7 of Europe’s best theme parks near holiday hotspots

Thinking about a trip to Europe? Well, how about a little extra fun with a day or two at some of the best theme parks on the continent?

More than just Disneyland Paris, there’s a whole world of crazy rides and exciting shows just waiting to blow your mind near many of our favourite family holiday destinations.

From the old-school charm of Tibidabo in Barcelona to the fast and furious thrills of PortAventura World near Salou, there's something for everyone. Want to step back in time? Try Puy du Fou in France. Into movies? Parque Warner Madrid is your spot. Or, maybe you're feeling a Wild West adventure? Oasys Mini Hollywood in Spain is calling your name.

So, if you're looking for a day away from the beach or the city, check out these kid-approved theme parks near popular holiday destinations.

Credit: PortAventura Park

1. PortAventura World - Costa Dorada, Spain

PortAventura World is Spain's biggest resort and theme park, boasting over 60 attractions across three themed worlds.

The park features some of Europe’s highest and fastest roller coasters like Shambala and Dragon Khan. Ferrari Land’s Red Force, Europe’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, and the Tutuki Splash water ride are other highlights.

The park also hosts various shows, including musical performances and parades, and there's a water park to cool off in.

Nearest holiday spot: The popular Costa Dorada has a string of brilliant resorts along its golden beaches and you can get a lesson in ancient Roman history in Tarragona.

Getting there: A mere ten-minute drive from Salou and no more than an hour's drive from the Costa Dorada's other main areas, this park is easily accessible for a day of fun but with so much to see you might want to come back for more.

2. Tibidabo Amusement Park - Barcelona, Spain

Get ready for some serious thrills at Tibidabo, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. With over 30 rides, there's something for everyone, including the brand-new Merlí freefall ride and the Muntanya Russa roller coaster, which gives you an amazing view of the city from 500m above sea level.

But Tibidabo isn't just about the rides. There's also the ‘Panoramic Area’, where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the breathtaking views of Barcelona from the Giradabo Ferris Wheel.

Nearest holiday spot: Barcelona, of course. This is more than just a city break; it's a mix of sunny beaches, incredible architecture by Gaudi and a lively nightlife.

Getting there: You can take a 30-minute car ride from the city centre, public transport is a better bet. It takes about 45 minutes, but the journey includes a ride on the Tibidabo funicular railway, which has newly updated carriages with large windows, giving you stunning views of the city below.

Credit: Puy du Fou

3. Puy du Fou - Atlantic Coast, France

Less a theme park and more a journey through time, this unique park is known for its live-action shows, such as the Le Bal des Oiseaux Fantômes with over 300 birds of prey, and Les Vikings, featuring a 20m (66ft) longboat.

Evening shows like the huge lights and fireworks show, La Cinéscénie, involve over 4,000 volunteers. Puy du Fou also offers immersive experiences like Le Mystère de La Pérouse, a recreation of a legendary 1785 expedition on the high seas.

Nearest holiday spot: Puy du Fou is about an hour’s drive from Nantes, where you’ll find the equally fascinating Les Machines de l'île. You’re also around an hour from France’s Atlantic Coast, where you’ll find a string of picturesque beaches, surfing spots and serene seaside towns.

Getting there: The park is near Les Epesses, about a three-hour drive from Bordeaux. If you want to stay the night, unique accommodation options include immersive themed hotels like La Citadelle and Îles de Clovis.

4. Parque Warner Madrid - Madrid, Spain

Parque Warner Madrid has six themed areas: Movie World Studios, DC Super Heroes World, Hollywood Boulevard, Old West Territory, Cartoon Village and Warner Beach, each offering a unique experience.

Popular rides include Superman: La Atracción de Acero and Batman Gotham City Escape. A special mention goes to Warner Beach, a 40,000m² waterpark, perfect for cooling off during Madrid's hot summers.

Younger kids will love meeting the characters in the world of Warner Bros movies, from Batman to Superman and Bugs Bunny to Scooby-Doo.

Nearest holiday spot: Madrid. Spain’s capital might not draw the crowds of ever-popular Barcelona but this vibrant city packed with stunning art galleries and sensational Spanish cuisine is worth spending a few days in.

Getting there: Just 40 minutes by car from central Madrid, or around an hour by public transport.

Credit: Oasys Mini Hollywood

5. Oasys Mini Hollywood - Costa de Almeria, Spain

Many of the most famous Hollywood Westerns were filmed in Spain, and at this celebration of the wild movie genre, it’s easy to see why.

Set in Europe's only desert, Oasys Mini Hollywood recreates classic Western movie sets with live shows and a Western town.

Home to over 800 animals from 200 species, the park combines Wild West charm with wildlife education. The park's landscapes have been backdrops for legendary films like The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Interactive attractions include a cinema museum and a cactus garden with 250 global species.

Nearest holiday spot: Spain’s Costa de Almeria separates its better-known neighbours, the Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca. But with over 200km of coastline, unspoiled beaches, desert-like natural parks and Moorish heritage, it’s got tons to discover on your getaway.

Getting there: It’ll take between half an hour and an hour and a half by car, depending on where you stay in the Costa de Almeria.

6. Katmandu Park - Majorca, Spain

At the fantastical world of Katmandu Park in Majorca, adventures and myths come to life in an island paradise.

The park combines adventure and fantasy, featuring an upside-down house, splash park and a five-level soft play room. The splash park includes a water fortress with over 150 interactive elements, making it a hit with the kids.

Recognized by Tripadvisor as the best theme park in Majorca and one of the best in Spain, this is a must-visit for families.

Nearest holiday spot: You’re already on it. This beautiful Balearic is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and lively resorts – the hardest part will be seeing it all during one visit.

Getting there: Conveniently located in Magaluf, Katmandu Park is easily reachable from most places on the island.

Credit: Soyoung Han | Unsplash

7. Disneyland Paris - Paris, France

This classic spectacle of imagination and fantasy, Disneyland Paris is home to two parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

Disneyland Park, with its five magical lands, invites you to explore classic Disney tales and new adventures. Highlights include the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, thrilling rides like Space Mountain, and the enchanting It’s a Small World.

Walt Disney Studios Park is a behind-the-scenes look at movie magic with attractions such as the Ratatouille: The Adventure and the high-speed Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith.

Disneyland Paris is also famous for its parades, live shows and seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas celebrations.

Nearest holiday spot: Paris. You know the drill: romantic vibes, world-class museums and unmissable landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame.

Getting there: Disneyland Paris is in Marne-la-Vallée, about a 35-minute train ride from central Paris. The RER A train directly connects the city centre to the gates of Disneyland, making it an easy addition to any Paris holiday.