17 Essential Apps and Websites for Your Trip to Alsace

When I first moved to Alsace’s capital, Strasbourg, in 2019, I wanted to explore every corner, but I didn’t know where to start.

I knew about the villages, castles, and food; I just didn’t know how to visit any of them. But after years of exploring this fairytale-like region, I’ve become an expert at planning trips.

So, to help you make your trip planning easier, I’ve put together a list of the best apps and websites.

I use each of these regularly and they’ve helped me discover hidden gems, get the best deals, and navigate my way around Alsace.

This is Jen Ciesielski's phone with all the apps for Alsace.
All the Apps I use for Alsace

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Transportation

1. SNCF-Connect

I use this website and app to buy my train tickets. And, if you’re planning on taking a train in Alsace, it’s a must-have.

Not only can you buy tickets, but you can also check train schedules and store your electronic ticket on your phone. It’s much easier than trying to decipher ticket machines at the train station or finding a printer to get a physical ticket.

The only downside is it can glitch at times. I usually can wait it out, but, if I’m in a rush, I will use a website called Trainline.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

2. Fluo Grand Est

This website (and app) has all the information I need to plan a trip without a car. It includes an itinerary planner, schedules, prices, and disruptions. But I mostly use it when I need to take the public bus.

Helpful Tip: The website is in French, but the app is in English.

Towns like Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé don’t have train stations and, sometimes, the public bus is the only way to get there. That’s when I use Fluo.

Helpful Tip: You can’t buy tickets using Fluo.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

3. Kutzig

This website is for the Kutzig Bus. It’s a hop-on hop-off bus that starts in Colmar, loops through some of the prettiest villages in the region, and finishes where it started.

The exact loop is – Colmar, Ribeauvillé, Hunawihr, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Turckheim, Eguisheim, and Colmar.

I’ve taken this tourist bus twice and loved it. It was more convenient than the public bus, on time, and affordable. The only downside is the schedule.

It doesn’t run year-round, so be sure to check the months of operation before planning your trip.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

4. LK Billetterie

This website is your one-stop shop for all the tourist buses in Alsace.

It includes the Navettes de Noël (which you’ll need to plan an itinerary for the Christmas markets in Alsace), Navette des Crêtes, and Navette Europa-Park.

The only thing I don’t like about this website is the lack of information about when the tickets will be available.

Availability:

  • Website

5. CTS-Strasbourg

This is the transport app for Strasbourg. It’s where I buy all my tram and bus tickets. It also has information on schedules and disruptions.

There is a website, but I rarely use it because everything I need is on the app.

Helpful Tip: There are tons of ways to get around Strasbourg and I only use public transport if I’m traveling long distances.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

6. Le Vélo Libre

If you’re looking to rent an electric bike in Alsace, this is one of the easiest ways to do it.

Through this website, you can select the bike you want (including any accessories) and the dates you want it for.

Then, before your trip, you’ll receive a code to access the shop. On your pickup day, your bikes and accessories will be in the shop waiting for you.

Just enter the code to get in and you’re all set to explore the beautiful villages of Alsace on two wheels.

Helpful Tip: There are only two pickup/dropoff locations: Colmar and Riquewihr.

Availability:

  • Website

7. Uber

By now, everyone knows about Uber. And while it’s not available in all areas of Alsace, it is an option if you’re traveling in and around Strasbourg.

I don’t use Uber that much, but it has come in handy and it’s worth having for those just-in-case scenarios.

Helpful Tip: There are a few Uber drivers in Colmar, but they aren’t as plentiful as in Strasbourg.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

8. EasyPark

Finding and paying for parking in Alsace can sometimes be a hassle. That’s where EasyPark comes in.

This app allows you to pay for your parking directly from your phone. It also has a list and map of parking lots in the area, making it easier to find a spot.

Helpful Tip: Most parking lots have an option to pay by card if you don’t want to use an app.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

Helpful Tip: There are two alternatives to EasyPark: Flowbird and PayByPhone.

9. Haut-Koenigsbourg

Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg is one of the most popular castles to visit near Strasbourg. But, if you don’t have a car, it’s not easy to get to.

Luckily, a shuttle bus runs from Sélestat’s train station to the castle. The dates of operation and timetables can be found on this website.

The only downside is its availability. During the low seasons, it’s limited to the weekends.

Helpful Tip: If the shuttle isn’t running on the day you want to visit, taxis are also available at Sélestat’s train station.

Accommodation

10. Booking.com

I use Booking.com to book all my accommodations. They have a free loyalty program, and, over the years, I’ve reached the highest level (Level 3).

That means I often get discounts and other added perks when I book through them.

It has saved me a ton of money and hassle, especially during peak travel seasons. Plus, their website and app are user-friendly.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

11. Gites de France

If you’re looking for a more authentic stay in Alsace, Gites de France is a great option. These are local, family-run bed and breakfasts or vacation rentals.

Each offers a unique experience to immerse yourself in Alsatian culture.

They have accommodations throughout the region, including places you might not find on bigger websites.

Availability:

  • Website

Navigation

12. Waze

Waze is one of my favorite navigation apps because it shows the location of the speed traps (most of them).

While you should always follow the rules of the road and the speed limit, sometimes driving in a foreign country can be stressful.

This app will help you navigate those differences and drive safely.

Availability::

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

13. Google Maps

I also use Google Maps. It’s an obvious app to have on your phone, but I thought I would add it to this list because I use it regularly.

I put places of interest, train stations, and other helpful things in my list of favorites so I don’t forget to visit something.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

14. Maps.me

This is the navigation app I use when I hike. Most of the popular hiking trails are labeled, including hikes to castles, viewpoints, etc. But the best part of this app is that it works offline.

Some of my favorite hikes that I’ve done using Maps.me are the Grand Ballon, the Three Castles of Ribeauvillé, the Three Castles of Eguisheim, and the Cherry Blossom Circuit.

I have the region (Alsace) downloaded on my phone, so I never have to worry about not having a map.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

Miscellaneous

15. Rue des Vignerons

This is the best website to book wine tastings, vineyard visits, and cellar tours. Most wineries don’t have an online booking platform, so they use Rue des Vignerons.

By booking this way you avoid third-party websites that often don’t include smaller family-run wineries.

In general, all the best wineries I’ve visited in Alsace were booked through this website.

Helpful Tip: They also offer all tours, but most are centered around wine.

Availability:

  • Website

16. The Fork

The Fork is a great website for finding and booking restaurants. It’s available in many countries, including France.

It offers discounts and deals on certain days or times, making it a budget-friendly option for dining out.

I always check The Fork before going out to eat. I’ve discovered some amazing restaurants and saved tons of money through this platform. It’s how I created my list of top places to eat in Strasbourg.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

17. DeepL

If you don’t speak French, DeepL is a lifesaver. It can translate text, websites, and even spoken words. It’s especially helpful for understanding menus or signs that are not in English.

Since I’m fluent in French, I don’t use this app in France anymore, but it’s great for beginner-level speakers.

Availability:

  • Website
  • iOS
  • Android

Conclusion

Alsace is easily my favorite region in France. There’s so much to see and do, but there’s no denying that a trip here takes a lot of organization.

But with these websites and apps, you’ll be able to plan an unforgettable trip to this charming and picturesque region.

And now that you know the best apps and websites to use, why not check out my four-day itinerary to plan your trip?


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Jen Ciesielski
Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. Originally from the United States, she moved abroad in 2012 and has since made France her permanent home. After spending three years in Paris, immersing herself in the culture, language, and history, she relocated to Strasbourg in 2019. Jen has traveled extensively across France, uncovering its hidden gems and unique locales. Her journey culminated in 2024 when she was granted French citizenship, solidifying her expertise and commitment to sharing the beauty and intricacies of living and traveling in France.

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