Paris Gare Montparnasse No. 1 in France according to European ranking 2024

Paris celebrates a new symbol of everyday life: its Montparnasse station is crowned the best in France. According to a ranking published in 2024, the site has confirmed a visible improvement in quality. In the station, for example, signage and services are becoming clearer.

Why Gare Montparnasse comes out on top

Firstly, the teams have invested in waiting comfort. What’s more, accessibility is making headway, thanks to elevators and clear pathways. The station offers more evenly distributed seating areas. As a result, the experience is more serene from hall to platform.

Secondly, flows are better managed at peak times. The station’s presence on the ground quickly directs lost travelers. The station has terminals and legible maps near the entrances. In short, everyone finds their way without detours.

As a result, the range of shops remains useful without overwhelming traffic flow. However, passenger information remains the priority in the halls. In this station, the screens are clearly visible and up-to-date. As a result, connections are made with greater ease.

“A station that keeps things simple and clear, from the concourse to the platforms.”

Ranking method for station services

The ranking crosses several families of measurable criteria. These include cleanliness,accessibility,passenger information and services. The station is observed over distinct, comparable periods. User feedback is also taken into account.

This work is based on field visits and surveys. In addition, internal data confirms the findings of 2024. Reliability improves when measurements are repeated for each station. On the other hand, comparison requires the same grid for all.

• Legible signage and coherent markers for each zone
• Easy access for strollers and wheelchairs
• Comfortable, visible waiting areas
• Clear, up-to-date info screens
• Mobile staff on hand at key times

What this means for station passengers

Now you can better anticipate your departure and arrival. Platform accesses are clear from the entrance. In stations, mobile agents provide reassurance at sensitive moments. As a result, unforeseen events can be managed more calmly.

Then, digital tools complete the physical journey. In addition, boarding notifications reduce last-minute stress. Platform information aligns with audible announcements. In short, fewer contradictions and more useful consistency.

However, attention to specific needs remains central. Tactile pathways and contrasts make reading easier. Quieter areas allow passengers to take a break before boarding. As a result, families and PRMs travel in better conditions.

Other Paris Region sites in the running

Other Paris hubs are also making progress on these criteria. Gare de Lyon, for example, has modernized its halls and entrances. However, competition remains healthy and useful for all. In short, each site is pushing standards upwards.

What’s more, the dynamic is reflected throughout the regional network. Interconnection stations provide local connections. Feedback from experience is then used for future projects. As a result, the overall level tends to rise.

Practical tips for finding your way around the station

First, arrive a few minutes early to peruse the floor plans. That way, you’ll be able to quickly locate the entrances, elevators and washrooms. Also, keep an eye on the main screen before the platform is displayed. In short, a few points of reference will save you a lot of time.

Then plan your return route, noting the useful exit. This saves time once the train arrives. What’s more, a fixed meeting point reassures groups. So everyone knows where to meet without stress.

Last but not least, make sure you buy on the spot when you’re not busy. That way, you can avoid queues and stay close to the displays. And don’t forget the soft mobility alternatives available around the site. In short, your journey will be smooth from the first to the last metre.

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