europe, each offering its unique blend of magic, excitement, and pure escapism. Let the adventure begin!
Discover The Best Amusement Parks In Europe
Those amusement parks are also some of Europe’s most famous amusement and theme parks, such as Europa Park in Germany or PortAventura in Spain; without forgetting the famous Disneyland Paris, you can find across Europe you’ll definitely find one park you love!
Today, I’ve gathered a group of travel bloggers to help me discover the top amusement parks in Europe.
Europa Park, Rust, Germany
Europa-Park, located in Rust, Germany, is one of Europe’s most renowned and beloved theme parks and rightfully so, I adored my visit to Europapark.
Spanning over 90 hectares, this captivating destination is famous for its extraordinary blend of thrilling rides, cultural diversity, and immersive experiences, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers and families.
The park’s unrivalled collection of world-class attractions is another reason why people flock here. From record-breaking roller coasters like the adrenaline-pumping Silver Star (make sure to queue for the first row if you feel brave enough; it’s an amazing experience!) and the hair-raising Blue Fire to family-friendly rides and interactive shows, Europa Park caters to every age and taste.
Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding adventures, cultural immersion, or unforgettable family moments, a visit to Europa Park is a journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of Europe.
Next to the theme park, you can also find Europa Park’s water park, Rulantica.
Disneyland Paris & Walt Disney Studio, Paris, France
I couldn’t write a list of the best amusement parks in Europe without including Disneyland!
Disneyland Paris, known as the “Happiest Place in Europe,” is a magical and enchanting destination that brings beloved Disney characters and stories to life.
Comprising two distinct parks, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, this iconic resort in Marne-la-Vallée, France( a 50-minute RER trip from central Paris) offers an unparalleled experience for Disney fans and visitors of all ages.
Disneyland Park captures the essence of classic Disney fairy tales with its enchanting Sleeping Beauty Castle at the park’s heart.
The park offers a perfect blend of nostalgia, wonder, and unforgettable moments, from thrilling attractions like Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain to beloved experiences like meeting Mickey Mouse & Friends and exploring immersive lands like Adventureland and Fantasyland.
Walt Disney Studios Park celebrates the magic of filmmaking. Visitors can dive into the behind-the-scenes world of their favourite movies and TV shows, experiencing attractions like Ratatouille: The Adventure and Crush’s Coaster. The park also showcases mesmerizing shows, including the breathtaking stunt spectacle of Moteurs… Action! and the captivating musical extravaganza of Mickey and the Magician.
Walt Disney Studio is also now the perfect place for Marvel fans, with the Marvel Camps and the Marvel theme attractions and shows there!
Check out my magical 1 day Disneyland Paris guide for all the necessary information and tips!
Astérix Park, Paris, France
Located just outside Paris, France, Park Astérix is a vibrant and immersive theme park that brings to life the beloved world of the iconic Gaulish comic book character Astérix.
Nestled in a lush forest, this park is famous for its enchanting blend of history, humour, and heart-pounding attractions, making it a must-visit destination for families, friends, and thrill-seekers.
Park Astérix transports visitors back to ancient Gaul, where they can explore themed lands inspired by the comic book series. From the bustling streets of the Roman Empire to the wild adventures of the Vikings, each area is meticulously designed, capturing the essence of Astérix’s whimsical universe.
The main attractions there are exhilarating roller coasters, including the gravity-defying Goudurix, the wooden wonder of Tonnerre de Zeus, and the brand new “Toutatis” roller coaster, France’s highest and fastest roller coaster.
Bonus: if you have never watched animation movies or read the BD, I highly recommend them; visiting the park is even more enjoyable!
Futuroscope, Poitier, France
Contributed by Kylie from LifeInRuralFrance
Futuroscope is just outside the old town of Poitiers in western France in the Vienne department. Opening in 1987, it was the first theme park in France, winning awards for “World’s Best Attraction” for two rides.
Its focus is on BIG multimedia attractions, with everything in 3D or 4D.
One of the most impressive rides is the Vienne Dynamique, a simulator ride involving water and a fun journey through the Vienne following a groom who is late for his wedding. It’s a thrilling race through back streets, jumping off trains and flying over the countryside.
Other rides include a deep dive down to the bottom of the ocean with Jacques Cousteau, a bug-infested ride with Arthur and his Minimoys, and a trip through time with the Raving Rabbids.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan and love Stephen Fry narrating the stories, then you’ll love IMAX 4K laser cinema with a mouse and a chipmunk. His voice takes you through the entire experience.
The dancing robots are a must, especially if you like being thrown through the air by a robotic arm.
And finally, there are the night shows. These are all put on by Cirque du Soleil and are nothing short of brilliant, with pyrotechnic displays, fireworks and holograms included.
If you get tired, they even provide giant bean bags to relax on so you can take well-earned rest.
Top tip: to see and do everything at Futuroscope, you need to spend a few days rather than just one.
Prater, Vienna, Austria
Contributed by Gladis from Happinessontheway
Wurstelprater, known as Prater, is the second-oldest amusement park in the world. It is located in Leopoldstadt, Vienna, Austria, and has over 250 attractions, including rides, games, and restaurants.
As a theme park enthusiast, Prater is the most unique and nostalgic park I’ve ever visited. I’m in awe that this nostalgic green park offers a collection of heart-pumping rides. It’s the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation!
A visit to Prater would only be complete with a ride on the Riesenrad, the world’s oldest giant Ferris wheel in operation and an iconic symbol of Vienna. At 65 meters high, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic city views from your cabin.
For adrenaline junkies, try the Prater Turm free fall tower, which drops you 60 meters in three seconds, or the Megablitz, the park’s fastest family-friendly roller coaster. And if you’re up for some horror thrills, ride on Hotel Psycho, a ghost train that will take you on a terrifying journey through the “corridors of terror.”
When it’s time to refuel, you can grab a delicious currywurst or pretzel from one of the food stalls or indulge in authentic Viennese cuisine and refreshing beer at Schweizerhaus. I can’t get enough of the soft pretzels!
The park is open daily from March to October and on weekends in the winter, with free entry and pay-as-you-go attractions. Get a 10% discount with the Pratercard, but bring cash as not all rides accept it.
Liseberg, Sweden
Contributed by Roshni from WanderlustWithin
One of the best amusement parks in Europe has to be Liseberg in Gothenburg, Sweden. Open since 1923, it has been dubbed the greatest park in Scandinavia and offers rides, shows, shopping, great food and beautiful gardens.
It opens for three seasons a year, summer, Halloween and Christmas, when it is home to the largest and most popular Christmas market in Gothenburg.
At this time of year, it is lit by over 5 million Christmas lights. It has over 80 market stalls selling everything from traditional gifts to modern designer goods and festive food stands selling Swedish favourites.
There is also a Santa’s workshop, a festive-themed ice skating show, and 40 different rides and attractions, including some incredible rollercoasters such as Helix, Balder and Valkyria, that are best experienced with an express pass as the queues can be very long for the most popular rides.
Liseberg can be reached in the city centre by bus, tram or canal, so it is easy to reach sustainably, which is a huge part of the theme park’s mission. Liseberg owns its own wind turbine, and all the rides are run 100% by renewable wind power. The theme park is also expanding by building a new hotel and water park named Oceana.
Tivoli Gardens, Danmark
Submitted by Alex and Leah from Alex and Leah on Tour
Tivoli Park, located in the heart of Copenhagen, has to be one of the best amusement parks in Europe; it is a beloved attraction for tourists and locals alike.
Located just a short walk from Central Station, it is hard to believe such a huge park is in the centre of the capital city!
Tivoli has an impressive array of rides and attractions suitable for all ages! Their wooden roller coaster is one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the world and has been running since 1914!
When visiting Tivoli Park, it is best to do your research in advance as most of the rides cost an additional fee, and buying a multi-ride pass might be worthwhile to make the most of your time there.
You won’t struggle to find some delicious food in Tivoli as more than 60 eateries are spread across the gardens and food hall with options for every taste.
Don’t miss out on the beautiful gardens, lakes and landscaped areas that look extra impressive when lit at night.
Tivoli Park truly shines during the Christmas and New Year’s period, when it transforms into a winter’s wonderland. Beautifully decorated, the park shines with twinkling lights and hosts a stunning outdoor ice rink.
Whether you visit at Christmas or any other time of year, the second-oldest theme park in Europe is a must-visit attraction for any trip to Copenhagen.
Efteling, the Netherlands
Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels.
The Efteling is a theme park near the town of Kaatsheuvel. Kaatsheuvel is located in the south of the Netherlands, close to Tilburg and Den Bosch. The theme park has attractions for all ages, ranging from a fairytale forest to dark rides.
In 1951, the Efteling opened its doors to the public. This makes it one of the world’s oldest, still-opened theme parks. It started as a nature park and has been enlarged with a fairytale forest and more and more attractions. The park has over 5 million visitors annually and is among the top 3 most popular parks in Europe. The park is open all year long.
The tone of the park has been set with the style of the late Anton Pieck. It has made the park famous, together with the elaborate set-up of the park. It has lots of nature throughout the park. Rides such as Carnaval Festival, Droomvlucht and the Python were built in the 1980s and 1990s. Symbolica and Baron 1898 were added in this millennium, giving the Efteling even more thrilling and/or magical rides. You can get Dutch traditional food in the park, such as poffertjes, broodje rookworst , pancakes and fries.
Take at least a whole day to enjoy everything the Efteling offers. In the Winter, the Efteling turns into the Winter-Efteling, a magical winter wonderland.
Walibi, Belgium
Submitted by Jo from WorldWildSchooling
Walibi Belgium is a vibrant and exciting theme park in Wavre, in the French-speaking part of Belgium. Just a short drive from Brussels, it offers a fun-filled day out for the whole family with a wide range of thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and tasty food options.
The park is best known for its roller coasters, with ‘Pulsar,’ a splashy power-loop coaster, and ‘Kondaa,’ the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the Benelux, topping the list. For younger kids, the ‘Playland’ area offers rides suitable for children, such as smaller rollercoasters and little trains. There is something for everyone!
Don’t miss the aquatic park, Aqualibi, a paradise for water lovers with a range of slides and a wave pool. This indoor water park also has a large play area for kids. Note that there is a separate entrance fee for Aqualibi. If you choose to do both on the same day, do Aqualibi in the afternoon to relax from the thrilling rides of Walibi.
About restaurants, Walibi offers a variety of options. Belgian fries, fresh waffles, and international cuisine are available throughout the park.
Here are some tips to make the most out of your visit. We recommend arriving early to beat the crowds, particularly for popular rides. Download the Walibi app to check the queues in real-time and choose the next attraction based on that.
Check the height restrictions for rides beforehand if you’re visiting with children. Consider investing in a Fast Pass to hit all the major rides. If you’re visiting Aqualibi, pack a swimsuit. Lastly, always check the weather forecast and park schedules to plan your day effectively.
Walibi Belgium is a perfect mix of thrill, fun, and Belgian charm, making for an amazing day out.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach, UK
Contributed by Tina from Veganderlust
Blackpool Pleasure Beach is the most famous theme park in North England. It’s located at Blackpool‘s South Shore, on the west coast by the Irish Sea. It’s the perfect location to combine a theme park trip with some time by the beach.
The biggest attraction in Pleasure Beach is Blackpool’s famous rollercoaster, The Big One. When the amusement park first opened in 1994,
The Big One was the tallest and steepest rollercoaster in the world! It was also the second fastest in the world. Today, it’s still the tallest rollercoaster in the U.K.
The Pleasure Beach holds many other records as well. The log flume Valhalla, for example, was voted Best Water Ride multiple times at the Golden Ticket awards. Valhalla is also one of the largest dark rides in the world, and the construction was amongst the most expensive.
Besides many other rides, you can also see some shows. There are spectacular shows for all ages, like ice skating and magic shows, but there are also shows for adults, like the Comedy Hypnotist and the Circus of Horrors. So there are plenty of things for everyone on a day trip to Blackpool and Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
Paultons Park, U.K
Submitted by Sara from Slow Travel
Paultons Park has a devoted following in the UK and caters to all age groups, being home to the first and largest Peppa Pig World for toddlers, as well as many bigger rides for older kids. Located in the south of England, not far from Southampton and Salisbury, it is easy to access just off the M3 motorway and has a hotel right at the entrance to the site.
Peppa Pig World is the main attraction for those with very young children, and the rides are all set in picture-perfect, almost cartoon-like grounds, which appeals to families. There is far more to the park than that, though, as overall, there are 70 rides on site. The newly installed Tornado Springs is a 1950s American-themed area with a roller coaster called Storm Chaser; a dinosaur adventure park has two roller coasters amongst other rides and two other themed zones.
The whole park is set in some beautiful grounds which were once the landscaped gardens of a stately home, and there are some peaceful places you can find away from the crowds to sit on the grass and relax, as well as several gardens and a river walk. Among these are some wonderful playgrounds where you can let the kids roam free with play equipment and water parks.
The best way to enjoy the park is to go on a day during term time as there will be little queuing involved, and sometimes you can get to stay on the same ride and go around as many times as you like. It is a fantastic day out and well worth a visit.
Chessington World of Adventures, U.K
Submitted by Louise from Traveling With The Whitrows
Chessington World of Adventures is a theme park, zoo and hotel complex located an hour outside London in the South of England.
What makes this theme park among the best in Europe is that aside from the rollercoasters to suit all levels of thrill seekers, there is the attached zoo to explore, all included in the price of a single ticket.
With a full schedule of events and shows, there’s plenty to see and do, so planning ahead is necessary. If you’re looking for a hair-raising ride, head to Mandrill Mayhem to experience its high-speed inversions through the treetops.
If you enjoy a slower pace, jump into a boat on the Gruffalo River Ride to sail along the lazy river while enjoying the sights of the ride. You can even book your space on an animal safari where you’ll get to see the animals up close.
To make the most of your visit, stay at the onsite hotel and pay extra for a room overlooking the Wanyama Reserve to get great views from your room. Not only do you get an early ride time, meaning that you’ll get access to the theme park an hour before anyone else.
You also get evening access to the zoo to enjoy the sunset overlooking the zebra, ostrich and other animals in the reserve.
Warner Park, Madrid, Spain
Submitted by Sara, from MadridTraveling
Warner Park Madrid is one of the best amusement parks in Europe. Located just 30 kilometres from Madrid, this theme park is dedicated to the iconic movies of Warner Bros.
It features five thematic areas, thrilling rides and attractions, themed shows, and even a waterpark called Parque Warner Beach!
One of the main draws of Warner Park Madrid is its amazing selection of rides and attractions featuring beloved characters from classic films such as Bugs Bunny and Scooby Doo. If you travel to Madrid with kids, they will love meeting them!
For adrenaline junkies who love roller coasters, Superman Escape will take you through a heart-pounding journey full of twists, turns, and loops.
If you want something more relaxed yet equally enjoyable, check out Tom & Jerry’s Ghost Train Ride, which allows you to explore mysterious locations while enjoying beautiful views. Aside from these thrilling attractions, you can also take part in themed shows, interactive experiences, and even a mini golf course.
Of course, no visit to Warner Park Madrid is complete without trying out its delicious treats. The grilled beef burgers at the Porky Pig Diner or the waffles and ice cream at Metropolis are delicious. Don’t forget to save room for a sweet treat from Bugs Bunny Candy Factory!
To make the most out of your visit, I recommend you get the Fast Pass, which allows you to enjoy all the attractions by entering through special access points.
Also, it’s best to arrive early before the park opens so you don’t have to wait in line at the entrance (parking opens 1 hour before the opening). And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather as the park can get very hot during summertime.
Whether you’re looking for a fun family vacation or an adventure-filled day out, you’ll find it at Warner Park Madrid.
PortAventura, Spain
Submitted by Anna from SpainInspired
As arguably the most heart-pounding day trip from Barcelona, at just over an hour’s drive from the Catalan capital, PortAventura World promises a seriously great day out for thrill-seekers and families alike.
With its thrilling rides, incredible attractions, and captivating shows, PortAventura has secured its position as one of Europe’s top amusement parks. It’s not only the biggest theme park in Spain but also the third largest in Europe!
PortAventura boasts many exhilarating rides that cater to all thrill-seeking levels. As just one example, it’s the home to Ferrari Land, the only theme park in Europe dedicated to the iconic Italian car brand.
But it’s got a ton of other incredible attractions, too, including Shambhala. This towering roller coaster was once Europe’s tallest and fastest, providing a blood-pumping experience for adrenaline junkies. Dragon Khan, a multi-looping coaster, is another must-ride, while Furius Baco offers a high-speed catapult launch that will leave visitors breathless.
For those seeking a more family-friendly experience, PortAventura features calmer themed areas such as SésamoAventura, based on the beloved Sesame Street characters, where little ones can enjoy gentle rides and meet their favourite furry friends.
And given this is Spain, you won’t be short on food options here. From international cuisine to traditional Spanish delicacies, visitors can indulge in diverse culinary experiences to satisfy their appetites.
So whether you’re seeking heart-pounding roller coasters, family-friendly entertainment, or anything else, PortAventura delivers an unforgettable adventure.
Gardaland, Italy.
Contributed by Jolene from Wanderlust Storytellers
Gardaland in Italy lives up to its reputation as one of the best theme parks in Europe. Located near the town of Castelnuovo del Garda, this theme park is easy to visit as a day trip from Lake Como or from any of the towns around Lake Garda.
Some of the best rides at Gardaland include the Blue Tornado, a spinning roller coaster that reaches up to 50 miles per hour. For more family-friendly rides, Rampage is a water ride that takes riders on a wild journey through a jungle or Magic Mountain Coaster, which is perfect for all ages.
In addition to its rides, Gardaland also has a number of other attractions, including Gardaland Sea Life Aquarium, Fantasy Kingdom, Peppa Pig Land and Legoland Waterpark.
Gardaland has a wide variety of food options, from quick snacks to sit-down meals. The park also has many themed restaurants, such as the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and the Peppa Pig World Restaurant.
Here are a few tips for visiting Gardaland:
- Buy your tickets online in advance to save time and money.
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat.
- Bring a camera to capture your memories.
Gardaland is a great place to spend a day with family and friends. The park has something for everyone, from thrill-seekers to little ones. With its amazing rides, attractions, and food, Gardaland will surely be a memorable experience.
Legoland Water Park, Italy
Submitted by Candice from Mom In Italy
LEGO fans visiting Italy in the summer can cool off LEGO-style at Northern Italy’s LEGOLAND Water Park!
Located in Castelnuovo del Garda, on the shore of Lake Garda, LEGOLAND is attached to Gardaland (you have to buy a combined ticket), and it’s a blast for families with kids of all ages.
Inside LEGOLAND, you’re greeted with Miniland (Italian monuments like the Colosseum and Leaning Tower of Pisa made out of LEGOs), and then you can hop in the water! Older kids will love the Jungle Adventures slides, and there’s a DUPLO Splash area that’s perfect for toddlers.
We visited LEGOLAND Water Park for the first time last summer. My kids loved it all but had the most fun in the Beach Party area, with its slides and water squirting everywhere! When I wanted them to take a break (so I could take a break, too), I rounded them up and took them to the LEGO Creation Island, a LEGO building area (without water).
In addition to the excellent LEGO-themed attractions, safety-conscious parents will appreciate the numerous attentive lifeguards and the lifejacket requirements in some areas.
The park is well-organized and clean, the food options are decent for a theme park, and the variety of activities means there’s something to make everyone in your party happy.
We’re heading back this weekend, and you’ll find me floating down the LEGO lazy river!
That’s a wrap on this listing of the most amazing amusement parks you can find in Europe!
In conclusion, Europe’s amusement parks are a testament to these thrilling destinations’ boundless creativity, innovation, and pure joy. Now you know everything about them and the best rollercoasters in Europe.
From the exhilarating roller coasters that defy gravity to the immersive worlds that transport us to realms of fantasy, each amusement park offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Whether you find yourself exploring the enchanting realms of Park Astérix, discovering the cultural wonders of Europa Park, or stepping into the magical world of Disneyland Paris.
All those amusement parks in Europe have something special for everyone. These parks are not just places of entertainment; they are gateways to adventure, where lifelong memories are created and shared.
And if you’re like me, you must look forward to visiting them all!
Also, follow me on Instagram to check out my travel adventures around Europe and more lifestyle content @cpt_lyne!
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Discover The 15+ Best Amusement Parks In Europe
✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip
✈ How To Find Flights?
– Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights.
– Google Flights is also a good help when comparing flights.
✈ Where To Book Accommodations?
– Booking.com: plenty of options and ways to get discounts the more you book.
✈ Best Sites To Book Activities
– GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them.
– Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website or different day trips—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…).
✈ Other helpful travel resources
– Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them.
– TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe.
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Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!
