All about the Versailles Fountains and Gardens

Gardens

About the Versailles Gardens

Imagine strolling through the Gardens of Versailles, a masterpiece of 17th-century French landscape architecture. Your eyes will be drawn to the meticulously manicured lawns, sculpted into intricate parterres that seem to stretch on forever. Towering hedges form elaborate geometric shapes, creating a sense of order. The iconic Grand Canal, a shimmering expanse of water, cuts through the landscape, reflecting the sky and the surrounding architecture. As you wander, you'll encounter magnificent fountains erupting in dramatic displays. The gardens are a testament to human engineering and natural beauty. Every element, from the perfectly trimmed hedges to the shimmering water features, contributes to a sense of wonder and awe.

Explore the fountains at the Versailles Gardens

The Four Seasons Fountains

The monumental Four Fountains, dedicated to the seasons, mark the entrance to the Royal Way. The Spring and Summer Fountains grace the northern side of the alleys, while Autumn and Winter adorn the south.

Fountains of the Fight of the Animals

The fountain demonstrates a fight between animals. A lion is shown defeating a wolf and wild boar, a tiger defeating a bear and a bloodhound bringing down a stag. Water jets sprout out of the animal's mouths, with the jet of the victorious animal falling into the upper basin and the jet of the victim falls into the lower basin.

Dragon Fountain

A majestic piece of art, the Dragon Fountain represents an episode from the legend of Apollo, where young Apollo shot and killed a serpent Python with an arrow. This is the tallest fountain in the Gardens of Versailles, with the main water jet reaching a height of 27 meters.

Neptune fountain

Made between 1679 and 1682, the construction of the Neptune Fountain was overseen by André le Nôtre and officially opened by Louis XV. Admired for its size, the fountain is also an extraordinary hydraulic system featuring 99 jets.

Latona's fountain

Illustrating the story of Apollo's mother Latona, the fountain depicts her protecting her children from the insults of peasants and pleading with the gods to avenge her. The gods oblige and turn the peasants into frogs and lizards. The fountain features figures of peasants in mid-transformation with 24 frogs surrounding the fountain.

Apollo's fountain

Built between 1668 and 1670, the fountain is based on the legend of Apollo, the sun god. Designed by Charles Le Brun, It features Apollo rising from the sea on a four-horse chariot, surrounded by tritons and leaping dolphins.

Palace of Versailles Fountains and Gardens - frequently asked questions

What days are the gardens closed?

The gardens are open to the public every day of the year.

Do I need separate tickets for visiting the gardens and fountains of Versailles?

Yes, tickets for the Palace and the Gardens are separate. Standard admission tickets do not include access to the gardens and fountains. However, with the Passport ticket, you will be able to visit the entire estate, including the palace, the gardens, and the fountain shows.

What is the Versailles Passport ticket?

The Versailles Passport ticket is a ticket variant that gives you access to all of the estate. With the Versailles Passport, you will be able to visit the Palace with audioguide, the estate of Trianon, temporary exhibitions, the Gardens and the Park, the Musical Fountains Shows or the Musical Gardens and the Coach Gallery.

How long in advance can I purchase my tickets?

You can purchase tickets to the Palace of Versailles up to 3 months in advance.

What are the palace opening hours and timings?

The Palace of Versailles is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Last admission is at 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays, 25 December and 1 January.