10 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Disneyland Paris Trip

Planning your first trip to Disneyland Paris? Brilliant! You’re in for a bit of magic, a lot of walking, and the occasional moment of pure, joyful chaos. As someone who’s made every rookie mistake known to Mickey (some more than once), I’ve put together a list of blunders to avoid – so you can focus on the fun.

1. Winging It With No Plan

Disneyland Paris might look like a fairytale, but it rewards strategy. If you show up with no plan, you might miss big shows or spend hours in queues.

✅ Tip: Use my Disneyland Paris Crowd Calendar to pick your dates wisely and dodge peak crowds.

 

2. Underestimating the Queues

A ’20-minute’ queue can turn into an hour if you’re unlucky. Queues are real – especially mid-day.

✅ Tip: Rope-drop your must-dos, consider Disney Premier Access, and download the app to check wait times.

 

 

3. Ignoring the Weather Forecast

Paris weather is unpredictable. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re drenched and wearing soggy socks. Our Disneyland Paris weather page will offer you a general guide.

✅ Tip: Pack layers and check the forecast. A poncho might save the day (and your mood).

 

4. Skipping the Packing List

Forgotten chargers, blisters from bad shoes, or no adaptor plug? Rookie mistakes.

✅ Tip: My Ultimate Packing List has you covered — from power banks to plasters.

 

5. Thinking It’s Just for Kids

Grown adults cry at fireworks too, you know. DLP is full of charm for all ages.

✅ Tip: Enjoy a cocktail at Skyline Bar, ride Star Wars: Hyperspace Mountain, or book a romantic dinner at Bistrot Chez Rémy.

 

6. Not Booking Restaurants in Advance

Walk-ins are possible, but risky. Restaurants fill up fast – especially character meals.

✅ Tip: You can book restaurants 2 months in advance (or 12 months if you’re staying onsite!). Set reminders and grab those tables early.

7. Missing the Shows and Parades

The shows are iconic. Skipping them means missing half the magic.

✅ Tip: Don’t miss Dream… and Shine Brighter! and the night-time spectacular Disney Dreams! — pure magic from start to finish.

 

 

8. Only Spending One Day

One day? Good luck with that. You’ll be running from ride to ride and missing a lot in between.

✅ Tip: Two or three days lets you enjoy both parks properly. Take your time — you’re not in a race!

9. Forgetting to Download the App

The official Disneyland Paris app is your best mate. It shows wait times, maps, restaurant bookings and more.

✅ Tip: Download it before you travel. Bonus tip — bring a power bank. The app loves battery so check out our mobile charging locations guide.

 

10. Trying to Do It All

You’re not auditioning for Mission: Impossible. Trying to do everything will burn you out fast.

✅ Tip: Pick your top priorities and let the rest unfold naturally. You’ll enjoy it more and remember it better.

11. Not Understanding the Perks of Staying Onsite

Booking a budget offsite hotel might seem savvy – but you’ll miss some major perks.

• Extra Magic Time: Enter the parks before regular guests — shorter queues, better photos, more magic.
• Early Dining Reservations: Onsite guests can book restaurants up to 12 months in advance.

✅ Tip: Weigh the savings vs convenience. Booking a Disney hotel means less stress and more Disney.

 

---

Final Thoughts from Billy

Everyone messes up something on their first trip — it’s part of the experience! But if you can dodge these common pitfalls, you’ll spend less time faffing and more time living the magic.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments or join our Facebook group. You’ll find loads more tips here and advice on the DLP Tips website — including the latest park news, hotel reviews, and planning guides.

See you in the parks – and may your queue times be short and your snacks plentiful!