Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens at night. Photo / 123RF
Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens at night. Photo / 123RF
If you're looking for thrills and spills on your European holiday, these theme parks have you sorted.
Tivoli Gardens, Denmark
This Copenhagen theme park is the second oldest in the world — in operation since 1843 — and has a unique combination of culture, rides, attractions and performances to enjoy. For daredevils, the park also contains one of the oldest running wooden roller coasters in the world — built in 1914. When you need a retreat from the excitement, relax in one of the park's beautiful landscaped gardens.
Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is Europe's most popular theme park. Photo / 123RF
The rides at the French edition of Disneyland are larger and offer more thrills than their Californian counterparts. As you'd expect from the franchise, there are attractions to entertain all generations — you're never too old for some Disney magic. Next door, Walt Disney Studio Park is also worth a visit to go behind the scenes of your favourite films.
Europa Park, Germany
One of the epic roller coasters at Europa Park. Photo / 123RF
The second most popular theme park in Europe after Disneyland Paris, Europa Park is spread across 12 "lands" themed around the countries of Europe. If your European vacation only has time for a few countries, this is a good way to pack in a few more iconic landmarks! There are more than 100 attractions, which include several roller coasters — the Blue Fire and Silver Star being particularly epic — as well as a Swiss bobsled ride and a flight simulator.
Legoland, Denmark
Mount Rushmore in Lego at Legoland Billund. Photo / 123RF
Everything's awesome at Legoland — but especially the amazingly huge Lego sculptures found within. Go back to where it all began at the original park in Billund, Denmark, which opened in 1968 alongside the Lego factory. While the park doesn't really cater to adrenaline junkies, it's worth a stroll through the 59 million lego bricks — particularly the amazingly intricate Miniland, which replicates famous cities and global icons.
You'll also find Legoland in Germany and England.
PortaAdventura Park, Spain
PortAventura Park is great for thrill-seekers. Photo / 123RF
One of the most popular parks in Europe, PortaAdventura features six themed lands inspired by historic world civilisations. It's also home to the continent's biggest and fastest roller coaster — Shambhala drops 78 metres and reaches speeds of 135km/h. The latest area, Ferrari World, opened this year, with the Red Force roller coaster giving rides a taste of what it's like to drive a Formula One car.
