Europe’s second most popular theme park, Europa-Park, just broke the 5 million mark in December 2014 and continues to grow and expand. Visitors to this unique German attraction can visit all the lands of Europe on the amusement park grounds. The theme park is divided into 13 different European countries with unique architecture, attractions, and food. Explore all of Europe in just 90 hectares!
(If you missed Part 1, check back for the Germany, Russia, and England sections.)
Iceland
Embrace the cold in this frozen region. The first wooden coaster, Wodan Timbur Coaster, draws crowds as it revolves around Atlantica SuperSplash and the modern coaster, Blue Fire. My favorite ride in the park, Blue Fire is a launched roller coaster based on the legendary Blue Lagoon in Iceland. The story sets you up for something completely out of control and the ride is delivered with high powered loops, drops, and hopefully no obstacles.
Walk through the rest of Viking Village to discover Whale Adventures Splash Tours and crafts.
Portugal
This land of water attractions stars the Atlantica SuperSplash. Closed in winter, the Santa Marian sailboat guarantees adventure and the possibility of getting wet.
For another chance to touch the sky, hop on the soaring Ferris wheel for another breathtaking view of the park.
Located roughly in the center of the park, this is also one of the best bite-sized areas with plenty of food options, both for the country theme as well as offering standard (and inexpensive) German fare like goulash and wursts.
The Netherlands
Once again, something seems familiar. ” Piraten in Batavia ” (or Pirates in Batavia) looks a lot like Disney’s “Pirates of the Caribbean” and the Koffiekopjes may have a Dutch-centric name, but they are reminiscent of Disney teacups. No matter. The rides are equally attractive to their big-name counterparts.
Swiss
The alpine details and two great little roller coasters make Switzerland one of my favorite sections of the park. The Matterhorn Blitz starts off with a clunky, slanted elevator-like move and takes you through its short track with some killer cutouts. Also on the subject, the Swiss Bob Run operates with the freedom of a sled-like run and was the first of its kind in the world.
Austria
The Alpenexpress is the oldest roller coaster in the park and has the theme of a mine train. The run-up to the traditional Tirol Log Flume ride is the Wizarding World of Diamonds, animated with animatronics.
Greece
An aquatic world of attractions, riders are at the mercy of the god of the sea in Poseidon.
In winter, the water attractions are closed and the fun takes place on the ice rink. Check the show calendar for times.
Spain
Located at the opposite end of the park from »Germany«, this end of the park offers another entrance near the park hotels. A flamenco stage unfolds between the Columbus Dinghy and the crazy twist of the Swing Fair.
In addition to the many European lands around the park, there is Adventure Land, Grimm’s Enchanted Forest, Minimoys Kingdom, and Children’s World. Very family-friendly, they include attractions like personal Jungle Rafts and the elegant African Queen steamboat on the water and interactive water fountains. There are plenty of photo opportunities, such as stocks for bad boys and girls (and their parents)! In addition to all these crowd-pleasing sites, there are numerous shows and performances. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the entertainers wandering the park looking for hugs.
