Europe is facing major strikes in Italy, Portugal and France in December 2025, which could cause transport chaos and massive delays. Find out how the strikes will affect travel, which routes will be disrupted and how travellers can prepare to avoid cancellations and changes to their trips

Travelers planning to travel to or within Europe in December 2025 should be prepared for significant disruption. Major strikes are planned in a number of countries, including Italy, Portugal and France, affecting rail, air and public transport. As the protests take place in the weeks leading up to the holiday, millions of tourists could face flight cancellations, rerouting and significant delays.

Here’s what’s happening in key countries and how to prepare for potential travel disruptions.

Travelling in Europe during strikes can be a challenge, but travel insurance can help you avoid unnecessary costs and stress. It can cover delays, flight cancellations, lost luggage and other unforeseen circumstances.

Get travel insurance before you travel – and enjoy your trip even if the transport system is disrupted. Protect your holiday in advance!

Italy: Nationwide Strike on December 12, 2025

Italy is preparing for one of the biggest transport disruptions of this winter. On December 12, the country will be paralyzed by a nationwide strike that will affect almost all modes of transport:

- long-distance trains and high-speed routes;

- regional railway lines;

- urban transport in Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence and other megacities.

Other public services - schools, healthcare facilities, municipal institutions - may also be affected.

The strike is part of a large-scale protest against the government's economic decisions. Unions of railway workers, transport workers and airport staff are insisting on a review of budget cuts.

Travelers are advised to avoid trains on December 12, choose flexible fares, and check regularly for updates from rail operators and the Italian Ministry of Transport.

Portugal: General strike and air travel disruptions on December 11, 2025

A large-scale general strike is planned in Portugal on December 11, covering:

- public services,

- public transport,

- the aviation sector.

Air travel will be particularly affected: the unions of flight attendants and ground staff at TAP Air Portugal have already announced their participation in the strike.

This could lead to: mass flight cancellations, delays in Lisbon, Porto and other major airports, and disruption to domestic travel due to limited bus, metro and tram services.

Travelers are advised to book alternative routes in advance, use flexible tickets, and constantly monitor information from airlines.

France: Rail Strikes and Air Traffic Disruptions in Early December

France is traditionally a country with active trade union activity, and the beginning of December 2025 will be no exception. Rail strikes are expected in the first days of the month, affecting:

- TGV high-speed trains,

- regional lines,

- key intercity routes, in particular between Paris, Lyon and Marseille.

Airports, including Charles de Gaulle and Orly, are also likely to be affected, as some workers may join the protests. This means additional delays and the risk of cancellations of international and domestic flights.

Tourists are advised to check train and flight schedules regularly, book alternative transport options in advance and choose routes with a higher level of flexibility.

International travel also affected: Eurostar and other destinations

Disruptions in three key EU countries will also affect cross-border travel. In particular, Eurostar, which connects London with Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, may operate with disruptions due to French strikes.

Travel between other Western European countries may also slow down: strikes are sometimes joined by border control workers and other transport unions.

How to prepare for transport chaos in Europe in December 2025?

To minimize risks and avoid stress, experts recommend:

- Constantly check the status of flights and trains

Use the official websites of airlines, railways and mobile applications to track changes in real time.

- Buy tickets with flexible conditions

Flexible fares allow you to change dates or cancel your trip without penalty.

- Plan alternative routes

Buses, private transfers or domestic flights can be a lifesaver if rail or air services are paralyzed.

- Take out travel insurance

A policy that covers delays and cancellations due to strikes will help avoid financial losses.

- Follow the news

Unions often intensify or soften their actions - stay informed so you can react quickly to changes.

December 2025 will be a difficult period for travelers in Europe. Large-scale strikes in Italy, Portugal and France could lead to serious disruptions to rail, air and public transport. However, early planning, flexible solutions and up-to-date information will significantly reduce the risk of a spoiled trip.

Prepare in advance - and your winter trip will remain comfortable even despite possible delays.

Planning a trip to Europe in December? With large-scale strikes in Italy, Portugal and France, travel insurance is becoming more than just a recommendation, but a necessity. A policy covering delays, flight cancellations and additional costs in the event of a change of route will help you avoid financial losses and maintain peace of mind during a period of transport instability. Even if your flight is postponed and the train is canceled, the insurance will compensate for the costs and provide assistance during the trip.

Ensure yourself with confidence and comfort in any situation - choose travel insurance before starting your winter trip to Europe!

Reminder! Traveling in Europe in 2025 may be complicated by numerous strikes in the aviation and transport sectors. We have already told you about the current dates and countries where airport and airline workers are on strike, as well as how this may affect your flights and what to do to minimize delays and inconvenience.

Photo – Freepik

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