From its ancient past to its progressive future, Strasbourg is used to bridging a divide. Lying on the border where France meets Germany on the Rhine River, the city represents a major geographical and cultural transition point. With an idiosyncratic Alsatian character that combines Gallic charm with Teutonic efficiency, Strasbourg’s medieval marvels, celebrated cafe culture and booming economy make it one of the most alluring cities in Europe.
Strasbourg is also one of the de facto capitals of the European Union (alongside Brussels and Luxembourg), making it a centre of politics and finance. As the 7th largest city in France, the capital of the Bas-Rhin département is increasingly becoming one of the country’s most popular destinations for entrepreneurs, young professionals, students and intrepid adventurers alike.
Strasbourg apartments come in a range of options; from premium high-rise condominiums to old-fashioned townhouses. The average monthly rental price for 1-bedroom apartments in Strasbourg is between €450 and €650 in the city centre and between €400 and €500 in cheaper parts of town. Prices can also vary depending on an apartment’s size, style, age and access to amenities.
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Types of Accommodations in Strasbourg
Strasbourg Apartments by District
Strasbourg is a flagship city with a global reputation for authenticity and originality. With its huge cathedral, many museums and dynamic downtown area, Strasbourg is home to a number of iconic landmarks. In fact, several areas of the city are recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. From Place Kléber to Krutenau, this city has it all.
If you are thinking of moving to Strasbourg in France, you’ll have the Alsace-Lorraine region and beyond right at your fingertips. As with moving to any new city, there are a number of things you should take into consideration.
It’s certainly advisable to research the city’s cost of living; including variables such as accommodation, utilities, groceries, clothing and transport. This will give you some much-needed financial leeway as you get used to Alsatian life.
You should also research the different neighbourhoods of the city. This will give you a good gauge of how safe an area is, how many local amenities are nearby, and what type of property you’re likely to find.
More Attractive Areas for Strasbourg Apartments
Petite France Apartments
Famous for its charming half-timbered buildings, cobbled plazas and outdoor cafes, Petite France is like something straight out of a fairytale. The most picturesque part of town, Petite France is typified by classic Alsatian half-timbered houses which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries.
This charming area of Old Strasbourg used to be frequented by fishermen, tanners and millers. Nowadays you’re more likely to come across businessmen and tourists parading through its bustling streets. The lovely Ill river flows alongside this district; making it an ideal place to relax with an ice-cold Kronenbourg or take your better half for a romantic waterside meal.
This world-renowned neighbourhood is perhaps best known for its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. History lovers can take a walk along old German fortifications, while lovers of the arts and crafts can peruse the area’s abundance of stalls and souvenir shops. The mighty Strasbourg cathedral is also within walking distance, looming large over the district with an air of Gothic opulence.
Due to its central location and popularity with tourists, accommodation in Petite France is amongst the priciest in Strasbourg. The majority of apartments in Petite France are renovated old buildings, and are often quite compact when it comes to size due to the age of the architecture in the area. More modern options are available, although prices vary depending on size and location. You certainly get what you pay for, however, as you’ll have one of the most beautiful districts in all of Europe right on your doorstep.
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L’Orangerie Apartments
Located to the northeast of the Grand-Île, l’Orangerie is one of the most regal and resplendent districts in Strasbourg. Several prominent European institutions of major renown have their home here, including the Council of Europe, the European Parliament, and a number of diplomatic missions and consulates. With such high-calibre clientele, the area has a host of upscale hotels, restaurants and cafes.
The neighbourhood takes its name from the vast 2,600-hectare Parc de l’Orangerie, which is an idyllic and relaxing oasis in the middle of the metropolis. Originally dedicated by Napoleon to his wife Joséphine, this luscious green space is one of the city’s most notable attractions. Perfect for brisk walks, picnics or even a spot of bird-watching, Parc de l’Orangerie is as splendid as any park in Europe.
Unsurprisingly, l’Orangerie apartments tend to be on the pricey side - your neighbours will be ambassadors and diplomats after all! Accommodation here mostly consists of old-fashioned townhouses and premium accommodation, although it’s also possible to find rooms to rent.
For a hassle-free way to find apartments for rent in l’Orangerie, you’ve come to the right place.
Esplanade Apartments
The district of Esplanade used to be the site of a vast barracks, but this area’s militaristic past has given way to a progressive future.
As the home of the Université de Strasbourg, cosmopolitan Esplanade is the academic and intellectual heart of the city. Stretching from the Neustadt to the Krutenau, the university campus covers a large area and is characterised by two flagship buildings; the law faculty and the chemistry (both built in 1962).
The neighbourhood is not just limited to the university, however. Here you’ll find plenty of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, with many catering especially towards the needs of the area’s large student population. And that’s not all. With various sports centres, nightclubs and the verdant Parc de la Citadelle all within walking distance, you’ll have everything you need right outside your front door.
If you are looking for an apartment in Esplanade, you should expect to face a lot of competition - especially if you are a student. Accommodation here comes in an array of different styles; from modern condominiums to 19th-century apartment blocks. It’s possible to find affordable accommodation options, although prices can vary substantially depending on variables such as an apartment’s size, style, age and location.
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Student Accommodation in Strasbourg
With over 46,000 students from all across the globe, Strasbourg is home to a vibrant and thriving student community. Founded in 2009, the University of Strasbourg was created through the merger of three previously existing institutions: Strasbourg I (Louis Pasteur University), Strasbourg II (Marc Bloch University) and Strasbourg III (Robert Schuman University). The second-largest university in France, it’s also rapidly becoming one of the most esteemed academic institutions in the country.
Official student housing in Strasbourg is in short demand, so most students opt for private accommodation. Aside from being more readily available, private housing gives students much more options in terms of location and price range. Sharing a private flat can cost anywhere between €300 and €600 per month. Prices can vary depending on a number of variables include location, size and number of amenities.
A typical student residence in Strasbourg can range from a modern shared flat in the suburbs to an old-fashioned studio apartment in a more central area. Most students opt to live near campus (in and around Esplanade), although the city’s excellent transport links allow for an easy commute if you should choose to live further afield.
If you are looking for student residence in Strasbourg, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Nestpick we cut out dodgy landlords and untrustworthy estate agents; offering a comprehensive selection of certified student housing in Strasbourg that combines safety, comfort and affordability.
Transportation in Strasbourg
Strasbourg’s outstanding public transport system is operated by CTS, and consists of trains, trams and buses. With great links to the rest of France (and Europe), the city is also a fantastic transit point if you are a regular traveller. As you’d expect with a modern European city, public transportation in Strasbourg is quick, efficient, comfortable and affordable.
With 6 super-efficient lines, 56km of tracks, 69 stations and over 300,000 daily commuters, Strasbourg’s tram system is the largest in France. The city’s main tram hub is Homme de Fer, and trams generally operate until 12:30am.
Strasbourg's bus system has 30 urban lines with 283 buses, and 11 interurban lines with 57 buses. Together, these bus lines carry passengers over 11 million kilometres each year. Buses operate until around 11pm each night. Night buses also operate on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30pm to 5:30am, stopping off at major nightlife hotspots throughout the city.
Tickets are valid on both buses and trams. They can be purchased on buses or from machines at tram stops - costing €1.70 for a single and €3.30 for a return. The 24h Individuel (€4.30 for one person) and Trio (€6.80 for two or three people) tickets are sold at tourist offices and tram stops, and are valid for 24 hours.