What could be more bucolic than a stroll near one of Paris’s fountains? And you don’t have to go to Italy to feel like you’re in a foreign land! Some of Paris’s fountains are just as beautiful, if not more spectacular. They not only bring freshness, but also elegantly decorate city parks and gardens. Discover the most beautiful fountains in Paris.
The Médicis fountain, one of the most remarkable in Paris
This sublime fountain, hidden away in the Luxembourg Gardens, was commissioned by Marie de Médicis from a Florentine engineer. After the death of her husband Henri IV, the latter wanted a place of contemplation that would remind her a little of her native Italy. The fountain is embellished by an immense fifty-meter-long pool. A true haven of peace in the heart of Paris, a must-see at least once!
⛲ Rue de Médicis, 75006 Paris
The arty Stravinsky fountain
Recently renovated this astonishing fountain is undeniably the most original in Paris. Installed in 1983 a stone’s throw from the Centre Pompidou, it was the brainchild of two artists: Nikki de Saint Phalle and her partner Jean Tinguely. Also known as the “automaton fountain”, the various shapes and fantastical creatures come to life as the water sp rays. A real show!
⛲ Rue Brisemiche, 75004 Paris
The Warsaw Fountain, one of the most impressive in the world
Built in 1937 to mark the Universal Exhibition, this fountain is composed of several basins that cascade into one another. The water jets can reach heights of up to seven metres, and the cannons on either side can reach heights of up to fifty metres. At night, that’s when the magic happens! With its lighting and illuminations around the Trocadero, the show is even more magical.
⛲ Pl. de Varsovie, 75116 Paris
The Fountains of the Rivers and Seas in Place de la Concorde
These magnificent twin fountains, separated by the Obélisque de la place de la Concorde are a must-see. At first glance, they may look the same, but a few details stand out. The first features details relating to the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean. The second depicts the Rhine and Rhone rivers and their flagship products (flowers, wheat and grapes, for example). As beautiful by day as by night, these two fountains are well worth a visit!
The Fountain of the Four Parts of the World, one of the most spectacular fountains in Paris
This huge fountain knows how to catch our eye. Quite simply, every detail is eye-catching! You’ll notice nude women carrying the globe, adorned with signs of the Zodiac. These women represent four corners of the globe: Africa, Europe, Asia and America. Accompanied by animals that almost seem to come alive in the water, this fountain is an ode to travel and to the great explorers who discovered part of the world. You’ll get lost in the details!
The Saint-Michel fountain, one of the most romantic fountains in Paris
Inspired by Raphael’s painting of the Archangel Michael defeating a demon, this sublime wall fountain is well worth a look. Twenty-six metres high, it required the talents of… nine sculptors. Open to the city, it delights Parisians and passing onlookers alike.
⛲ Pl. Saint-Michel, 75005 Paris
The Saint-Sulpice fountain, one of the oldest in Paris
If you go through the saint-Sulpice church you won’t want to miss the fountain of the same name. The latter, designed by Louis Visconti in the late 19ᵉ century, consists of three basins. Here you can see four bishops from the time of Louis XIV, located on the four cardinal points. A great fountain to admire!