Located on the border with Germany, Strasbourg is a unique French city. It is known for its architecture, Christmas Market, and strong German influences. Flying provides the most options, as you can take a direct flight in less than 2 hours from most major cities in France. The exception here is, surprisingly, Paris. 

Private transfer and car rental are also available from almost anywhere in the country. Paris and Lyon are the closest major cities by land, located 4:30 hours away from Strasbourg. The drive from other major towns takes over 7 hours. 

If traveling by train, Paris is the most convenient point of departure, with direct trains reaching Strasbourg in under two hours. The only other major cities that have direct trains to it are Marseille and Montpellier. The trip from either is about 6 hours.

Explore more French highlights on this 9-day tour through Bordeaux, the Loire Valley, and Paris; or cross the country north to south on this 14-day family adventure.

By Plane

Duration: 1:15-3:30 hours

Given that Strasbourg is relatively far from other major cities in France, the best way to get there is by plane. 

You can take a direct flight from Lyon and Nice in 1:15 hours, from Nantes and Marseille in 1:30 hours, and from Bordeaux in 1:40 hours. Given that all these flights are less than two hours, and that there are multiple daily flights offered, this option saves you time and headaches. 

The one exception to this is Paris, which has no direct flights to Strasbourg. Total journey time depends on where and how long the layover is, but you can usually find routes that last 3:30 hours.

By Private Transfer

Duration: 4:30-9 hours

If you wish to make the journey by land, private transfer services are a great option. This way, you can enjoy the diverse landscapes without having to worry about traffic, reckless drivers, and road signs. 

Keep in mind, however, that this will take much longer if you are setting out from major cities. The trip is 4:30 hours from Paris and Lyon. It's 7:30 hours from Marseille and Montpellier, 8 hours from Nantes and Nice, and 9 hours from Bordeaux and Toulouse. 

Because of this, a private transfer might be best if you are in smaller cities in Alsace or neighboring regions. It is quite convenient from destinations like Dijon, Metz, and Nancy. 

By Car

Duration: 4:30-9 hours

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Strasbourg and the beautiful region of Alsace at your own will. 

Journey times are congruent with those of private transfers, but you will also be able to choose the route that best fits you and—what's best—the detours that interest you.

If you leave from Paris, you can take the A4 and make a stop in Reims for some champagne tasting. If departing from Lyon, you can take the A6 and then the A36 through eastern France, or take the adventure up a notch and drive through Switzerland, stopping in Geneva or Bern. 

By Train

Duration: 1:50-6 hours

Despite its cultural and historical importance, Strasbourg is relatively small compared to other major French cities. Because of this, train routes aren't as universal as one might expect. 

When traveling by train, it's always best to set out from Paris. Direct trains will get you to Strasbourg in about 1:50 hours. The other two big cities that offer direct train routes are Marseille and Montpellier. However, the length of the journey from both cities is 6 hours. 

Needless to say, if you are within the region, direct trains might be available from smaller cities.