How To Reach Strasbourg

A city renowned for its historical monuments, Strasbourg is one of the three main capitals of the European Union and located in north-eastern France. The city comes under the administration of the Alsace-Champagne-Ardenne-Lorraine region and derives most of its cultural identity from an antiquated blend of German and French traditions. Strasbourg’s eastern border is formed by the River Rhine, with the River Íle flowing right through the city; this strategic location of the city has ensured that Strasbourg serves as one of the most important river ports in the country. One of the most attractive features of the city is its amalgamation of contemporary cultural growth with its old-school historic landmarks. Brimming with numerous points-of-interest that are capable of keeping even the most weathered travellers occupied for days at a stretch, planning a trip to Strasbourg should undeniably feature on everyone’s bucket list. Here are some of the best and most convenient ways to reach Strasbourg.

Air connection to Strasbourg can prove a little complicated to unseasoned travellers. Strasbourg International Airport operates both domestic and international flights and is situated within 10 km from the city centre. However, flights coming into Strasbourg Airport directly are often expensive and usually priced keeping business travellers in mind. For a cheaper alternative, leisure travellers are better off catching a flight to other airports situated nearby.

The Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport is located in France but is jointly operated by France and Switzerland. The Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport is located in Germany. Both these airports operate some of the cheapest flights and are a great option for budget travellers. Take the train from either airport to reach Strasbourg, which usually involves one or two changes at the local railway station.

Alternatively, travellers can first catch a flight to Frankfurt International Airport in Germany, which is also one of the closest airports from Strasbourg operating intercontinental flights. High-speed trains from the Frankfurt Airport will take you to Strasbourg in just under two hours. The Lufthansa Express Bus also connects the airport to Strasbourg multiple times a day and takes about the same duration as the train to reach your destination. This bus can be used by all travellers independent of any flight. 

Strasbourg’s main railway station, Gare de Strasbourg, is served by a number of local, national and international train networks. Being located right on the border of France and Germany, travellers can avail rail services from either country to reach Strasbourg. If getting in from France, the high-speed TGV train can be used to reach Strasbourg from cities like Paris, Dijon, Lyon, Marseille etc. in an expedited manner. The SNCF also operates regular trains from cities around France.

For those travelling from the German side, the Deutsche Bahn is the busiest railway line serving Strasbourg. The German Inter-City-Express (ICE) trains also have routes to other destinations that connect to Strasbourg on the way; Offenburg is the closest ICE station from Strasbourg.

While trains are a more convenient way to reach Strasbourg, bus services can also be availed from several European cities. The company Eurolines has services from Amsterdam, Berlin, London, Milan, Venice and many others. Flixbus is another company that is one of the biggest players in both the German and French market.

If you plan to drive or take a cab, Strasbourg can be reached via several highways. Take the A5 highway if coming in from Germany; the A35 highway if coming in from the south like Lyon or Switzerland; and the A4 highway if coming in from the west, like Paris.  

Strasbourg’s city centre is best explored on foot. The public transport system in the city is pretty extensive as well, with dozens of bus lines and six tram lines making commuting within Strasbourg quite convenient. Being a bike-friendly city, a rented bicycle is also a great way to go about exploring the city at your leisure.