Planning to visit France this spring or early summer? If your itinerary includes hopping on a high-speed TGV or any SNCF-operated train, there’s an important update you need to know before packing your bags: a wave of strikes is sweeping through the French rail network, and it’s already causing disruptions for both locals and tourists.
Here’s everything you need to know—what’s happening, why it matters, and most importantly, how you can still enjoy a smooth trip in France despite the chaos on the tracks.
🚉 What’s Going On With the Train Strikes?
As of April 17, 2025, one of France’s major railway unions, Sud Rail, launched a strike that is set to last through June 2. The primary impact? Train controllers working with SNCF (the national railway company) are staging walkouts and rotating work stoppages, which are already leading to delays and cancellations—especially on regional and intercity routes.
And that’s not all.
Separate strike notices have been issued for TGV (high-speed train) controllers and train drivers, particularly for the month of May. Many of these strikes are strategically timed to hit weekends and public holidays, when passenger traffic tends to spike. It’s a pressure tactic by the unions—but for travelers, it can translate to last-minute cancellations and travel headaches if you’re caught unaware.
💬 Why Are the Strikes Happening?
Like many labor actions in France, this strike is rooted in long-standing tensions between workers and the government or public employers. Sud Rail is demanding better working conditions, changes in how work schedules are managed, and increased compensation for rail workers—especially those on the frontlines like conductors and drivers.
According to union representatives, there’s been growing dissatisfaction over irregular hours, staff shortages, and what they describe as a slow erosion of labor protections. They’ve warned that more aggressive action could be on the horizon if their demands continue to be ignored.
🧳 What This Means for Travelers
If you’ve booked train tickets for travel in France between now and early June—especially on weekends—it’s a good idea to double-check your itinerary. Strikes in France are rarely total shutdowns, but they often lead to reduced services, overcrowded alternative trains, and unpredictable last-minute schedule changes.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Delays and cancellations, particularly on long-distance and regional lines.
- High-speed TGV routes may be partially impacted—especially on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
- Station staff may be limited, meaning longer wait times for assistance or ticket changes.
- International routes, like Paris to Brussels or Paris to London (via Eurostar), may also see ripple effects.
🛑 Key Strike Dates to Watch
While the strike is officially ongoing from April 17 to June 2, individual strike days can vary, as unions don’t always walk out every day. However, certain dates are expected to be more heavily impacted:
- Weekends throughout May
- May 1 (Labour Day) – traditionally a major strike day in France
- May 8 (Victory in Europe Day) – another public holiday
- Extended weekends (known in France as “les ponts”)
So, if you’re planning a spring getaway to France, especially around those holidays, keep your travel plans flexible.
✨ Tips for Traveling in France During the Strikes
If you’re not canceling your trip (and honestly, you don’t have to), here are a few smart travel strategies to keep things stress-free:
- Check Train Status Frequently
Use the official SNCF app or website for real-time updates. Most announcements about service changes are made 24–48 hours in advance. - Book Flexible or Refundable Tickets
Many SNCF fares allow free changes or refunds during strike periods—take advantage of that flexibility when you can. - Travel on Non-Strike Days
Midweek days (Tuesday–Thursday) often see fewer disruptions than weekends or holidays. - Consider Alternative Transport
Buses, domestic flights, and rideshare services (like BlaBlaCar) can be good backup options. They’re popular in France and can save you in a pinch. - Stay Central
If you’re visiting cities like Paris, Lyon, or Bordeaux, staying centrally will reduce your need to rely on intercity trains. - Be Patient, Be Kind
Strikes are a part of French life—and while they can be frustrating, most station staff and conductors are doing their best to help. A little kindness goes a long way, especially if you’re asking for assistance during a tense period.
🏛️ Should You Cancel Your Trip to France?
Absolutely not. France in the spring is still a dream—blooms in full color, cafés buzzing, and sunshine warming the cobblestone streets. While these strikes may create a few bumps along the way, they’re not a reason to skip the trip.
With a bit of flexibility, a backup plan (or two), and some good travel sense, you can still make the most of your time in one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations.
✅ Final Thoughts
Strikes in France are not new, and they’re not going away anytime soon. But with the right preparation, they don’t have to derail your travel plans. If you stay informed and open-minded, you’ll likely walk away with not only great memories but also a deeper appreciation of the rhythms and realities of French life.
