Paris is a bucket-list destination for millions around the world, but it’s no secret that the city has long battled issues with pickpocketing, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Among the most frequented attractions is Disneyland Paris, a dream destination for families and Disney fans alike. However, while the park itself is magical, the reality of petty theft is something visitors should be aware of—not alarmed by, but prepared for.
Pickpocketing in Paris: A Widespread Issue
Across Paris, pickpocketing is a known problem, particularly:
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On the Metro (notably Line 1 and major transfer stations)
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Around iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Champs-Élysées
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In busy squares and shopping areas
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Near major train stations, such as Gare du Nord
Pickpockets often work in groups and use distraction techniques like fake petitions, sudden commotions, or staged conversations. Travelers who appear distracted, disoriented, or overly relaxed are easy targets.
Disneyland Paris: Is It Safe?
You might expect a theme park to be a haven from these issues. While Disneyland Paris is generally safer than other parts of the city, it is not immune to theft.
In a popular Reddit thread discussing concerns about pickpockets at Disneyland Paris, one traveler asked:
“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 replies shed light on the reality inside and around the park.
What Visitors Say: Firsthand Experiences
One commenter offered a clear breakdown of risk by location:
“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.”*
Another gave a more cautionary account:
“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… It still happens. There was a post I saw somewhere not that long ago of someone pickpocketed on their way to Buzz Lightyear in a crowd.”
They added a personal experience from outside the park:
“The one time I noticed pickpockets was when I was targeted on a quiet weekday morning in Val d’Europe on my way to the supermarket… Someone from my hotel was targeted just before in the same section and lost a lot of money 🙁 I would never have expected it in an empty corridor on a quiet day.”
Crowded events inside the park also present opportunities for thieves:
“It was during the fireworks… this woman came right up and stood super close behind me… kept feeling her touching my backside and every time I’d turn, she’d look away 🙄… I had everything of value in my backpack, which during shows and parades I swing around and hang from my front instead.”
Another reminder was issued about unattended strollers:
“They often target strollers that are left outside rides too. They buy tickets cheap from people leaving outside the train station. So keep your guard up and don’t leave any valuables in a position where they can be taken, that goes for inside your hotel room too.”
Practical Tips for Staying Safe
Whether you’re visiting Paris or Disneyland Paris, here are expert-backed and community-tested tips:
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Use a front-wearing backpack or a cross-body bag.
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Avoid back pockets for phones, wallets, or passports.
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Consider a lanyard for your phone—a popular choice at Disneyland Paris.
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Keep valuables in zipped internal compartments.
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Be extra alert during fireworks, parades, and near the train station.
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Never leave valuables in strollers or hotel rooms unsecured.
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If you’re traveling light (just snacks, phone, and sweatshirt), a small bag worn in front is ideal.
Locking your backpack is a personal choice—some visitors opt for a lock for peace of mind, but it’s more effective to stay aware and keep valuables inaccessible than to rely solely on locks.
Disneyland Paris may be the “Happiest Place in Europe,” but even there, it pays to stay vigilant. Pickpocketing isn’t rampant inside the park, but as crowds gather and energy winds down, some opportunists may take advantage. With a few common-sense precautions, you can enjoy your Parisian adventure—both in and out of the park—without unnecessary worry.
