Planning a theme park trip? Discover the 25 best amusement parks in Europe, featuring top rides, must-see attractions, and where to find them.
Europe is home to some of the most imaginative, immersive, and technically impressive amusement parks in the world, and while many travellers immediately think of the United States when it comes to theme park vacations, the European scene rivals — and often surpasses — its transatlantic counterparts.
From storybook fairy-tale lands and historically themed attractions to record-breaking roller coasters and cutting-edge dark rides, Europe’s amusement parks offer experiences that appeal to families, adrenaline junkies, and culture-loving travellers alike. What makes European parks particularly special is their diversity, as each reflects the country it belongs to, blending local folklore, architecture, and storytelling with world-class ride engineering.
Best Amusement Parks in Europe
1. Disneyland Paris (France)
Located just outside Paris in Marne-la-Vallée, a Disneyland Paris Holiday is a must and Europe’s most visited theme park; it remains a bucket-list destination for Disney fans of all ages. The park combines classic Disney magic with a distinctly European aesthetic, which is particularly evident in the ornate design of Sleeping Beauty Castle and the beautifully detailed lands that surround it.
The best rides at Disneyland Paris include Big Thunder Mountain, which is widely regarded as one of the best versions of the ride worldwide, as well as Phantom Manor and the technologically advanced Ratatouille: The Adventure.
Although there are some scary rides at Disneyland Paris, younger visitors are drawn to character meet-and-greets and gentle rides, thrill-seekers can head next door to Walt Disney Studios Park for Avengers Assemble: Flight Force and Crush’s Coaster.
Thanks to its excellent transport links from central Paris, the park is easy to reach, making it an ideal addition to a city break or a longer European holiday.
2. Europa-Park (Germany)
Situated in the town of Rust near the French border, Europa-Park is Germany’s largest and most acclaimed amusement park, often ranked among the best theme parks in the world. The park is uniquely divided into European-themed areas, each representing a different country, which allows visitors to travel from Italy to Scandinavia in a matter of minutes while enjoying architecture, cuisine, and music inspired by each nation.
Europa-Park is particularly famous for its roller coasters, including Silver Star, Blue Fire Megacoaster, and Wodan Timburcoaster, all of which deliver intense thrills while showcasing innovative engineering. At the same time, the park balances adrenaline with family-friendly attractions and live entertainment, ensuring that visitors of all ages feel included.
Its location in southwestern Germany makes it accessible from cities such as Strasbourg, Freiburg, and Basel, adding to its appeal for international travellers.
3. Efteling (Netherlands)
Efteling, located in Kaatsheuvel in the southern Netherlands, is one of Europe’s oldest and most enchanting theme parks, drawing heavily on fairy tales, myths, and folklore. Unlike many modern parks that focus primarily on high-speed thrills, Efteling excels in atmosphere and storytelling, with beautifully landscaped grounds and intricately designed attractions that feel timeless rather than dated.
The Fairytale Forest is a standout area, especially for families, while rides such as Droomvlucht and Symbolica showcase the park’s commitment to immersive dark-ride experiences. Thrill-seekers are not forgotten, however, as roller coasters like Baron 1898 and Python provide plenty of excitement without overwhelming the park’s gentle charm.
Its location near Tilburg makes it an easy day trip from Amsterdam or Rotterdam, although many visitors choose to stay longer to fully absorb the park’s magical ambience.
4. PortAventura World (Spain)
Located on Spain’s Costa Dorada near Tarragona, PortAventura World is one of southern Europe’s premier amusement destinations and benefits from both a warm climate and a seaside setting.
The park is divided into several themed areas inspired by regions such as the Mediterranean, Mexico, China, and the Far West, which adds a sense of adventure and variety as visitors move between zones. PortAventura is particularly well known for its intense roller coasters, including Shambhala, one of Europe’s tallest hypercoasters, and Dragon Khan, a classic looping coaster that remains a fan favourite. Families will find plenty to enjoy as well, with water rides, live shows, and gentler attractions scattered throughout the park.
5. Tivoli Gardens (Denmark)
Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen, Tivoli Gardens is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks and remains a cultural icon in Denmark. Despite its relatively compact size, Tivoli offers a remarkable mix of historic charm and modern entertainment, with beautifully illuminated gardens, live performances, and rides that appeal to all generations.
Attractions range from the classic wooden roller coaster Rutschebanen to the more modern Vertigo, which delivers intense thrills through rapid rotations and high speeds. What truly sets Tivoli apart, however, is its atmosphere, particularly in the evening when lights, music, and architecture combine to create an almost magical setting.
6. Walibi Belgium (Belgium)
Located in Wavre, just outside Brussels, Walibi Belgium is one of the country’s top amusement parks and a strong contender for thrill-seekers visiting Western Europe.
The park has undergone significant modernisation in recent years, transforming it from a regional attraction into a destination known for high-intensity roller coasters and polished theming. Its standout attraction, Kondaa, is widely regarded as one of the best steel coasters in Europe, delivering airtime, speed, and smooth transitions that appeal to experienced riders.
Alongside its major thrill rides, Walibi Belgium also offers family-friendly attractions and seasonal events, which help balance the park’s overall appeal. Thanks to its central location and easy access from Brussels, the park is an ideal addition to a Belgium itinerary or a wider European road trip.
7. Gardaland (Italy)
Gardaland, located near Lake Garda in northern Italy, is the country’s most popular amusement park and a major draw for both domestic and international visitors.
The park offers a wide range of attractions, blending family-friendly rides with high-adrenaline experiences such as Raptor and Oblivion: The Black Hole. Gardaland also places a strong emphasis on themed environments, ensuring that rides are enhanced by storytelling, detailed sets, and immersive sound design.
Younger visitors can enjoy dedicated areas like Peppa Pig Land, while adults appreciate the scenic location and relaxed Italian atmosphere. With Verona, Milan, and Venice all within reasonable distance, Gardaland fits seamlessly into a wider Italian travel itinerary.
8. Phantasialand (Germany)
Located near Cologne in western Germany, Phantasialand is known for its exceptional theming and compact yet highly immersive layout. The park’s themed areas, including Klugheim, Rookburgh, and Deep in Africa, are designed with an extraordinary level of detail, making each section feel like a self-contained world rather than a simple collection of rides.
Phantasialand is home to some of Europe’s most innovative attractions, such as Taron, a multi-launch coaster that weaves through rocky landscapes, and F.L.Y., a flying coaster integrated into a steampunk-inspired cityscape.
Despite its relatively small footprint, the park delivers an intense and memorable experience due to its efficient design and strong narrative focus. Its location near Cologne and Bonn makes it easily accessible for travellers exploring Germany’s Rhine region.
9. Alton Towers (United Kingdom)
Set in the rolling countryside of Staffordshire, Alton Towers is the UK’s most famous theme park and a major destination for thrill-seekers. The park is particularly renowned for its world-first roller coasters, including Nemesis, Oblivion, and The Smiler, each of which has played a significant role in shaping modern coaster design.
What makes Alton Towers unique is its use of natural terrain, as many rides are built into valleys and woodland areas, creating dramatic drops and unexpected twists. Alongside its thrill rides, the park also offers family attractions, gardens, and seasonal events that broaden its appeal.
While it is more remote than city-based parks, its distinctive setting adds to the sense of escape and adventure. Plus there are still plenty of ways to get to Alton Towers from other cities in the UK.
10. Liseberg (Sweden)
Located in Gothenburg, Liseberg is Scandinavia’s largest amusement park and a beloved national institution in Sweden. The park strikes an excellent balance between thrilling rides and a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere, making it popular with both locals and international visitors.
Standout attractions include Helix, a high-speed launched coaster, and Balder, a wooden coaster often ranked among the best in the world. Liseberg is also known for its seasonal transformations, particularly during Christmas and Halloween, when decorations, food stalls, and themed events completely change the park’s character.
11. Energylandia (Poland)
Situated in Zator, between Kraków and Katowice, Energylandia has rapidly risen to prominence as one of Europe’s most exciting modern amusement parks.
Despite being relatively young, the park boasts an impressive lineup of roller coasters, including Zadra, a massive hybrid coaster that combines wooden structure with steel track for an intense ride experience. Energylandia appeals strongly to thrill-seekers, yet it also features extensive family and children’s zones that ensure broad appeal.
The park’s rapid expansion and constant addition of new attractions make it a compelling destination for repeat visitors. Its location in southern Poland allows travellers to pair a visit with historic cities and scenic countryside.
12. Parque Warner Madrid (Spain)
Located just outside Madrid, Parque Warner Madrid brings the world of Warner Bros. to life through immersive themed lands and character-driven attractions. Visitors can explore areas inspired by DC Comics, Hollywood, and the Old West, each offering a distinct atmosphere and ride selection.
The park is particularly popular with thrill-seekers thanks to attractions like Superman: La Atracción de Acero and Batman Gotham City Escape, which combine speed, height, and elaborate theming. Families and younger visitors are equally well catered for, with Looney Tunes-themed rides and live shows throughout the day.
13. Puy du Fou (France)
Located in the Vendée region of western France, Puy du Fou is unlike any other amusement park in Europe, as it focuses on large-scale historical shows rather than traditional rides. The park offers spectacular live performances that recreate moments from history, ranging from Roman gladiator battles to Viking invasions and medieval tournaments.
These shows are enhanced by impressive sets, special effects, and hundreds of costumed performers, creating a cinematic experience that feels both educational and entertaining. While Puy du Fou lacks roller coasters, its originality and emotional storytelling make it a standout destination.
Its rural location encourages visitors to stay nearby and fully immerse themselves in the experience over multiple days.
14. Futuroscope (France)
Futuroscope, located near Poitiers in western France, blends amusement park thrills with science, technology, and multimedia experiences. The park is best known for its futuristic architecture and attractions that focus on 3D, 4D, and motion-based storytelling rather than traditional rides. Highlights include dynamic simulators and visually striking shows that appeal to both children and adults.
While it may not satisfy hardcore coaster enthusiasts, Futuroscope offers a refreshing alternative that emphasises innovation and imagination. Its location makes it accessible from Paris by high-speed train, adding to its convenience.
15. Parque de Atracciones de Madrid (Spain)
Situated within Casa de Campo, Madrid’s largest park, Parque de Atracciones de Madrid offers a classic amusement park experience in an urban setting. The park features a mix of roller coasters, water rides, and family attractions, with Abismo and Tornado standing out for thrill-seekers.
Its relaxed layout and green surroundings make it an appealing escape from the city without requiring long travel times. Families appreciate the dedicated Nickelodeon Land, which caters specifically to younger visitors. Being located in central Madrid, the park is easy to reach by public transport.
16. Thorpe Park (United Kingdom)
Located near London, Thorpe Park is widely regarded as the UK’s top destination for adrenaline-fuelled rides, with various ways of getting to Thorpe Park for visitors. The park focuses heavily on high-intensity attractions, including Stealth, Colossus, and SAW – The Ride, which are designed to push physical and psychological limits.
While it lacks the detailed theming of some European parks, Thorpe Park compensates with sheer thrill factor and efficient ride design. Its island-based layout creates a sense of separation from the outside world, enhancing the immersive experience.
17. Legoland Billund (Denmark)
Located in Billund, the birthplace of LEGO, Legoland Billund is a must-visit destination for families with younger children. The park brings LEGO bricks to life through detailed models, interactive rides, and themed lands that encourage creativity and play. Attractions such as Miniland, which features miniature cities built entirely from LEGO, showcase remarkable craftsmanship and attention to detail.
While thrill rides are limited, the park excels at providing age-appropriate entertainment that feels both fun and educational. Its location near Billund Airport makes it particularly accessible for international visitors.
18. Heide Park Resort (Germany)
Heide Park Resort, located in northern Germany near Hamburg, is one of the country’s largest amusement parks and offers a diverse range of attractions.
The park is especially well known for its roller coasters, including Colossos, a towering wooden coaster, and Krake, Germany’s first dive coaster. Heide Park balances thrill rides with family-friendly areas, making it suitable for mixed-age groups. Its spacious layout allows for a relaxed pace, even during busier periods.
The park’s rural setting makes it a popular stop on road trips through northern Germany.
19. Toverland (Netherlands)
Located in the southeastern Netherlands near the German border, Toverland has gained a strong reputation for quality, creativity, and consistent expansion. The park cleverly combines indoor and outdoor attractions, which makes it an excellent choice in unpredictable weather.
Standout rides include Fēnix, a wing coaster, and Troy, a powerful wooden coaster that appeals to thrill-seekers. Toverland’s theming is cohesive and charming, particularly in areas like Avalon, which feels immersive without being overwhelming. Its manageable size and friendly atmosphere make it especially popular with families.
20. Gröna Lund (Sweden)
Gröna Lund is a compact yet vibrant amusement park located on an island in central Stockholm. Despite its small footprint, the park packs in an impressive selection of thrill rides, including the intense Jetline coaster and the towering Ikaros drop tower.
Gröna Lund is also known for its live music events, which attract major international artists during the summer season. The waterfront setting adds to the park’s appeal, offering scenic views alongside adrenaline-pumping attractions. Its central location makes it easy to combine with sightseeing in Stockholm.
21. Parque Astérix (France)
Located north of Paris, Parque Astérix is inspired by the beloved French comic series and offers a humorous, high-energy alternative to Disneyland Paris. The park is particularly well regarded for its roller coasters, including OzIris and Toutatis, which combine impressive layouts with strong thematic elements.
Parque Astérix appeals strongly to older children and adults, thanks to its focus on thrill rides and fast-paced attractions. At the same time, fans of the comics appreciate the playful references and character appearances throughout the park. Its location makes it an easy day trip from Paris.
22. Linnanmäki (Finland)
Located in Helsinki, Linnanmäki is a historic amusement park that plays an important role in Finnish culture. The park offers a mix of classic rides and modern attractions, including the popular wooden coaster Vuoristorata. Linnanmäki is also known for its charitable mission, as profits are donated to child welfare initiatives in Finland.
The park’s friendly atmosphere and manageable size make it ideal for families and casual visitors. Its urban location allows for easy access by public transport.
23. Belantis (Germany)
Belantis, located near Leipzig in eastern Germany, is themed around ancient civilizations and historical exploration. The park’s centrepiece is the Pyramid of Belantis, which houses a dramatic water ride with one of Europe’s steepest drops.
Belantis offers a balanced mix of family attractions and moderate thrill rides, making it suitable for a wide audience. While it may not be as intense as some larger parks, its cohesive theming and spacious layout are appealing. Its location near Leipzig makes it accessible for travellers exploring eastern Germany.
24. Parque Terra Mítica (Spain)
Located in Benidorm on Spain’s Costa Blanca, Terra Mítica is themed around ancient Mediterranean civilizations. The park features areas inspired by Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Iberia, which adds an educational layer to its attractions.
Roller coasters and water rides provide thrills, while shows and themed environments create a sense of immersion. Terra Mítica’s warm climate and coastal location make it particularly attractive during the spring and summer months. Its proximity to popular beach resorts makes it easy to combine with a seaside holiday.
25. Movie Park Germany (Germany)
Situated in Bottrop, Movie Park Germany is themed around film and television, offering attractions inspired by popular franchises and cinematic genres. The park features a mix of thrill rides, family attractions, and live stunt shows that enhance its movie-studio atmosphere.
Star attractions include Star Trek: Operation Enterprise and The Lost Temple, which combine storytelling with innovative ride systems. Movie Park is particularly popular with teenagers and young adults due to its energetic vibe. Its location in the Ruhr region makes it accessible from several major cities.
Europe’s amusement parks offer an extraordinary range of experiences, from fairy-tale forests and cinematic worlds to record-breaking roller coasters and immersive historical shows. What truly sets these parks apart is their ability to reflect local culture while delivering world-class entertainment, ensuring that no two destinations feel the same.
Best Amusement Parks in Europe FAQ
There isn’t one single “best” amusement park in Europe, as it depends on what you’re looking for. Europa-Park in Germany is often ranked number one for its mix of thrilling roller coasters and immersive themed lands. Disneyland Paris is the most popular for families and Disney fans, while Efteling in the Netherlands is praised for its fairy-tale atmosphere. Thrill-seekers often prefer PortAventura in Spain or Energylandia in Poland for intense coasters.
Disneyland Paris is the largest theme park resort in Europe, covering thousands of acres and including two parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. In terms of the largest single theme park, Europa-Park in Germany is the biggest, with over 100 attractions spread across themed European countries.
Disneyland Paris is the most visited amusement park in Europe, welcoming millions of visitors each year. It consistently ranks as the top-attended theme park on the continent, attracting families from across Europe and beyond.
For roller coaster enthusiasts, Europa-Park, Energylandia, PortAventura, and Alton Towers are among the best in Europe. Energylandia in Poland has one of the largest coaster collections in Europe, including Hyperion, one of the tallest and fastest roller coasters on the continent. Europa-Park’s Silver Star and Voltron Nevera are also standout attractions.
Disneyland Paris, Efteling (Netherlands), Tivoli Gardens (Denmark), and Europa-Park are excellent choices for families. These parks offer a mix of gentle rides, immersive storytelling, character experiences, and entertainment suitable for all ages.
The best time to visit European amusement parks is typically late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and crowds are usually smaller compared to peak summer holidays. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
Some European amusement parks operate seasonally (usually from spring to autumn), while others offer year-round access. Disneyland Paris and Europa-Park have winter seasons with Christmas markets and themed events. Many parks close from November to March, except during special holiday openings.
Ticket prices vary depending on the park and season. On average, day tickets range from €40 to €80 for adults. Multi-day passes and online advance bookings often provide better value. Disneyland Paris tends to be on the higher end of the pricing spectrum.
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