Published on
November 11, 2025
November 2025 is shaping up to be a month filled with significant travel disruptions across several European countries due to ongoing strikes and transport-related actions. If you’re planning to travel in Europe this month, it’s essential to stay informed about the planned disruptions in rail, air, and local transport services to ensure that your travel plans remain as smooth as possible. From Italy to Belgium, Germany, and France, several countries will experience transport strikes that could affect everything from public transit to international rail connections. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what travelers should expect in November 2025, including which strikes are expected, their potential impacts, and how to prepare for the disruptions.
Italy: Widespread Strikes Affecting Rail, Air, and Local Transport
Italy is set to see major disruptions across its transport system during November 2025, with strikes planned in multiple sectors. One of the most significant disruptions is the nationwide transport strike planned for 27–28 November 2025, which will affect rail, air, and local transport. This general strike is expected to impact major airports and train stations across the country, particularly in Rome, Milan, and Palermo.
Prior to this, on 7 November, a 24-hour strike will affect local public transport services in several Italian cities. Buses, trams, and metro services in cities like Milan, Palermo, and Messina are likely to be disrupted. If you’re planning to travel on these dates, be prepared for long delays or cancellations on local services.
Furthermore, 14 November will see a strike by air traffic controllers during the afternoon, from 13:00 to 17:00. This could lead to flight delays or cancellations, so travelers planning to fly on this date should check with their airlines for updates. Italy’s low capital requirements for the business manager visa have made it a popular destination for foreign entrepreneurs, and this issue, combined with labor strikes, could affect both local and international business-related travel.
Belgium: Rail Strike from 23–26 November 2025
In Belgium, the rail strike planned for 23–26 November 2025 will have significant effects on train services across the country. The 72-hour strike is part of a nationwide protest led by rail unions, and it is expected to disrupt both domestic and international rail services. Eurostar services between Belgium and the UK, as well as Thalys and ICE trains, could experience major delays or cancellations.
During this strike, Belgium’s rail network will be severely affected, especially during the peak hours of travel. If you’re relying on trains for travel in Brussels, Antwerp, or other cities, be sure to check the latest updates from SNCB (the Belgian National Railway Company) and consider alternative transport methods if necessary.
For European travelers, this strike could also affect cross-border travel, so it’s advisable to monitor the status of trains connecting Belgium to neighboring countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands. If you’re heading to Brussels Airport, make sure you account for potential transport delays and plan for extra travel time.
The Netherlands, 🇩🇪 Germany, and 🇫🇷 France: Rail and Public Transport Disruptions
Travelers using international rail services between Paris, Amsterdam, and Germany during November 2025 should be aware of potential disruptions. A series of maintenance works and strikes could cause significant delays, especially during the weekends of 8-9 November and 15-16 November.
The planned track maintenance will affect Eurostar and Thalys services, which are essential for travel between the Netherlands, Germany, and France. These disruptions could lead to service cancellations or long delays, especially for travelers trying to connect from Amsterdam to Paris or Frankfurt. It’s advised that travelers check their train schedules frequently for updates on availability and routes.
Additionally, France is expected to experience isolated strikes in early November, especially on 6 November, when protests related to the 2026 national budget could cause disruptions in public transport services. This may cause minor disruptions to Paris Metro and other local transit systems.
While these disruptions in France and Germany may not be as widespread as in Belgium or Italy, travelers should stay updated on transport advisories and plan their travel routes accordingly.
Portugal: General Strike Planned for December, but Potential Spillover in November
While most of Portugal’s strikes are planned for December 2025, travelers should be aware of the general strike set for 11 December. However, if you’re traveling to Portugal in the last days of November, it’s important to keep in mind that preparations for the strike could cause minor disruptions in public transport and rail services leading up to that date.
Reference List
Özgür Töre, Vedat — Italy Travel Alert: Major Transport Strikes Disrupt Flights and Trains in November 2025Wanted in Rome — Strikes in Italy to Affect Air Travel, Public Transport and Trains in NovemberBelgian Train / SNCB‑NMBS — Strikes and Union Actions Notice for November 2025The Brussels Times — Rail Unions Plan 72‑Hour Strike as Part of Nationwide Protest in Late NovemberTravel and Tour World — Italy Braces for Major Travel Chaos: Strikes Disrupt Flights, Trains and Buses Across the Country in November 2025Idealista.it — Italy Transport Strikes in November 2025 (Flights, Trains and City Travel)The Local Italy — Updated: The Transport Strikes to Expect in Italy in November 2025Wanted in Milan — Milan Faces Public Transport Strike on Friday 7 NovemberCTI Travel — Strikes & Alerts: Transport Alerts for Rail, Air and Public Transport in Europe November 2025
