A visit to Disneyland Paris doesn’t have to mean saying goodbye to your budget. With clever planning and a few insider tricks, you can enjoy all the magic without the hefty price tag
Despite the hefty price tag and bustling crowds, Paris holds a special place in my heart. My love affair with the city of lights began at 18 when I embarked on my first solo trip, and since then, I’ve returned time and time again to wander its romantic streets and indulge in its world-class museums, galleries, and eateries.
I’m also a massive fan of Disneyland Paris, making it a point to visit ‘The Most Magical Place On Earth’ every time I’m in town. While it’s a dream destination for many, the costs can quickly add up, making it all too easy to blow your budget in the French capital.
But fear not, with some smart planning and savvy decisions, you can soak up all the magic of Paris and Disneyland without emptying your bank account or missing out on the city’s charm and allure.
From complimentary events and budget-friendly dining options to affordable attractions and little-known secrets, I’ve compiled some practical tips and suggestions to help you get the most out of your Parisian adventure while keeping your spending in check.
Uncover famous landmarks, delve into hidden gems and enjoy Disney and local experiences that won’t break the bank, reports Wales Online.
How to save money in Disneyland Paris
A trip to Disneyland Paris doesn’t have to mean waving goodbye to your budget. With some clever planning and a handful of insider tips, you can experience all the magic without the steep cost.
Avoid the crowds (and the sky-high prices)
Firstly, timing is everything!
If you can be flexible with your dates, avoid school holidays, weekends, and big celebrations like Christmas and Halloween.
These are prime times when prices and crowds are at their peak. Instead, aim for quieter periods, such as mid-week visits from January to March or September to November.
Not only will you snag cheaper tickets and hotels, but you’ll also spend less time queuing and more time enjoying the rides. More magic, less waiting around ā win-win!
Stay just outside the Disney bubble
While a Disney hotel sounds convenient, it can consume most of your budget. Instead, consider staying outside the resort in nearby towns like Serris or Chessy.
One great option is Moxy Paris Val d’Europe ā a stylish, budget-friendly hotel only one stop from Disney on the RER train.
You get a trendy, comfortable room without the Disney price tag, and the train journey takes just a few minutes for only a few euros. You’ll feel smart and savvy while everyone else pays a premium for the same access!
Take the train
The RER A line is your budget’s best friend when visiting Disneyland Paris. It connects central Paris to the park and is a breeze if you stay nearby.
You’ll avoid parking fees and the stress of driving, plus the RER fare is a fraction of what you’d spend staying in a Disney hotel. A quick, easy ride for just a few euros?
Yes, please.
Bring your own snacks and drinks
Disneyland Paris might be the happiest place on earth, but its food costs can certainly dampen your spirits.
Pack your own snacks and bring a refillable water bottle to keep expenses down.
You’re allowed to bring food into the park, so stock up on sandwiches, crisps, and fruit before you arrive.
Numerous water fountains are dotted around where you can top up your bottle, meaning you’ll dodge paying extortionate prices for beverages.
Believe me, that extra snack supply will come in handy when you’re queuing for Pirates of the Caribbean!
Hunt around for tickets
Don’t simply visit the official Disneyland website for tickets – hunt around!
There are frequently brilliant deals on third-party or bargain websites like Magic Breaks or Wowcher, and if you’re planning to visit for more than one day, multi-day passes can dramatically reduce the expense.
Keep your eyes peeled for special promotions or packages that include transport or accommodation, which can be fantastic if you’re staying for several days.
Avoid the souvenir spending spree
Disneyland is crammed with enticing shops, and whilst the Mickey ears and cuddly toys are delightful, they’ll empty your wallet quicker than you can say “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo.”
Instead, consider purchasing Disney-themed mementoes before your trip ā you can discover many items online or in local shops for far less.
Bringing your own Disney merchandise can save you a small fortune and still let you capture those Instagram-worthy shots in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.
Organise your day like a pro
One of the simplest ways to keep your spending in check at Disneyland Paris is to plan your day ahead. Download the Disneyland app to monitor ride wait times, show schedules, character breakfast booking and restaurant menus.
This will allow you to organise your day more effectively, steering clear of pricey sit-down meals and lengthy queues. Also, think about starting your day early and making the most of shorter queues in the morning ā not only will you get on more rides, but you’ll also save on extra snacks since you won’t be waiting all day.
How to save money in Paris
After Disney, why not spend a few days in Europe’s most romantic city without breaking the bank?
Here are some of my top tips and tricks for saving money in Paris.
Embark on a free walking tour of Paris
Reserve a spot on a free walking tour and discover a cost-effective way to explore Paris with a local. Free tours are usually led by local guides who share insider tips, stories and historical information about their city.
Paris free walking tours operate on a pay-what-you-want or tip-based system, where you can tip the guide at the end of the tour based on what you feel it was worth, making it a budget-friendly option for Paris travellers.
SANDEMAN’S NEW Europe Paris tour is one of the city’s most popular free walking tours. Their 3-hour route around Paris takes you to many of the city’s top attractions, including Notre Dame de Paris, the Louvre, and the stunning Parc des Tuileries.
You’ll also get the chance to hear the tales behind the landmarks and snap plenty of photos. After all, if it’s not on Instagram, did it really happen?
Visit MuseĢe d’Orsay for free
Paris is a treasure trove of affordable culture, with many museums and galleries offering free entry once a month.
On the first Sunday of every month, you can visit the MuseĢe d’Orsay for free if you book your tickets online.
Situated in the historic Gare d’Orsay railway station, the museum is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture. Its grand central nave features a glass roof that allows natural light to bathe its diverse art collection, including Van Gogh’s famous Starry Night.
Roam the thematic galleries and marvel at an exquisite collection of French art from masters such as Monet, Manet, Pissarro, Morisot, and Renoir – without parting with a single Euro.
Shop at super cool Paris flea markets
While Paris is renowned for its high-end fashion and luxury boutiques, there are plenty of budget-friendly shopping options and vintage treasures to be found at the city’s eclectic flea markets.
MarcheĢ aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is one of the most popular markets and is where locals go to snag a bargain.
Located on the northern outskirts of Paris, this stylish market is a labyrinth of narrow lanes and winding streets filled with shops, stalls, and stands brimming with Bric-aĢ-brac, clothes and antiques.
The market is so vast that it’s split into sections, including Vernaison Market, Dauphine Market, and Malik Market, each boasting a unique style and live entertainment.
Vernaison Market is famed for its eclectic range of antiques, vintage furniture, and decorative items, while Dauphine Market is renowned for its high-end antique and design pieces. Malik Market is popular for its budget-friendly blend of vintage and second-hand items.
Enjoy traditional French cuisine for under ā¬10
While dining in Paris can often be an expensive affair, you can cut costs by eating at a traditional bouillon ā a restaurant that serves classic French dishes to the masses at reasonable prices.
You can also make the most of fixed-price menus (menu du jour) at local eateries and enjoy cheaper prices ā particularly when you dine away from tourist traps.
Choosing the ‘menu du jour’ allows you to indulge in French classics, such as croque-monsieur, cassoulet and bouillabaisse, for as little as ā¬8 or ā¬10. House wine can also be bought for around ā¬3-4 a glass if you fancy a midday drink.
Head over to the Affordable Bistrot Victoires for a reasonably priced lunch; this retro gem on Rue de la VrillieĢre serves pan-seared steak frites for under ā¬13 and giant salads for ā¬11.
Feast on freshly made crepes
Freshly made French creĢpes are a cheap lunch option in Paris, with numerous creĢperies dotted around the city serving crispy crepes straight off a hot griddle.
These on-the-go pancakes are expertly made-to-order in a round shape, using wheat flour, eggs, milk, and salt. They’re then stuffed with a variety of sweet or savoury fillings, including Nutella, whipped cream, bananas, cheese, ham and mushrooms.
CreĢperie Genia ā Vente aĢ emporter ā situated at 7 rue de la Harpe is one of the top budget-friendly food spots in Paris, offering crispy creĢpes and filled paninis to take away for just a few euros.
Explore vibrant street art at Canal Saint Martin
The Canal Saint-Martin neighbourhood in Paris is famed for its lively street art scene, ultra-trendy coffee shops, second-hand stores and restaurants brimming with stylish Parisians.
Situated in the 10th and 11th arrondissements, this bohemian area has become a magnet for street artists to showcase their creativity and make their mark on the historic city walls.
Grab an affordable takeaway coffee from the quirky coffee shop Le Look and meander around to discover large-scale graffiti pieces.
One of the most renowned street art locations in Canal Saint-Martin is Rue de la Grange aux Belles, which is celebrated for its colourful murals and stencil art.
Take in free views from Parc de Belleville
For sweeping views of Paris without the hefty price tag, make your way to Parc de Belleville in the 20th arrondissement.
At a towering 108 metres, the Parc de Belleville is Paris’s highest park, perched atop Belleville Hill. A nearly thirty-metre-high terrace at the summit of the park offers panoramic views of the city skyline, including glimpses of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Montmartre.
Why not pack some local cheese and wine for a budget-friendly sunset picnic with the best views in Paris?
Make the most of cheap transport
Navigating Paris doesn’t have to break the bank, with plenty of affordable transportation options to get you around the city without costing an arm and a leg.
The metro and the RER are two separate but interconnected train networks that offer cost-effective travel throughout Paris. The RER boasts five main lines, while the metro has fourteen numbered lines.
As all systems are linked, switching between trains is straightforward and wallet-friendly.
Alternatively, you could opt for a Paris Visite travel card for unlimited rides on the metro, bus, and RER network.
Paris also ranks as one of Europe’s most bike-friendly cities to visit, harbouring grand plans to become a fully cyclable city. Pro-cycling initiatives include a significant boost in the city’s protected cycleways, bike cafes and cycle parking spaces.
Not only is it eco-friendly, but exploring Paris by bike is also a cost-effective way to see the city, with many top tourist attractions conveniently located near bike routes.
The Georges Pompidou is a well-loved cycle path that meanders along the banks of the Seine, offering views of iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
For just ā¬5, visitors can rent a bike for 24 hours from VeĢlib’ MeĢtropole ā a large-scale public bicycle-sharing system in Paris that now includes e-bikes.
How to get to Paris from the UK on a shoestring budget
Depending on your budget and preferences, there are several affordable ways to travel from the UK to Paris.
Flights
For a quick getaway, flying is often the best option. British Airways offers direct flights from cities like London and Manchester to Paris Charles de Gaulle, often with added perks like luggage and refreshments.
Budget airlines like easyJet and Ryanair also fly frequently from airports like Gatwick and Stansted. Keep an eye out for deals-flights can start as low as Ā£50 if booked early, though budget airlines charge extra for luggage.
Eurostar
If you’d rather avoid the hassle of airports, the Eurostar train is a fantastic alternative. It travels directly from London St Pancras to Gare du Nord in central Paris in just over 2 hours.
Prices start around Ā£39 one way if you book in advance, and you’ll skip the airport security queues. Plus, no luggage fees!
FlixBus
For those seeking the ultimate budget option, FlixBus provides long-distance coach travel from the UK to Paris, with fares starting as low as Ā£20. The journey takes approximately 8-9 hours from London, making it an ideal choice for travellers who don’t mind a longer trip in exchange for significant savings.
Getting to Disneyland Paris
Once you’ve arrived in Paris, reaching Disneyland Paris is straightforward, and there’s no need to spend a fortune on transport. Here are the best ways to reach the park without breaking the bank.
High-speed train
If you’re landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and want to head directly to Disneyland Paris, the fastest option is the TGV high-speed train. This train leaves straight from the airport’s Terminal 2 and whisks you to Marne-la-ValleĢe/Chessy, right on Disneyland’s doorstep, in just 10 minutes!
Tickets for the TGV can be booked ahead of time or purchased at the station, with prices starting from around ā¬17, depending on how early you book. It’s an incredibly convenient and quick way to get straight from the airport to the magic of Disneyland without any fuss.
RER A Train
The simplest and most budget-friendly way to reach Disneyland Paris is by jumping on the RER A train. It runs directly from central Paris to Marne-la-ValleĢe/Chessy (the station next to Disneyland).
Trains regularly leave from major Paris stations such as ChaĢtelet-Les Halles and Gare de Lyon, whisking you to Disneyland in a mere 35-45 minutes. A single ticket will set you back around ā¬5āā¬7.
It’s a hassle-free, direct journey that lands you just a hop, skip and a jump away from the park entrance.
Shuttle services
If you’re bedding down at a hotel near Disneyland, many throw in free or cheap shuttle buses to and from the park. These are typically part of your hotel package, so it’s worth checking with your digs to see if they offer a shuttle service.
