How many European amusement parks can you think of?
How about ones not named Disneyland Paris?
European amusement parks definitely don't get a ton of press in North America, but they can be a thrilling Eurotrip add-on that also offers a real insight into the local culture. Here are a few of the best to visit on your next trip:
Efteling Themepark Resort (Kaatsheuvel, Netherlands)
What do you get when you swirl together a Brothers Grimm tale with Six Flags? Efteling Themepark Resort, that's what.
What started as a small nature park has grown into Europe's third most-visited amusement park.
The Fairytale Forest is still the star attraction for kids, as they get the chance to stroll through meticulously manicured woods full of fun Paper Gobblers (talking trash cans) and characters from every fairytale imaginable. Rapunzel, Hansel & Gretel and Sleeping Beauty are all here, but so are lesser-known characters like Langnek-the much-beloved long-necked servant from The Six Servants.
For the adults, there are plenty of roller coasters, immersive "dark rides" and a river rapids excursion.
Puy do Fuo (Les Epesses, France)
While you won't find thrill rides at Puy do Fuo, what you will find is a roster of riveting historical re-enactments that are sure to thrill you.
Paramount of these performances is the Le Signe du Triomphe, a Roman circus complete with battling gladiators and raucous chariot races. Other standouts are Les Vikings-an action-packed performance of plunderers-Les Chevaliers de la Table Ronde-a take on Arthurian legend The Knights of the Roundtable-and recreations of a medieval French city.
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Blackpool Pleasure Beach (Blackpool, England)
Regarded as England's answer to Coney Island, Blackpool Pleasure Beach has been pleasing thrill seekers since 1896.
The theme park is located directly on the seaside, so a trip here has become a summer rite of passage for many Britons. The amusements in the park run the gamut from old wooden coasters and flying machines that date from the early part of the 20th century to record-breaking modern rollercoasters.
Be sure to take a ride on the world's first ghost train, float through time on the kitschy River Caves ride and feast on an order of fish & chips.
Tivoli Gardens (Copenhagen, Denmark)
The grand dame of European theme parks, Tivoli Gardens dates back to 1843 and is an iconic institution in Copenhagen. Such is this park's reputation that it attracted Walt Disney himself and is said to form part of the inspiration for Disneyland.
Today you will find classic carousels and Ferris wheels still turning in addition to one of the world's oldest wooden rollercoasters. A trip here is as much about the atmosphere as it is the thrills: Genteel Tivoli Gardens and its collection of twinkling lights and lovely landscaping is an oasis in the city.
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Europa-Park (Rust, Germany)
If you had trouble picking what European countries to see on your big trip, then just go to Europa-Park and see them all.
This German icon is home to over a dozen themed "lands" which include Italy, Switzerland, England, Greece, Russia and Spain among others.
Combined with over a dozen roller coasters, scintillating shows and a brand new Voletarium-an attraction that makes guests feel like they are flying-this has made Europa-Park the second most-visited theme park on the continent after Disneyland Paris, of course.
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