Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Strasbourg. Strasbourg Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave SXB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for France. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Strasbourg takes about 40 minutes by TER Train Shuttle. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What’s Worth Seeing in Strasbourg
Two recommendations for your time in Strasbourg:
Start with Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg). A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel. Then, if time allows, make your way to La Petite France. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Strasbourg.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SXB, you can spend time at Salon VIP (VIP Lounge) or try Relay Store. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Strasbourg Layover
For food in Strasbourg, local travelers recommend Winstub S’kaechele. If you have time for a second stop, Maison Kammerzell is another popular pick.
Back at SXB, Le Grand Comptoir is the go-to. Le Comptoir Express rounds out your in-terminal options.
The Best Way Into Strasbourg from SXB
You have two main options for getting from Strasbourg Airport into town:
- TER Train Shuttle: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Strasbourg:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Strasbourg.
Luggage Storage at SXB
Specific locker facilities at SXB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Strasbourg itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SXB should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in France and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at SXB
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SXB.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Strasbourg is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Strasbourg.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.