Disney’s Riviera Resort: Everything You Need to Know
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Trying to decide where to stay for your next Disney World vacation? From a stylish, European theme to the convenience of traveling by skyliner, Disney’s Riviera Resort has a lot to offer. Find out why this gorgeous luxury resort is worth checking out.

I stayed at the Riviera Resort for a discounted rate as part of the 2019 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration. All opinions are 100% my own.
Opened in December 2019, Disney’s Riviera Resort is the newest of the Walt Disney World resorts. Inspired by European artists, the hotel is stylish and elegant, but with the Disney twist you’d expect. From the gorgeous Disney inspired artwork throughout the hotel to the detailed European style architecture, this new addition brings the magic of Europe to central Florida.

If you’re considering a stay at this new Disney luxury resort, here’s everything you need to know.
The Inspiration Behind Disney’s Riviera Resort
The story behind this resort goes all the way back to Walt and his wife Lillian. They loved to travel so when they toured Europe in the 1930’s, Walt came back with filled with ideas and inspiration. His love of European architecture, art, food and stories had a big influence on Disney storytelling and this influence continues with the Riviera Resort.

Everywhere you turn, from the main lobby to the hallways, this resort blends influences from both Italy and France. Like the name suggests, the European Riviera is the theme and you can see the inspiration throughout the resort. There’s a lot to love about the design, especially the unique artwork that’s both modern and classic at the same time.

The Location
The Riviera Resort is located in the Epcot/Disney Hollywood Studios resort area and as an added bonus, it’s also one of the resorts on the Skyliner route. This gives you easy access to both Hollywood Studios and Epcot, as well as the other Skyliner resorts like Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, the Art of Animation and Pop Century.

For me, that alone is reason to stay here. The Disney Skyliner is my new favorite form of Disney transportation and if you’ve ever ridden it, you’ll know why! Not only is it a convenient way to get to the theme parks but it’s just a really fun way to travel. The views are spectacular, especially if you go right around sunset.

The Rooms
Like the rest of the resort, the rooms are accented with unique Disney art that combines the Disney element with the feeling of a fancy European hotel. There are several different room types to choose from, depending on what you need and the size of your party.
Deluxe Studios and Grand Villas include a kitchenette or full kitchen. Being able to prepare quick meals in your room is not only convenient but it also saves you money, especially for large families!

The Villas have up to three bedrooms and even come with washers and dryers. The Grand Villa sleeps up to 12 people, perfect for multi-generational trips or families traveling together.
Tower Studios are regular rooms that sleep 1-2 and include a balcony.

Our room was bright and the perfect size for two, and I loved that it had a Murphy bed. Folding it into the wall when we weren’t using it made the living room feel more open and spacious.

In fact, many of the rooms feature hideaway beds! Not only are they fun but they make the room feel so much bigger when they fold up into the wall. I’d love it if this concept caught on everywhere!

It’s also a Disney Vacation Club resort so DVC members will definitely want to check it out!
Get virtual tours of the model rooms here:
Restaurants at Disney’s Riviera Resort
Topolino’s Terrace is the Riviera’s rooftop restaurant, with French and Italian inspired cuisine. Reminiscent of the cliffside restaurants of Italy. you’ll also enjoy a sweeping view of the Epcot while you enjoy your meal.

Just want a quick breakfast on your way out to the theme parks? Stop by Le Petit Cafe for a pastry and some coffee. For more quick service, you can also grab a bite at Primo Piatto. There you’ll find a variety of casual foods from breakfast sandwiches to charcuterie plates.

We were so busy that we didn’t have time to dine on property. However, we did make time for a glass of wine and a snack at Bar Riva on our final night. You can enjoy a frozen cocktail, spritzer or one of their specialty drinks. If you’re hungry, they offer sandwiches and salads as well.

The Pool
It’s not a Disney hotel without an awesome pool, right? If I’d had more time, I definitely would have spent it hanging by the main pool. I know my girls would have a blast on the water slide and the interactive water play area is perfect for smaller kids.

If you’re traveling kid-free, you can head over to the second pool area, Beau Soleil. Bring a book, grab a drink and relax in a more quiet setting.
Other Amenities
- Fitness center
- Outdoor activity areas with lawn chess and bocce ball
- Walking/jogging path
Overall, we absolutely loved our stay at Disney’s Riviera Resort and would definitely stay there again. Between the beauty of the resort, the elegance of the rooms and the convenience of the skyliner, this resort has it all. If you’re looking to splurge on your next trip to Disney World, this is the way to go!
More Disney Fun
Planning a Disney vacation? You may want to check out these posts too:
- 10 Of The Best Things To Do At Disney World
- Rise Of The Resistance At Galaxy’s Edge
- Galaxy’s Edge Food: What Not To Miss
- Galaxy’s Edge Scavenger Hunts
- The Complete Guide To Toy Story Land
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