We have a tight schedule upon our arrival in Paris, and I wonder if anyone has some tips for maneuvering through Gare Montparnasse to catch our train. I remember the station as huge and confusing, so any help would be much appreciated.

Well, yes, absolutely, but you have given so much information about your needs, that we have decided to keep it all a secret. What exactly is the problem? Are you not sure which platform comes after 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 ?

It's not that difficult. Follow the signs that say "Grandes lignes" if you are going to other cities in France or to other countries. Follow the signs that say "Banlieue" if you are going to the suburbs (including Versailles) or nearby towns. Follow the signs that say "Métro" if you want to take the subway. The subway is on the lowest level (below street level), as you might expect.

Thanks, Anthony, for the help.

there actually is a Montparnasse 1 and a Montparnasse 2 and a Montparnasse Vaugirard, which though attached to the same station is quite a walk from the main 1 and 2 parts - some Grandes Lignes trains may leave from Vaugirard, up along the right side of the main station.

Thanks, Pal. After your post, I found this, http://www.bonjourlafrance.net/franc...se-station.htm, which provides a good diagram of the station's layout.

What is the best way to get from the Latin Quarter to Gare Montparnasse?

What people call the Latin Quarter covers a big area, so it depends where you are, and what your goal is for going there (just to get there, or do you have tons of baggage).

I usually take the metro, but there are some bus lines that go around Montparnasse station from points in the Latin Qtr -- I often take the 82 bus from Luxembourg gardens, for example, and it goes west on bd Montparnasse by the station.

Saint Michel, Odéon, Saint Germain-des-Prés, etc. are all on line 4 going to Montparnasse.

Hi jengoestofrance
>What is the best way to get from the Latin Quarter to Gare Montparnasse?<

You can get directions on public transportation at www.ratp.fr.

A cab will be about 10-15E.

Thank you - I think we'll take a taxi. We'll have our baggage plus our bikes (in bike bags for the train)!

Thanks!