Disney’s Riviera Resort

Nestled along the shores of Barefoot Bay at Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort stands as a testament to Walt and Lillian Disney’s transformative travels through Europe and their deep appreciation for Mediterranean culture. This Walt Disney World Deluxe Villa property, which opened its doors in December 2019, brings the romantic allure of the European Riviera to Florida, creating an experience that seamlessly blends Old World charm with Disney’s signature magical touch.

Before the elegant towers of Disney’s Riviera Resort graced the skyline of Walt Disney World, the area was part of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, which opened in 1988. In 2017, Disney announced its plans to develop its fifteenth Disney Vacation Club property, requiring a significant transformation of the existing resort area. The project involved the demolition of several buildings from Caribbean Beach Resort’s Barbados section and a portion of the adjacent parking lot.

The construction process, which began in 2017, was carefully planned to minimize disruption to Caribbean Beach Resort guests while maintaining the integrity of both resorts’ themes. The project coincided with the development of Disney’s innovative Skyliner transportation system, with the Riviera Resort being designed to incorporate a central Skyliner station that would serve both properties.

This development marked a significant evolution in Disney’s approach to resort design, showcasing their ability to reimagine existing property space while creating something entirely new. The transformation from a portion of a tropical-themed moderate resort to a luxury property celebrating European elegance demonstrated Disney’s commitment to expanding their resort offerings in creative ways.

Construction was completed in late 2019, and Disney’s Riviera Resort officially opened its doors on December 16, 2019, becoming the first all-new, stand-alone Disney Vacation Club property at Walt Disney World since Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa opened in 2004. The resort’s development also played a crucial role in the broader reimagining of the Epcot resort area, contributing to a more connected and upscale guest experience.

Disney’s Riviera Resort Summary

• Opened in December 2019 as Walt Disney World’s 15th Disney Vacation Club Resort, built on a portion of the former grounds of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. The deluxe resort celebrates Walt Disney’s love of European travel, particularly the Italian and French Riviera regions.
• Features multiple accommodation types, from unique Tower Studios for two guests to expansive three-bedroom Grand Villas that sleep up to twelve, all decorated with sophisticated European-inspired furnishings and custom Disney artwork reimagined in European art styles.
• Offers signature dining at Topolino’s Terrace, featuring character breakfasts and upscale Mediterranean-inspired dinner service with rooftop views. Additional dining includes Le Petit Café, Bar Riva, and Primo Piatto.
• Boasts prime location with direct access to Disney’s Skyliner gondola system, providing quick transportation to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, plus bus service to other Walt Disney World destinations.
• Recreational amenities include the Riviera Pool with its unique tower slide, the quieter Beau Soleil Pool, and an interactive water play area called S’il Vous Play themed after European fountains and featuring “Fantasia” characters.
• The resort showcases an extensive collection of unique Disney artwork throughout its grounds, including stunning mosaic murals of scenes from “Tangled” and “Peter Pan,” plus historic photographs from Walt Disney’s European travels.

A Vision Inspired by European Adventures

The story of Disney’s Riviera Resort begins with Walt and Lillian Disney’s own journeys through Europe in the 1930s. These formative trips not only influenced Walt’s creative vision but also deeply impacted the Disney family’s appreciation for European art, architecture, and culture. The resort’s design draws inspiration from the sun-drenched coastal regions of France and Italy, where centuries-old traditions meet modern luxury.

From the moment guests arrive at the resort’s elegant porte-cochère, they’re transported to a world where Mediterranean refinement meets Disney storytelling. The resort’s exterior features classic architectural elements found throughout the European Riviera: stately pillars, wrought-iron balconies, and terra cotta roofing. The color palette draws from the natural hues of the Mediterranean coast – soft creams, warm terracottas, and sea-inspired blues.

Inside, the lobby sets the tone with its grand yet welcoming atmosphere. Ornate chandeliers cast a warm glow over marble floors, while carefully curated artwork tells the story of European influences on Disney animation. The resort features a unique collection of Disney concept art and character studies inspired by European settings, creating a sophisticated artistic narrative throughout the public spaces.

Riviera Resort Architecture and Design

From the moment guests arrive at the resort’s elegant porte-cochère, they’re transported to a world where Mediterranean refinement meets Disney storytelling. The resort’s exterior features classic architectural elements found throughout the European Riviera: stately pillars, wrought-iron balconies, and terra cotta roofing. The color palette draws from the natural hues of the Mediterranean coast – soft creams, warm terracottas, and sea-inspired blues.

Inside, the lobby presents an intimate and sophisticated welcome that differs from the grand, soaring spaces of other Disney deluxe resorts. This boutique-hotel style entrance creates an immediate sense of European elegance and refinement. The lobby’s design draws inspiration from elegant European hotels, with a rotunda featuring ornate gold and crystal chandeliers that cast a warm glow over the imported Italian marble floors and hand-tufted wool carpet.

The lobby’s focal point is its elegant seating area, which features plush furnishings in sophisticated neutral tones accented with subtle gold and blue details. Custom-designed bronze screens separate the seating areas, creating intimate spaces while maintaining an open feel. The walls showcase carefully curated artwork that tells the story of European influences on Disney animation, including concept art featuring European-inspired Disney films and exclusive pieces that reimagine classic Disney characters in the style of European master artists.

Adjacent to the main lobby, guests discover Le Petit Café to one side and the Voyageurs’ Lounge to the other. The lounge area houses display cases containing historic photographs and artifacts from Walt Disney’s travels through Europe, along with comfortable seating perfect for reading or relaxing. Book collections throughout the space feature European travel guides from the 1930s and art books showcasing European artists who influenced Disney animation.

The lobby’s relatively compact size serves a purposeful design choice, encouraging guests to view it as an elegant passageway to the resort’s other amenities rather than a gathering space. This design philosophy mirrors that of sophisticated European hotels where the lobby serves as a refined welcome rather than a central hub. The space seamlessly transitions to the resort’s other public areas through archways and corridors adorned with additional artwork and architectural details that reinforce the European theme.

Disney’s Riviera Resort Accommodations

The resort offers a variety of accommodation options designed to suit different family sizes and vacation styles, each available with different view types that showcase the resort’s stunning surroundings.

Tower Studios (290 square feet)

A unique offering in the Disney Vacation Club portfolio, Tower Studios are innovative spaces designed for two guests. These compact yet cleverly designed rooms feature a pull-down queen-size bed that transforms the living space into a comfortable bedroom. When raised, the bed reveals a comfortable sofa seating area. If you are comfortable in a small Disney Cruise stateroom, you would be comfortable in a Tower studio. Each Tower Studio includes:

• One cleverly hidden pull-down queen-size bed
• Small beverage prep area with mini-refrigerator and microwave
• Full bathroom with glass-enclosed shower
• Private balcony
• Available with Standard View only, overlooking the resort grounds

Perfect for couples or solo travelers, these studios make efficient use of space while maintaining an atmosphere of luxury.

Deluxe Studios (423 square feet)

These well-appointed studios sleep up to five guests and include:

• One queen-size bed
• One queen-size pull-down bed
• One single pull-down bunk-size bed
• Kitchenette with microwave, small refrigerator, toaster, coffee maker, and sink
• Split bathroom configuration with separate shower area and toilet area
• Private balcony or patio Available views:
• Standard View: Resort grounds, parking areas, or rooftop
• Preferred View: Landscaping, pool, or waterfront areas
• Riviera Pool View: Direct views of the Riviera Pool area
• Lake View: Views of Barefoot Bay

One-Bedroom Villas (813 square feet)

These spacious villas offer added privacy and comfort for up to five guests, featuring:

• Master bedroom with king-size bed
• One queen-size pull-down bed in living room
• One single pull-down bunk-size bed in living room
• Full kitchen with full-size appliances
• Washer and dryer
• Separate living and dining areas
• Two full bathrooms
• Private balcony or patio Available views:
• Standard View
• Preferred View
• Riviera Pool View
• Lake View

Two-Bedroom Villas (1,138 square feet)

Perfect for larger families or groups, these villas accommodate up to nine guests with:

• Master bedroom with king-size bed
• Second bedroom with two queen beds
• One queen-size pull-down bed in living room
• One single pull-down bunk-size bed in living room
• Full kitchen with full-size appliances
• Washer and dryer
• Separate living and dining areas
• Three full bathrooms
• Two private balconies or patios Available views:
• Standard View
• Preferred View
• Riviera Pool View
• Lake View

Two-Bedroom Lock-Off Villas (1,236 square feet)

A flexible option that combines a One-Bedroom Villa with a connecting Deluxe Studio, offering the same capacity and amenities as a dedicated Two-Bedroom Villa but with two separate entrances and an additional kitchenette in the studio side.

Grand Villas (2,530 square feet)

The crown jewel of accommodation options, these three-story, three-bedroom villas sleep up to twelve guests and feature:

• Master bedroom with king-size bed
• Second bedroom with two queen-size beds
• Third bedroom with two queen-size beds
• One queen-size pull-down bed in living room
• Four full bathrooms
• Full kitchen with premium appliances
• Formal dining area
• Large living room with double-height ceilings
• Private balcony with enhanced furnished outdoor living area
• Available with Lake View only, offering stunning views of Barefoot Bay and the surrounding resort area

Each villa type features sophisticated décor including European-inspired furnishings and artwork that celebrates Disney’s connection to European storytelling. All rooms are equipped with modern amenities including:

• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Flat-panel smart TVs
• DVD players
• Electronic safe
• Iron and ironing board
• Hair dryer
• H2O+ toiletries
• Climate control with smart features

The design of each accommodation type emphasizes both functionality and luxury, with thoughtful touches like USB charging ports, plenty of storage space, and high-end finishes that maintain the resort’s European sophistication.

Riviera Resort Dining Experiences

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera

The resort’s signature rooftop restaurant offers one of Walt Disney World’s most exceptional dining experiences. Named after Mickey Mouse’s Italian name, Topolino’s Terrace serves breakfast and dinner with dramatic views of the surrounding resort area. The breakfast character meal, “Breakfast à la Art with Mickey & Friends,” features Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy in unique artist-inspired costumes.

For dinner, the restaurant transforms into an elegant venue serving refined Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features dishes inspired by Italian and French traditions, with fresh pasta, seafood, and premium meats. The restaurant’s wine list is particularly noteworthy, featuring selections from coastal regions of France and Italy.

Le Petit Café

Le Petit cafe, located in the main lobby, is inspired by the movie “The Aristocats,” serves specialty coffees and pastries throughout the day. In the evening, it transforms into a sophisticated wine bar offering European wines and small plates.

Bar Riva

This open-air pool bar captures the casual elegance of the European Riviera’s seaside lounges. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired small plates and refreshing cocktails perfect for a poolside afternoon.

Primo Piatto

This quick-service location offers casual dining throughout the day, with a menu that includes Italian and French-inspired dishes alongside American favorites. The modern setting features both indoor and outdoor seating.

Riviera Resort Recreation and Amenities

Riviera Pool and S’il Vous Play

The resort’s main pool area captures the essence of Mediterranean coastal living. The Riviera Pool features a zero-entry edge and a unique tower slide inspired by old European water towers. Nearby, S’il Vous Play is an interactive water play area themed after European fountains and a splash pad featuring characters from “Fantasia.”

Beau Soleil Pool

This quiet pool offers a more serene swimming experience, perfect for guests seeking relaxation away from the more active main pool area.

Voyageurs’ Lounge

This comfortable space adjacent to Le Petit Café houses a collection of books and artifacts that celebrate Walt Disney’s European travels. It’s an ideal spot for reading, relaxing, or enjoying a coffee while surrounded by Disney history.

La Boutique

The resort’s shop offers both practical vacation necessities and unique merchandise featuring the resort’s exclusive artwork and theme.

Disney’s Riviera Resort Transportation

Disney’s Riviera Resort offers guests multiple transportation options to ensure convenient access to all Walt Disney World destinations:

Disney Skyliner

One of the resort’s most distinctive features is its easy access to Disney’s Skyliner gondola system. This innovative transportation option connects guests directly to:

• Epcot’s International Gateway (approximately 5 minutes)
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios (approximately 10 minutes with transfer at Caribbean Beach station)
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort (via transfer)

The Skyliner provides both convenient park access and spectacular aerial views of Walt Disney World Resort. The Riviera station is centrally located within the resort, making it easily accessible from all guest rooms.

Bus Service

Complimentary Walt Disney World bus transportation is available from the resort’s main bus depot, located just outside the main lobby, serving:

• Magic Kingdom Park
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
• Epcot
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Disney Springs
• Water Parks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach)
• Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf
• Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Buses typically run every 20 minutes, with increased frequency during peak park arrival and departure times. During early morning breakfast hours and late evening hours, shared bus service might be implemented between multiple resorts.

Walking Paths

The resort’s location along Barefoot Bay provides scenic walking opportunities:

• Direct access to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort (approximately 10-15 minutes walk to Old Port Royale)
• Connected pathways throughout the Riviera Resort grounds
• Walking path to the Skyliner station (5 minutes or less from most guest rooms)

Additional Transportation Notes

• Complimentary parking is available for all guests
• Valet parking is available for an additional fee
• Ride-share pickup and drop-off areas are clearly marked near the main entrance
• Bus wait times are displayed on digital boards at the bus depot
• The resort’s bell services can assist with luggage transfer to and from any Disney resort

The Disney Difference: Attention to Detail

What sets Disney’s Riviera Resort apart is its attention to detail and storytelling elements. Throughout the resort, guests will discover:

• Custom artwork that reimagines classic Disney characters in European art styles
• Hidden Mickeys incorporated into the Mediterranean-inspired design elements
• Architectural details that reflect authentic European influences
• Historical photographs and artifacts from Walt Disney’s European travels
• Stunning mosaic murals featuring scenes from “Tangled” and “Peter Pan”

Disney’s Riviera Resort offers more than just accommodation – it provides an immersive experience that celebrates the romance and charm of the European Riviera while maintaining the magical touches that make Disney resorts special. Whether guests are enjoying a character breakfast at Topolino’s Terrace, taking in the sunset from their balcony, or splashing in the themed pools, they’re participating in a carefully crafted experience that honors both European culture and Disney heritage.

For those considering a stay at Disney’s Riviera Resort, it’s worth noting that the property is part of the Disney Vacation Club portfolio but is also available for cash reservations through Walt Disney World Resort. Booking well in advance is recommended, particularly for peak travel periods and larger accommodation categories.

Why Disney’s Riviera Resort

Disney’s Riviera Resort represents a unique addition to the Walt Disney World Resort hotel collection. It successfully captures the essence of European travel that so inspired Walt and Lillian Disney while providing all the modern amenities and magical touches that Disney guests have come to expect. From its sophisticated design and exceptional dining options to its convenient location and transportation options, the resort offers a premium vacation experience that appeals to both families and couples seeking a more refined Disney resort experience.

Whether you’re a Disney Vacation Club member or a guest booking a cash stay, Disney’s Riviera Resort provides an opportunity to experience the romance and charm of the European Riviera without leaving Florida. It’s a celebration of Walt Disney’s European influences and a testament to Disney’s ability to create immersive, themed experiences that transport guests to another time and place while maintaining the highest standards of comfort and service.