Disneyland might be considered the "Happiest Place on Earth [1]," but we think that there are many other Disney destinations [2] that are equally as magical. We rounded up the top Disney-related locations from around the world so that you can know where to have the ultimate experiences. We're talking parks, resorts, castles, and much more. Take a look!
Hotel de Glace in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
Elsa made her incredible ice castle with her own hands, but the real inspiration behind her frozen escape was the Hotel de Glace [6] in Quebec City, Quebec.
Aulani Disney Resort and Spa on Kapolei, Hawaii
This piece of paradise combines the magic of Disney with a tropical vacation. Aulani Disney Resort and Spa [7] includes luxurious pools, two restaurants, three lounges, and soothing spa treatments.
Disneyland in Anaheim, CA
It's the park that started it all! If you haven't visited yet, this should obviously be at the top of your bucket list. Disneyland [8] is full of classic rides, yummy treats, and gorgeous sites. There's no place quite like it.
Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany
Perhaps one of the most iconic princess castles of all, the palace from Sleeping Beauty was inspired by Neuschwanstein Castle [9] in Germany, a location that Walt Disney and his wife visited on vacation.
Castaway Cay in the Bahamas
Castaway Cay [10], Disney Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas, is the ultimate escape. It's a port that Disney Cruise Line ships sailing the Caribbean and the Bahamas dock at for a day during the trip. Guests can enjoy off- and on-land excursions all day, white sand and crystal-clear water, fun for families, and exclusive areas for adults.
Disneyland Paris in Marne-la-Vallée, France
We love that the tickets for this Disney park [11] are more affordable than those in the States. The castle at Disneyland Paris is a beautifully elegant and has a vastly different structure from Disneyland in Anaheim. Its design is inspired by illustrations from Les Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry [12] and the Mont Saint-Michel monastery [13] in Normandy. There's also that dragon in the dungeon . . .
Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, France
The island of Mont Saint-Michel [14] in Normandy, France, is what inspired creators to make Prince Eric's castle by the sea in The Little Mermaid.
Mont Saint-Michel was the source of inspiration for more than just one Disney movie. The palace in Tangled where Rapunzel was stolen away from her family was greatly influenced by this massive castle.
Alsace, France
In Beauty and the Beast [15] during the unsuccessful wedding scene, the wine at the Bimbettes table has a white stripe around the bottleneck and a circle in the center, which is a symbol of Alsace wine. This means that the movie's location was probably in the Alsace region [16] in France.
California Adventure in Anaheim, CA
Just a few steps away from Disneyland is California Adventure, a fun park targeted more towards adults. Take a ride on the enormous ferris wheel, crazy fast roller coaster, or exciting water raft ride. The park also offers alcohol and some great cuisine options [17].
Tokyo Disneyland in Urayasu, Chiba, Japan
Tokyo actually has two parks — Tokyo Disneyland [18] and Tokyo DisneySea. Tokyo Disney is considered to be really unique because it's the only resort that isn't even owned by Disney. It's fully owned and operated by The Oriental Land Company and just licensed by The Walt Disney Company. We especially recommend going on the Pooh's Hunny Hunt attraction.
Tokyo DisneySea in Urayasu, Chiba, Japan
While this isn't the perfect comparison, Tokyo DisneySea [19] is like Disney California Adventure while Tokyo Disneyland is more like Disneyland. DisneySea (like California Adventure) serves alcohol, has more of the "grownup" attractions like Indiana Jones and Tower of Terror, and is more about the beautiful settings than the traditional characters.
Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland
The Eilean Donan Castle [20] inspired the setting for Brave [21]. It was built in the middle of the 13th century, and at least four different versions of the castle were built and then rebuilt.
Shanghai Disneyland in Pudong, Shanghai, China
The newest of the parks, Shanghai Disneyland [22] is especially cool because they have tons of different rides you won't see at any other Disney park. Just make sure to wear your walking shoes, the attractions are very spread out here!
Check out more tips for visiting the park here [23]!
Hong Kong Disneyland in Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Disneyland is the smallest Disney park. Its design incorporates feng shui elements [24], creating a soothing atmosphere at the resort. Even though the park is small, it still has a lot of special features that are worthy of a visit.
Taj Mahal in Agra, India
Jasmine may have been princess of Agraba, but her elaborate palace was inspired by the Taj Mahal [25] in Agra, India.
Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL
The massive park [26] includes the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and the Animal Kingdom. In 2017, Walt Disney world will also be opening an Avatar land [27] that looks totally mind blowing.
Notre Dame in Paris, France
The Hunchback of Notre Dame [28] was set in the Gothic cathedral Notre Dame de Paris [29], which you can easily visit when you're in the area.
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in Orlando, FL
This elegant Victorian hotel [30] has a live orchestra play music in the lobby. It has an incredible view of Cinderella's castle in Walt Disney World, and makes the perfect destination for a Disney-themed wedding [31]!