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Strasbourg Travel Resources

Strasbourg Travel Resources

Grand Est France Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • CTS App

    Official app for bus and train schedules and routes.

  • Maps On YOUR Phone Like google maps / apple maps

    Directions for walking, public transport routes; download offline maps.

  • Google Translate / DeepL

    Overcome language barriers; download The french tongue pack.

  • TheFork (La Fourchette)

    Find restaurants and make reservations, often with discounts.

  • Uber / Bolt

    Ride-sharing services for alternative transport.

Useful Websites for Planning

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 area newspapers or event guides (e.g., ZAP) from tourist offices or cultural venues.

Further Reading & Exploration

Digital Content & Communities

  • Search for documentaries or travel films about Alsace.
  • Explore traditional Alsatian folk music.
  • Participate in online travel forums like TripAdvisor.
  • Use apps like Babbel to learn basic French.

Cultural Immersion

  • Familiarize yourself with Alsatian artists or regional art movements.
  • Visit the Musée Tomi Ungerer for local artistic genius.
  • Join Facebook travel communities for Strasbourg insights.
  • Discover podcasts or YouTube channels on Alsace.

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 within Paris.
  • Private clinics are also city-wide.

Lost Documents & Safety

  • Report lost/stolen your documents to the local police right away.
  • Obtain a police report for replacement.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate for document replacement.
  • Natural disasters are rare; follow the guidance of local officials 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 get your flights ahead of time.
  • 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-upscale eateries.
  • 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 be certain credit/debit card function.

Orientation & Transport

  • Obtain a local map; pinpoint your accommodation.
  • Confirm the best route to your accommodation.
  • Familiarize yourself with mass transit to your lodging.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping

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

VAT Refund Procedures

  1. Non-EU residents claim VAT refunds on purchases over a certain amount.
  2. Inquire about a "détaxe" develop at the point of purchase.
  3. Complete the form and keep your receipts.
  4. At your final EU departure point, present forms, goods, and passport to customs.
  5. Follow steps 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 transportation hub.

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 time to spare, especially if VAT refunds are processed. Allow 2-3 hours for international flights. For high-high-speed trains, be THERE two0-30 minutes before departure.

Digital Safety

Staying Secure Online

VPN for Public Wi-Fi

  • Utilize 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 warnings for financial transactions. This aids you quickly spot any unauthorized card activity.

Cloud Backups

Regularly create backups of pictures and important files to a cloud service. This safeguards your memories and information.

Staying Informed

Travel Advisories

  • Check your government's travel advisories before and during your trip.
  • Stay informed about any local alerts or recommendations.
  • Official sources provide current safety details.
  • Be aware of any warnings.

Local News & Social Media

  • Follow local news sources for immediate updates.
  • Monitor official Strasbourg tourism social media accounts.
  • These often share event information and disruptions.
  • Plan your daily movements around city advisories.

General Safety Practices

Personal Vigilance

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in busy places.
  • Guard your valuables against pickpockets.
  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
  • Blend in with local attire to avoid standing out.

Nighttime Safety

  • Stick to well-well-lit and populated areas after dark.
  • Use reputable taxis or ride-shares if returning late.
  • Understand your route back to accommodation.
  • Consider walking with a companion at night.
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