As we all know, we have a great selection of amusement and adventure parks in the country – especially around Hamburg it is difficult to choose between Heide Park Soltau, Hansa-Park or Serengeti-Park. However, there is one theme park that may not be right on our doorstep, but enjoys a very special status: Not only is it the largest theme park in Germany , but it has also been named the best of its kind in the world for the ninth time.
Last year, it once again won the prestigious “Golden Ticket Award” from the US trade magazine “Amusement Today ” , beating even renowned US amusement parks such as Disney and Universal Studios. And that was by no means all: its new roller coaster was also named the best new roller coaster in the world in September 2024. Which German theme park is causing such an international sensation? We’ll tell you now!
It’s about…
A place where size and diversity merge with the cultural depth of Europe: Europa-Park Rust in Baden-Württemberg. The entire continent is reflected in 20 lovingly designed themed worlds – from Greece and Spain to Iceland and Sweden. Each country world has been recreated in great detail and delights visitors with authentic architecture, typical local cuisine and atmospheric shows that bring the respective flair to life.
There are also family-friendly attractions, state-of-the-art roller coasters and an all-round resort experience with overnight accommodation in themed hotels. The park even sets standards in culinary terms – for example with experience restaurants such as Eatrenalin, which turns dining into a multi-sensory adventure. No wonder Europa-Park has regularly been named “Best Theme Park in the World” since 2014 (with the exception of 2023).
What’s behind the jury’s verdict
The award ceremony took place at the American theme park Kennywood in Pennsylvania in September 2024. According to the World Amusement Industry Association, this is the most important award in the entire industry. The jury justified the renewed honor for Europa-Park Rust with the exceptionally high quality of the attractions. The successful mix of traditional rides, digital experiences and a comprehensive range of accommodation and restaurants was particularly impressive. One highlight: the “Voltron Nevera” roller coaster, which opened in April 2024 and already caused a sensation at its premiere, including with prominent test riders such as Prince Albert II of Monaco and his son.
What makes this ride so special? According to the manufacturer, it accelerates four times up to 90 km/h and transports up to 20,000 people per day on its 1.4-kilometer route – a technical masterpiece that the jury saw as an example of the park’s innovative strength. Europa-Park was also honored with the “Turnstile Award” for the rapid reconstruction of two classic attractions: the “Alpenexpress Enzian” and the “Tiroler Wildwasserbahn”.
With over five million visitors a year, Europa-Park is one of the most popular theme parks in Europe. The award recognizes not only the range of attractions, but also the vision of the family business:
That our family traditions, our passion for quality and our tireless pursuit of excellence are still recognized worldwide after almost five decades.
Here is an overview of the ranking of the best amusement parks from the Golden Ticket Awards 2024:
1 Europa-Park Rust, Germany
2 Dollywood Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (USA)
3 Tokyo DisneySea Urayasu, Japan
4 Knoebels Amusement Resort Elysburg, Pennsylvania (USA)
5 Disneyland Anaheim Anaheim, California (USA)