As much as we love Mickey and the magic that is Disney, there's a world of theme parks just waiting to be explored in pretty much every destination you might be headed. Here are our tips for theme parks that are a little less well known, but just as fun, thrilling and magical for your next holiday away.
PortAventura World, Salou, Spain
Just over an hour southwest of Barcelona lies Spain's largest leisure complex. Packed with two adrenaline-pumping theme parks and a rip-roaring water park, PortAventura World is an entire 119 hectares of fun. The best time to hit PortAventura is August to October when the temperature is moderate, so you can make use of all the parks' fantastic facilities!
Xcaret Park, Riviera Maya, Mexico
This famous park is conveniently located just a couple of kilometres south of Playa del Carmen. Housing a nearly endless list of activities, rides and shows that are near-impossible see all in one day, make sure to set aside a good amount of time for this spectacular park. You will find cultural attractions, high-adrenaline rides, exhilarating water attractions, incredible encounters with nature and much, much more.
Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire, England
Located in the Staffordshire countryside, Alton Towers Resort is home to three themed hotels, stargazing pods and an enchanted village. It is the largest theme park in the UK, with 10 themed areas across a whopping 910 acres! The park boasts more than 40 rides and attractions, including 10 record-breaking roller coasters and 20 family-friendly offerings.
Gardaland, Lake Garda, Italy
Gardaland Park is the longest-running amusement park in Italy and one of the largest in Europe. Situated about halfway between Milan and Venice, the park is organised into distinct areas that conjure up themes of history, geography, space and fantasy. All rides at Gardaland Park offer a special combination of adventure, dream and fantasy - and the great variety of attractions is guaranteed to entertain the whole family!
Yas Waterworld, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Feel the adrenaline rush of a looping freefall waterslide, surf endless waves and hang on tight to the UAE region's longest suspended roller coaster. With more than 40 exhilarating rides, slides and attractions, Yas Waterworld is a must-visit for any holiday to Abu Dhabi.
Ready to take a ride at one of these parks? Ask your local
Travellers Choice agent to book your tickets!