Strasbourg Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

CTS App
Official app for public transport schedules and routes.
Google Maps / Apple Maps
Walking directions, public transport routes; download offline maps.
Google Translate / DeepL
Overcome language barriers; download French language pack.
TheFork (La Fourchette)
Find restaurants and make reservations, often with discounts.
Uber / Bolt
Ride-sharing services for alternative transport.

Useful Websites for Planning

Strasbourg Tourist Office
Visit Www.strasbourg.eu/en/home/ for attractions, events, and practical advice.
CTS Public Transport
Go to Www.cts-strasbourg.eu/en/ for maps, fares, and schedules.
SNCF Connect
Book train tickets across France at Www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/.
Deutsche Bahn
For Germany train tickets, use Www.bahn.com/en.
Booking.com
Accommodation bookings are at Www.booking.com/city/fr/strasbourg.html.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

General France guidebooks, like Rick Steves France, include Strasbourg. The Michelin Green Guide Alsace Lorraine Champagne offers cultural insights.

Strasbourg City Map

Books about the Destination

Seek books on Alsatian cuisine, like 'Alsace: A Culinary History'.

Local Publications

Upon arrival, pick up free local newspapers or event guides (e.g., ZAP) from tourist offices or cultural venues.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

All emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112
Police (Police Secours): 17
Fire Brigade (Sapeurs-Pompiers): 18
Medical Emergency (SAMU): 15

Hospital & Consulate

Main Public Hospital: Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg (CHU Strasbourg)
U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg: 15 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, 67000 Strasbourg
Most other countries' main embassies are in Paris.
Private clinics are also city-wide.

Lost Documents & Safety

Report lost/stolen documents to local police immediately.
Obtain a police report for replacement.
Contact your country's embassy or consulate for document replacement.
Natural disasters are rare; follow local authority instructions during extreme weather.

Essential Preparations

Chronological Planning Timeline

+ Months Before

Passport Validity: Confirm 3-month validity beyond Schengen departure.
Visa/ETIAS: Research France's visa needs for your nationality.
Flight Bookings: Secure long-haul flights early.
Major Tours: Research and book popular tours (e.g., Batorama).

-2 Months Before

Accommodation: Book hotel, apartment, or hostel.
Itinerary: Plan a rough itinerary for daily activities.
Travel Insurance: Acquire comprehensive Travel insurance.
Currency/Bank: Get Euros; notify bank for international card use.

-4 Weeks Before

Restaurant Reservations: Book high-end restaurants.
Tour Confirmation: Confirm pre-booked tours and tickets.
First-Aid Kit: Assemble a personalized kit with prescriptions.
Download Apps: Get navigation, translation, and local transport apps.

Pre-Trip Planning

Final Week Preparations

Reconfirm all flight, accommodation, and tour bookings.
Make printed and digital copies of all important documents.
Arrange for pet-sitting or house-sitting; pause mail.

Immediate Pre-Departure

Charge all electronic devices (phone, camera, power bank).
Check the latest weather forecast for Strasbourg.
Inform friends or family of your itinerary and contact details.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear immigration procedures at your first Schengen entry point.
Collect your luggage from baggage claim.
Locate an ATM for Euros or confirm credit/debit card function.

Orientation & Transport

Obtain a local map; pinpoint your accommodation.
Confirm the best route to your accommodation.
Familiarize yourself with public transport to your lodging.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure.
If buying large items, inquire about shipping costs at the store.
Consider using Eagle Creek packing organizers for efficient packing.
Ensure fragile items are well-protected for transit.
Keep receipts for any potential VAT refunds.

VAT Refund Procedures

Non-EU residents claim VAT refunds on purchases over a certain amount.
Ask for a "détaxe" form at the point of purchase.
Complete the form and keep your receipts.
At your final EU departure point, present forms, goods, and passport to customs.
Follow instructions for receiving your refund (cash or credit card).

Return Trip Planning

Confirm Travel Times

Confirm flight or train times and check for delays or changes before heading to the airport or station.

Strategic Packing

Pack strategically for ease of transit, ensuring carry-on liquids comply with security rules.

Accessible Documents

Keep all important travel documents (passport, boarding passes) easily accessible for check-in and security.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive at the airport with ample time, especially if VAT refunds are processed. Allow 2-3 hours for international flights. For high-speed trains, arrive 20-30 minutes before departure.

Digital Safety

Staying Secure Online

VPN for Public Wi-Fi

Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A VPN, like NordVPN, encrypts your internet connection.
Protect data on public Wi-Fi
Important for security when using hotel or cafe Wi-Fi.
Guard against cyber threats
Keeps your personal information secure from prying eyes.

Secure Transactions

Use secure payment methods
Prefer credit cards with fraud protection.
Consider mobile payment apps
Many apps offer enhanced security features.
Monitor bank statements
Regularly check for suspicious activity during your trip.

Digital Communication

Local SIM Cards

Consider purchasing a local SIM card for reliable data and calls. This is often more cost-effective than international roaming plans.

Email Alerts

Set up email alerts for financial transactions. This helps you quickly spot any unauthorized card activity.

Cloud Backups

Regularly back up photos and important documents to a cloud service. This safeguards your memories and information.

Strasbourg Travel Resources