If you’re planning a magical getaway to Disneyland Paris, you’re probably dreaming of Mickey-shaped waffles, castle selfies, and dazzling fireworks. But there’s something else you should know before you pack your Minnie ears: pickpockets are a real issue—and not just in Paris proper.
We’re not saying you should cancel your trip (far from it), but it’s smart to know what to expect, especially around public transport hubs and even inside the parks. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty.
First, Let’s Zoom Out: Paris Is Kinda Known for This
Pickpocketing in Paris isn’t exactly breaking news. It’s been happening for years in hotspots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and especially on the Metro. The Paris Metro is prime real estate for pickpockets, particularly on busy lines like Line 1 and around major transfer stations.
The routine? Blend in, distract the tourist, snatch the phone or wallet, and disappear into the crowd. Easy for them—annoying (and potentially trip-ruining) for you.
So… Is Disneyland Paris Any Better?
Short answer: kind of, but not completely.
We spotted a Reddit thread where someone heading to Disneyland Paris posted a pretty common question:
“Hi,
Heading to DLP on Tuesday and have just read a couple of comments about pickpockets/putting a lock on your backpack.
Are they a problem in the park?”
The answers rolled in, and let’s just say they were eye-opening.
One user broke it down like this:
“In the park it’s not a problem, in village it barely is. Out of that area near busses, taxis and the trains… shady as fck.”*
Translation: Inside the parks? Safer. Outside, near the train station or buses? Keep your eyes peeled.
Another shared a little more detail—and this is where things get real:
“The park does have pickpockets. They don’t pay to enter, they stand around the train station asking for people’s tickets and then enter with those.”
So yeah, some pickpockets make it into the parks. They’re not in costume. They’re not here for the churros. They blend in, and they look for opportunities.
A crowd near Buzz Lightyear. A distracted parent. A parade moment. That’s their window.
One person shared a story from Val d’Europe (just one stop down the RER from Disneyland Paris):
“The one time I noticed pickpockets was when I was targeted on a quiet weekday morning… Someone stopped me while others closed in from behind… Apparently someone from my hotel was targeted just before and lost a lot of money.”
Empty corridor. Quiet morning. And still—it happened. Just goes to show, it’s not always the busy, obvious places where things go down.
Evenings? They’re Prime Time
Another guest recalled a close call during the fireworks show at Disneyland Paris:
“We were stood up against one of the railings… this woman came right up and stood super close behind me… I kept feeling her touching my backside… Trying to get her fingers in my back pockets.”
They were lucky. Their valuables were in a backpack, which they wisely swung around to the front during the show.
But the takeaway is clear: nighttime events and big crowds = pickpocket playground. Fireworks, Main Street USA, tired families distracted by Dole Whip and Disney magic—it’s the perfect storm.
And don’t even think about leaving your stuff in a stroller:
“They often target strollers that are left outside rides too.”
So What Should You Do?
Here’s the game plan if you want to enjoy Disneyland Paris without drama:
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Don’t rely on backpack locks. Instead, wear it in front when you’re in a crowd.
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Don’t keep anything valuable in your back pockets. Ever.
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Use a lanyard for your phone, especially during rides and shows.
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Be alert near the train station, bus stops, and outside security zones.
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Don’t leave valuables in strollers or your hotel room unattended.
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Carry only what you need—leave the rest locked up in your room’s safe.
One Reddit user summed it up best:
“I personally don’t lock my backpack but I don’t have cash on me and have my phone on a lanyard (by choice).”
It’s all about staying smart without becoming paranoid.
Is Disneyland Paris safe? Mostly, yes. But that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down. Whether you’re lining up for Ratatouille or watching the castle light up at night, being just a little more aware can save you from a vacation nightmare.
Disney magic is real—but unfortunately, so are pickpockets. Plan accordingly, pack wisely, and stay alert, and you’ll be just fine.
