Today’s theme parks offer up a world of fun for all the family. Some of the most popular are relatively close to our P&O ports, and because you can take your car, you’re free to explore the surrounding area at your leisure. Read our guide to getting to some of the best theme parks in Europe.
Getting to Efteling, Netherlands
The largest theme park in the Netherlands, Efteling brings childhood fairy tales to life. With mythical characters roaming the park, magical forests to explore and a myriad of interactive experiences, you’ll really feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
You can get to Efteling theme park from our Rotterdam port in just under an hour’s drive, so there’ll be plenty of time to make a quick detour in nearby Amsterdam or The Hague. Exit the port onto the A15, before merging onto the A16/E19. Take the exit onto N261, before following signs to Europalaan, the park’s site.
Getting to Europa-Park, Germany
Theme parks in Germany are known for their captivating settings, and Europa-Park is no different. The largest of its kind in the country, the park holds over 100 attractions, hosted across a myriad of different zones. Each is based around a European capital – so you can find yourself wandering past the water world of Poseiden (Greece) before scaling the lofty hills of enchanting Austria. It lies between the Black Forest and the Vosges mountains, so you’re well-placed for exploring idyllic Germany after visiting.
Car: Europa-Park is reachable by car from P&O ports at Calais, Zeebrugge and Rotterdam. The cross country drive is relatively straightforward.
Drive along the A5 Motorway until you get to exit 57b for Rust. If you follow the slip road, you’ll reach the park entrance. Parking is €6 for cars, while motorbikes and bicycles can park for free.
Train: If you’re travelling by train, Ringsheim station lies 4km away from the park. You’ll find a regular shuttle service which travels between the train station and the Europa-Park.
Getting to Disneyland®, Paris
With its iconic Film Studios, breathtaking rides and awesome attractions, Disneyland® Paris is a place set to capture the hearts of all ages. Soak up the magical atmosphere and immerse yourself in the world of Disney® with exciting shows, amazing parades and over 50 attractions.
Getting to Disneyland® Paris is relatively straightforward from our Calais port. Once you’ve arrived in France, drive along the A26 before changing at the A4, which takes you straight to the parks. Signage will guide you both to the theme park, and hotels.
Getting to Futuroscope, France
Alongside Disneyland®, Futuroscope is one of the most popular theme parks in France, particularly for families. Based around the futuristic, the site takes you on thrilling roller coaster rides, and mind-blowing, technological journeys. Watch spectacular shows, like the Kube Mysteries, a show with acrobats and dancers in an enthralling, video-mapped set.
Futuroscope is less than a six hour drive from our Calais port. The route passes through Paris and Le Mans, so there are plenty of pitstops you can visit along the way. Once you reach the A10 motorway, keep driving until you reach exit 28. You’ll find the park less than two minutes along the road.
Ready to explore some of Europe’s best theme parks? Take a look at our sailing crossings today.