Montparnasse train station

To get to Montparnasse early because it is a zoo !!! I don't mean to add to your anxiety, but it is by far my most hated Paris train station.

That is exactly what I plan to do for that very reason!! No worries about add to anxiety, it's already there!!

However, since they don't annouce the platform untill between 30 - 20 minutes before departure and then close access to the train 2 minutes before departure, if I'm not in the correct area, that could be a problem!

In my experience, trains to Chartres (destination Chartres or Le Mans) do not use 25-28, but platforms around #20 in the main hall. If a specific train départs from 25-28, it will be listed as departing from Montparnasse-Vaugirard (Hall 3) well in advance!
Also, that walk does not take 20 minutes anyway, more like 10-15, unless you walk very slowly.
It is still a good idea to arrive with plenty of time, because the station is busy. It got much better in recent months though, because the works are over, and the shops/eateries are actually nice if you have time to spare!

Thank you so much!!

One question: were the trains you've taken to Chartres TER trains? From an article I read, it stated that most TER usually run from Hall 3 (Tracks 24 - 28). I love the "usually". Oh brother!!

If your train will depart from Vaugirard it will say so on your ticket -- it is not posted 20 minutes before departure. Every train we have had has made it clear whether it was the. main Montparnasse station of Vaugirard which is essentially another station although a satellite of Montparnasse.

I have an e-ticket and it references Montparnasse 1 et 2. I assume then that is main Montparasse concourse (Hall 1, Level 2) where tracks 1 - 24 are located?

Thanks so much!!

It's really not that big of a deal. I suffer from arriving places too early - especially train stations. I would say as long as you are there 30-40 min before departure, you will be in good shape. And still have to wait.

I took the train ( TER ) , from Montparnasse to Chartres last week . It was indeed track 24 and as Alexander , I have a penchant for being early . We were staying in a hotel quite near , and often , passing through the station on the way to and from the metro ,we found the place quite busy . I allowed about thirty minutes lead time , so no difficulty making the train.

The OP notes that his ticket indicates the main station; it always does -- either Vaugirard or the two main station halls.

Thanks for the warnings about the craziness of this station. I don't plan to buy a ticket until I get there since you don't really need reservations for the TER trains.

Just be sure to validate your ticket before boarding!

Thanks everyone for your input and advice!! Feelin much better! Since I've never been to Montparnasse, I plan to arrive early to adjust and find my way.