If you’re looking for the best Disney World hotel to splurge on, you might assume the answer is the Grand Floridian, but according to our readers, you’d be wrong.
Disney’s Riviera Resort has been steadily climbing the ranks among you (our readers), and based on the reviews we’ve received from you at AllEars, it’s officially a top pick for a luxurious Disney stay. So, let’s break down what makes Riviera Resort the best place to splurge.
Theming & Atmosphere
One of the biggest draws of the Riviera Resort has got to be its ambiance. Inspired by the elegance of the French and Italian Riviera, the hotel feels like a sophisticated escape while still keeping that Disney magic alive.
Our reader HannahGrace put it best: “The Riviera has become my favorite place to splurge for a luxurious stay. There is just enough Disney theming and touches that keep you in the magic.”
While some might miss the more overtly Disney decor of other hotels, many guests appreciate the Riviera’s upscale and refined vibe. The mosaic murals, lush grounds, and subtle nods to classic Disney animation create a setting that feels more like an exclusive European retreat than a theme park hotel.
Dining
If you love good food, the Riviera Resort is a dream come true. Our readers consistently praise its impressive dining options:
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- Topolino’s Terrace – One of the best character dining experiences in Disney World, with delicious French and Italian-inspired cuisine. Bonus: The rooftop views are spectacular.
- Le Petit Café – As HannahGrace put it, this spot a must-visit, saying, “In my opinion, Le Petit Café has the best coffee in DW.”
- Primo Piatto – A quick-service gem offering high-quality meals that go beyond your typical Disney fast food.
- Bar RIVA – A poolside bar with great cocktails and food.
Unlike some other resorts, Riviera’s restaurants are relatively small, which means they can fill up quickly, but our readers say they’re absolutely worth the effort.
Pools
The Riviera Resort’s pools offer a perfect mix of luxury and family-friendly fun.
The main pool has a gorgeous view and a waterslide, but the standout feature for families is the splash pad, which one reader called out by name: “The kid splash pad is called ‘S’il Vous Play,’ which was really cute.”
It’s little details like this that make the resort feel extra special.
Skyliner Access
As you know, transportation can make or break your Disney trip, and this is where the Riviera Resort truly shines.
The Skyliner offers quick access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, meaning you don’t have to rely on buses as much. Plus, it makes resort-hopping easier, giving you direct access to Caribbean Beach Resort and easy transfers to the BoardWalk area and beyond.
AE reader HannahGrace pointed out that the combination of the Skyliner and the resort’s efficient bus system makes a huge difference: “The location of this resort with Skyliner access and a bus system that I never find crowded helps it stand out.”
The Downsides: What You Need to Consider
Of course, no resort is perfect, and there are a few drawbacks to Riviera Resort:
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- It’s expensive. As a Deluxe Resort, it’s definitely a splurge, and some guests feel that other Deluxe hotels offer better value.
- It’s not heavily Disney-themed. If you have young kids who want giant Mickey statues and over-the-top theming, this may not be the best fit.
- It’s compact. Some guests mention that the restaurants, bars, lobby, and store are on the smaller side, making them feel a bit cramped.
- Other Deluxe resorts offer walkability. Some travelers prefer resorts like the Contemporary, Beach Club, or Polynesian, where you can walk to a park rather than rely on transportation.
Is It Worth the Splurge?
If you’re looking for a luxurious, modern Disney World experience with top-tier dining, beautiful theming, and the convenience of the Skyliner, then yes. The Riviera Resort is absolutely worth the splurge. And honestly? We can’t argue with that.
Will you be staying at the Riviera Resort on your next trip to Disney World? Let us know down in the comments.
In the meantime, stay tuned to AllEars!
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Will you be saying at the Riviera Resort in 2025? Let us know in the comments below!
Fact: GF is a Five Diamond Resort, the RR is not. There was,is and forever will be a divide on the RR, as a direct DVC member with sizeable points, our family has two Disney vacations a year, or at least one, if we’re not leaving the country (Disney meaning,Aulani, VB, or DW. When we stayed at RR, we weren’t impressed and haven’t stayed since. As someone who has traveled to Italy, only the exterior of the resort feels Italian. If you want to feel like you’re in Italy, stay at Lowe’s Portofino at Universal Studios.
Ended up in Aruba at CBR and we were closer to the Riviera than to Port Royale. We ended up doing most pre and post park quick service meals there and loved it. Saw the rooms on a DVC tour as well. They are not the most elaborate rooms and the mini suites are really mini. The location makes it not top of the list for me just because CBR is right there.
We’ve stayed at both Riviera and Grand Floridian within the last year and a half. To me the GF is better. There are more and better dining choices at GF. The ambiance is better. The grounds are better. The skyliner at Riviera vs the monorail at GF is pretty much a tradeoff.