Strasbourg
France’s cycling capital: a 600+ km network, canal greenways, and cross‑border links fuel daily riding. Vélostras superhighways and Vélhop public rentals make two wheels the most logical way to explore.
Stolen Bikes in Strasbourg
Bike theft is an ongoing challenge in Strasbourg — current risk: Very High; unofficial estimates up to ~5,000/year. Learn how to protect your ride with our Security Tips and understand coverage options in the Insurance Guide. If your bike was taken, you can report a stolen bike in Strasbourg to alert the community.
At a glance
Daily riders
11% of trips metro‑wide (2019); ~15% in center
Dedicated paths
600+ km Eurometropolis network; Vélostras 130 km planned
Bike sharing stations
30
Theft risk
Very High; unofficial estimates up to ~5,000/year
Stolen bikes are commonly targeted near transit hubs and popular areas. Use two quality locks and register your frame number.
Quick map
Open Strasbourg on the map
Why it’s special
Largest cycling network in France (600+ km).
Vélostras: 130 km cycle superhighways (radial + ring).
Modal share: 11% metro; ~15% in the center (2019).
Flat routes along canals: Bruche, Marne‑au‑Rhin, Rhine riverbanks.
Car use fell from 53%→36% (1997–2019) as cycling grew.
Cross‑border ride to Kehl via Passerelle des Deux Rives.
Secure VéloParcs at Gare Centrale (24/7, monitored, cargo‑ready).
Vélhop rentals: self‑service “Loop System” + agency (e‑bikes, cargo).
Safety tips
Use lights at night (white/yellow front, red rear) and required reflectors.
Ride on the right; use cycle paths where available; no sidewalks (8+).
No phone in hand; no headphones/earbuds while riding.
Helmets mandatory under 12; recommended for others.
Yield to pedestrians at crossings; obey red lights and stop signs.
Ride like a local
Rules that matter
- Mandatory equipment: two brakes, bell, front/rear/pedal/wheel reflectors; lights at night.
- Ride with traffic on the right; use signed cycle paths when present.
- No phone in hand; no headphones/earphones in both ears.
- No sidewalk riding (ages 8+). Helmet required for children <12.
- Hi‑vis vest required at night/low visibility outside built‑up areas.
- Some junctions allow signed bike yield on red—otherwise stop for red lights.
Typical fines (EUR)
Unwritten etiquette
- Keep a steady line; keep right; pass left and ring politely.
- Share canals and promenades respectfully; watch for tourists.
- Make eye contact at crossings; yield to pedestrians.
Security & parking
Parking like a pro
- Prefer VéloParc Gare (≈760 spaces) or Sainte‑Aurélie (≈680) for long stays.
- Use two high‑quality locks; capture the frame to a fixed rack.
- Avoid trees and street furniture; do not block footways or doors.
- Overnight: choose monitored facilities or hotel bike rooms.
Theft & lock strategy
- Theft risk is high—use a heavy U‑lock + secondary chain/cable.
- Lock in bright, busy areas; remove e‑bike batteries/displays.
- Ensure bikes are marked with a unique ID (French anti‑theft marking).
- If stolen, file a police report and share frame ID and photos.
VéloParc Gare Centrale (Secure Bike Parking)
High‑capacity, access‑controlled bike parking under the station canopy (≈760 spaces) with video surveillance and cargo spaces; ideal for safe day/overnight storage.
Rent a bike
L'Increvable
City ≈€15/day
City • Hybrid • Cargo
Alsa Cyclo Tours
E‑bike ≈€45/day; tours available
E‑bike • Touring
One City Tours
≈€29/day incl. helmet/lock
City
Epic day trips
Piste des Forts (Forts Trail) • ≈85 km loop
Ring around the metropolis, crossing the Rhine into Germany and linking 19 historic forts.
Canal de la Bruche → Molsheim • ≈20–22 km one‑way
Shaded towpath from Montagne Verte to Molsheim; train options for the return.
Canal de la Marne au Rhin → Saverne • ≈40 km one‑way
Flat canal route through fields and villages north of Strasbourg.
Cross‑border to Kehl • ≈16 km round trip
Ride over the Passerelle des Deux Rives into Germany; cafés and gardens en route.
What’s next
Vélostras (Express Bike Network)
130 km hub‑and‑spoke superhighways (10 radials + 2 rings) with €100M budget (2022–2026).
Canal corridor upgrades
Continuity and surface improvements on Bruche and Rhine corridors.
Your perfect day
Grande‑Île & Petite France
Start at Cathédrale Notre‑Dame; roll canals and timbered streets to Ponts Couverts and Barrage Vauban.
Neustadt axis
Head east into the imperial quarter—Palais du Rhin, wide boulevards, and grand stone facades.
European Quarter
Cycle past the European Parliament, Council of Europe, and the ECHR buildings amid parks and water.
Parc de l'Orangerie
Finish with a calm loop among lakes and storks in the city’s beloved park.
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Frequently asked questions
Can tourists use Vélhop self‑service?
Yes. Register in the app; scan to unlock. Note the Loop System—return to the origin station to avoid a €25 fee (max rental 48 hours).
Where should I park overnight?
Use VéloParc Gare or Sainte‑Aurélie (24/7 access, video surveillance, cargo spaces) or hotel bike rooms.
What are common fines?
Examples: ~€135 for red lights, sidewalk riding, or phone/headphones; ~€11 for no lights at night; ~€35 for not signaling.
Is Strasbourg flat and beginner‑friendly?
Yes—largely flat on the Alsace plain with short distances and continuous paths; perfect for all levels.
Can I ride to Germany?
Yes—cross the Rhine on the Passerelle des Deux Rives to Kehl for an easy international outing.