Apollo Fountain - Image 1
1 / 10

Apollo Fountain

4.7
·1k reviews·Versailles, France

A gilded masterpiece depicting Apollo in his chariot, this iconic fountain is a symbol of royal grandeur in the vast Gardens of Versailles.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Savor geometric perfection in peace

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Apollo Fountain - Image 1

Apollo Fountain

Best Time

Early morning

Savor geometric perfection in peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A gilded masterpiece depicting Apollo in his chariot, this iconic fountain is a symbol of royal grandeur in the vast Gardens of Versailles.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"By far my favorite, and in my opinion, the most creative and beautiful single aspect of the Palace and Gardens."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast Gardens of Versailles. Prioritize comfort!

Passport Ticket Recommended 🎟️

Combines palace and garden access. Gardens alone cost extra during fountain shows.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Apollo Fountain's Golden Grandeur

Apollo Fountain's Golden Grandeur

Gardens of Versailles

A gilded masterpiece depicting Apollo in his chariot, this fountain embodies royal splendor and glistens beautifully in the sunlight.

The Sun King's Artistic Vision

The Sun King's Artistic Vision

Gardens of Versailles

This fountain is considered a singular work of art, showcasing exceptional originality and execution befitting a monarch.

Dazzling Garden Surprises

Dazzling Garden Surprises

Gardens of Versailles

Beyond the Apollo Fountain, discover hidden groves and over 50 unique, ornate fountains across the expansive gardens.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything at Versailles

The Apollo Fountain is a highlight of the vast Gardens of Versailles. To truly appreciate its grandeur and avoid overwhelming crowds, plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon. Consider purchasing a 'Passport' ticket for access to both the palace and gardens, especially if you want to see the fountain shows.

Navigating the Grand Gardens

The Gardens of Versailles are immense, spanning 800 hectares. While the Apollo Fountain is a central feature, exploring the entire area requires time and comfortable footwear. Renting a golf cart or rowboat can help cover more ground, but be aware of additional costs.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Savor geometric perfection in peace
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden light enhances the fountain's gleam
Crowd
Medium
When
During fountain shows
Why
Experience the waterworks spectacle
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Versailles Tips

Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast Gardens of Versailles. Prioritize comfort!

Passport Ticket Recommended 🎟️

Combines palace and garden access. Gardens alone cost extra during fountain shows.

reddit.com

Versailles visit, bad experience

reddit.com

Best way to maximize trip to Versailles?

Golf Cart or Rowboat? 🚗🚣

Rentals available to cover more ground in the expansive gardens, but factor in the cost.

Arrive Early for Peace ☀️

Beat the midday crowds to enjoy the gardens and the Apollo Fountain in tranquility.

reddit.com

Versailles Palace visit, what to expect?

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast Gardens of Versailles. Prioritize comfort!

Passport Ticket Recommended 🎟️

Combines palace and garden access. Gardens alone cost extra during fountain shows.

Golf Cart or Rowboat? 🚗🚣

Rentals available to cover more ground in the expansive gardens, but factor in the cost.

Arrive Early for Peace ☀️

Beat the midday crowds to enjoy the gardens and the Apollo Fountain in tranquility.

Golden Hour Glow ✨

The fountain truly glistens in the sunlight, offering a different experience than on a cloudy day.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by the Apollo Fountain's artistic brilliance and gilded splendor, often calling it a highlight of the Versailles experience. The surrounding gardens are praised for their vastness and beauty, though the scale can be overwhelming. Some find the fountain smaller than expected from afar, but its detailed execution is universally admired.

"Gorgeous fountain although looks alot smaller from afar from the edge of the fountain. Glistens in the sunlight so nicely, a whole different experience seeing it in the sun although of course we don't chose the weather!"

Elana Podvalniuk

"The Gardens of Versailles dazzle with endless surprises: hidden groves, 50+ ornate fountains (each uniquely sculpted), and razor-sharp symmetry across 800 hectares. Rent a golf cart (€38/hour) to navigate faster or rowboats (€18) on the Grand Canal. The Apollo Fountain, a golden centerpiece, epitomizes the Sun King’s grandeur. Allocate 3+ hours—exploring every path is impossible! Pro tip: Buy the Passport ticket (€28) combining palace + gardens; entry to the gardens alone costs extra during fountain shows (€10.50). Crowds peak midday; arrive early to savor the geometric perfection in peace. A must for art and history lovers, but wear comfy shoes!"

Edgar M

"Very beautiful good for walk around nice view good area for take photo"

Sudarat

What People Like

Gilded artistic masterpiece
Symbol of royal grandeur
Beautiful in sunlight

What People Dislike

Smaller than expected from afar

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Apollo Fountain is located within the Gardens of Versailles. You can reach Versailles by RER C train from Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station. From there, it's a short walk to the palace and gardens. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas available at Versailles, but it's recommended to use public transport from Paris to avoid traffic and parking hassles. Reddit

Yes, the Apollo Fountain is a prominent feature in the main axis of the Gardens of Versailles, easily accessible by walking from the Palace of Versailles.

Given the vastness, consider renting a golf cart or bicycles to explore the gardens efficiently and reach the Apollo Fountain and other attractions. Reddit

Many guided tours of the Palace and Gardens of Versailles include stops at key attractions like the Apollo Fountain. Check tour operator details.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Gardens of Versailles is free on most days, but requires a ticket during Musical Fountain Show or Musical Gardens days. A 'Passport' ticket includes palace and garden access. Reddit

The Gardens of Versailles are generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. The Apollo Fountain is an outdoor feature and visible during garden opening times.

Yes, it's highly recommended to buy your Versailles tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season. Reddit

The Paris Museum Pass grants access to the Palace of Versailles, but garden entry may require an additional ticket on days with Musical Fountain Shows or Musical Gardens. Reddit

Check for potential discounts for students, youth, or EU residents when purchasing tickets for the Palace and Gardens of Versailles.

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photographing the Apollo Fountain, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing its golden gleam. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted in the Gardens of Versailles, including at the Apollo Fountain. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using tripods in crowded areas.

Try capturing it from the main promenade for a grand view, or get closer to appreciate the intricate details of the sculpture and water features.

Drone usage is typically prohibited within the grounds of Versailles for security and preservation reasons. Always check official regulations.

Use a wider aperture for a shallow depth of field to focus on the fountain, or a narrower aperture for a sharper image of the entire scene. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the water's sparkle.

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

Allocate at least 3-4 hours to explore the Gardens of Versailles and fully appreciate the Apollo Fountain and its surroundings. Reddit

Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants within the Gardens of Versailles, offering refreshments and light meals. You can also bring a picnic.

The main paths in the Gardens of Versailles are generally accessible, but some areas might have uneven terrain. Check the official Versailles website for detailed accessibility information.

These are special events where the fountains are animated with music, offering a spectacular display. They occur on select days and require a specific ticket. Reddit

Bring comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a picnic to enjoy the beautiful grounds. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Gardens of Versailles offer a fantastic adventure for families. While the Apollo Fountain is a stunning sight, the sheer size of the gardens means kids can burn off energy exploring. Consider renting a golf cart or bicycles to make navigating easier and more fun for everyone. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as dining options can be spread out and busy. Reddit

Look for the various groves and smaller fountains that can spark a child's imagination. The Grand Canal also offers rowboat rentals, which can be a memorable activity. Remember to emphasize the importance of comfortable shoes for little feet, as there will be a lot of walking involved. Visiting during a Musical Fountain Show can be particularly captivating for children, turning the gardens into a magical playground.

💰 Budget Travelers

While Versailles can seem expensive, there are ways to enjoy the Apollo Fountain and gardens on a budget. Entry to the gardens is often free outside of special event days (like Musical Fountain Shows), so check the schedule. If you plan to visit the Palace as well, purchasing a 'Passport' ticket in advance online is usually the most cost-effective option. Reddit

Pack your own picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful gardens, saving money on expensive on-site cafes. Utilize public transport (RER C train) from Paris instead of taxis or private cars. While golf cart rentals are convenient, they add up; prioritize walking and enjoy the journey through the expansive grounds. Comfortable shoes are your best friend here!

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Apollo Fountain is a photographer's dream, especially during the 'golden hour' of early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight catches its gilded details. Experiment with different angles – from wide shots capturing its grandeur within the garden's axis to close-ups highlighting the intricate sculptures. Reddit

Be mindful of the crowds, particularly midday. Visiting during off-peak hours or on days without fountain shows can offer clearer shots. Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the sparkle of the water and the gleam of the gold. The surrounding gardens also offer numerous picturesque spots for landscape and detail photography.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majesty of the Apollo Fountain

The Apollo Fountain is a breathtaking centerpiece within the vast Gardens of Versailles, a testament to the grandeur of Louis XIV, the 'Sun King'. Completed in 1671, this gilded sculpture depicts the Greek god Apollo, symbolizing the king himself, rising from the water in his chariot, pulled by horses. Its intricate design and shimmering gold leaf make it a focal point that draws visitors from across the globe. The sheer scale and artistry are designed to impress, reflecting the absolute monarchy's power and opulence. Reddit

When bathed in sunlight, the Apollo Fountain truly comes alive, its golden hues reflecting off the water and surrounding parterres. Visitors often remark on how much smaller it appears from a distance but how its detailed craftsmanship is revealed upon closer inspection. It's not just a fountain; it's a meticulously crafted work of art that embodies the spirit of the Baroque era. The surrounding gardens, with their razor-sharp symmetry and numerous other ornate fountains, complement the Apollo Fountain's magnificence, creating an unforgettable visual experience. Reddit

To fully appreciate the Apollo Fountain, consider visiting during the Musical Fountain Shows. These events bring the gardens to life with synchronized water displays set to music, transforming the experience into a dynamic spectacle. However, be prepared for larger crowds on these days. Alternatively, visiting during the 'golden hour' of late afternoon can offer a magical glow, enhancing the fountain's visual appeal without the peak midday throngs. Reddit

Exploring the Expansive Gardens of Versailles

The Gardens of Versailles are an architectural marvel in themselves, designed by André Le Nôtre. Spanning an astonishing 800 hectares, these formal French gardens are characterized by their geometric precision, vast lawns, meticulously sculpted hedges, and numerous water features. Beyond the iconic Apollo Fountain, the gardens hide countless surprises, including intimate groves, elaborate parterres, and over 50 unique fountains, each with its own artistic theme. Reddit

Navigating such an immense space can be daunting. Many visitors opt to rent a golf cart (around €38/hour) or bicycles to cover more ground and reach distant attractions like the Grand Canal or the Trianon palaces more easily. For a more leisurely experience, rowboats are available on the Grand Canal (€18). Wearing comfortable shoes is paramount, as exploring even a fraction of the gardens involves significant walking. Reddit

To make the most of your visit, it's advisable to allocate at least 3-4 hours, or even a full day, to truly immerse yourself in the beauty and scale of the Gardens of Versailles. Arriving early in the morning or visiting during the shoulder seasons can help you avoid the peak crowds that descend upon the gardens, particularly around midday. This allows for a more peaceful and personal experience of the Apollo Fountain and the surrounding landscape. Reddit

You may also like