Round trip from Orly airport and Saint-Michel Fountain in Paris

History of the Saint Michel Fountain

The Saint-Michel Fountain, an imposing structure located opposite the Pont Saint-Michel at the intersection of Boulevard Saint-Michel and the street leading down to Place Saint-Andre-des-Arts, stands majestically at 26 meters in height and 15 meters in width. Its foundational structure is supported by four Corinthian columns enclosing a prominent niche that houses the statue of St. Michael, sword in hand, vanquishing the devil who lies defeated on a rock. Atop this niche, a beautifully crafted entablature extends beyond the columns, adorned with a meticulously carved frieze. The base of each column features projections from which statues representing the four cardinal virtues—Strength, Justice, Prudence, and Temperance—emerge, set against an attic adorned with the symbols of the religious Order of Saint-Michel. Crowned with a grand cartouche framed by pilasters, two spiraling Ammon’s horns, and a sumptuous rounded pediment, the fountain also showcases the Empire’s coat of arms, supported by figures symbolizing power and moderation. This cartouche bears the inscription: « Saint-Michel Fountain. Under the reign of Napoleon III, Emperor of the French, this monument was erected by the city of Paris. Year MDCCCLX. » The fountain’s water cascades from the rock into an antique bowl, then into two layered circular basins, and finally into a quadrangular basin, concluding in a semicircular pool at ground level. Flanking this basin, oblong pedestals support formidable apocalyptic griffins. Renowned as Paris’s largest fountain, it was crafted in a Renaissance style replete with floral motifs. The fountain’s materials are as grand as its design: independent statues are cast in bronze, columns are made of red Languedoc marble with bases and capitals of white veined marble, and the remaining structure is built from Saint-Yllie stone. For those interested in learning more about Paris’s historic monuments and their shuttle services, the Saint Michel Fountain offers a fascinating insight into the city’s rich heritage.

Discover the Surroundings of Saint-Michel Fountain in Paris

The Saint-Michel Fountain, an emblematic landmark of the Latin Quarter, stands majestically at the intersection of Boulevard Saint-Michel and Boulevard Saint-Germain. This historic monument, with its intricate Neo-Renaissance design, serves as a gateway to one of Paris’s most vibrant districts, bustling with intellectual life and cultural activity.

Just a stone’s throw from the fountain, the historic Shakespeare and Company bookstore offers a haven for literature lovers. This iconic English-language bookstore has been a cultural fixture since the 1950s, frequented by famous writers and providing a cozy spot for reading and literary events. Nearby, the banks of the Seine offer picturesque views and are lined with the famous bouquinistes—vendors selling vintage books and art, contributing to the area’s bohemian charm.

The area is also rich in dining options, ranging from traditional French cafés to international cuisine. Notably, the streets around the fountain are home to some of the city’s most renowned jazz bars and bistros, where live music adds to the lively atmosphere each evening.

Visitors looking to explore further afield or needing a convenient ride to Paris airports or train stations will find ample transportation options nearby, including the Saint-Michel Notre Dame RER and metro station, facilitating easy travel throughout the city.

Shuttle to the Saint Michel fountain in Paris

Nestled in the heart of the Latin Quarter, the Fountain of Saint Michel stands as a beacon for travelers, located merely 16 km from Orly Airport, 30 km from Charles de Gaulle Airport, and 83 km from Beauvais Airport. When journeying from Charles de Gaulle Airport to this iconic Parisian landmark, one must weigh factors like cost, convenience, and the logistical challenges of luggage and comfort. Direct taxi services, while convenient, often command a premium price and can be affected by the unpredictability of Parisian traffic. Alternatively, public transportation options such as the RER and metro offer more budget-friendly routes but may pose challenges for those laden with heavy luggage or those fatigued from long flights, requiring navigation through busy terminals and transfers.

Traveler feedback underscores the varied experiences encountered with these transportation options, from the straightforwardness of taxis to the potential complications of shuttle services, including unexpected delays or the inconvenience of missed pickups. In light of these considerations, shuttle services from Orly to Paris and from CDG to Paris offer a balanced approach. These services provide a direct route to your destination without the exorbitant costs tied to taxi fares or the complexities and physical strain associated with public transportation. Facilitating a more comfortable and relaxed experience, especially for those weary from travel, shuttle services thus emerge as a preferred choice, ensuring your arrival in Paris is as seamless and stress-free as possible, inviting you to explore the monuments and scenic locales of Paris without delay.