Anyone who lives in Paris knows that a straight line on a map is a fantasy. The real challenge is navigating the web of the Métro, RER, and bus lines. A meetup spot might look close geographically, but could be a nightmare to get to. That's why finding a fair midway point means thinking about public transport first.

The key is to focus on major transit hubs and lines that connect different parts of the city efficiently. Here are some strategies for planning a meetup that's genuinely convenient for everyone.

1. The King of Hubs: Châtelet–Les Halles

It's the largest underground station in the world, and for good reason. Five Métro lines and three RER lines converge here. If you and your friend are coming from opposite ends of the city (or even from the suburbs), there's a good chance you can both get to Châtelet easily.

Connects: Almost everywhere. It's the city's central nervous system.
Meetup Vibe: Busy and bustling, but with the newly renovated Forum des Halles and nearby Montorgueil street, there are plenty of options for food, drink, and shopping.
Pro Tip: Decide on a specific exit to meet at (e.g., Porte Berger) to avoid getting lost in the labyrinth.

2. The East-West Connector: Line 1

The fully automated Line 1 cuts straight across Paris, from La Défense in the west to Château de Vincennes in the east. It hits major hubs like Charles de Gaulle–Étoile, Concorde, and Bastille. If one person is in the west and another in the east, finding a stop on Line 1 is a brilliant strategy.

Midway Hubs: Franklin D. Roosevelt (for Champs-Élysées), Concorde (for Tuileries), Hôtel de Ville (for Le Marais).
Perfect For: A classic Parisian experience without complicated transfers.

3. The North-South Axis: Line 4

Running from Porte de Clignancourt in the north to Bagneux in the south, Line 4 is another crucial artery. It connects major train stations (Gare du Nord, Gare de l'Est) and slices through the heart of the city, including Cité, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Montparnasse.

Midway Hubs: Strasbourg-Saint-Denis, Odéon, Montparnasse-Bienvenüe.
Perfect For: When your crew is split between the northern and southern arrondissements.

Let Tech Do the Work

Tired of staring at the metro map? The midway@ app analyzes all public transport routes and calculates the fairest meetup spot based on real-time travel data. Easy.

Find a midway@