Amusement parks are special places. There’s always something extraordinary going on there, and there’s never a dull moment. The cheerful buzz that constantly accompanies the fun at the park doesn’t let up until closing time. Colorful lights, whirling carousels, and roller coasters give the whole place a unique character. Such attractions can be found both in Poland and throughout Europe. Which ones stand out for their size and the number of attractions available?
European amusement parks – what should you know?
According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions in Europe (TEA, or Themed Entertainment Association), there are currently as many as 307 such facilities. That’s a truly impressive number! Of course, not all of them boast extraordinary size or a wide variety of attractions, but each one is certainly worth at least a brief visit.
Dyrehavsbakken, located in Denmark and also known as Bakken—which translates to “hill”—is considered the first amusement park in Europe. This unique facility was established as early as the 16th century, specifically in 1583. Of course, it differed from the places we know today, but its concept and main purpose were the same.
The largest amusement park in Europe today—more on that in a moment—covers over 22 square kilometers. That’s larger than the combined area of the three smallest countries and territories on the Old Continent, including the Vatican and Monaco.
Europe's Largest Amusement Parks – A Ranking
What are the largest and most attractive amusement parks in Europe? Here is the ranking.
1. Disneyland
Regardless of which criteria we consider—total area, number of attractions, or themed zones—Disneyland Paris has long been the undisputed number one in Europe.
The park covers more than 22 square kilometers and is divided into two theme parks and five separate zones. At Disneyland, you’ll find, among other things:
- Main Street, the park’s main, colorful street—this is where spectacular parades take place, during which you can meet world-famous characters from Disney fairy tales,
- Fantasyland, the section dedicated to iconic Disney productions—here you’ll find, among other things, the Dumbo the Elephant carousel and a maze straight out of Alice in Wonderland,
- Adventureland, the area home to the Indiana Jones roller coaster, the Pirates of the Caribbean ship, and many other unique attractions.
The complex also features a Walt Disney studio and numerous dining options offering cuisines from around the world.
2. Alton Towers
Second on the list is the British amusement park Alton Towers, part of England’s largest park and leisure complex, covering an impressive 4 square kilometers. It is the perfect place for teens and adults, filled with tall, fast rides and roller coasters.
The amusement park features, among other attractions, The Smiler—the roller coaster with the most loops—as well as Europe’s first inverted carousel, Nemesis. Here, you can also ride an extraordinary roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 109 kilometers per hour during the descent.
3. Europa-Park
The final spot on the podium goes to Germany’s Europa-Park, which covers nearly 100 hectares. It features 9 different water rides and as many as 13 roller coasters.
The entire facility is divided into a dozen or so zones, each of which—in both name and attractions—evokes different European countries, including Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Greece, and Ireland. It’s the perfect place for both children and adults.
The amusement park is home to the unique Grimm Brothers' Fairytale Forest. This impressive attraction also offers its guests hotels, campgrounds, and numerous restaurants, including one with a Michelin star!
Other amusement parks in Europe
The attractions that rank lower on the list are equally interesting and worth visiting—amusement parks scattered throughout Europe. The list includes, among others:
- PortAventura World in Spain,
- Legoland in Denmark,
- The Prater in Austria,
- Gardaland in Italy,
- Efteling in the Netherlands.
Amusement parks in Poland
Of course, our country also has no shortage of unique places where both children and adults can enjoy unforgettable moments. There are now over 20 such attractions across Poland. A perfect example is Rabkoland Amusement Park, located in Rabka-Zdrój.
Founded in 1988, Rabkoland covers an area of over 2 hectares. The entire park is divided into six separate themed zones, such as Machinarium and Bumblebee Valley, where visitors can find a wide variety of attractions for children of all ages.
The amusement park also offers numerous food and beverage outlets, as well as interesting attractions and regular events. Every year, daredevils from across the country compete here in the unusual sport of milking an artificial cow.
Find out more about us and plan a visit to Rabkoland!
A fan of crime novels, especially by Jo Nesbø and Camilla Läckberg. She also enjoys watching mini-series of a similar genre. Loves going on weekend trips with friends—mostly around Poland. Professionally, she specializes in customer communication and cooperation with companies, schools, kindergartens, and travel agencies.
