The most visited place in Europe is a 'magical' theme park two hours from the UK

Europe is home to countless stunning destinations, from historical landmarks to natural wonders. 

But when it comes to visitor numbers, one “magical” place stands out as the most popular attraction on the entire continent.

According to data from Statista, France holds the title of the most visited country in Europe, welcoming an impressive 100 million international visitors in 2023. 

Its capital, Paris, also tops the list as the most visited city, attracting around 21.6 million tourists last year. 

But it’s not the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum that claim the crown as Europe’s most-visited spot.

Instead, it’s a theme park located just outside the French capital. The theme park in question is, of course, Disneyland Paris.

It is located in Marne-la-Vallée about 32 kilometres (20 miles) east of Paris and draws an average of 12 million visitors each year, making it the most visited attraction in Europe. 

The resort, which opened its doors in 1992, features two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. 

It is easily accessible from the UK, with a train journey from London taking just over two hours.

According to data obtained by Road Genius, in 2023 alone, Disneyland Paris reported record revenue of $2.6 billion (£2.1 billion), driven by a surge in visitor numbers following the easing of pandemic restrictions and the introduction of new attractions, including a Marvel-themed area.

Disneyland Park welcomed approximately 28,489 visitors per day, while Walt Disney Studios saw around 15,616 daily visitors.

Since opening, Disneyland Paris has hosted over 375 million guests. It is not only a popular tourist destination but also France's largest single-site employer, providing jobs for around 17,000 people. 

Despite facing financial challenges in the past, Disney has invested heavily in the resort, including a €2 billion expansion plan announced in 2018.

Inside the resort, visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions, from thrilling rides to family-friendly shows and parades. 

Highlights include iconic Disney characters, immersive themed areas, and spectacular nighttime fireworks displays. 

The resort also features seven Disney-owned hotels, a golf course, convention centres, and a shopping and dining complex.