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Your Student Status Unlocks Big Savings in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a vibrant student city, home to the University of Strasbourg and thousands of young people from across Europe. If you’re studying here, you can save significantly on everyday expenses—from public transport and museum entries to meals and shopping. This guide explains exactly how to get a student discount in Strasbourg, covering the most useful cards, apps, and insider tips.
What You Need to Prove Your Student Status
To access most student discounts, you’ll need a valid student ID card from your institution. Many places also accept the international ISIC (International Student Identity Card).
Your University Student Card
Your university-issued card is accepted at most local venues, including museums, cinemas, and restaurants. Keep it with you at all times. Some places may ask for a second form of ID, so carry your passport or residence permit as backup.
The ISIC Card – Worth It?
The ISIC card is an internationally recognized student ID that can unlock discounts beyond what your university card offers. In Strasbourg, ISIC holders often get reduced rates at attractions like the Strasbourg Cathedral observatory platform and the Alsatian Museum. The card costs around €15 and is valid for one academic year. If you travel frequently, it pays for itself quickly.
Transport Discounts for Students
Getting around Strasbourg is affordable with student fares on trams, buses, and trains.
CTS (Strasbourg Transport Company) Student Pass
The CTS offers a monthly student pass for €27.60 (valid for those under 26 and enrolled in a recognized institution). This pass gives unlimited access to trams and buses within the Strasbourg urban area. You can buy it online or at CTS sales points with your student ID and a passport photo.
SNCF Train Discounts for Students
For regional and long-distance trains, the SNCF offers a Avantage Jeune card (for ages 12–27) at €49 per year. This card gives 30% off TGV INOUI and Intercité trains, and up to 50% off on weekends. If you’re under 26, you can also get the SNCF Max Jeune pass for unlimited travel in the Grand Est region (€79/month).
Bike Sharing – Vélhop
Strasbourg’s bike-sharing system, Vélhop, offers a student subscription for €5 per year (instead of €10). This includes unlimited 30-minute trips. Perfect for short hops around the city center.
Cultural and Leisure Discounts
Strasbourg is rich in museums, theaters, and festivals. Students often get in for free or at reduced prices.
Museums and Monuments
The Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain (MAMCS) offers free entry to students under 26. The Strasbourg Cathedral platform costs €5.50 for students (full price €8). The Palais Rohan museums give a reduced rate of €4 for students. Always show your student ID at the ticket counter.
Cinemas and Theaters
Major cinemas like UGC Ciné Cité and Cinéma Star offer student tickets for around €6–7 (regular price €10). Theaters such as Théâtre National de Strasbourg have student rates starting at €8. Check their websites for specific shows.
Sports and Recreation
The Strasbourg University Sports Service (SUAPS) offers low-cost access to gyms, pools, and sports clubs. A semester pass costs about €30. Additionally, the Piscine de la Kibitzenau offers student entry at €2.50 (full price €4).
Food and Drink Deals for Students
Eating out in Strasbourg can be expensive, but student discounts help.
University Restaurants (RU)
The CROUS-run university restaurants serve three-course meals for €3.30 (subsidized price for students). You can pay with your student card or cash. Locations include the Gallia and Esplanade campuses.
Student Nights and Happy Hours
Many bars and restaurants near the university offer student discounts on certain days. For example, Le Saint-Sébastien gives 10% off with a student ID. La Choucrouterie has a student menu for €12 (including a drink). Always ask if there’s a student rate before ordering.
Shopping and Services
From clothing to electronics, student discounts are available at many stores.
Clothing and Accessories
Brands like Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo occasionally offer student discounts (usually 10–15%) during back-to-school promotions. Sign up for their loyalty programs to get notified. The Centre Commercial Rivetoile has a student loyalty card that gives points and exclusive offers.
Technology and Software
Apple offers student pricing on MacBooks and iPads (around 10% off). Microsoft provides Office 365 for free for students (with your university email). Adobe offers up to 60% off Creative Cloud subscriptions. Check your university’s IT department for software deals.
Mobile Plans
French mobile operators like Free, Orange, and SFR have student plans starting at €9.99/month for 50GB data. Compare offers on LesMobiles.com or UFC-Que Choisir.
Digital Discounts and Apps
Don’t overlook online platforms that aggregate student deals.
UNiDAYS and Student Beans
These apps provide digital student discount codes for online shopping. Brands like ASOS, Adidas, and Spotify offer 10–20% off. Sign up with your university email.
Pass Culture
If you’re under 18, the French government’s Pass Culture gives you €300 to spend on cultural activities (concerts, books, cinema). For those 18–20, it’s €20–50 per year. Download the app and use it in Strasbourg.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not asking for the student rate – Always ask “Avez-vous un tarif étudiant?” before paying. Many places don’t advertise discounts.
- Expired ID – Ensure your student card is valid. Some venues check the date.
- Missing the ISIC card – For international travel or online deals, the ISIC often works better than a local card.
- Ignoring CROUS benefits – The CROUS offers housing, grants, and meal subsidies. Register early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my foreign student ID in Strasbourg?
Yes, most venues accept foreign student IDs, especially if they have an expiry date and photo. However, some may prefer the ISIC card for consistency.
Do I need to be under 26 for student discounts in Strasbourg?
Not always. Many discounts are for students of any age, but some transport and museum deals have an age cap (usually 26). Check the terms.
Is there a student discount for the Strasbourg Christmas Market?
Generally, the market itself is free, but some rides and attractions (like the Ferris wheel) offer student rates. Show your ID.
Can I get a student discount at restaurants near the university?
Yes, many independent restaurants near campus offer 10–15% off for students. Look for signs or ask the staff.
How do I get the CTS student pass?
Visit a CTS agency (e.g., at Homme de Fer station) with your student ID, a passport photo, and €27.60. You can also apply online via the CTS website.
What is the best student discount app for Strasbourg?
UNiDAYS and the ISIC app are most useful. Also, the CTS app helps you buy transport tickets.
Next Steps: Start Saving Today
Now that you know how to get a student discount in Strasbourg, take action. First, get your student ID ready and consider buying an ISIC card. Second, visit your nearest CTS agency to get the student transport pass. Third, download UNiDAYS and check for online deals. Finally, always ask for the student rate—you’ll be surprised how often it’s available. With these tips, you can enjoy Strasbourg on a budget while focusing on your studies.
Photo by Jonathan Marchal on Unsplash
Thanks for the tips! The ISIC card sounds useful for travel. Is it worth getting if I mostly stay in Strasbourg?
If you stay mostly in Strasbourg, your university card covers most local discounts. However, the ISIC can still be handy for occasional trips or at places that specifically accept it. For €15, it’s a small investment.
Can I use the SNCF Avantage Jeune card for TER trains in Alsace?
Yes, the Avantage Jeune card gives you 30% off on TER trains as well, including those in Alsace. It’s valid for all SNCF trains, so it’s a great option for regional travel.
Are there any student discounts for eating out or grocery shopping in Strasbourg?
Some restaurants offer student menus or discounts, like Flunch or quick-service places near the university. For groceries, major chains like Carrefour or Lidl occasionally have student promotions, but it’s not standardized. Always ask and show your student ID.
Do I need to carry my student ID everywhere, or is a digital copy on my phone usually accepted?
It’s best to carry the physical card. While some places may accept a digital copy, many require the original. Having your passport or residence permit as backup is also a good idea.
I’m over 26 but still a student. Can I still get the CTS student pass?
The CTS student pass is only valid for those under 26. If you’re older, you can consider the regular monthly pass at €56.70, or explore other options like the 10-trip ticket.