10 Days in Europe in late-November: Our Full Itinerary
Never let anyone tell you Disney World is just for kids. My husband didn’t experience the magic until he was 23, and now I’m pretty sure he loves it more than I do. Between cocktails around the world at EPCOT, incredible dining, and a heavy dose of nostalgia, Disney as an adult hits completely differently.
It’s less about sprinting from ride to ride and more about doing Disney well. Knowing when to take advantage of Lightning Lanes, where to splurge on a sit-down meal, which parks are worth rope drop, and when it’s perfectly okay to sleep in and grab a slow breakfast instead. Disney World is massive, layered, and surprisingly customizable, which is both the magic and the challenge.
I’ve learned that the difference between a chaotic Disney trip and a really great one comes down to having a plan that still leaves room for fun. Not a minute-by-minute schedule that sucks the joy out of the day, but enough strategy to skip unnecessary stress and focus on what actually makes the experience special.
That’s exactly what my guide is meant to help with. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning after years away, this is your starting point for understanding how Disney World really works and how to enjoy it without feeling overwhelmed before you even step through the gates.
Prepping for the trip
this was a “last-minute” trip abroad, we knew we were going to go somewhere for our 5th wedding anniversary, but didn’t decide on where until we were 4 months out
in order to maximize husband’s time-off we went over thanksgiving break, which is a cold and non-touristy season (despite it being the start of the holidays)
another reason we planned for this week is because we wanted to get the Christmas vibes, without it being too close to Christmas and in the rare winter tourist season (first 3 weeks of december). they obviously don’t celebrate thanksgiving in europe, so christmas decorations and markets begin in mid-November, but don’t pick up in busyness until early December
made spreadsheet to track
international day pass via phone
jake’s first time abroad, my second but i had previously only been to Paris for a week during peak tourist season in August
next trip we want to do europe in early fall when the tourists have left but it’s not unbearably cold and wet
complete with what we loved and what we’d change
Part 1: France
Day 1.5 - Travel + Paris
Afternoon:
We took an overnight flight to Paris from Atlanta the afternoon before our first real day so that we could land and hit the ground running immediately. Our flight was for 3:50PM and we got to the airport at 12:30 since we were checking luggage and it was the start of a very busy travel season, but we made it through dropping our bags and security within an hour. We grabbed some lunch and I finished some work tasks before they started boarding at 3PM and we were hunkered down in our seats by 3:15. Our goal was to sleep on the flight, but by the time dinner was served and cleaned up, there were multiple unhappy children around us and headphones were not cutting it. We each spent a few restless hours trying to sleep, and breakfast was served about an hour before we landed in Paris at 6:15 AM. I had high hopes of making it out of the airport quickly, but deplaning and getting through customs took almost 2 hours to get through due to the volume of people arriving. Once we made it through, we picked up our luggage from baggage claim and followed the signs to the RER-B train to get into the city center. We found the machines to purchase our tickets (13 euros each) before catching the train and used Apple maps on your phone to ensure we were taking the train in the correct direction and knew which stop to exit.
Morning:
Once we were on the train into the city, it was about hour ride into the center of Paris to drop our luggage at our hotel. After we dropped our luggage at the hotel, we had a few minutes to grab a true French Petit-Dejuener (a pastry, coffee, and orange juice) at a cafe around the corner before walking 15 minutes down to the Notre-Dame for our scheduled climbing tour of the newly refurbished towers. I was unbelievably excited about seeing the original bells and getting the incredible view of Paris. It was a very exhausting climb with a very narrow concrete staircase so I wouldn’t recommend if you get claustrophobic or are out of shape. There were a few stopping off points to read about the history of the towers and the bells and catch your breath before coming back down. This tour is 16 euros per adult (over 18) but we absolutely loved it. After the climbing tour, we moved downstairs to tour the inside of the cathedral. You can reserve a free ticket here (up to 2 days before you’d like to visit), but since we went in the off-season we were able to walk right inside. To avoid massive crowds, I recommend going the second they open at 8AM (we had hopes of being there earlier but the airport had other plans), but the cathedral is definitely worth visiting, especially if you are a fan of stained glass or gothic architecture.
After touring the cathedral, we walked along the Seine, popping into Shakespeare and Co. across the river, and stopping in a creperie near Luxembourg Gardens. I wanted to spend more time in the Latin Quarter and wandering the gardens, because this is the area that I stayed in when I first visited in 2019 and we loved it, but it was 20 degrees and wet out, so outdoor activities were pretty limited - the one downside of visiting Europe in the off-season is that there’s definitely a reason it’s the off-season.
Afternoon:
After warmed up with crepes and coffee, we got a text that our room was ready and abandoned all of the outside afternoon plans I originally made (Luxembourg Gardens and strolling the Latin Quarter) to have a nap after not sleeping on the plane. We stayed at Solly Hôtel Paris between the 2nd and 3rd Arrondissements and we LOVED it. It was such a great location, near several Metro stations and on a cute park and the staff was incredibly helpful, stored our luggage for us upon arrival, and even had our room ready early so that we could nap. The nap was glorious and very much needed because morale was becoming low.
Evening:
We had night tickets to the Louvre (2 nights a week the museum is open until 9PM and it’s noticeably less crowded) and I had hoped to squeeze in a walk down the Champs-Elysees from the Arc du Triomphe to Petit Palais, before going but with our nap detour, we had to skip out on that. Instead, we went to the Tuileries Gardens Christmas Market, which was absolutely packed despite the frigid temperatures. It was very similar to an American local fairground, with small rides, food vendors, and a few knick-knack shops - I was definitely expecting more of a chalet-style Christmas market (that we ended up seeing in Denmark). We tried a few different snacks at the market as our dinner - I had a raclette and Jake had a turkey leg (super French), and then we walked through the gardens to the Louvre. It was absolutely fantastic at night, the only crowded area was surrounding the Mona Lisa, and it still wasn’t even that crowded (compared to my last trip). It’s not my favorite art museum in Paris, but it is iconic.
Day 2 - Paris
Afternoon:
If you’re driving, plan your departure around arriving in Orlando by late afternoon, early evening. You’re able to drive straight to your resort and park for free, even if it is too early for check-in. If you’ll be flying, take an afternoon flight into Orlando (MCO). The Disney bubble is only 20 minutes from the airport and there are several ways to get there, depending on your party size:
Uber/Lyft - most direct way, and typically the cheapest option for a smaller group
MEARS - airport shuttle on a charter bus that goes between MCO and Disney Resorts. Can be unreliable in terms of timing as they make many stops
Minnie Van - available for Guests staying in Disney Deluxe Resort hotels, Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotels and Club Level rooms
Check-in begins at 3PM - typically rooms are ready at this point but they can occasionally take longer. You’re able to check in at the front desk or via the My Disney Experience app and they’ll notify you when your room is ready there. If your room isn’t ready, they can store your luggage for you and then will have it delivered to your room as soon as it is ready so that you’re able to go out and explore. You’ll also be able to use the app and/or your Magic Band as your room key as soon as your room is ready.
Evening:
Once you drop your luggage at your resort, whether in your room or with bellhop, and are ready to explore a little, wander around your resort and take in the magic of the Disney bubble. Check out the pools, the shopping, food court, gaming arcade, etc. Then take a bus (or boat if that’s an option at your resort) to Disney Springs for over 90 stores and 65 different restaurants. This area does not require a Disney park ticket and is open to the public so it can get a little crowded. If you’d like another fun area to explore that is a little more closed off from the public, the Disney BoardWalk has several restaurants and stores, and is just so pleasantly cute to stroll around. You can also see the EPCOT fireworks from here around 9PM. Head back to your resort to rest up for a big day tomorrow!
Day 3 - Disneyland Paris
Afternoon:
If you’re driving, plan your departure around arriving in Orlando by late afternoon, early evening. You’re able to drive straight to your resort and park for free, even if it is too early for check-in. If you’ll be flying, take an afternoon flight into Orlando (MCO). The Disney bubble is only 20 minutes from the airport and there are several ways to get there, depending on your party size:
Uber/Lyft - most direct way, and typically the cheapest option for a smaller group
MEARS - airport shuttle on a charter bus that goes between MCO and Disney Resorts. Can be unreliable in terms of timing as they make many stops
Minnie Van - available for Guests staying in Disney Deluxe Resort hotels, Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotels and Club Level rooms
Check-in begins at 3PM - typically rooms are ready at this point but they can occasionally take longer. You’re able to check in at the front desk or via the My Disney Experience app and they’ll notify you when your room is ready there. If your room isn’t ready, they can store your luggage for you and then will have it delivered to your room as soon as it is ready so that you’re able to go out and explore. You’ll also be able to use the app and/or your Magic Band as your room key as soon as your room is ready.
Evening:
Once you drop your luggage at your resort, whether in your room or with bellhop, and are ready to explore a little, wander around your resort and take in the magic of the Disney bubble. Check out the pools, the shopping, food court, gaming arcade, etc. Then take a bus (or boat if that’s an option at your resort) to Disney Springs for over 90 stores and 65 different restaurants. This area does not require a Disney park ticket and is open to the public so it can get a little crowded. If you’d like another fun area to explore that is a little more closed off from the public, the Disney BoardWalk has several restaurants and stores, and is just so pleasantly cute to stroll around. You can also see the EPCOT fireworks from here around 9PM. Head back to your resort to rest up for a big day tomorrow!
Part 2: Ireland
Day 4 - Travel + Dublin
Afternoon:
If you’re driving, plan your departure around arriving in Orlando by late afternoon, early evening. You’re able to drive straight to your resort and park for free, even if it is too early for check-in. If you’ll be flying, take an afternoon flight into Orlando (MCO). The Disney bubble is only 20 minutes from the airport and there are several ways to get there, depending on your party size:
Uber/Lyft - most direct way, and typically the cheapest option for a smaller group
MEARS - airport shuttle on a charter bus that goes between MCO and Disney Resorts. Can be unreliable in terms of timing as they make many stops
Minnie Van - available for Guests staying in Disney Deluxe Resort hotels, Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotels and Club Level rooms
Check-in begins at 3PM - typically rooms are ready at this point but they can occasionally take longer. You’re able to check in at the front desk or via the My Disney Experience app and they’ll notify you when your room is ready there. If your room isn’t ready, they can store your luggage for you and then will have it delivered to your room as soon as it is ready so that you’re able to go out and explore. You’ll also be able to use the app and/or your Magic Band as your room key as soon as your room is ready.
Evening:
Once you drop your luggage at your resort, whether in your room or with bellhop, and are ready to explore a little, wander around your resort and take in the magic of the Disney bubble. Check out the pools, the shopping, food court, gaming arcade, etc. Then take a bus (or boat if that’s an option at your resort) to Disney Springs for over 90 stores and 65 different restaurants. This area does not require a Disney park ticket and is open to the public so it can get a little crowded. If you’d like another fun area to explore that is a little more closed off from the public, the Disney BoardWalk has several restaurants and stores, and is just so pleasantly cute to stroll around. You can also see the EPCOT fireworks from here around 9PM. Head back to your resort to rest up for a big day tomorrow!
Day 5 - Dublin + Bray
Afternoon:
If you’re driving, plan your departure around arriving in Orlando by late afternoon, early evening. You’re able to drive straight to your resort and park for free, even if it is too early for check-in. If you’ll be flying, take an afternoon flight into Orlando (MCO). The Disney bubble is only 20 minutes from the airport and there are several ways to get there, depending on your party size:
Uber/Lyft - most direct way, and typically the cheapest option for a smaller group
MEARS - airport shuttle on a charter bus that goes between MCO and Disney Resorts. Can be unreliable in terms of timing as they make many stops
Minnie Van - available for Guests staying in Disney Deluxe Resort hotels, Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotels and Club Level rooms
Check-in begins at 3PM - typically rooms are ready at this point but they can occasionally take longer. You’re able to check in at the front desk or via the My Disney Experience app and they’ll notify you when your room is ready there. If your room isn’t ready, they can store your luggage for you and then will have it delivered to your room as soon as it is ready so that you’re able to go out and explore. You’ll also be able to use the app and/or your Magic Band as your room key as soon as your room is ready.
Evening:
Once you drop your luggage at your resort, whether in your room or with bellhop, and are ready to explore a little, wander around your resort and take in the magic of the Disney bubble. Check out the pools, the shopping, food court, gaming arcade, etc. Then take a bus (or boat if that’s an option at your resort) to Disney Springs for over 90 stores and 65 different restaurants. This area does not require a Disney park ticket and is open to the public so it can get a little crowded. If you’d like another fun area to explore that is a little more closed off from the public, the Disney BoardWalk has several restaurants and stores, and is just so pleasantly cute to stroll around. You can also see the EPCOT fireworks from here around 9PM. Head back to your resort to rest up for a big day tomorrow!
Day 6 - Dublin + Kilkenny
Afternoon:
If you’re driving, plan your departure around arriving in Orlando by late afternoon, early evening. You’re able to drive straight to your resort and park for free, even if it is too early for check-in. If you’ll be flying, take an afternoon flight into Orlando (MCO). The Disney bubble is only 20 minutes from the airport and there are several ways to get there, depending on your party size:
Uber/Lyft - most direct way, and typically the cheapest option for a smaller group
MEARS - airport shuttle on a charter bus that goes between MCO and Disney Resorts. Can be unreliable in terms of timing as they make many stops
Minnie Van - available for Guests staying in Disney Deluxe Resort hotels, Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotels and Club Level rooms
Check-in begins at 3PM - typically rooms are ready at this point but they can occasionally take longer. You’re able to check in at the front desk or via the My Disney Experience app and they’ll notify you when your room is ready there. If your room isn’t ready, they can store your luggage for you and then will have it delivered to your room as soon as it is ready so that you’re able to go out and explore. You’ll also be able to use the app and/or your Magic Band as your room key as soon as your room is ready.
Evening:
Once you drop your luggage at your resort, whether in your room or with bellhop, and are ready to explore a little, wander around your resort and take in the magic of the Disney bubble. Check out the pools, the shopping, food court, gaming arcade, etc. Then take a bus (or boat if that’s an option at your resort) to Disney Springs for over 90 stores and 65 different restaurants. This area does not require a Disney park ticket and is open to the public so it can get a little crowded. If you’d like another fun area to explore that is a little more closed off from the public, the Disney BoardWalk has several restaurants and stores, and is just so pleasantly cute to stroll around. You can also see the EPCOT fireworks from here around 9PM. Head back to your resort to rest up for a big day tomorrow!
Part 3: Denmark
Day 7 - Dublin + Travel to Copenhagen
Afternoon:
If you’re driving, plan your departure around arriving in Orlando by late afternoon, early evening. You’re able to drive straight to your resort and park for free, even if it is too early for check-in. If you’ll be flying, take an afternoon flight into Orlando (MCO). The Disney bubble is only 20 minutes from the airport and there are several ways to get there, depending on your party size:
Uber/Lyft - most direct way, and typically the cheapest option for a smaller group
MEARS - airport shuttle on a charter bus that goes between MCO and Disney Resorts. Can be unreliable in terms of timing as they make many stops
Minnie Van - available for Guests staying in Disney Deluxe Resort hotels, Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotels and Club Level rooms
Check-in begins at 3PM - typically rooms are ready at this point but they can occasionally take longer. You’re able to check in at the front desk or via the My Disney Experience app and they’ll notify you when your room is ready there. If your room isn’t ready, they can store your luggage for you and then will have it delivered to your room as soon as it is ready so that you’re able to go out and explore. You’ll also be able to use the app and/or your Magic Band as your room key as soon as your room is ready.
Evening:
Once you drop your luggage at your resort, whether in your room or with bellhop, and are ready to explore a little, wander around your resort and take in the magic of the Disney bubble. Check out the pools, the shopping, food court, gaming arcade, etc. Then take a bus (or boat if that’s an option at your resort) to Disney Springs for over 90 stores and 65 different restaurants. This area does not require a Disney park ticket and is open to the public so it can get a little crowded. If you’d like another fun area to explore that is a little more closed off from the public, the Disney BoardWalk has several restaurants and stores, and is just so pleasantly cute to stroll around. You can also see the EPCOT fireworks from here around 9PM. Head back to your resort to rest up for a big day tomorrow!
Pictured Below: The view of the castle from the bridge going from Main Street Center to Liberty Square, view from the PeopleMover, view from the Monorail to EPCOT
Day 8 - Copenhagen
Afternoon:
If you’re driving, plan your departure around arriving in Orlando by late afternoon, early evening. You’re able to drive straight to your resort and park for free, even if it is too early for check-in. If you’ll be flying, take an afternoon flight into Orlando (MCO). The Disney bubble is only 20 minutes from the airport and there are several ways to get there, depending on your party size:
Uber/Lyft - most direct way, and typically the cheapest option for a smaller group
MEARS - airport shuttle on a charter bus that goes between MCO and Disney Resorts. Can be unreliable in terms of timing as they make many stops
Minnie Van - available for Guests staying in Disney Deluxe Resort hotels, Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotels and Club Level rooms
Check-in begins at 3PM - typically rooms are ready at this point but they can occasionally take longer. You’re able to check in at the front desk or via the My Disney Experience app and they’ll notify you when your room is ready there. If your room isn’t ready, they can store your luggage for you and then will have it delivered to your room as soon as it is ready so that you’re able to go out and explore. You’ll also be able to use the app and/or your Magic Band as your room key as soon as your room is ready.
Evening:
Once you drop your luggage at your resort, whether in your room or with bellhop, and are ready to explore a little, wander around your resort and take in the magic of the Disney bubble. Check out the pools, the shopping, food court, gaming arcade, etc. Then take a bus (or boat if that’s an option at your resort) to Disney Springs for over 90 stores and 65 different restaurants. This area does not require a Disney park ticket and is open to the public so it can get a little crowded. If you’d like another fun area to explore that is a little more closed off from the public, the Disney BoardWalk has several restaurants and stores, and is just so pleasantly cute to stroll around. You can also see the EPCOT fireworks from here around 9PM. Head back to your resort to rest up for a big day tomorrow!
Day 9 - Copenhagen + Travel Home
Afternoon:
If you’re driving, plan your departure around arriving in Orlando by late afternoon, early evening. You’re able to drive straight to your resort and park for free, even if it is too early for check-in. If you’ll be flying, take an afternoon flight into Orlando (MCO). The Disney bubble is only 20 minutes from the airport and there are several ways to get there, depending on your party size:
Uber/Lyft - most direct way, and typically the cheapest option for a smaller group
MEARS - airport shuttle on a charter bus that goes between MCO and Disney Resorts. Can be unreliable in terms of timing as they make many stops
Minnie Van - available for Guests staying in Disney Deluxe Resort hotels, Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotels and Club Level rooms
Check-in begins at 3PM - typically rooms are ready at this point but they can occasionally take longer. You’re able to check in at the front desk or via the My Disney Experience app and they’ll notify you when your room is ready there. If your room isn’t ready, they can store your luggage for you and then will have it delivered to your room as soon as it is ready so that you’re able to go out and explore. You’ll also be able to use the app and/or your Magic Band as your room key as soon as your room is ready.
Evening:
Once you drop your luggage at your resort, whether in your room or with bellhop, and are ready to explore a little, wander around your resort and take in the magic of the Disney bubble. Check out the pools, the shopping, food court, gaming arcade, etc. Then take a bus (or boat if that’s an option at your resort) to Disney Springs for over 90 stores and 65 different restaurants. This area does not require a Disney park ticket and is open to the public so it can get a little crowded. If you’d like another fun area to explore that is a little more closed off from the public, the Disney BoardWalk has several restaurants and stores, and is just so pleasantly cute to stroll around. You can also see the EPCOT fireworks from here around 9PM. Head back to your resort to rest up for a big day tomorrow!
At the end of the day, Disney World as an adult is about intention. It’s choosing the rides that make your heart race, the meals that feel worth sitting down for, and the moments that remind you why you fell in love with the parks in the first place. It’s knowing when to hustle and when to slow down, when to rope drop, and when to linger over a cocktail instead.
This long weekend itinerary is proof that you don’t have to see it all to have an incredible trip. With a little strategy and a lot of flexibility, you can experience the best parts of Disney without burning yourself out or feeling like you missed something every five minutes.
If you want even more detail, my full Disney World Guide is linked below and goes deeper into everything from ride strategies and dining picks to transportation tips and park-by-park breakdowns. It’s designed to be something you actually use while planning, not just skim once and forget.
And if you’re dreaming up a trip that doesn’t quite fit a template, I’d love to help with a custom guide built around your dates, priorities, and travel style.
However you choose to do it, I hope your Disney trip feels magical, intentional, and just the right amount of nostalgic. And if you find yourself already planning the next visit before you’ve even left the parks… welcome to the club. ✨
