EuropaPark - The Disney of Germany?
- Dara Wissinger Pütz
- Jun 8, 2025
- 5 min read
As a former cast member and Disney obsessed enthusiast all my life, when I moved to Europe, I had to check out the other comparable park (besides Disneyland Paris of course) – Europa-Park. Lucky for me I happened to be moving to the country this similarly themed park is in – Deutschland. Uniquely, this park is situated within less than an hour’s driving distance to the French and Swiss borders. Offering a distinctive layer of multiple languages and cuisines within the park. According to the company website, around 6 million visitors come to Europa-Park every year making it the largest amusement park in Germany. This year is particularly special as it is the park’s 50th anniversary. If you have the privilege of visiting this year, be on the lookout for special celebrations throughout the park!
This park is often described as the most beautiful theme park in Europe, and I would be amiss to disagree. There are fresh flowers and trees perfectly themed in every area of the park. Walking paths are wide and well laid out for traffic flow. The lands blend into one another in a way that is calming and exciting all at once. Not only is this park beautiful for human guests to enjoy but also for dogs as well. Dogs are welcome and encouraged to come with rider swap programs for many rides so families can easily ride attractions in similar times while still having their dog with them for the day. Dining locations are animal friendly with plenty of green space around the park for dogs to enjoy as well.
History of Europa-Park
The Mack family began their business in constructing and creating carnival rides for local touring carnivals. After a visit to the United States in the summer of 1972 (with some inspiration from one particularly popular theme park in America) two Mack family members decided they wanted to bring a theme park to their area. As they created and manufactured theme park rides already, they wanted a fun space to showcase how their attractions worked. This allowed interested investors to not only see the attractions in action but to also enjoy them with their families as well.
Europa-Park officially opened its doors in 1975, merely three years after this dream was formed. The park has grown from only 15 attractions at the start to over 100 attractions today. On opening day there were only five dining establishments and now there are over ninety across the property. This park is so popular there were over 6 million visitors in attendance in 2022 (me included). As the park continues to grow as well as its fabulous reputation, I am sure the number of yearly visitors will double.
Highlights of Europa-Park
Europa-Park has something to offer for everyone from quiet parks to children’s story land to themed portions for many countries across Europe. There are seventeen European themed areas including but not limited to: French, Dutch, Irish, Spanish, and Russian lands. There are currently fourteen roller coasters for the thrill seekers in the family. Don’t worry if you aren’t roller coaster people (like us) there is still plenty to do with more mild rides and plenty of shows to catch throughout the day. Do note though, this park does close early – usually by 6pm and there are no nighttime offerings such as light shows or fireworks. This offers a great opportunity to enjoy your hotel, have a relaxed dinner and rest before hitting the park again the next day.
Attractions
The park offers over 100 attractions and shows which appeal to every age range and interest. While we are not thrill seekers, the roller coasters are not for us. We still felt well entertained with plenty to explore for the day. The theming of the lands alone is an attraction in itself to wander throughout your visit. Some of my tame and child friendly (or non roller coaster) ride favorites were: London Bus, Pirates of Batavia, Voletarium, Snorri Touren and Silverstone Race Track. We loved how this park has attractions for any family member - big or small.
Dining at Europa-Park
As this park is extensive and has a variety of themed lands, the options for food are in abundance! There are fine dining experiences, bars, cafes, buffets, self-service dining, and plenty of snacks and treat options to munch on throughout the day. Dining options vary for all budgets and taste buds. The highlight in my opinion is to try the food offerings from the variously themed European lands across the park. From crepes to hot dogs to pizzas, to waffles and African cuisine there really is something to try and love for every type of eater across the park. We could have stayed for a few days just to work our way through all the restaurants within the park!
Rulantica
Our time at Europa-Park sadly did not allow for a visit to their water park – Rulantica. This park is themed as a fictional Norwegian island with the cutest Octopus mascot names Snorri! If you stay at one of their on-property hotels (especially Krønasår the Norwegian themed hotel next to the waterpark) you’ll be able to watch TV programs in your room all about the adventures of Snorri! The indoor portions of the park are open year-round while the outdoor water areas are open seasonally usually from late spring to early fall. From saunas to pirate ship water play areas, lazy rivers, and fear inducing water slides, there is s an attraction for every age range and plenty to do for a day or two. We cannot wait to return to Europa-Park to experience Rulantica for ourselves someday!
Day Trips from Europa-Park
The strategic location of this park makes it very accessible from within Germany (only a few hours’ drive from Frankfurt), as well as from France and Switzerland. If you are wanting to visit France, Strasbourg and Colmar are both within day trip distance. Alternatively, Basel Switzerland is also not far. Within Germany, great nearby cities to visit include Heidelberg, Karlsruhe, Freiburg im Breisgau, and Baden-Baden. Allow some extra time to hop on over to another country or explore the beauty of the Black Forest region.
While this park does hold many similarities to my beloved Mouse led parks at home (also housing mice mascots, a giant golf ball structure housing a ride, themed lands to different countries, etc.) Europa-Park is a can’t be missed experience while in Germany! If you are lucky enough to visit during the holiday season, there are many special foods, entertainment and decorations especially for Halloween and Christmas. Do note, after the new year the park closes until Mid-March or so. If possible, I recommend travelling during the week as weekends can produce very long times and higher accommodation costs. If you love a good amusement park experience with something for everyone, Europa-Park is the perfect place to go.
Meet Dara
Originally I am from the very first and second smallest state in America, Delaware. After achieving my masters degree I wanted to take a 'gap year' to work in Shanghai, China with Disney. I met my husband in Shanghai and somehow that 'gap year' turned into more than 8 years of living abroad! I have lived across three continents and four countries before I turned 30 and I wouldn't be surprised if those statistics change again before I am 40. I currently reside in the land of fairytale inspiration itself, Bavaria, Germany with my German husband. I love the thrill of visiting somewhere new and I am passionate about planning every single detail for all of our trips. I have always wanted to share my knowledge and expertise from this magical life abroad and thus this column was born. Join me as I take you from Delaware to Everywhere.
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