A slow revolution on two wheels

Strasbourg did not become France’s cycling capital overnight. It took decades of planning, a few stubborn mayors and a healthy dose of common sense. Back in the 1970s, cycling was in decline like everywhere else. Cars were king and the city centre was choking on traffic fumes.

Then came the turning point. In 1978, Strasbourg launched its first cycling master plan. The idea was simple: build bike paths that avoided cars. So they followed rivers, canals and parks. Not exactly rocket science, but surprisingly effective.

In 1983, the city introduced two-way bike lanes. At the time, this was considered radical. Today, it’s just called “not ridiculous”.

A mayor with pedals in mind

The real boost came in 1989 when Catherine Trautmann became mayor. She ditched plans for a metro and backed the tram instead. That meant fewer cars in the centre and more space for bikes. She also happened to be a member of a cycling advocacy group. Coincidence? Not really.

Since then, every mayor has added their own twist. The current administration, led by Jeanne Barseghian, has gone full eco-mode. More bike lanes, fewer parking spots and a general push to make driving feel like a bad idea.

The city even launched something called the “ring modulable” which sounds fancy but is basically a big loop for bikes and pedestrians around the centre. It’s meant to keep cyclists out of pedestrian zones and vice versa. A noble goal, even if some cyclists still think bells are optional.

Parking: the punishment for not biking

If you insist on driving, prepare to pay. Parking in the city centre is not cheap. In the red zone, two hours will cost you 8 euros. Stay longer and you’ll hit 35 euros faster than you can say “I should’ve cycled”.

There are cheaper options in the green zone, but good luck finding a spot. The city is actively reducing street parking to make room for bike lanes and wider pavements.

Residents can get a monthly parking card, but even that comes with conditions and rising prices. Basically, Strasbourg wants you to park your car somewhere far away and forget about it.

A city built for bikes

Today, Strasbourg boasts over 600 kilometres of bike paths. That’s more than any other city in France. It’s also one of the top cycling cities in Europe, just behind places like Copenhagen and Amsterdam.

Around 16 percent of workers commute by bike. The city also has a bike-sharing system called Vélhop with thousands of bikes available 24/7.

Cycling is not just a mode of transport here. It’s a lifestyle, a statement and occasionally a race to beat the tram.

If you’re visiting, rent a bike. If you live there, buy one. And if you’re still driving, well, enjoy your parking ticket.