Strasbourg

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Transportation

Sections

1. Public Transportation in Strasbourg

Strasbourg’s public transportation system is managed by the CTS (Compagnie des Transports Strasbourgeois). It includes trams, buses, and park-and-ride facilities, all designed to make travel within the city and its surrounding areas convenient.

A. Trams

Strasbourg is famous for its modern and extensive tram network, one of the largest in France. The trams are clean, efficient, and eco-friendly, making them the backbone of the city’s public transport system.

  • Lines: There are 6 tram lines (A, B, C, D, E, and F) that cover the city and its suburbs. Line D even crosses the border into Kehl, Germany.
  • Frequency: Trams run every 5–10 minutes during peak hours and every 10–15 minutes during off-peak hours.
  • Operating Hours: Trams generally operate from around 4:30 AM to 12:30 AM, though exact times vary by line and day.

B. Buses

The bus network complements the tram system, connecting areas not served by trams. There are regular buses as well as night buses (called "Noctis") for late-night travel.

  • Frequency: Buses run every 10–20 minutes during the day, with reduced frequency in the evenings and on Sundays.
  • Operating Hours: Most buses operate from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with Noctis buses running until around 1:30 AM on weekends.

C. Park-and-Ride (P+R)

Strasbourg encourages the use of public transport by offering Park-and-Ride facilities. You can park your car at designated lots on the outskirts of the city and take a tram or bus into the city center.

  • Cost: Parking is free or very low-cost (around €4.70 per day), and it includes a round-trip tram ticket for all passengers in the car.

2. Ticketing System

The CTS uses a unified ticketing system for trams and buses, making it easy to switch between modes of transport.

A. Types of Tickets

  • Single Ticket: €1.90 (valid for 1 hour, unlimited transfers within that time).
  • Round-Trip Ticket: €3.60.
  • 24-Hour Pass: €4.80 (unlimited travel for 24 hours).
  • Group Ticket: €7.20 (valid for up to 3 people for unlimited travel for 24 hours).
  • Monthly Pass: €52.00 (unlimited travel for one month).
  • Youth and Student Discounts: Reduced fares are available for students and young people under 26.

B. Where to Buy Tickets

  • Ticket machines at tram stops (accept cash and cards).
  • CTS mobile app (for digital tickets).
  • CTS offices and authorized retailers (e.g., tobacconists).
  • Onboard buses (single tickets only, cash required).

C. Validation

Tickets must be validated at the start of your journey using the machines on trams or buses. Failure to validate can result in fines of up to €60.

3. Cycling in Strasbourg

Strasbourg is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe, with over 600 kilometers of cycling paths.

A. Bike Rentals

  • Vélhop: The city’s official bike rental service. You can rent bikes for short or long periods.
    • Cost: €1 per hour, €5 per day, or €20 per week. Monthly and annual subscriptions are also available.
    • Where to Rent: Vélhop stations are located throughout the city, including near major tram stops and the train station.
  • Private bike rental shops are also available.

B. Tips for Cyclists

  • Use designated bike lanes and respect traffic rules.
  • Lock your bike securely when parked, as bike theft can occur.
  • Helmets are not mandatory but are recommended for safety.

4. Walking in Strasbourg

Strasbourg’s historic city center, including the UNESCO-listed Grande Île, is highly walkable. Many streets are pedestrian-only, and the compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot.

Local Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore cobblestone streets in the old town.

5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis are available but can be expensive compared to public transport. Ride-sharing services like Uber also operate in Strasbourg.

  • Taxi Costs: Starting fare is around €2.50, with an additional €1.50–€2 per kilometer. Night and weekend rates are higher.
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber and BlaBlaCar (for intercity travel) are popular options.

6. Accessibility

Strasbourg is committed to accessibility for people with reduced mobility.

  • Trams: All tram stations and vehicles are wheelchair-accessible.
  • Buses: Most buses are equipped with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs.
  • Vélhop: Electric bikes are available for those who need extra assistance.

7. Regional and International Travel

Strasbourg is well-connected to other cities in France and Europe.

A. Train Travel

  • Gare de Strasbourg: The city’s main train station offers high-speed TGV services to Paris (2 hours), Lyon, and other major cities. Regional TER trains connect Strasbourg to nearby towns and Germany.
  • Cost: TGV tickets to Paris start at €25 if booked in advance.

B. Cross-Border Travel

  • Tram Line D: Connects Strasbourg to Kehl, Germany, making it easy to explore the neighboring country.
  • Buses: Regional buses also connect Strasbourg to German towns.

8. Local Tips for Efficient Travel

  • Avoid Rush Hours: Trams and buses can get crowded during peak hours (7:30–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM).
  • Plan Ahead: Use the CTS app or website to check schedules and plan your route.
  • Explore by Bike: For short distances, cycling is often faster than public transport.
  • Use Park-and-Ride: If driving into Strasbourg, park on the outskirts to avoid traffic and high parking fees in the city center.

Strasbourg’s transportation system is designed to be eco-friendly, efficient, and accessible, making it easy for visitors and residents alike to navigate the city. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the historic center, or venturing into the surrounding countryside, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs.