Just north of Paris, hidden among the trees of the Oise region, lies a full-throttle celebration of French history, humour, and comic book culture. Parc Astérix, named after the beloved Gaulish warrior created by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo, opened in 1989 and has grown into one of the most popular theme parks in France. Unlike its larger rival Disneyland Paris, Parc Astérix embraces a distinctly French sense of humour, blending thrilling rides with theatrical storytelling that draws on over 60 years of Astérix comic book adventures. The park is divided into themed zones, each one transporting visitors to a different period of French history.
The Rides and Attractions
The park offers a mix of high-adrenaline rollercoasters, family-friendly rides, and water attractions. OzIris, a floorless inverted coaster, takes riders through a series of inversions at speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour, with a dramatic splashdown finale. The Goudurix, a classic steel coaster from the early 1990s, features seven inversions and remains a favourite among coaster enthusiasts. For younger visitors, the Grand Splatch is a family log flume ride through the Gaulish village, and the Menhir Express is an indoor coaster that winds through a reconstructed prehistoric landscape. The aquatic shows, particularly the dolphin and sea lion performances at the Festival Toutatis theatre, are among the best in Europe, combining trained animal performances with comic storytelling that even non-French speakers can enjoy.
The Themed Zones and Atmosphere
The park is divided into five main zones, each with its own distinct theme. The Gaulish Village recreates the world of Astérix and Obélix, with thatched huts, a menhir workshop, and characters wandering the streets in costume. The Roman Empire zone features a mock Roman encampment and the chance to experience life in the Roman army. The Via Antiqua zone recreates a Roman street market with shops, games, and food stalls. The Greek zone features a labyrinth and the Pegasus Express coaster. The newest zone, Festival Toutatis, opened in 2023 and features a record-breaking launched coaster that is one of the fastest in Europe. The park’s attention to detail in theming is exceptional, with every building, sign, and uniform contributing to the immersive experience.
Practical Information
Parc Astérix is located in Plailly, approximately 35 kilometres north of Paris. The park is accessible by direct shuttle bus from the Charles de Gaulle airport and from the Porte Maillot in central Paris. By car, the park is just off the A1 motorway, with ample free parking. The park is open from April through November, with extended hours during the summer months and for the Halloween and Christmas events. A one-day ticket costs approximately 55 euros for adults, with significant discounts for online booking. The best time to visit is during the week in May, June, or September, when queues are shorter. The adjacent three-star La Cité Suspendue hotel offers themed accommodation with early park access. Allow a full day to experience the park’s main attractions, and download the park app for real-time queue information.
Have you visited Parc Astérix and experienced the thrill of OzIris or the humour of the Gaulish village? Which ride was your favourite?
Parc Asterix is one of the best amusement parks in Europe, located in France, about 35 km north of Paris.
Parc Asterix is based on the stories of Asterix and Obelix – who are famous French comic book heroes (the Gallic warriors). They lived around the year of 50 BC, and fight successfully against Roman legions with the help of a magic potion. Parc Asterix offers more than 30 attractions, especially the large variety of roller coasters and 3 different performances.
Among the favorite characters from comic books and movies you can experience the adventure on a bobsleigh and the turbulent water flow. You will find here also the Dolphinarium, classic Gallic village, and if you will have a good luck, one of the Druid offers you a magic potion.
In the complex there are also sections devoted to ancient Greece, Roman Empire and the Vikings. There is a roller coaster La Trace Du Hourra that transports you to ancient times in a speed of 60 km/h. For those of you who are more adventurous there is a roller coaster Goudurix, where you will be several times upside down. Another interesting fun is a wooden roller coaster Tonnerre de Zeus, which can ride at speeds up to 85 km/h. The track was even named the best wooden roller coaster in Europe.
Parc Asterix is open during the summer season from April to August almost daily from 10:00 to 18:00. You can visit it also throughout the whole year, but at first check the opening calendar at their main website to ensure it is open.
Very close to this park you can enjoy fun also in France’s and Europe’s most visited tourist attraction – Disneyland Paris, which is only approx. 30km far.
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