Strasbourg is a compact, student-friendly city with excellent public transport and cycling infrastructure. Whether you’re studying at the University of Strasbourg, EM Strasbourg, or another institution, getting around efficiently and affordably is key. This guide covers all the options to help you navigate the city without breaking the bank.
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Public Transport: CTS Network
The Compagnie des Transports Strasbourgeois (CTS) operates trams and buses throughout the city and surrounding areas. As a student, you can benefit from reduced fares and flexible passes.
Trams: The Backbone of Strasbourg’s Transport
Strasbourg has one of the most extensive tram networks in France, with 6 lines (A, B, C, D, E, F) covering the city and suburbs. Trams run frequently: every 4-10 minutes during peak hours, and until around 12:30 AM on weekends.
Key tram stops for students:
- Université (lines B, C, E, F) – main campus
- Baggersee (line C) – near ESIEA and other schools
- Homme de Fer (lines A, B, C, D, F) – central hub
- Gare Centrale (lines A, D) – train station
Buses: Complementing the Tram
Buses cover areas not served by trams, including the Robertsau and Neuhof districts. Many bus lines connect to tram stops for easy transfers. Night buses (Noctambus) run on weekends.
Student Fares and Passes
Students under 26 can get a Badgéo card with a discounted yearly pass (around €250) or monthly passes (around €25). Single tickets cost €1.80 but are less economical if you travel often. The pass also covers the entire CTS network, including buses and trams.
| Pass Type | Price (Student) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Yearly pass | €250 | Unlimited travel |
| Monthly pass | €25 | Unlimited travel |
| 10-ticket booklet | €14.40 | Single trips |
Cycling: The Student’s Best Friend
Strasbourg is one of the most bike-friendly cities in France, with over 600 km of cycle paths. Many students choose cycling as their primary mode of transport.
Buying a Bike
You can find affordable second-hand bikes at La Petite Reine (a student-run shop) or via online marketplaces. New bikes start around €200 at Decathlon.
Vélhop: Long-Term Rental
Vélhop offers long-term bike rentals for students: €30 for 6 months or €50 for a year. The bikes are sturdy and include lights and a lock.
Vélocité: Short-Term Sharing
For occasional use, Vélocité (the city’s bike-sharing system) has stations across the city. A yearly subscription costs €25 for students, with the first 30 minutes free per trip. After that, it’s €1 per additional 30 minutes.
Pro tip: Always lock your bike securely. Theft can happen, so consider a U-lock.
Walking: Ideal for the City Center
Strasbourg’s city center (Grande Île) is walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within a 20-minute walk. The university campuses are also close to the center, making walking a viable option for many students.
Walking is free, healthy, and eco-friendly. Plus, you’ll discover hidden courtyards and cafes you might otherwise miss.
Other Transport Options
Car Sharing: Citiz
If you need a car for a day trip, Citiz offers car-sharing in Strasbourg. Students can register and pay per hour or per day. It’s cheaper than owning a car, especially if you only drive occasionally.
Train: TER for Regional Travel
For trips to nearby cities like Colmar or Nancy, the TER train is convenient. Students with a Carte Avantage Jeune (€49/year) get 30% off tickets. The Strasbourg train station is connected to the tram network.
E-Scooters and Mopeds
Electric scooters (Lime, Dott) are available for rent via app, but they can be expensive for daily use. Some students buy their own e-scooter (starting at €300) for short trips. Mopeds are less common but an option if you have a license.
Practical Tips for Student Travel
- Get a Badgéo card – it’s required for all CTS passes and can be topped up online.
- Download the CTS app for real-time schedules and ticket purchases.
- Validate your ticket every time you board a tram or bus to avoid fines (€50+).
- Check the Vélocité app for bike station availability.
- Use Google Maps or Citymapper for route planning – they include tram, bus, and bike options.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Buying single tickets for daily travel. A pass is far cheaper if you commute regularly.
Mistake 2: Not locking your bike properly. Invest in a good lock.
Mistake 3: Forgetting to validate your ticket. Inspectors are frequent and fines are steep.
Mistake 4: Ignoring the bike lanes. They are well-marked, and riding on the road can be dangerous.
FAQ: Getting Around Strasbourg as a Student
Is public transport free for students in Strasbourg?
No, but students get significant discounts on passes. The yearly student pass costs around €250, which is about €0.68 per day.
Can I take my bike on the tram?
Yes, outside peak hours (before 7 AM, 9 AM–4 PM, after 6:30 PM). You need a special bike ticket (€1.80) unless you have a yearly pass that includes bike transport.
How do I get from Strasbourg airport to the city center?
The shuttle bus (Line 2) runs every 15 minutes and takes about 20 minutes. It costs €2.50 (valid on CTS network). Alternatively, a taxi costs around €25.
Is Strasbourg walkable for students?
Yes, the city center and university areas are very walkable. Most students can walk to campus in 20–30 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get around Strasbourg?
Walking is free, but a yearly CTS pass is the cheapest if you travel daily. Cycling with Vélocité or a personal bike is also very affordable.
Do I need a car as a student in Strasbourg?
No, Strasbourg’s public transport and bike infrastructure make a car unnecessary for most students. Car-sharing is available for occasional trips.
Next Steps: Choose Your Best Option
Start by assessing your daily commute: if you live near campus and the city center, walking or biking might suffice. For longer distances or frequent trips, invest in a CTS yearly pass. Consider combining a bike for short trips and public transport for rainy days. Whichever you choose, Strasbourg’s transport system is designed to make student life easier. Welcome to Strasbourg!
Photo by Jean-Baptiste D. on Unsplash
I’ve heard about the Vélhop rental. Can you rent a bike for just one semester?
Absolutely! Vélhop offers a 6-month rental for €30, which is perfect for a semester. The bikes come with lights and a lock, and you can extend the rental if needed.
Great guide! I’m starting at the University of Strasbourg next semester. Is the yearly student pass really valid for all trams and buses, or are there any excluded lines?
Yes, the yearly student pass (Badgéo) is valid on the entire CTS network, including all tram lines (A-F) and all bus routes, as well as night buses. There are no excluded lines within the city and suburbs.