- Liseberg (Gothenburg, Sweden)
From Scandinavia’s longest and fastest rollercoaster Helix to the insane Mechanica, which will help you to spin 360 degrees 30 metres up in the air – Liseberg really does have it all. There are many unique advantages to Liseberg such as the delicious vegetarian buffet which is a far cry from the unhealthy fast food choices that many such parks present. Liseberg also hosts Europe’s biggest free fall attraction aptly named Atmosfear, while Balder was given the title of the world’s best wooden rollercoaster.
- Gardaland (Verona, Italy)
Gardaland has been delighting visitors since 1975. Its location next to Lake Garda is perfect and it also encompasses a sea-life centre and hotel. Rides are split into fantasy, adrenaline and adventure to make planning your day easier.
- Alton Towers (Staffordshire, England)
Iconic UK theme park, water park and hotel complex. Like Gardaland it is Merlin operated. There is plenty to enjoy for all ages and 2016 saw the opening of Galactica – a ride incorporating VR technology to help you journey into space! Top Dog Days are currently offering 2 for 1 Alton Towers vouchers.
- Legoland (Windsor, England)
Who would have thought these humble bricks would still be pushing boundaries and fascinating folk of all ages in 2016?! Lego has continued to reinvent itself, adding robotics to its armoury and Legoland is a spectacular celebration of the Danish phenomenon, with much to offer for children between the ages of 3 and 12 in particular.
- Tivoli Gardens (Copenhagen, Denmark)
Excellent theme park in Denmark’s capital city. Tivoli Gardens has gained a reputation as a fantastic place to visit at Christmas time, with a plethora of stalls, beautiful lighting and a great wintery atmosphere. Tivoli has a rich history as it was founded in 1843 and visited many a time by Hans Christian Andersen. The rides drip with atmosphere and the oldest rollercoaster was built in 1914!
- PortAventura (Tarragona, Spain)
Very fun, regional themed park in the north of Spain. It is split up into different parts of the world, each with its own theme – the Mediterranean, Polynesia, China, Mexico, and the American West. Furius Baco and Dragon Khan are renowned for their intense rollercoaster experiences.
- Walt Disney Studios (Paris, France)
Opening in 2002 WDS is the second of two Disney parks in France’s capital. It offers a wonderful behind the scenes feel exploration and there is plenty to enjoy for all ages.
- Disneyland (Paris, France)
Of course, this would be many folk’s number one but sometimes it’s necessary to reward the less popular and obvious choices. Disneyland is, however, a fantastic theme park. There is a staggering array of rides and entertainment choices for all ages and the wonderful Jedi Academy, where young Padowans can learn to wield a lightsaber is a joy.
- Europa Park, (Rust, Germany)
Technically Europe’s second most popular theme park and the most popular non-Disney park. It offers a wonderful fantasy representation of the continent with 100 rides across 13 diverse lands. The recreation of Rome has to be seen to be believed and it boasts arguably Europe’s most petrifying ride, Blue Fire, which goes from 0-100km p/hr in a staggering 2.5 seconds.
- Efteling (Kaatsheuvel, Netherlands)
There is no theme park in the world more charming and imaginative than Efteling. Even Disney are thought to have taken much inspiration from this fantasy-themed park that is nestled in the forest of Kaatsheuvel. Efteling may be charming and medieval but it is also VAST. It is recommended to spend at least two days at the park to allow you to experience all of the incredible rides and soak up the special atmosphere.