Disneyland Paris Thrill Rides Ranked: Which Ones Will Make You Scream (and Which Are Tame Enough for Granny)?
Thinking about braving the big rides at Disneyland Paris? Wondering which attractions will have you grinning ear to ear—and which might require a spare pair of pants? This guide breaks down every major thrill ride, ranks them by intensity, and throws in honest tips for all you nervous souls (and your not-so-nervous pals).
The Thrill-O-Meter: From “Piece of Cake” to “Pray for Me!”
We’ve ranked each ride on the official DLP Tips Thrill-O-Meter—ranging from 1 Mickey Squeak (easy-peasy, child’s play) to 5 Donald Quacks (proper adrenaline, hold onto your hat and your dignity). Granny-friendly options get a special shout!
1. Hyperspace Mountain
Thrill-O-Meter: 5 Donald Quacks
What to Expect: This is the big one—full-on darkness, high speed, and a proper loop-the-loop. Theming is top-notch Star Wars, but you won’t be admiring the view as you’re flung about like a loose haggis in a wind tunnel.
Who Should Ride: Adrenaline junkies, people who think gravity is overrated, and anyone wanting to impress their kids.
Chicken Level: “Not a chance, unless you want to lose your lunch.”
Billy’s Tip: Don’t sit in the front unless you want to see the face of fear—yours, in the on-ride photo.
2. Avengers Assemble: Flight Force
Thrill-O-Meter: 5 Donald Quacks
What to Expect: Pitch-black launch, rocket-fast take off, and loops that’ll leave your hair standing up. If Iron Man can handle it, so can you (probably).
Who Should Ride: Marvel fans with nerves of steel, and those who think coffee just isn’t enough in the morning.
Chicken Level: “Maybe, if you close your eyes the entire time.”
Billy’s Tip: Watch out for the launch—blink and you’ll miss the last shreds of your courage.
3. Big Thunder Mountain
Thrill-O-Meter: 4 Donald Quacks
What to Expect: Wild train ride, whizzing round curves, dips, and the odd dark bit. No upside-down bits, but enough to give you that “did I just scream out loud?” moment.
Who Should Ride: Pretty much everyone—this is the crowd-pleaser and DLP legend.
Chicken Level: “Absolutely, unless the word ‘mountain’ gives you the fear.”
Billy’s Tip: Back row is the wildest; front is best for scenery and catching your breath.
4. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril
Thrill-O-Meter: 4 Donald Quacks
What to Expect: Short but sharp! Outdoor coaster with a single loop, fast turns, and the occasional “am I still alive?” thought.
Who Should Ride: Anyone who fancies themselves an adventurer but hasn’t read the small print.
Chicken Level: “Maybe, if you believe in beginner’s luck.”
Billy’s Tip: Glasses off, hats off, and a wee prayer before you board.
5. Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Thrill-O-Meter: 5 Donald Quacks
What to Expect: Lift goes up, stomach goes down. Repeat. Themed to within an inch of its life, and twice as terrifying for those who hate heights (or creepy dolls).
Who Should Ride: Those with strong stomachs and a love for classic scares.
Chicken Level: “Not a chance—unless you’re being dragged in by the family.”
Billy’s Tip: Hands up for max airtime. Eyes open if you dare.
6. RC Racer
Thrill-O-Meter: 3 Donald Quacks
What to Expect: Back-and-forth swinging action, like being flung between two angry Glaswegians fighting over the last chip. No loops, just pure g-force fun.
Who Should Ride: Toy Story fans, anyone wanting a quick rush.
Chicken Level: “Absolutely, unless you don’t like swings.”
Billy’s Tip: Sit at the ends for max thrill; middle if you just want to say you did it.
7. Crush’s Coaster
Thrill-O-Meter: 4 Donald Quacks
What to Expect: Spinning, twisting, dark coaster fun. Not the fastest, but those spinning shells can catch you out!
Who Should Ride: Fans of surprises, and anyone who likes their rides slightly unpredictable.
Chicken Level: “Maybe—with eyes half shut.”
Billy’s Tip: Queues are brutal—try single rider or rope drop.
8. Toy Soldiers Parachute Drop
Thrill-O-Meter: 2 Donald Quacks
What to Expect: A gentle rise and fall, with a cracking view over the park. Feels higher than it looks. Not so much scream-inducing as “I might need to hold someone’s hand.”
Who Should Ride: First-timers, nervous riders, those wanting to face their fear of heights in a relatively safe way.
Chicken Level: “Go on—unless the idea of looking down gives you the fear.”
Billy’s Tip: Great for photos if you don’t have the shakes.
Nervous Rider Survival Guide
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Start easy: Try Parachute Drop or Big Thunder first.
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Work up: RC Racer and Crush are next.
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Build confidence, then (maybe) tackle the biggies.
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Don’t be afraid to skip rides—Disneyland is still magic from the ground.
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Remember: there’s no shame in holding someone’s hand or even volunteering to watch the bags.
Thrill Ride FAQs
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Height requirements: Most thrill rides require a minimum height—usually around 1.02m to 1.40m.
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Can I take my bag? Lockers or bag holds at most rides; leave the kitchen sink at home.
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Single rider lines? Yes for Crush and a few others—saves loads of time.
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Best time to ride? Early morning or late evening for shortest queues and coolest weather.
Final Thoughts (and Your Turn!)
So, are you Team Donald Quack or Team Mickey Squeak?
Share your wildest ride face in the comments—or tell us which ride made you question your life choices. And if you survived Hyperspace Mountain, let us know: did you do it with your eyes open?
Want more tips?
Check out our:
Best rides for Toddlers, Teens & Adults
✨ Ready to Experience the Difference?
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