To get around in Strasbourg, you can use a variety of transportation options, including trains, buses, trams, and bikes, as well as walk or drive, with the city offering a well-developed public transportation system and a bike-friendly infrastructure.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Strasbourg is easily accessible by air, with the Strasbourg Airport (SXB) located about 10 kilometers west of the city center, offering flights to major European cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, and London. The airport is also a hub for low-cost carriers, providing connections to other European destinations. If you prefer to travel by land, Strasbourg is well-connected to the rest of Europe by train and bus, with the city's main train station, Strasbourg-Ville, offering direct connections to Paris, Lyon, and other major French cities, as well as international connections to Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.
Overland entry points to Strasbourg include the A4 and A35 highways, which connect the city to Paris and other major French cities, as well as to the German border. The city is also accessible by bus, with several companies operating daily services from Strasbourg to other European cities. Additionally, Strasbourg is a popular destination for cyclists, with the city located on the Rhine River and offering scenic bike routes to nearby cities and attractions.
Domestic Flights
While Strasbourg Airport (SXB) offers some domestic flights to other French cities, the domestic air network in France is relatively limited, and many destinations are more easily accessible by train. If you do need to take a domestic flight, you can book with airlines such as Air France or HOP!, which offer connections to major French cities such as Paris, Lyon, and Nice. Approximate costs for domestic flights vary depending on the route and time of booking, but you can expect to pay around $100-$200 for a one-way ticket.
Trains & Rail
Strasbourg has an extensive rail network, with the city's main train station, Strasbourg-Ville, offering direct connections to Paris, Lyon, and other major French cities, as well as international connections to Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. The train is a convenient and relatively affordable way to travel, with high-speed options such as the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) available on some routes. You can book train tickets online through the SNCF website or at the train station, and approximate costs vary depending on the route and time of booking, but you can expect to pay around $60-$100 for a one-way ticket.
Buses & Coaches
Several intercity bus companies operate in Strasbourg, including FlixBus and Eurolines, which offer connections to other French cities and international destinations. The bus is a more affordable option than the train, with approximate costs starting from around $10-$20 for a one-way ticket. However, the journey times are often longer, and the level of comfort may vary depending on the company and route.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tram | Strasbourg | $2 | 6 lines, frequent services |
| Bus | Strasbourg | $2 | 30 lines, frequent services |
| Taxi | everywhere | $2.50/km | available at taxi ranks or by phone |
| Ride-Hailing | Strasbourg | $5-$10 | available through Uber, Bolt, and local alternatives |
| Bike | Strasbourg | $1-$2 | bike-sharing system, Vélhop, available |
Driving
- To drive in Strasbourg, you will need a valid driver's license, and if you are not a European Union citizen, you may also need an International Driving Permit.
- The road quality in Strasbourg is generally good, with well-maintained highways and city streets.
- Fuel costs in France are relatively high, with prices starting from around $1.50 per liter for gasoline and $1.30 per liter for diesel.
- If you plan to rent a car, it's a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, and to choose a company that offers a good selection of vehicles and competitive prices.
- When driving in Strasbourg, be aware of the city's bike-friendly infrastructure, with many bike lanes and pedestrianized areas, and be prepared for potential traffic congestion during rush hour.
- It's also a good idea to have a GPS or map, as the city's streets can be narrow and confusing, especially in the historic center.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of potential scams, such as overpriced taxis or fake ticket sellers, and always use licensed taxis or buy tickets from official vendors.
- The best way to pay for public transportation in Strasbourg is by using a CRT (Carte de Réduction Tarifaire) card, which offers discounts and convenient payment options.
- Download the Vélhop app to use the city's bike-sharing system, or the SNCF app to book and manage your train tickets.
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, and keep an eye on your luggage at all times.
- Strasbourg is a relatively safe city, but it's still a good idea to take normal precautions to ensure your safety, such as avoiding walking alone in deserted areas at night.
- If you plan to drive, be aware of the city's parking regulations and fees, and consider using a parking app to find and pay for parking spaces.
- Finally, consider purchasing a Strasbourg Pass, which offers discounts and free entry to many of the city's attractions, as well as public transportation and bike rental benefits.