travel to paris with protests

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Traveling to France? What You Need to Know About the Protests.

Unrest has spread across France in response to the fatal police shooting of a 17-year-old in a Paris suburb. Here’s what to expect.

By Ceylan Yeginsu

Violent protests have spread across France over the past week since the fatal police shooting of a 17-year-old in a Paris suburb.

More than 800 people were arrested on Thursday night after protesters caused widespread destruction in dozens of cities, setting cars and buildings on fire, looting stores and clashing with the riot police. On Friday, many roads in the Paris region and other major cities like Marseille were cordoned off, and public transport routes were disrupted as more than 40,000 police officers were deployed across the country to bring the protests under control.

With the peak summer travel season underway, many tourists are headed to Paris and other parts of France for their summer vacations. Here’s what you need to know about how your trip might be affected.

Which cities have been hit hardest?

The clashes began in the Paris suburb of Nanterre on Tuesday night, after the police shot and killed the male teenage driver — a French citizen of North African descent, publicly identified as Nahel M. — who was stopped at a traffic light. The violence quickly spread to nearby areas in the greater Paris region as news of the killing reignited decades-long grievances over racial discrimination in working-class areas. The police officer who shot the driver was detained on Thursday on charges of voluntary homicide.

After three nights of riots, Clamart, in the southwestern suburbs of Paris, imposed a curfew between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. through Monday. Other communities affected by the violence include Bezons, Gennevilliers, Garges-lès-Gonesse, Meudon and L’Île-St.-Denis, close to the headquarters of the 2024 Olympics.

The center of Paris, home to tourist attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, had largely been unaffected until Thursday night, when looters descended onto the Rue de Rivoli, one of the city’s main shopping streets, and ransacked a Nike store.

Police asked people in popular tourist areas in Marseille and Bordeaux to leave the area on Thursday night after fires were set alongside streets, and violent clashes erupted between the police and protesters. On Friday, Marseille banned all demonstrations.

How has transport been affected?

On Friday, the Interior Ministry ordered the suspension of all bus and tram services after sunset, in response to the unrest.

The greater Paris region had already reduced services in recent days to limit the mobility of the protesters at night, and the city’s metro system will close an hour early over the weekend. Île-de-France Mobilités, the regional transport agency, has been issuing service updates on its website.

Is it safe to visit France?

The State Department has not advised against travel to France, but it issued a security alert on Thursday highlighting the violence and urging United States citizens to avoid “mass gatherings and areas of significant police activity.”

“Some cities are imposing curfews,” the alert said. “As always, it is a good practice to notify friends or family of your whereabouts.”

A State Department advisory issued in 2022 remains in place, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution in France due to terrorism and civil unrest.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter. She was previously a correspondent for the International desk in Britain and Turkey, covering politics; social justice; the migrant crisis; the Kurdish conflict, and the rise of Islamic State extremism in Syria and the region. More about Ceylan Yeginsu

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Protests in Paris: how unrest could impact Easter travel plans

Mar 31, 2023 • 5 min read

Paris has been gripped by strikes and demonstrations related to the recent, controversial pension reform. Left Bank bistro La Rotonde was damaged on the 11th day of action © Julian de Rosa/AFP via Getty Images

Over the last few weeks, images of overflowing garbage bins and violent street protests in Paris  have dominated the international news cycle – raising qualms among travelers.

If you have plans to visit the French capital this spring, here’s the low-down on how to experience the city fully – but safely.

What’s happening in France and why are people striking? 

Over the last three months, the government’s unpopular pension-reform scheme, which will gradually raise the age of retirement from 62 to 64, has unleashed a wave of discontent in France .

The level of anger and violence escalated after the government used a controversial executive power to push through the bill without putting it to a vote in parliament, where it faced fierce opposition.

Millions of people have marched in union-organized protests since they began in January. The 11th day of protests took place this week on Thursday April 6 with trains and planes disrupted as well as hundreds of thousands taking to the streets to demonstrate. Left Bank  brasserie La Rotonde, a haunt of  President Macron, saw it's awning set on fire.  Trade unions have vowed to continue staging rolling strikes until the bill is withdrawn.

Is it safe to visit Paris?

Since October 2022, the US State Department has placed France at a Level 2 travel advisory, which recommends that citizens exercise “increased caution” due to threats of terrorism and civil unrest.

The US embassy has also been regularly releasing “demonstration alerts” advising people to avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity, to be vigilant of surroundings and to notify friends and family of their safety. The most popular spots for protests have been Place de la Bastille , Place de la République and Place de la Concorde . 

Overall, authorized protests have been largely peaceful and can even be festive in atmosphere, with music, food and dancing. But this vibe has been largely restricted to the early start of the marches. The atmosphere tends to degenerate as the protests continue and the crowds of peaceful demonstrators begin to thin, and clashes between anarchist infiltrators and anti-riot police heat up. These violent protesters set fires, shoot fireworks, smash storefront windows and throw projectiles; in reaction, police have been using tear gas, water cannons and batons to disperse crowds.

Travelers should also be aware that protesters, mainly young people, have been staging spontaneous, unauthorized protests and sit-ins that have often ended in violence as well. 

You can minimize the risk of being caught up in the chaos and being at the receiving end of either projectile or tear gas by steering clear of the protests as much as possible.

How can I keep up to speed on the latest developments?

Aside from international news sites, the best way to keep your ear to the ground on the latest developments in Paris is to monitor local English-language sites like France24 , RFI and The Local France . 

On these platforms, you’ll find information about how Paris was left to stew in 10,000 tons of uncollected waste after garbage collectors joined the pension-reform strikes. Waste collection has since resumed, but workers warn strike action could resume.

For the latest updates, your best bet is Twitter, where tourist attractions and public transport operators post closures and disruptions in real-time. The city’s official tourism office also posts a comprehensive list of how strike action affects Métro, regional RER and Transilien train lines, as well as Parisian airports and attractions. On the most recent day of protests, March 28, walkouts resulted in the closure of the Eiffel Tower , the Musée d’Orsay , the Musée du Louvre and the Château de Versailles .

How do strikes and protests affect public transport and airports?

On strike days, service is drastically reduced on rail lines (including the Eurostar), buses, ferries and air travel. 

The French civil aviation authority regularly asks airlines to cancel up to 30% of flights on and around strike days when air traffic controllers walk off the job. (Most of the cancellations have affected short-haul flights in and out of Paris–Orly; long-haul international flights out of Charles de Gaulle airport have seen fewer cancellations.) Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary has called for political intervention , complaining that the French strikes have forced his airline to cancel 230 flights, and that one million passengers have been affected.

Travelers should consult their airlines for updates.

Be aware, however, that protesters have also stormed Paris airports and set up blockades on highways, forcing travelers to reach the airport on foot. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport, especially if you’re traveling on a strike day.

Expect reduced service and overcrowded trains on the Métro , as well as on train cancellations. Count on packing a pair of good walking shoes.

What do I do if closures affect my itinerary?

Restaurants and shops are generally open, but may close on strike days if they lie along demonstration routes (consult local media for those).

If your booking for the Louvre or Eiffel Tower is canceled due to strike action, take it as an opportunity to discover alternatives. 

For instance, instead of the Louvre, check out the Musée Bourdelle , which is dedicated to the sculptor Antoine Bourdelle and which reopened to the public this month following extensive renovations. Instead of the Eiffel Tower, consider climbing to the top of the Tour Montparnasse , which offers sweeping views of the city (including perhaps the best view in town of the Eiffel Tower itself). And instead of Versailles, consider visiting the Château de Chantilly , a magnificent castle 40 minutes by train from Paris that houses the second-largest collection of antique paintings in France (after the Louvre) as well as sprawling gardens.

Overall, if you’re vigilant, flexible about last-minute changes and open to new experiences, your Parisian experience should go relatively smoothly.

Explore related stories

Health & Safety

Oct 3, 2023 • 4 min read

Reports of a bedbug outbreak in Paris have been making global headlines.

Apr 21, 2024 • 9 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 3, 2024 • 15 min read

Apr 1, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 31, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 31, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 29, 2024 • 6 min read

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

France's protests explained: everything you need to know if you're visiting Paris soon

By Sarah James

Protests and strike action have sprung up across France and its capital, Paris, after the French government rushed through a contentious bill to raise the country's retirement age this week – resulting in flight cancellations, demonstrations and tonnes of trash piling up. So what does this mean for those expecting to travel to Paris or France in the next few days? Here's everything to know. 

Why are there strikes in Paris?

The strikes and protests are being helmed by French people who are angered at the government's intention to raise the country's retirement age. After widespread controversy around the move (which shifts the retirement age in France from 62 to 64), President Macron's government effectively forced the bill through parliament without a vote. The move escalated long-standing gripes about the change and triggered protests that are still ongoing at the time of writing (Friday 31 March 2023).

Which sectors are striking?

Many public sectors have chosen to strike over the issue, including rubbish disposal, teachers and public transport officials. Flights have been cancelled due to an air traffic controllers strike (20 per cent of flights from Paris-Orly and Marseille-Provence airports were cancelled on Tuesday 21 March and Wednesday 22 March). This weekend (1 and 2 April), scores more flights will be cancelled. 20 per cent of flights leaving Toulouse and Bordeaux airports will be cancelled on Saturday.  25 per cent of flights at Paris-Orly airport and 20 per cent of flights leaving Toulouse, Bordeaux and Nantes airports will be cancelled on Sunday. The Paris metro might be affected on some days – always check before you travel. 

Is it safe to visit Paris at the moment?

At the moment, the Foreign Office doesn't advise against travel to France. It does warn of disruption and delays thanks to ongoing cross-sector strike action this week and advises UK travellers to keep checking up-to-date local media to keep informed about what's going on in Paris and across France. Gov.uk states, “Protests could turn violent and/or continue. These could lead to disruptions to road travel.”

The official page also says, “You should monitor the media, check the latest advice with operators before travelling, avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.”

What should I expect if I am visiting Paris soon?

Basically, expect your trip to be disrupted. As we've stated, flights are being delayed and cancelled, and public transport (trains, buses etc) are being affected by the strikes. There could be road closures or delays. 

Paris in particular is making headlines at the moment because of the amount of rubbish building up in the streets as disposal workers are on strike, too. Some news outlets report that as much as 10,000 tonnes of trash have built up in the streets. The disposal strike ended this week, but it will take time for workers to clear the huge amount of rubbish on the streets. Meanwhile, monuments such as the Eiffel Tower and The Louvre have been forced to close on some days this week. 

There are also ongoing protests, with some of those taking part detained by the police. 

When will the protests and strikes in Paris and France end?

That's the golden question. Thursday 23 March was marked as a day of cross-sector strike action, but we said last week that disruption could continue beyond this date – and it has. More strike action has been declared on Thursday 6 April, for example.

The French government narrowly survived a vote of no confidence this week, and the bill is going ahead – so the protests don't show any sign of dying down soon.

We'll keep updating this piece as more information becomes available.  

What Travelers Need to Know About the Ongoing Paris Riots

On its anniversary, the yellow vest protests against a gas tax and french president emmanuel macron turned violent once again in 2019..

• Copy Link copied

Protesters from the Yellow Vests Movement have gathered in Paris’s streets every Saturday since mid-November 2018.

Photo by Alexandros Michailidis / Shutterstock

>> See our most up-to-date coverage on the 2023 Paris protests , and how they’re impacting travel.

Violence returned to the streets of Paris on Saturday, November 16, as protesters marked the one-year anniversary of the anti-government Yellow Vests Movement. After demonstrators set trash cans and several cars on fire at the Place d’Italie, police fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd. Instead of wearing the gilets jaunes or yellow vests associated with the movement, these protesters were mainly youths wearing masks and dressed in black, Reuters reports .

At its peak in late 2018, an estimated 282,000 people took part in anti-government protests across the country. In recent months, the number of people taking part in the demonstrations dwindled to just a few thousand people. But on the movement’s first anniversary, its leaders called for people to turn out once again. While police have banned protests from taking place near the Eiffel Tower and other tourist attractions, several dozen Paris Metro and RER stations were closed on Saturday and into Sunday in light of the violence.

By Saturday night, the Paris police said they had arrested 147 people involved in the protests in France’s capital city.

Here’s what travelers need to know about visiting Paris and other parts of France right now.

What caused the Paris riots?

The Yellow Vests Movement—named after the fluorescent vests the protesters are wearing during their demonstrations—began in mid-November 2018 in reaction to French President Emmanuel Macron’s fuel tax hike, which was implemented to help reduce emissions and combat global warming.

Even though Macron cancelled the tax on December 5, 2018, the protests continued and have become a more generalized reaction against the government’s overall economic policies and the high cost of living. On December 10, 2018, Macron addressed the divided country promising to increase the minimum wage by €100 a month among other things.

On April 25, 2019, during Macron’s first press conference in two years as president, the politician promised hefty income tax cuts as well as pension raises for the country’s middle class. In response to the protests, he also vowed that no more schools or hospitals would be closed during his presidency.

Despite Macron’s efforts, the movement is still alive. On Wednesday, May 1, 2019, Yellow Vest protesters were on the streets in Paris for the annual May Day marches, which are traditionally led by local union organizers. According to the BBC , France’s interior ministry said that more than 150,000 demonstrators took to the streets around the country this year, but the more volatile protests took place in the capital, where a reported crowd of up to 40,000 united.

“It won’t be enough to erase what many perceive as 18 months of disdain from the president,” says Lindsey Tramuta , a freelance writer and frequent AFAR contributor based in Paris. “The ‘emergency’ measures to ease the population’s pain are seen as insufficient gestures.”

Which neighborhoods in Paris are affected?

The U.S. Embassy previously warned people to avoid the main routes and gathering points in Paris during the protests, as well as major landmarks, including the Place de la Concorde, Place de la Madeleine, Place de la Bastille, Place de la République, Assemblée National, and the Champs de Mars near the Eiffel Tower. In addition to the clashes between police and demonstrators at the Place d’Italie on Saturday, November 16, violence also broke out near the Porte de Champerret just north of the Arc de Triomphe as a protestors prepared to march to Gare d’Austerlitz, Reuters reports .

Currently, French police ban Yellow Vest demonstrations near major tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower. Police have used rubber bullets, water cannons, and tear gas against protesters in some cases, while Paris police prefect Michel Delpuech says that several officers encountered protesters using hammers, gardening tools, and rocks in physical confrontations with the police.

The demonstrations may cause traffic and impact transportation in and around Paris, including significant delays in travel between downtown and the major airports, Charles de Gaulle Roissy and Orly . According to Tramuta, the areas that haven’t been affected during Saturday protests in Paris include most of Saint-Germain des Pres, the 14th, and 15th arrondissements, as well as the Belleville/Buttes Chaumont neighborhood.

Paris police and firefighters at the Yellow Vest protests on December 8, 2018

Photo by William Lounsbury / Shutterstock

In late 2018, protesters also blocked traffic circles and highways in places like Marseille, Toulouse, and Bordeaux, as well as at the French borders of Belgium and Italy, causing traffic jams. While trying to leave Nice airport in early December 2018, AFAR cofounder Joe Diaz said that protesters were blocking traffic to the airport and his Uber driver was forced to go over a sidewalk and “some gardens” to reach the arrivals area.

If you plan to arrive in or depart from France on a Saturday, it could be best to take public transportation to the airports. The U.S. Embassy in Paris issues regular Demonstration Alerts to give people an idea of where the protests are taking place.

What are the December 5 strikes about?

Anyone with winter travel plans to France should also be aware that trade unions are calling for railway workers, civil servants, truck drivers, and Paris public transport staff to strike on December 5, 2019, against the government’s pension overhaul plan, Reuters reports .

For more information, read AFAR’s explainer on how the France transit strike will affect travelers in Paris in December 2019.

Is the U.S. State Department warning against travel to France?

As of April 1, 2019, the France Travel Advisory remains at a Level 2 (indicating that travelers should continue to exercise increased caution). The U.S. Embassy cites the reasons as terrorism and civil unrest.

Yellow Vest protesters confront anti-riot police in Paris on January 5, 2019.

Photo by Paulo Amorim / Shutterstock

What should you do if you’re traveling to France? The U.S. State Department recommends anyone traveling in or near the protests in Paris or other parts of France to use their common sense and “be aware of your surroundings,” “review travel plans if you will be in France on weekends,” and “avoid demonstrations,” which are typically announced the day before they happen.

If you happen to find yourself in the area of a protest turned violent, they recommend sheltering in place and closing the windows to avoid any smoke or tear gas. If you’re traveling by car, do not park your vehicle near the demonstration areas since protesters have set cars on fire during the riots. If possible, consider relocating to another area before the protests begin if a march is scheduled near where you are staying.

Lastly, monitor local news stations for updates. The following English-language websites cover local French news.

• France24.com
• TheLocal.fr
• RATP.fr (for information on Metro closures)

For additional assistance, contact the U.S. Embassy in Paris at +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 or [email protected]. Those traveling in the south of France can contact the U.S. Consulate General in Marseille at +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 or [email protected].

The Associated Press contributed reporting. This article originally appeared online on December 10, 2018; it was updated on May 1, 2019, and again on November 17, 2019, to include current information.

• Destinations
• Hotels & Homestays
• Food & Drink
• People & Culture
• Mindful Travel
• Readers' Travel Awards
• Escape to Rajasthan
• READERS TRAVEL AWARDS
• #LOVEGREATBRITAIN
• TAJ SAFARIS
• BOUTIQUE HOTELS
• CNT TOP RESTAURANT AWARDS
• DESTINATION WEDDING GUIDE
• DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT IT
• #UNDISCOVERAUSTRALIA
• ESSENTIALLY RAJASTHAN

France's protests explained: What you need to know if you're visiting Paris soon

By Sarah James

Protests and strike action have sprung up across France and its capital, Paris, after the French government rushed through a contentious bill to raise the country's retirement age this week – resulting in flight cancellations, demonstrations and tonnes of trash piling up. So what does this mean for those expecting to travel to Paris or France in the next few days? Here's everything to know.

Why are there strikes in Paris?

The strikes and protests are being helmed by French people who are angered at the government's intention to raise the country's retirement age. After widespread controversy around the move (which shifts the retirement age in France from 62 to 64), President Macron's government effectively forced the bill through parliament without a vote. The move escalated long-standing gripes about the change and triggered protests that are still ongoing at the time of writing (Tuesday 21 March 2023).

Which sectors are striking?

Many public sectors have chosen to strike over the issue, including rubbish disposal, teachers and public transport officials. Flights have been cancelled due to an air traffic controllers strike (20 per cent of flights from Paris-Orly and Marseille-Provence airports will be cancelled on Tuesday 21 March and Wednesday 22 March). The Paris metro might be affected on some days – always check before you travel.

Is it safe to visit Paris at the moment?

At the moment, the Foreign Office doesn't advise against travel to France. It does warn of disruption and delays thanks to ongoing cross-sector strike action this week and advises UK travellers to keep checking up-to-date local media to keep informed about what's going on in Paris and across France. Gov.uk states, “Protests could turn violent and/or continue. These could lead to disruptions to road travel.”

The official page also says, “You should monitor the media, check the latest advice with operators before travelling, avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.”

What should I expect if I am visiting Paris this week?

Basically, expect your trip to be disrupted. As we've stated, flights are being delayed and cancelled, and public transport (trains, buses etc) are being affected by the strikes. There could be road closures or delays.

Paris in particular is making headlines at the moment because of the amount of rubbish building up in the streets as disposal workers are on strike, too. Some news outlets report that as much as 10,000 tonnes of trash have built up in the streets.

There are also ongoing protests, with some of those taking part detained by the police.

When will the protests and strikes in Paris and France end?

That's the golden question. Thursday 23 March is marked as a day of cross-sector strike action, but the disruption could continue beyond this date – it's not yet clear.

The French government narrowly survived a vote of no confidence this week, and the bill is going ahead – so the protests don't show any sign of dying down soon.

We'll keep updating this piece as more information becomes available.

** First published on ** ** CNT UK  **

.

The Straits Times

• International
• Print Edition
• news with benefits
• SPH Rewards
• STClassifieds
• Berita Harian
• Hardwarezone
• Shin Min Daily News
• Tamil Murasu
• The Business Times
• The New Paper
• Lianhe Zaobao
• Advertise with us

What to know if you are travelling to Paris during protests and strikes

PARIS – The guests who checked into Rosewood’s Hotel de Crillon last week were likely visiting Paris for all the city’s enduring draws – the food, the romance, the museums and the fashion.

But last Thursday evening, their US$2,450 (S$3,290)-a-night rooms became the doorstep of a massive protest at the adjacent Place de la Concorde filled with thousands of citizens speaking out against the government’s use of a constitutional provision to pass its retirement Bill, which failed to gather the majority of representatives in France’s lower house of parliament. 

In response to the reforms planned by President Emmanuel Macron, garbage collectors have been on strike since March 6.

Piles of trash are stacking up around Paris, as garbage collectors protest against the raising of their industry’s retirement age from 57 to 59. The walkout of the trash collectors was set to run at least to March 20, but could run longer. 

Until this year, the last time that protests on this scale affected the city was in late 2018 and early 2019, when Yellow Vests clashed with government forces, sometimes violently, in cities throughout France.

Tourism took a clear hit. Local transit and hotel companies such as Accor saw their shares dip and tourist sites such as the Louvre and Orsay museums shut down for safety.

Thus far, the protests in Paris remain unthreatening to tourists.

There is no indication that travellers should consider cancelling their plans, and the United States’ Department of State travel advisory remains at a standard Level 2 – the same as virtually every popular tourism destination in Europe or the Caribbean.

There are some signs of rising tensions, however. Police used water cannons last Thursday to disperse the protestors at the Place de la Concorde, which is just across a bridge from France’s National Assembly.

There is a lot at stake. In 2022, France’s international tourism spending reached €50 billion (S$71.6 billion), surpassing pre-pandemic levels by €1.2 billion, and representing 10 per cent of France’s gross domestic product. 

France also remains on track to regain its pre-pandemic title as the most-visited country in the world by 2025, according to data analytics.

National carrier Air France is also boosting its service to pre-pandemic levels this summer, ahead of an anticipated surge in demand and the return of Chinese travellers.

Difficulty getting around

But that does not mean that visitors will find Paris unaffected. Some pavements in the city have become impassable, full of garbage bags leaking rotting food and spilling broken bottles onto the pavement.

Although France’s interior minister has promised to requisition rubbish collectors to start to dig out the backlog, there has not been any evidence that many are back on the job in those neighbourhoods affected by the strike.

Meanwhile, the arrival of Americans on spring break and other international travellers has led to visitors spreading photos, posts and comments about the rubbish piles around Paris.

How to plan ahead

Those piles could disappear rapidly if collectors are, indeed, forced back onto the job. For residents and visitors, there is not much to do about that – except perhaps to hold your nose.

But there are a few precautions that travellers can take to ensure their trips are otherwise unaffected by the political unrest.

In anticipation of possible transit strikes, which took place amid the 2018 and 2019 protests, it could be prudent to schedule an airport transfer via your hotel.

Not only will you circumvent any unplanned changes to the public transit service, but the hotel will also be responsible for guaranteeing your service or communicating clearly about any anticipated challenges should taxi drivers suddenly join the trash collectors. 

Before leaving on a romantic stroll of the city, check in with the front desk or concierge. They are likely to know where and when protests are planned, so you are not inadvertently swept into a demonstration. 

Note that the next major day of strikes and protests is scheduled for Thursday.

Ms Gail Boisclair, founder of furnished rentals company PerfectlyParis, has been telling her clients to avoid the areas around Republique and Bastille on Saturdays because of the demonstrations, but says strikes come with the territory.

“Everyone knows the French strike, and if you come to France, you might get a strike,” she notes. “But it’s not always with our garbage.” 

Ms Boisclair says she saw rubbish piled up high around the ninth and 17th arrondissements. 

Ms Lindsey Tramuta, journalist and author of The New Parisienne, recommends that visitors download the Citymapper app. “It’s great to use for knowing if public transport is disrupted and which routes in particular, or in the case of big demonstrations, if certain stations will be closed for safety,” she says.

For those who do not speak French, she also advises keeping an eye on English-language media such as France24 and The Local France for up-to-date information on strikes.

And while it may seem obvious, check the social media of attractions such as museums, to make sure they are open. You do not want to trek across a city only to find out that museum workers are also on strike.

The Paris Tourism Office’s Twitter (@ParisJeTaime) is also a good resource on closures, as well as that of local guide @paris_by_elodie.

But most importantly, tourists should exercise patience and budget extra time to get around. The metro service, rail schedules and even airport operations have all seen on-and-off disruption during the recent protests. BLOOMBERG

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards

Spin the wheel now

• Become a Member

Travel During the Paris Protests: What’s it Really Like in the City?

You’ve seen the images on TV. Street protests turn violent in France. Shop windows smashed, objects set on fire. The trash has piled up on the capital’s sidewalks and in the streets. Does this portray an alarmist view of the situation? What’s really going on? And is it safe to travel to Paris right now?

First, a little background. A series of strikes and manifestations , or street demonstrations, has taken place regularly against the government’s planned pension reform over the last few months. During his presidential campaign, President Macron had made a campaign promise to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 — something he claims is vital to preserve France’s “share-out” system since people are living longer. (Other alternatives would be: increasing the contributions from those in the workforce, or cutting the value of pensions.) Yet the reform is unpopular. And when the legislation went to the National Assembly on March 16, Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne invoked a special constitutional power called L’article 49.3, which avoided a vote in the lower chamber— where they wouldn’t have a majority— to push through the reform as law. This was the 100th time the article has been used since the founding of the Fifth Republic.

Though the move was legal, it has only increased French anger at what is seen as an undemocratic process. The French who take to the streets— in a long tradition of protests— are doing so because they feel it’s the only way to make their voices heard. With rising food prices and the decline of purchasing power, the pension reform is the straw that broke the camel’s back. Among those we’ve spoken with on the streets, the perception is that the president is not listening.

L’Assemblée nationale. Photo credit: Dinkum / Wikimedia commons

What and where are the street protests?

Tuesday, March 28th was the “ 10ème journée de mobilisation ,” or the 10th day of nationwide demonstrations. According to the Ministry of the Interior, 740,000 people gathered in France, including 93,000 in Paris. The unions claimed a higher number. The first such day of mobilization took place on January 19. These street demonstrations  are announced in advance and follow specific routes, also announced in advance, usually including Bastille, Nation, place de la République and/or place d’Italie. Mostly these protests are peaceful. The unions will wave their flags and signs, play music, and often have trucks with entertainment (much like a parade). Check out this photo essay we just published to get a sense of what these demonstrations look like.

The images you saw on the news? Last Thursday night after the street protest, the manif’ was infiltrated by violent casseurs , or anarchists, who destroyed private property and set fires. A number of arrests were made by the police. There’s no place for this kind of violence, and it angers many of the protestors who are trying to express themselves peacefully. It also turns public opinion against the demonstrators.

The unions have now called for the next journée de mobilisation  (the 11th) to take place on Thursday, April 6.

Demonstrators flying flags and balloons of various unions in Paris on 23 March. Photo credit: Rémi Simonnin / Wikimedia commons

Often the Paris metro system is affected during the demonstration days. This only happens if members of the RATP, or Paris public transport authority, vote to go on strike. Metros and buses still run, but less frequently. The driverless lines, no. 1 and 14, still operate at their normal frequency.

Need to know: Bus routes can be altered or stopped altogether, depending on the protest route. In general, the RER suburban lines are more affected than the metro. The RATP gives real-time information about the closures on their official website and app.

For those Parisians not participating in the demonstrations, it’s “life as usual.” Work, errands to the store, school pick-up, restaurant dinners with friends. Paris is a walkable city, and biking has become more popular, so we find ways to get to your meetings.

It’s easy to avoid the street protests altogether, depending on what neighborhood you’re in. For example, the left bank districts are generally not as affected (though there was a demonstration route near Place Denfert-Rochereau and Place d’Italie a few weeks ago).

Paris- Charles-de-Gaulle airport, aerial view. © Paris Tourist Office/ JOUANNEAUX, Jean-Marc pour Aéroports de Paris

What about the airports and train stations?

This depends whether the staff (such as air traffic controllers) decide to go on strike. For example, at Orly airport this can reach a cancellation of 30% of flights. International long-haul flights are generally not affected. This past Tuesday during the demonstration day, the Orly bus was operating as usual between Orly airport and Place Denfert-Rochereau. The RER B from CDG airport can be affected, in which case we recommend taking a G7 taxi. The taxi prices from the airport are fixed by the government.

Likewise, SNCF, the French national rail company, has been canceling select trains on strike days. Know that major cities are still being served and that people are still traveling by rail during this time.

Louvre Pyramid in Paris. © Pixabay at Pexels

Do monuments and museums close on demonstration days?

This also depends on whether the staff decide to go on strike, or whether there’s not enough personnel to manage the site due to public transportation issues. This doesn’t happen during each demonstration day. If there are going to be closures, announcements are made via the website or social media channels. For example, The Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Chateau de Versailles were closed during the last strike day on Tuesday.

Note: there are so many different museums in Paris that there is always *something* open. See our article “ Choose Your Muse: Match Your Personality to a Paris Museum ” for a options.

And restaurants?

We have been dining as usual in Paris restaurants. None of our reservations have been canceled.

🚮🇫🇷 Insolite : l’artiste urbain Bisk transforme les tas monstres de poubelles à #Paris , en poubelles monstres. (Le Monde) pic.twitter.com/HIkjkJdJE7 — Mediavenir (@Mediavenir) March 24, 2023

What about the trash? Is it as bad as it looks?

Paris is no stranger to strikes by the trash collectors, but the latest may be the worst in recent memory. Mountains have trash have been accumulating on the streets and sidewalks. Building managers have even advised residents to keep the trash in their apartments. However some neighborhoods have not been affected at all. For example, the 13th arrondissement trash collection is overseen by a private company, and so the streets are clean — in stark contrast with the neighboring 14th arrondissement where it’s only been collected a few times in the last three weeks. But there’s good news: The CGT union announced the end of the strike today, and trash trucks were seen resuming their routes in the city. Note that access to one of the trash incinerators in the suburbs was still blocked by protestors.

That’s not to say that the strikes won’t resume again. Some union representatives are threatening to start up again as soon as possible, and continue their action until the pension reform has been withdrawn. Meanwhile Prime Minister Borne has extended an offer to the unions to meet at the negotiating table.

Have other questions? We’ll be happy to help. Just leave them in the comment section below.

Lead photo credit : Demonstrators on the July Column. Photo credit: Roland Godefroy / Wikimedia commons

Related Articles

Letter from Paris: April 24, 2024 News Digest

Behind the Scenes of the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Paris

From Theater to TikTok: An Interview with TheQueenFatima

By bonjour paris editors.

BP's expert editorial team includes some of the city's top English-language journalists.

• Environment
• Road to Net Zero
• Art & Design
• Film & TV
• Music & On-stage
• Pop Culture
• Fashion & Beauty
• Home & Garden
• Things to do
• Combat Sports
• Horse Racing
• Beyond the Headlines
• Trending Middle East
• Business Extra
• Culture Bites
• Year of Elections
• Pocketful of Dirhams
• Books of My Life
• Iraq: 20 Years On

Is it safe to travel to France during strikes and protests?

Emirates and etihad airways flights to and from paris are operating as normal, but other airlines have warned of disruptions.

Protests and strikes are taking place in Paris and across France. AFP

On Tuesday, piles of rubbish built up over the last few weeks were set on fire around central Paris.

Armed police were out in force and fire engine sirens could be heard throughout the evening in the City of Light.

Near the Place de la Concorde, protesters and officers clashed.

And from the city’s rooftop terraces, often the place where travellers flock for the best views of the Eiffel Tower and other landmarks in the world's most visited country, large smoke plumes could be seen rising up from the streets below.

There are further strikes planned and for travellers heading to Paris or France at this time, here's what to know.

Why are there strikes and protests in France?

Protests and strike action have been taking place across France since the government announced a contentious bill to raise the country's retirement age from 62 to 64.

Demonstrators believe authorities are not listening to the people.

On Monday, President Emmanuel Macron narrowly survived a vote of no confidence — a move that sparked more protests across Paris.

And tonight the streets are burning as protestors set alight the piles of rubbish, of which Paris City Hall estimates there are some 13,000 tons of on the streets. #parisprotests #france pic.twitter.com/at1UFmQOOM — Hayley (@HayleyScottie) March 20, 2023

On Wednesday afternoon, the French president spoke live on national television about the proposed new bill, and said he was “willing to accept unpopularity over the pension reform”.

Sanitation workers remain on strike and rubbish piles littered around the city, the ones that haven't been ignited, continue to grow.

Further national strikes are planned with several industries due to take part.

Is it safe to visit France currently?

Travellers have not been told not to travel to France during strikes and protests.

The UK Foreign Office has warned of disruption and delays, but does not imply that travel plans should be cancelled.

The protests are against the government and not aimed at travellers, meaning tourists in Paris should remain safe, so long as they avoid protest activities.

Holidaymakers wishing to avoid protests can check with their hotel concierge and local news services to find out which areas have protests planned each day.

Public gatherings and protests have been officially forbidden on Concorde square, but travellers should still avoid this area and its surroundings during official days of strike action.

Are protests in Paris affecting holidays?

While unsightly piles of rubbish aren’t the best inclusions in holiday pictures, they are somewhat unavoidable in many parts.

Some roads and paths where streets are narrower are quite difficult to pass, especially in the evening when rubbish is strewn onto the roads and set alight.

Public transport services are impacted by the strikes, with several metro trains being cancelled on Tuesday evening after protests took place in the city centre.

Tourists with tickets booked for the Louvre Museum on Thursday, the next day of national strikes, have been advised that some areas of the museum may not be fully accessible.

Are flights being cancelled at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport?

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Air France cancelled 5 per cent of its services from Paris airports, including long-haul services.

Emirates and Etihad Airways flights to and from Paris are operating as normal at the time of writing. Other airlines including KLM and Ryanair have announced possible disruption to flight services this week.

It's possible more flight cancellations or delays could occur at airports around the country on Thursday as air traffic controllers are expected to take part in the action.

What should I do if I have upcoming travel to Paris?

Tourists with upcoming travel plans to France should reconfirm itineraries, booked activities and flight details before travelling.

When in the city, leave time for disruption to travel plans. Recent protests have caused disruptions at train stations and on metro services, and some roads in central Paris have been blocked.

The state-owned public transport operator RATP posted a statement on its website advising travellers to expect “very disrupted traffic” on Thursday on rail and metro networks. It also said that bus and trams will operate almost as “normal”.

Eurostar has also confirmed it will operate a revised service on Thursday, with trains to London, the Netherlands and Belgium cancelled.

Travellers should consider not using public transport to get to and from the airport. Instead, try to pre-book an airport transfer. It's also a good idea to leave extra time at the airport, as some operations such as immigration services, may only have skeleton staff.

Are other cities in France impacted?

While Paris has been at the forefront of protests, other cities around Paris are also facing disruption as the national day of strike action on Thursday will take place across the country.

Protests have been reported by local media in Nantes, Marseille, Bordeaux and other cities around France.

Checking In

Travel updates and inspiration from the past week

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Is it safe to travel to Paris during strikes and protests?

A general strike is set to take place across france on thursday 23 march 2023, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

Protests and strike action have swept across France in recent months following President Emmanuel Macron ’s attempts to push through a controversial pension reform bill without a vote in the lower house.

Workers across the transport, education, fuel and utility sectors have walked out in protest of the bill, which would push the retirement age from 62 to 64.

Industrial action by sanitation workers has resulted in giant stacks of rubbish piling up in the French capital, plus Marseille , Nantes and Angers, a visible (and pungent) symbol of the resentment felt by public-sector workers.

And on Thursday (23 March), another general strike is set to take place across France, with further disruption expected.

But is it safe to travel to Paris during this period of protest and strikes? Here’s everything you need to know.

Is it safe to travel to Paris amid strikes and protests?

France has a proud reputation of being a nation unafraid of taking to the streets to make its disdain for political processes felt.

While recent protests have been significant in their scale, protests are not an uncommon sight in France, particularly in the capital.

Last weekend, police clashed with protesters after they lit a fire in the Place de la Concorde near the National Assembly building in Paris.

Footage showed police firing tear gas at protesters, while hundreds of people were arrested.

And on Friday (17 March), police pepper-sprayed students near the Sorbonne University.

Current guidance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises visitors to avoid demonstrations and remain vigilant.

“On 16 March, large-scale demonstrations started in central Paris and elsewhere in France and police presence increased.

“Protests could turn violent and/or continue. These could lead to disruptions to road travel.

“You should monitor the media, check the latest advice with operators before travelling, avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.”

It adds: “If demonstrations do turn violent, a heavy police/gendarmerie presence is to be expected. In all cases, you should avoid demonstrations wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities.”

Travellers visiting Paris should avoid the Place de la Concorde, situated between the Champs-Élysées and the Jardin des Tuileries (the park adjacent to the Louvre) in the eighth arrondissement and the National Assembly, which are assembly points for the protests.

How will travel be affected?

Transport services across France are likely to be severely impacted by the general strike.

Eurostar has confirmed it will be running a revised service on Thursday 23 March, with eight services currently cancelled – click here to see the full list.

In a statement, Ryanair said it was expecting possible cancellations and delays on flights to and from France from 20 to 23 March.

“Any affected passengers will be notified as soon as possible,” it said.

“Ryanair advises all passengers to monitor their Ryanair app and the Ryanair website for the latest updates regarding their flight.

Elsewhere, the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) has asked airlines to reduce their flight schedules to and from Paris Orly and certain French airports as a result of the strike action.

In a statement, Air France said: “Air France plans to operate on these days 95 per cent of its flight schedule, including all its long-haul flights and its flights to and from Paris Charles de Gaulle.

“Last-minute delays and cancellations cannot be ruled out.

“The flight schedule is updated and customers affected by cancelled flights are notified individually by SMS and e-mail.”

Anyone planning to travel to France over the next 48 hours should check with their provider ahead of departure.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

What to Know About Traveling in Europe Amid Protests and Strikes

T ravelers hoping to visit the Louvre Museum in Paris were in for a surprise on Monday: instead of the Mona Lisa, they saw a crowd of protestors blocking museum entrances amid ongoing protests by union workers sweeping the city. The protests are the latest disruptions for those traveling to Europe this spring, as aviation, railway, and bus workers continue to strike over poor pay, working conditions, and other government policies.

Travel experts advise international travelers to expect and prepare for the disruptions well in advance of a busy travel season in Europe. While it’s unlikely the strikes will wipe out your travel plans entirely, there are ways you can circumvent unexpected roadblocks—starting with checking if your flights, hotel reservations, and itineraries overlap with any planned industrial action.

“The most important thing for travelers to pack when going to Europe this spring is their patience,” adds Michael Holtz, Founder, and CEO of SmartFlyer .

Where are the strikes happening and why?

Industrial action is expected to ripple across Europe on multiple days and in many countries.

The latest disruption for passengers occurred in France due to air traffic controller strikes, where workers have joined an unprecedented wave of industrial action against President Emmanuel Macron’s unpopular reforms for pension, which will raise the age of retirement from 62 to 64. Additionally, tens of thousands of people are striking in various French cities as part of their workers’ unions, which includes train, metro and bus drivers.

European airlines have warned this may delay planes landing, taking off, or flying over French airspace. While French law dictates domestic flights must continue during strikes, international flights entering French airspace are not similarly protected. RyanAir, Europe’s biggest airline, is asking customers to sign a petition urging the European Commission to keep the skies open.

Read More: Protests Sweep France After Pension Reform Is Forced Through by Macron

In Germany, two of the country’s largest unions went on strike earlier this week to demand higher pay at airports, ports, railways, underground services, and buses, leading Lufthansa Airlines to ground its flights through March 28. The airline advised travelers via email not to go to the airport unless they have a confirmed booking for a flight. It also urged those who were planning to take a domestic flight to travel by train instead. More flight cancellations are expected this summer .

In the U.K., nearly a thousand border officers have striked on several occasions. At London’s Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, a 10-day strike over a pay dispute has been announced by security guards during the Easter holiday period beginning March 31, although Heathrow stated it will continue to be “open and operational” during this time.

Visitors to Italy are also advised to keep checking if strike announcements overlap with their travel dates as strikes are expected to disrupt transport across the country, with gas station workers taking to the streets to protest against the high prices of petrol. In Spain, 17 airports are affected, including Madrid, Barcelona and Tenerife, as ground staff working for Swissport Handling continue to strike over pay and working conditions until mid-April. (The planned action doesn’t impact major airlines like Ryanair or easyJet.)

How can you plan your travel during a strike?

In most cases, an agreement is usually reached before strike action goes ahead, which means that travelers can hopefully avoid disruptions, says Sean Tipton from the ABTA, a trade association for the U.K. travel industry.

“That said, some strikes will go ahead. So the next thing to do is to put an efficient contingency plan in place,” said Tipton.

Know all the details: Often, strike notices are posted weeks in advance. In most cases, the airlines or train operators will share critical information over email or text messages, but you should also do your own research on whether your trip might be affected by strike action. Check local news sites and airport authority websites as many will post a calendar of proposed strike action.

If possible, avoid dates when strike action is planned. But if traveling on those days is necessary, figure out alternate routes to reach your destination and take detours to avoid areas that may be impacted by the protests. Plan for your safety, too. For example, U.S. travelers can register for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to get current safety information and be contacted by the embassy in emergencies.

And finally, it’s always good travel discipline to have a backup plan, said Tipton. That can include figuring out alternate routes or means of travel; chalking up a different sightseeing itinerary; or planning what to do in instances where you may have to wait for the next available flight or train.

Usually, airlines or train operators are obligated to arrange alternatives for passengers affected by delays or cancellations. Being a member of frequent flyer clubs may enable you to access extra benefits like lounge access through your airlines. Experts also suggest packing everything in your hand luggage: “That way, you can avoid baggage control issues,” Tipton said.

What can you do if your flight or train is delayed or canceled?

In the worst-case scenario where your flight or train is canceled due to strike action, most airlines and train operators will arrange a replacement train or flight or issue a refund. In the instance of overnight transit, the airlines will also pay for your accommodation. You’ll likely have to purchase food or other necessary items, so Tipton advises keeping all your receipts so that you can claim reimbursements from your airlines.

Another hack from Tipton is to purchase a “through ticket” where possible, which means booking all flights to your destination in one go, rather than through multiple, separate bookings. By law, through tickets protect customers by ensuring customers reach their final destination despite unexpected changes or delays. “That’s a good protection if you’re flying long haul, and where your travel involves separate flights,” he said,

Holtz at SmartFlyer also recommends booking through a travel advisor, which can arm travelers with local fixers on the ground in case of disruptions or emergencies. “Even if you hit a snag on your way to a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley and your agent is still sleeping, you’ve got a local contact who can step in to help,” he said.

Finally, think about taking out travel insurance. Some credit cards automatically entitle you to insurance that covers labor disruptions, but it’s helpful to check exactly what is covered and what the card’s limits may be. Then, you can determine if you need to purchase additional coverage. “You should always take out travel insurance,” said Tipton, because “without it, you could end up with potentially horrendous bills” in case of medical or other travel emergencies.

In every instance, Tipton says the most important thing is to be aware of your rights. “At the very least, you are entitled to ask for your money back if your flight was canceled,” he said. Travelers can read more about their rights under the European Union rules , which also apply to travelers from Britain (which is no longer part of the E.U.).

Other tips and tricks to make your travel smooth and enjoyable

Holtz says that post-pandemic, travel has adapted to become slower in all the best ways. This means that creating room for flexibility and spontaneity is key.

“By planning for a longer length of stay versus trying to combine too many things, you set yourself up not to be too stressed if the unexpected happens,” he said.

And Tipton’s last piece of advice might sound surprising: don’t over-prepare by arriving at the airport earlier than necessary. Last summer, travelers worried about lining up in long queues at U.K. airports arrived six or seven hours in advance, which in turn created more chaos.

“Suddenly, an airport that would’ve otherwise been empty became full. It’s a self-fulfilling prophecy,” Tipton warned.

More Must-Reads From TIME

• The 100 Most Influential People of 2024
• Coco Gauff Is Playing for Herself Now
• Scenes From Pro-Palestinian Encampments Across U.S. Universities
• 6 Compliments That Land Every Time
• If You're Dating Right Now , You're Brave: Column
• The AI That Could Heal a Divided Internet
• Fallout Is a Brilliant Model for the Future of Video Game Adaptations
• Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Write to Astha Rajvanshi at [email protected]

Log in with user name:

Log in with social media:

Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.

• Things To Do
• Restaurants
• Neighborhoods
• Travel Tips

Paris on Strike: What You Need to Know About Traveling to France Right Now

The recent strikes are the latest evolution of a wider anti-government sentiment.

This was originally published on January 6, with updates provided on January 15. 

If you’ve seen Les Misérables or Marie Antoinette, you know Paris has a long history of revolt and revolution. And if you’ve visited the city in the past year, you’ve probably gotten up close and personal with it. The yellow vest or gilets jaunes protests have been ongoing since the middle of November 2018, and beginning this past December, general strikes following the promise of retirement reform have also plagued the city, making it difficult to get around and nearly impossible to reach certain sights in the French capital. That said, some news media have blown the protests far out of proportion, so here’s the 411 on what’s actually going on in Paris.

Why Strike?

The most recent strikes, which began in early December, follow a proposal by French President Emmanuel Macron to reform the nation’s retirement policy, creating a new universal system that would simplify the more complicated scheme of 42 distinct regimes currently in place. The existing system sees workers in some industries, including transportation and electric, enjoying better benefits than the population at large; these workers have therefore launched the widespread strikes to retain these benefits.

The onslaught of strikes join the ongoing gilets jaunes protests, which began over a year ago due to rising fuel taxes. The gilets jaunes protests have since evolved to encompass wider anti-government feelings, including but not limited to the new reforms proposed by Macron.

Places to Avoid in Paris

Both the  gilets jaunes  demonstrations and the new strikes are particularly present in Paris on Saturdays when marches leave Gare de Lyon at 1 p.m. and follow the axis along Bastille and République to finish at Gare de l’Est. These protests have led to the shut-down of much of metro line 8 on Saturdays and the closure of certain stations along the axis including Grands-Boulevards and Opéra. In addition to the regular Saturday protests, a widespread protest against the retirement reforms is planned for Thursday, January 16, and a protest against medically assisted pregnancy is planned for Sunday, January 19.

Top Picks for You

Recommended Fodor’s Video

On protest days, it’s best to avoid the axis connecting Gare de Lyon and Gare de l’Est, as well as major train stations throughout Paris. Specifically for the protest on January 16, the axis between Montparnasse and Place de l’Italie, on the Left Bank, will be heavily affected. Keep an eye on  this website  to see when and where upcoming protests are planned.

Transport strikes have been perhaps the most perceptible outcome of the ongoing protests for locals, with both the RATP (which operates Paris’ public transportation) and the SNCF (the national rail service) offering limited, heavily disrupted service since December 5. The automatic metro lines—1 and 14—are running as usual, but the disruption of other lines, particularly on the weekends and on announced strike days, means that trains on these lines are much fuller than usual.

Following announcements from Prime Minister Edouard Philippe Sunday regarding the government easing up on some of its proposed reforms, these drastic closures have eased somewhat. Most metro lines are currently running at least between the hours of 6:30am-9:30am and 4:30pm-7:30pm, albeit with fewer trains: one out of every two, three, or four usually in operation. Lines running in this fashion include 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 12. The RATP has been pretty good about keeping people informed about line closures online, so keep an eye on  this website  for more details.

While the RATP has been running more trains during rush hour, some locals have been opting for bike and scooter rentals through apps like Lime or Jump to get to work. While this is certainly a good option for Parisians and visitors alike, the fact that so many people are now using these services means you’re not guaranteed a bike or scooter when you need one. In addition, the influx of new bicyclists to Paris’ roads has led to more  bike-related accidents , so bicyclists—and pedestrians—should proceed with caution.

Planned strikes have been announced in other industries as well. Air France held a strike on January 6-7, and the group of professions libérales (including doctors, airline pilots, and some tour guides) have announced a strike for Monday, February 3.

Getting to France

If you’re flying into Paris, chances are the strikes will affect you. Not only are strikes affecting public transport, making it difficult to get to and from the airport, but Air France strikes have made both of Paris’ airports more difficult to navigate, with much longer lines at check-in, passport control, and security. Private buses to and from the airport continue to run, and taxis and Uber are still available, but you would do well to plan to arrive at the airport 2 ½ to 3 hours ahead of your flight and may wish to book transport to and from the airport in advance. Keep an eye on  this website  to make sure that your flight is departing or arriving as planned.

Getting Around France

Visiting sights outside of Paris has grown more complicated, as many regional and high-speed (TGV) trains are being canceled due to SNCF strikes. Some trains are no longer taking reservations to allow those who have already purchased tickets for canceled trips to take advantage of the few trains that are running.

If you’re able to rent a car (which may prove difficult, as many are resorting to this option), you’ll be able to get out of Paris and visit places like Versailles and Chartres, but be aware that if you venture further afield to other major cities like Marseille, Caen, and Toulouse, you may encounter similar strikes and protests as you would in Paris.

Tips for Painless Sightseeing During the Strikes

Paris is a very walkable city; it takes about two hours to walk from its northernmost point to its southernmost point, and most sights within the city center are an easy half-hour walk from one another. Good planning, then, means that you can take full advantage of the city without being crammed into over-full metro cars. Use CityMapper or Google Maps to chart out a walking course to your destination, then sightsee as you walk. Not only will you get your steps in, but you’ll be able to take in the beautiful Haussmannien architecture that has made Paris famous.

2. Stay Central

Paris is made up of 20 arrondissements that swirl out from the 1st in the center to the 20th in the northeast, and while each has its draws, most of what visitors to Paris want to see is located in the first 7. Staying in a hotel in the far-flung 14th, 15th, 16th, or 17th might make it more difficult for you to get around during the strikes, so consider booking a slightly pricier hotel in the city center.

3. Plan Ahead

It shouldn’t be too hard to see the sights, monuments, and museums you had in mind…with a little bit of foresight. The city’s museums have remained open during the strikes, but many are operating at reduced hours; this  list  shows the modified opening hours of most of the city’s museums and monuments.

As for taking advantage of the city’s famed gastronomy, reservations are more important than ever before. Restaurants have been hit hard by the strikes, and some have remained closed for the holiday or are operating with modified opening hours. Call or book online to ensure that they’re opened when you plan to visit; they’ll be very happy to see you.

With a little bit of planning, your Parisian vacation can be just as magical as it would be under normal circumstances!

Home > Paris Travel Tips > Upcoming Transportation Strikes in France 2024: Info & Best Tips

Upcoming Transportation Strikes in France 2024: Info & Best Tips

1. french transit strikes & paris transit strikes.

Transport in France and Paris is usually quite good, but unfortunately, sometimes it is affected by strikes.

However, we locals have learned to deal with French strikes over time. How? With the right information, a little bit of flexibility in our everyday life, and lots of patience.

Are you planning a trip to Paris soon? Keep reading this article on Transportation Strikes in France 2024, with the upcoming transportation strikes in Paris and France and our best tips for dealing with them.

Post updated on 24 April 2024, 5:40 p.m. (Paris time)

Are You Planning a Trip to Paris Last Minute?

If you are booking a last-minute trip to Paris, we’ve got you covered! Below are our must-guides, top tours, hotels, and more:

» Plan:  Paris Travel Planner ; Paris Arrondissements Guide ; Check out the  best Paris Metro tickets for tourists

» Book your flight tickets with  Omio ; book your train tickets with  Omio

Book your transfer from the airport to the city with Welcome Pickups .

» Where to Stay:  Best Districts to Stay in Paris

• Le Pavillon de la Reine  (historical 5-star hotel in Le Marais)
• Hotel La Comtesse  (mid-range hotel with Eiffel Tower view from all the rooms!)
• Hotel Ducs de Bourgogne (super central 4-star hotel near the Louvre)

» Top-Rated Paris Tours & Tickets:

• Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Eiffel Tower Summit Access Ticket
• Seine River Night Cruise
• Catacombs Skip-the-line tour with VIP access to restricted areas

Want skip-the-line access at museums & attractions in Paris?  Get your hands on a  Paris Museum Pass !

» Don’t leave without travel insurance!  Compare plans and prices amongst the world’s leading programs with  Travel Insurance Master

Related content

2. Content of this Article

This article on transportation strikes is extensive and covers many topics. Learn what you can find in this article and what you won’t find:

• France Strike Schedule 2024
• SNCF – France Train Strike Schedule 2024
• French Air Traffic Control Strike Dates 2024 /French Airlines – French Airports Strike Dates 2024
• RATP- Paris Metro Strike Dates 2024
• Gilets Jaunes (Yellow Vests) in Paris Strikes

This article does not cover the strikes by foreign companies traveling to France (e.g., Deutsche Bahn, British Airways).

The strikes shown in this article are officially confirmed — no rumors, no guessing, only planned strikes. Unfortunately, some strikes in France are confirmed at the very last moment (only 24 hours in advance) when negotiations with the French State fail. This is why it is important to check this article from time to time if you plan to visit France soon.

If you are traveling to France, we recommend checking this post (especially chapter #3) a few days before your trip and the day before your departure for any updates.

If you are only interested in SNCF – train strikes or in Air France – French airport strikes, our other blog France Bucket List has two articles covering these specific transportation strikes:

3. France Strike Schedule 2024

Are there any strikes in France today? /Are there any Paris strikes today?

>> There are transportation strikes in France in April 2024 , and May 2024 . There is also one strike notice filed for the next months. Check out the dates in the calendar below.

Calendar of Strikes in Paris 2024 & Strikes in France 2024

This calendar lists the Paris Strikes 2024. It also lists the main France Strikes in 2024. Transportation strikes in France are not planned months in advance; it is usually a short-notice thing, that’s why this calendar only covers three months.

1. SNCF Strike 2024:

» Transportation strike by SNCF train controllers in all of France from 30 April 2024 to 31 May 2024 . Go to Chapter #4 for more details. Update: this strike has been canceled.

» In Paris and the Ile-de-France region, some SNCF trains with connections with RATP trains could be impacted by the RATP strike from 5 February 2024 to 9 September 2024.

2. RATP – Metro Paris Strike 2024: strike notice by RATP from 5 February 2024 to 9 September 2024 . Go to Chapter #6 for more details.

3. French Airports – French Air Controllers Strike 2024: strike by French air traffic control on 25 April 2024 and on 9, 10, and 11 May 2024 . Go to Chapter #5 for the latest updates.

4. French Airlines – Air France Strike 2024: strike by flight attendants and stewards in France from 15 to 16 April 2024 . Go to Chapter #5 for more details. Update: this strike has been canceled.

5. Other Strikes in France Dates 2024: nothing to report for the moment.

* Opération Escargot (snail operation in English) is a French expression to define an action consisting of provoking a significant slowdown in traffic, or even a blockade, for protest purposes.

4. SNCF – France Train Strike Schedule 2024

SNCF STRIKE DESCRIPTION:

» Strike by SNCF train controllers from Tuesday, 30 April 2024, to Friday, 31 May 2024 . The reasons for the strike include demands for salary increases and better consideration of the end of career. During their strike of February 2024, there were significant disruptions, with many TGV train cancellations.

This new strike by train controllers is a pressure point before a round table scheduled for mid-April, which will address the subject of the end of career. Depending on the outcome of this meeting, the strike notice will be lifted or not.

Update 21 April 2024: During the last few days, SNCF management and the unions have held a meeting. The object of this meeting was the end of railway workers’ careers, one of the unions’ priority issues. The outcome of this meeting was “positive,” and three of the four representative unions, including the CGT, are preparing to sign it. Only the SUD-Rail union, which issued the strike notice, is still in doubt.

Update 22 April 2024: The four main SNCF unions, the CGT, CFDT, UNSA, and Sud Rail, are expected to sign the agreement negotiated with management on end-of-career and phase-out schemes. Without jeopardizing the pension reform, this agreement will allow railway workers to retire under better conditions. This outcome, scheduled for June, was brought forward to prevent a new strike by controllers announced by Sud Rail in May.

Update 22 April 2024 6:10 p.m.: The agreement is signed. As a result, Sud-Rail has decided not to call a strike in May.

Generally, SNCF informs about the trains or train lines impacted 1-2 days before the strike date. Passengers on TGV or Intercités trains impacted by the strike are usually contacted by SMS or email (if they have provided their contact details). Passengers of regional trains (TER) can check traffic forecasts on the regional sites dedicated to TER trains.

CLARIFICATION: When we write, for example, “2 trains out of 3 on average,” it means that 2/3 of the usual trains for that day will be working.

• Axe Nord TGV:
• Axe Est TGV:
• Axe Atlantique TGV:
• Axe Sud Est TGV:
• Province to province:
• Classic Ouigo trains:
• Lyria trains:
• Connections with Germany:
• Connections with Italy:
• France – Spain:
• Hauts de France
• Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
• Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
• Centre-Val de Loire
• Nouvelle Aquitaine
• Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur
• Pays de la Loire
• Intercities:  nothing to report. Passengers on canceled trains are usually warned by email or SMS
• Transilien : nothing to report. For more details, please check Transilien’s website
• RER Trains (part of the line managed by SNCF): nothing to report. The connection SNCF /RATP at Gare du Nord is maintained.
• Night Trains: nothing to report
• Tramway lines : nothing to report.

4a.Traveling to France with Other Train Lines FAQ

» Will my Eurostar /Thalys /TGV Lyria /Deutsche Bahn train be affected by the Transportation Strike in France? 

Even if these trains are not on strike, French strike actions could impact their ability to deliver the usual timetable. As a result, they may need to adapt their timetable during the strike days in France.

• Click here for more Eurostar traffic information
• Click here for Thalis traffic information
• Click here for TGV Lyria traffic information
• Click here for Deutsche Bahn traffic information

4b. What to Do During a Train Strike in France

Are you traveling to/ from Paris by train during an SNCF strike? Here are our recommendations:

YOU HAVE NOT BOOKED YOUR TRAIN TICKETS YET

Paris is always a good idea , but it is even better if there are no train strikes. If there’s a transportation strike, France can wait.

» Be flexible with your travel dates. If you were considering a trip to Paris (or France) but have not booked yet, avoid traveling to Paris during French train strike dates.

Actually, the SNCF website usually does not allow any more bookings during French train strike dates.

» Consider Other Options , like traveling to /from Paris or France by plane or with your own car if you are traveling from the neighboring countries.

Click here to find cheap flights to Paris 

» France by Car. If you were planning a trip around France by train, you could replace the trains with a rental car. Touring France by car is a fantastic option because it is easier to go off the tourist path. Check out our best tips for renting a car in France .

Click here to rent a car with Discover Cars

YOU HAVE BOOKED YOUR TRAIN TICKETS TO /FROM PARIS

If you have booked your train during French train strike dates, please don’t panic! First of all, check on the SNCF website the France train strike schedule, if your train is canceled or not. To do this, click on “Train Number,” enter your train number (you can find this information on your train ticket), and then add your travel date. The system will tell you immediately the status of your train.

» If your train is not canceled , don’t worry! There may be some disruptions or delays, but you should be ok.

» If your train is canceled , SNCF usually proposes different solutions:

• a free exchange on all TGVs where there is space.
• OR a 100% refund of the ticket price if you cancel your trip scheduled between the strike dates

If, for any reason, your ticket is stated as “non-refundable” or the website does not propose a total refund (please verify this before the last click), contact them directly with your ticket reference number.

If you booked your train with Ouigo trains, contact them directly for an exchange or refund.

» If your TGV, Intercité, or OuiGO train is delayed because of a train strike, you are entitled to compensation ranging from 25% to 75% of the ticket price, depending on the length of the delay (the minimum delay to request compensation is 30 minutes).

The requests for compensation for delayed TGV and Intercité trains are treated on this site:  https://garantie30minutes.sncf.com/s/?language=en_US

5. French Air Traffic Control Strike Dates 2024 / French Airlines – French Airports Strike Dates 2024

FRENCH AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL STRIKE DESCRIPTION:

Strike by air controllers in France on 25 April 2024 . The main air traffic controllers’ union, the SNCTA, has filed a strike notice for Thursday, April 25, to denounce a new version, according to them, “unacceptable” of a protocol currently being negotiated aimed at restructuring air navigation services. This strike by SNCTA is supported by the UNSA-UTCAC.

“The version published (by the General Directorate of Civil Aviation, DGAC) is in no way signable for the SNCTA, which considers it a provocation if not an insult,” indicates the union on its website. The organization, which represents 60% of the votes among the controllers, also indicates in a press release that it has refused to participate in a meeting called “urgently” by the DGAC on Wednesday afternoon.

Update 22 April 2024: According to an initial estimate provided to airlines, up to 70% of the day’s flights could be canceled at major airports. The Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) will communicate more precise figures on Tuesday, as strikers have until that date to send their individual declarations.

Update 23 April 2024: While a massive strike has been announced for Thursday, 25 April 2025 (the details have not been published yet), the majority union of air traffic controllers has filed a new strike notice today for the Ascension weekend ( 9, 10, and 11 May 2024 ). The National Union of Air Traffic Controllers (SNCTA) contests the overhaul of air traffic control in France and asks for compensation measures and wage increases.

Update 23 April 2024, 10:20 p.m: here’s the impact of the air controllers’ strike on 25 April 2024:

• 75% of flights to /from Paris Orly Airport (ORY) will be canceled
• 65% of flights to /from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) will be canceled
• 65% of flights to /from Marseille Airport (MRS) will be canceled
• 70% of flights to /from Nice Airport (NCE) will be canceled
• 60% of flights to /from Toulouse Airport (TLS) will be canceled
• On average, 60% of flights to /from the rest of French airports will be canceled.

Update 24 April 2024, 5:40 p.m: The majority union of French air traffic controllers announced on Wednesday, 24 April, the lifting of its strike notice for Thursday. The SNCTA organization found a last-minute agreement with the Direction Générale d’Aviation Civile (DGAC). Despite this last-minute agreement, the flight schedule in the French airports will be reduced on 25 April 2024:

• 65% 55% of flights to /from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) will be canceled
• 70% 45% of flights to /from Nice Airport (NCE) will be canceled
• 60% 45% of flights to /from Toulouse Airport (TLS) will be canceled
• On average, 60% 45% of flights to /from the rest of French airports will be canceled.

A strike by air traffic controllers is the worst kind of transportation strike in France. A kind reminder that the last strikes by air traffic controllers in France on 31 January 2023, 7 February 2023, and 16 February 2023 meant the cancellation of 20% of flights at Orly Airport and other French airports.

Please note that Air Controllers’ strikes in France also affect flights crossing French airspace even if they are not flying from /to France. Due to the reduced number of planes that could be handled by the limited number of French air traffic controllers, any flight crossing French airspace might be delayed or re-routed.

FRENCH AIRLINES STRIKE DESCRIPTION:

Commercial cabin crew (PNC – flight attendants and stewards) in France, represented by the Syndicat National du Personnel Navigant Commercial (SNPNC-FO), will be on strike on 15 and 16 April 2024 .  

The SNPNC-FO opposes a bill aimed at restricting the right to strike in the airline sector to periods fixed by decree and to a total of 60 days per year.

Flights by French airlines may be impacted during the strike (delays, cancellations). Passengers are advised to check the status of their flight with their airline or on the airport website. Source: airjournal.fr

For more information on flight delays or cancellations, check out Chapter 5d here below.

Update: this strike has been canceled.

GOOD TO KNOW: Usually, all airlines flying to /from France or flying over French airspace are impacted by the Air Controllers’ strikes. Additional disruptions can be expected depending on the mobilization of pilots, stewards, and hostesses, within the various airlines.

5a. What to Do during Air France Strikes

GOOD TO KNOW: Many Air France flights operate on share code with other air companies (KLM, Delta…). Air France flights operated by an aircraft and a crew other than that of Air France might not be affected by this Air France strike.

On the other hand,  if one of these other companies (KLM, Delta…) is operating on a share code with Air France and using Air France crew or Air France aircraft, these flights could be impacted.

Check your e-ticket to understand what air company is operating your flight. Is it Air France? Perhaps another air company on shared code with Air France? Check their website, and if your flight is affected, see what re-booking  /cancellation options they offer.

YOU HAVE NOT BOOKED YOUR FLIGHT TO PARIS WITH AIR FRANCE YET

» Be flexible  with your travel dates. If you were thinking about flying to Paris with Air France but have not booked your flights yet, avoid traveling to Paris during Air France strike dates.

» Consider other air companies  to avoid eventual delays or cancellations.

YOU HAVE BOOKED YOUR FLIGHT TO PARIS WITH AIR FRANCE ALREADY

First, take your e-ticket and check your flight status  here  to see if your flight is affected by the Air France strike or not. To do this, introduce your flight number and your travel date. The system will tell you immediately if your flight is delayed or canceled.

During Air France strikes, you can anticipate, postpone, and cancel your trip easily online. With Air France, you can even change your origin or destination, and if you decide to do this, you will get a voucher valid for 1 year that can be used on AIR FRANCE, KLM, or HOP! flights.

5b. What to Do during Other Air Strikes in France

This chapter is dedicated to French air companies (other than Air France) flying from /to France.

Each flight company manages airstrikes differently, but the process to follow in case of strikes is always the same: visit its website, check if your flight is affected, and if so, follow its instructions for a change or refund.

5c. What to Do during French Air Traffic Control Strikes

GOOD TO KNOW: France has had the highest number of air traffic controller strikes in the last five years, with 95 days of strikes between 2010 and 2015.

These are the worst transportation in France strikes , with hundreds of flights from /to France delayed or canceled. Also, air traffic controller strikes in France affect flights crossing French airspace even if they are not flying from /to France. Flights crossing the French airspace might be delayed or re-routed due to the reduced number of planes that could be handled by the limited French air traffic controllers.

In other words: French Air Traffic Control Strikes mean chaos!

What to do during a French Air Traffic Control Strike in France?  We recommend following the France strike news, monitoring your flight on the air company’s website, and considering their proposed options to change /refund your tickets.

5d. Are you Entitled to Compensation if your Flight is Canceled or Delayed by French Strikes?

European Regulation EC261 covers delays (3h+ delay at the final destination), cancellations, and denied boarding. It applies to:

• Flights departing in Europe regardless of the airline (French overseas territories included).
• Flights flying into Europe on a European carrier.

Non-EU citizens or business travelers can also apply for flight compensation if they meet one of the two cases above.

Airlines are not always obligated to offer compensation following a strike because strikes are usually considered ‘extraordinary circumstances.’ These are situations beyond the airline’s control and can include adverse weather conditions and certain strike actions.

But when a flight is delayed or canceled due to strike action taking place by the airline’s own employees (e.g., pilots, airline staff), the airline must pay compensation to passengers.

TIP: If your flight to /from Paris or France was delayed 3+ hours due to a strike in France, we recommend checking your case with Air Help . Air Help is the world’s #1 flight compensation company. Since its foundation in 2017, Air Help has helped 16M+ air passengers – Click here to check if you are eligible for compensation  

In addition to flight delays, here’s the list of all the airplane passengers’ rights to compensation , according to the European Union. https://www.europe-consommateurs.eu/en/travelling-motor-vehicles/air-travel/air-passenger-rights.html

6. RATP- Paris Metro Strike Dates 2024

GOOD TO KNOW: The company RATP is responsible for most of the public transport in Paris and the Parisian region. RATP includes the Paris Mero, tram, bus services, and part of the Réseau Express Régional (RER) network.

STRIKE DESCRIPTION:

The CGT RATP has filed a strike notice for all RATP staff from 5 February 2024 at 7 p.m. to 9 September 2024 at 8 a.m . The union justifies this decision by “insufficient 2024 salary measures” in the context of inflation and preparation for the Paris Olympic Games 2024.

The notice concerns “all RATP staff, in each category and in each service.” Disruptions are expected on the Ile-de-France transport network, including during the period of the Paris Olympic Games 2024.

RATP strike 5 February 2024 to 9 September 2024 explained: In France, the labor code and the national collective agreement for urban public passenger transport networks impose “a period of five clear days preceding the start of the strike” in order to “continue dialogue and negotiation.”

This seven-month strike notice (from 5 February 2024 to 9 September 2024) offers the RATP the possibility of going on strike “overnight” until 9 September 2024 because the strike notice was already published on 29 January. Therefore, it does not mean that the metro, trains, buses, and trams in Paris will be on strike continuously for seven months.

Because the metro, trains, buses, and tramways in Paris can decide to go on strike overnight, keep clicking for the latest updates.

Metro Lines : waiting for more information.

Clarification: When we write, for example, “ 1 train out of 3 from 6.00 am to 10 am and from 4.00 pm to 8.00 pm ,” it means that between 10 am and 4 pm, there’s no metro service. When we write, for example, “2 trains out of 3 on average,” it means that 2/3 of the usual trains will be working.

• Line 1: normal traffic (it’s an automatic line)
• Line 2: 
• Line 3: 
• Line 3 bis: 
• Line 5: 
• Line 6: 
• Line 7: 
• Line 7 bis: 
• Line 8: 
• Line 9: 
• Line 11: this line closes at 10 pm from Tuesday to Thursday due to construction works
• Line 12: 
• Line 13: 
• Line 14:  this line closes at 10 pm due to construction works

RATP RER Trains: waiting for information. The interconnections with SNCF are working normally.

The RER B train is the train that travels to Paris Charles de Gaulle and Paris Orly –> see chapters 6 and 6a of this post to understand how strikes on this line work.

• RER A: The interconnection RATP /SNCF at Nanterre-Préfecture is [TBD] kept
• RER B: The interconnection RATP /SNCF at Gare du Nord (to go to the airport) is [TBD] kept (there’s no need to change trains at Gare du Nord on the surface to continue the journey ) –> Check out Chapter 6a
• RER C , RER D , and RER E :

Bus: waiting for information.

Tramway : waiting for information.

• Line T1: 
• Line T3b: 
• Line T5: 
• Line T6: 
• Line T7: 
• Line T8: 

6a. How to Get from the Airport to your Hotel during a Metro /Train Strike in Paris

GOOD TO KNOW: The line from  Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris city center and beyond to Paris Orly Airport   is operated half by SNCF  (from CDG Airport to Paris Gare du Nord)  and half by RATP  (from Paris Gare du Nord to Orly Airport and the end of the line). This means that when SNCF or RATP are on strike, this connection is disrupted or suspended.

ALLOW EXTRA TIME TO TRAVEL FROM PARIS TO THE AIRPORT

During a transportation strike, Paris will be served by fewer trains, tramways, and buses running. Also, the train interconnection (RATP – SNCF) at Gare du Nord might be suspended.

In any case, expect the working trains or buses to be cramped to the point of letting them go and wait for the next one.

Check RER B’s schedule and the specific metro line or bus line schedules during the strike before leaving your hotel and allow extra time to reach the airport.

CONSIDER PRIVATE /SHARED AIRPORT TRANSFERS

During the last Paris transport strikes, taxis were working just fine, but the taxi request was much higher than the offer, and it was necessary to book their services well in advance.

Get ready for higher prices on services like Uber.  During the transportation strike of 13 September 2021, the prices for both Kapten and Uber were reported as 2-2.5 times the normal rate when people could secure rides.

Book an airport transfer and avoid the strike hassle.  The good thing about Paris airport transfers is that their price does not change because of a strike, AND their service is not affected by the Paris strikes. Whatever happens during a transportation strike in Paris, your driver will be waiting for you at the airport or your hotel.

We like  Welcome‘s transfer services for private transfers ; Welcome has good cars and the best English-speaking drivers in Paris. 

Other transfer options:

» Book a shared transportation service airport-Paris. This option only costs a few euros more than the Airport-Paris ticket and avoids all the strike hassle.

• shared transport Paris Charles de Gaulle – Paris
• shared transport Paris Orly – Paris
• private transport Paris Charles de Gaulle – Paris
• private transport Paris Orly – Paris

We recommend booking these services in advance, especially during the Christmas holidays. Christmas in Paris and the last days of the year are the peak season in Paris, with many people traveling.

CONSIDER A PRIVATE TRANSFER AIRPORT – DISNEYLAND PARIS

Book an airport transfer and avoid the strike hassle. After a long flight, the last thing you want to do is fight to get a bus or a train to Disneyland Paris, especially if you are traveling with kids, seniors, or a lot of luggage.

The good thing about Paris airport transfers is that the Paris strikes do not affect their service. Whatever happens during a transportation strike in Paris, your driver will be there waiting for you.

We like  Welcome‘s transfer services for private transfers; Welcome has good cars and the best English-speaking drivers in Paris. 

FLYING EARLY IN THE MORNING? CONSIDER A HOTEL NEAR THE AIRPORT WITH A SHUTTLE SERVICE

If your flight is leaving Paris early in the morning, have a look at the hotels near your Paris airport, at least for the last night.

Sleeping in hotels near the airport eliminates the stress of waking up early in the morning and the transportation hassle during a strike day in Paris.

Another advantage of hotels close to Paris airports is that they usually offer very competitive prices because most tourists opt for a hotel located in the city.

Finally, most of these hotels also provide a free airport pickup /drop-off if you book it in advance.

Here’s the list of our favorite hotels near the Paris Airports, all with FREE airport shuttle service.

Hotels near Charles de Gaulle Airport

• Sheraton – Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport : located inside CDG Airport (Terminal 2)
• Hilton – Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport : located 0.3 Km from CDG Airport, Terminal 1
• Courtyard by Marriott – Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport : located 2.9 km from CDG Airport, Terminal 2
• Novotel – Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport : located 0.1 Km from CDG Airport, Terminal 1

Hotels near Orly Airport

• Best Western Plus – Paris Orly Airport : located 2.8 Km from ORY Airport
• Howard Hotel – Paris Orly Airport : located 1.9 Km from ORY Airport
• Mercure – Paris Orly Airport : located 1.2 Km from ORY Airport
• Novotel – Paris Orly Airport: located 3 Km from ORY Airport

IN CASE YOU DECIDE TO TAKE THE RER TRAIN AIRPORT – CITY DURING A RATP STRIKE

If you feel adventurous and want to travel from the airport to your hotel during a transportation strike, you need to check 2 things beforehand:

» Is the interconnection SNCF – RATP suspended? You will find this information at the beginning of chapter 6. When the interconnection is suspended at Gare du Nord, there is always SNCF or RATP staff wearing yellow vests (but these are kind people!) to tell travelers where to go to proceed with their journey. Sounds complicated? Not really, but it isn’t very pleasant to go upstairs or downstairs, especially if you are carrying big suitcases or backpacks.

» Is the closest metro station to your hotel open? During transportation strikes, some metro stations may be closed, so make sure you know where to stop to reach your hotel before taking the metro.

6b. How to Get from the Train Station to your Hotel during RATP Paris Strikes

Paris’s train stations are all within the city, so in normal circumstances, you will take the metro to your hotel. However, during a RATP strike, metros will be less frequent and more crowded, and some metro stations may be closed.

CONSIDER A HOTEL NEAR YOUR TRAIN STATION

If you can change your booking, we recommend looking for a hotel near your train station, a hotel that you can reach on foot. Pack light and save time and lots of stress with a hotel conveniently located near your train station. This will be especially helpful when you need to take the train back home: you don’t want to miss your train!

Hotels located less than 1 Km from Gare du Nord :

• Best Hotels near Paris Gare du Nord
• 25 Hours Hotel Terminus Nord : located at 0.1 Km (6-min walk) from Gare du Nord
• Le Rocroy Hotel Paris Gare du Nord : located 0.3 Km (5-min walk) from Gare du Nord
• Hotel Whistler : located 0.2 Km (6-min walk) from Gare du Nord

Hotels located less than 1 Km from Gare de l’Est:

• Le Robinet d’Or : located 0.4 Km (8-min walk) from Gare de l’Est
• OKKO Hotels Paris Gare de l’Est : located 0.1 Km (4-min walk) from Gare de l’Est
• Le Grand Quartier : located 0.5 Km (7-min walk) from Gare de l’Est

Hotels located less than 1 Km from Gare de Lyon:

• Hotel Parisianer : located 0.1 Km (6-min walk) from Gare de Lyon
• CitizenM Paris Gare de Lyon : located 0.2 Km (5-min walk) from Gare de Lyon
• Holiday Inn Paris Gare de Lyon : located 0.3 Km (6-min walk) from Gare de Lyon

6c. How to Get around Paris during RATP /Metro Transport Strikes

BE FLEXIBLE

Fewer trains will run during a Paris Metro strike, so the waiting time between trains will be longer, and the metro platforms will be more crowded.

If you are traveling around Paris during Paris Metro strikes, be flexible AND patient. Avoid transportation peak hours (from 8.30 am to 9.30 am and from 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm) and open your mind to other transportation options or change your sightseeing plans.

WALK, WALK, AND WALK

If the weather in Paris is good, we suggest walking as much as you can. Walking times between distant points within Paris are not long, and in many cases, walking distances between metro stations are usually less than a 10-minute walk. 

TIP: Check out this metro map above , with the walking distances between metro stations.

CONSIDER OTHER TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

If you are staying in the central arrondissements of Paris and the weather is good, you can also consider other alternatives to the metro, tram, or buses. These alternatives include renting a bike (check out our quick guide to Paris by bike ), walking (walking is great in Paris!), or electric kick scooters for adults.

CONSIDER A GUIDED TOUR OUT OF PARIS WITH PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION

What to do in Paris if you cannot move around? If you were considering seeing something other than Paris, a guided day tour with transportation could be a great idea during a day of transportation strike in Paris.

All the city tour companies cover the most popular day trips from Paris , so prices are usually very competitive. Also, some guided tours include pick-up and drop-off at your hotel.

7. Gilets Jaunes (Yellow Vests) in Paris Strikes

GILETS JAUNES DEMONSTRATIONS DESCRIPTION: Nothing to report.

7a. How to Get around Paris during Gilets Jaunes Demonstrations

Gilets Jaunes are back, but their presence is not massive compared to previous years. Gilets Jaunes demonstrations usually take place on Saturdays, in central places like Concorde or Champs Elysées, and on Paris’s outskirts and the main road accesses to Paris.

There are no transportation strikes in France or Paris directly linked to Gilets Jaunes, but some streets of Paris or roads around Paris might be blocked to transit because of the Gilets Jaunes. What does it mean?

» It means that the Paris bus services and especially the bus services to the airport might be disrupted and the itinerary slightly modified to avoid the blocked streets or roads.

» It means that some central metro stations in Paris (e.g., Concorde, Champs Elysées) might be closed during these demonstrations in Paris.

TIP : Allow more time for your travels inside Paris but especially on the way to the airport

Did you find our Strikes in France 2024 and Strikes in Paris 2024 article useful? If so, share it with your friends through your favorite social media. Thanks! 

Click here to read more Paris Tips

Back to Homepage

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, meaning we get a small commission if you make a purchase through our links. It costs you nothing more (in fact, if anything, you’ll get a nice discount) but helps us to go on creating incredible Paris content for you. We trust all products promoted here and would never recommend a product that isn’t of value. World in Paris is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no expense to you.

About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

• Tata Steel share price
• 165.50 2.73%
• NTPC share price
• 351.25 1.25%
• Power Grid Corporation Of India share price
• 290.00 1.75%
• Infosys share price
• 1,431.85 -0.68%
• ITC share price
• 428.85 -0.08%

Planning a trip to France? As protests rage, here's what you need to know

The french government has seen protests against its unpopular reform of the pension system escalate in recent days, with uncollected garbage set on fire in paris and clashes against riot police in other major cities. unions have called another day of strikes on tuesday..

As protests rage across France several countries have issued advisories, urging against travel to European nation. The Emmanuel Macron government's recent decision to raise the pension age has brought hundreds of thousands onto the streets in protest, even disrupting flights and trains in some areas. Protesters have set uncollected garbage on fire in Paris and clashed against riot police in other major cities - with many being injured. 

Against this backdrop, British and American citizens have been urged to ‘avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity’ and monitor the situation before travelling. 

While India has not issued a specific travel advisory in light of the recent protests, the country was incidentally cleared for the COVID-19 'green list' earlier this month. Fully vaccinated travellers from India can enter France with no restrictions and those travellers who are not fully vaccinated only need a pre-departure negative test.

For those whose upcoming vacation (or work) plans involve the City of Love and Lights, here are the answers to some key questions:

What exactly is happening in France?

Since mid-March there have been spontaneous protests in Paris and other parts of France. The protests have involved hundreds of thousands of people, turning violent in some areas. Ongoing strikes have also affected multiple sectors, with the next series of large-scale demonstrations being planned for March 28.

Meanwhile in western France, thousands protested on Saturday against the construction of large water reservoirs destined for the agriculture industry, leading to violent clashes with police. Some protesters hurled Molotov cocktails, explosives and various projectiles. The prefect for the Deux-Sevres region said that weapons including axes, machetes and knives were found on some people.

Will flights be affected?

While most long haul flights remain unaffected, some domestic or short haul European routes have seen turbulence in recent days. A recent nationwide strike for example had led to a reduction in the capacity of the Orly Airport near Paris.

What about trains and other modes of transport?

Trains and other modes of public transportation are likely to be affected - especially on the strike days. The strikes are currently being held once or twice a week and on these days the Paris Metro is unlikely to be running. Upto 25% of the TGV inter-city high-speed trains have also typically been canceled. With many gridlocked roads on strike days, taxis can also find difficulty in navigating the streets of Paris. Major highways have so far remained unaffected.

Will tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower remain open?

Several tourist attractions - such as the Eiffel Tower and Versailles - have remained closed during the recent strike days. It is best to check the websites and social media handles of museums and other tourist sites before travelling. 

Is it safe to visit or should travel plans be cancelled?

While many countries have urged caution, no travel advisory has been issued thus far urging citizens to cancel plans or avoid France. However, current visitors are unlikely to remain completely unaffected by the ongoing protests.

Incidentally, King Charles III’s international debut has also been affected, with his trip to France being postponed indefinitely because of protests. 

How long will the issue persist? Is it likely to affect summer travel plans?

It is too soon to say whether the issue will persist in the coming months. 

Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world 🌏 Click here to know more.

Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!

Wait for it…

Log in to our website to save your bookmarks. It'll just take a moment.

You are just one step away from creating your watchlist!

Oops! Looks like you have exceeded the limit to bookmark the image. Remove some to bookmark this image.

Your session has expired, please login again.

Congratulations!

You are now subscribed to our newsletters. In case you can’t find any email from our side, please check the spam folder.

Subscribe to continue

This is a subscriber only feature Subscribe Now to get daily updates on WhatsApp

Subscribe Now! Get features like

• Latest News
• Entertainment
• Real Estate
• DC vs GT Live Score
• Crick-it: Catch The Game
• Election Schedule 2024
• IPL 2024 Schedule
• IPL Points Table
• IPL Purple Cap
• IPL Orange Cap
• AP Board Results 2024
• The Interview
• Web Stories
• Virat Kohli
• Mumbai News
• Bengaluru News
• Daily Digest

Travelling to Paris amid protests and strikes? Here's what to know

There may be garbage piling up in paris and transit unpredictability but you can still have a smooth trip to the city of light. here's what to know.

The guests who checked in to Rosewood’s Hotel de Crillon this week were likely visiting Paris for all the city’s enduring draws: The food, the romance, the museums , the fashion . But on Thursday evening, their $2,450-per-night rooms became the doorstep of a massive protest in the adjacent Place de la Concorde filled with thousands of citizens speaking out against the government’s use of a constitutional provision to pass its retirement bill, which failed to gather a majority of representatives in France’s lower house of parliament. In response to the reforms planned by President Emmanuel Macron, garbage collectors have been on strike since March 6. Piles of trash are stacking up around Paris, as garbage collectors protest the raising of their industry’s retirement age from 57 to 59. The trash collectors’ walkout is set to run at least through March 20, but could run longer.

Until this year, last time that protests on this scale affected the city was in late 2018 and early 2019, when Yellow Vests clashed with government forces, sometimes violently, in cities throughout France. Tourism took a clear hit; local transit and hotel companies such as Accor SA saw shares dip, and tourist sites such as the Louvre and Orsay museums shut down for safety.

Thus far, the protests in Paris remain unthreatening to tourists. There’s no indication that travellers should consider cancelling their plans and the US State Advisory remains at a standard Level 2—the same as virtually every popular tourism destination in Europe or in the Caribbean. There are some signs of rising tensions, however. Police used water cannons on Thursday to disperse the protestors at the Place de la Concorde, which is just across a bridge from France National Assembly.

There’s a lot at stake. In 2022, France’s international tourism spending reached €50 billion ($53.4 billion), surpassing pre-pandemic levels by €1.2 billion, and representing 10% of France’s GDP. France also remains on track to regain its pre-pandemic title as the most-visited country in the world by 2025, according to Global Data. National carrier Air France is also boosting its service to pre-pandemic levels this summer ahead of an anticipated surge in demand and the return of Chinese travelers.

Difficulty Getting Around

But that doesn’t mean that visitors will find Paris unaffected. Some sidewalks in the city have become impassable, full of garbage bags leaking rotting food and spilling broken bottles onto the pavement.

Although France’s interior minister has promised to requisition trash collectors to start to dig out the backlog, there wasn’t any evidence yet that many were back on the job in those neighborhoods affected by the strike. Meanwhile, the arrival of Americans on spring break and other international travelers has led to visitors spreading photos, posts and comments about the trash piles around Paris.

How to Plan Ahead

Those piles could disappear rapidly if collectors are, indeed, forced back onto the job. For residents and visitors, there’s not much to do about that—except perhaps to hold your nose. But there are a few precautions that travelers can take to ensure that their trips are otherwise unaffected by the political unrest.

In anticipation of possible transit strikes, which took place amid the 2018 and 2019 protests, it could be prudent to schedule an airport transfer via your hotel. Not only will you circumvent any unplanned changes to public transit service; the hotel will be responsible for guaranteeing your service or communicating clearly about any anticipated challenges should taxi drivers suddenly join the trash collectors.

Before leaving on a romantic stroll of the city, check in with the front desk or concierge; they are likely to know where and when protests are planned, so you’re not inadvertently swept into a demonstration. Note that the next major day of strikes and protests is scheduled for March 23.

Gail Boisclair, founder of furnished rentals company PerfectlyParis has been telling her clients to avoid the areas around Republique and Bastille on Saturdays because of the demonstrations, but says strikes come with the territory. “Everyone knows the French strike, and if you come to France, you might get a strike,” she notes. “But it’s not always with our garbage.” Boisclair says she saw trash piled up high around the 9th and 17th arrondissements.

Lindsey Tramuta, journalist and author of The New Parisienne, recommends for visitors to download the app Citymapper. “It’s great to use for knowing if public transport is disrupted and which routes in particular, or in the case of big demonstrations, if certain stations will be closed for safety,” she tells Bloomberg. For those who don't speak French, she also advises keeping an eye on English language media such as France24 and The Local France for up-to-date information on strikes.

And while it may seem obvious, check social media of destinations like museums to make sure they’re open. You don’t want to trek across a city only to find out that museum workers are also on strike. The Paris Tourism Office’s Twitter (@ParisJeTaime) is also a good resource on closures, as well as that from local guide @paris_by_elodie.

But most importantly, tourists should exercise patience and budget extra time to get around. Metro service, rail schedules and even airport operations have all seen on-and-off disruption during recent protests.

• Travel Destination
• Solo Traveller
• Tourist Attraction

Join Hindustan Times

Create free account and unlock exciting features like.

• Terms of use
• Privacy policy
• Weather Today
• HT Newsletters
• Subscription
• Print Ad Rates
• Code of Ethics

• Elections 2024
• DC vs SRH Live Score
• India vs England
• T20 World Cup 2024 Schedule
• IPL Live Score
• IPL 2024 Auctions
• T20 World Cup 2024
• Cricket Teams
• Cricket Players
• ICC Rankings
• Cricket Schedule
• Other Cities
• Income Tax Calculator
• Budget 2024
• Petrol Prices
• Diesel Prices
• Silver Rate
• Relationships
• Art and Culture
• Taylor Swift: A Primer
• Telugu Cinema
• Tamil Cinema
• Board Exams
• Exam Results
• Competitive Exams
• BBA Colleges
• Engineering Colleges
• Medical Colleges
• BCA Colleges
• Medical Exams
• Engineering Exams
• Horoscope 2024
• Festive Calendar 2024
• Compatibility Calculator
• The Economist Articles
• Explainer Video
• On The Record
• Vikram Chandra Daily Wrap
• PBKS vs DC Live Score
• KKR vs SRH Live Score
• EPL 2023-24
• ISL 2023-24
• Asian Games 2023
• Public Health
• Economic Policy
• International Affairs
• Climate Change
• Gender Equality
• future tech
• Daily Sudoku
• Daily Crossword
• Daily Word Jumble
• HT Friday Finance
• Explore Hindustan Times
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Subscription - Terms of Use

French air traffic controllers call off strike but passengers still face cancellations

Although the strike has been called off, many flights are still cancelled.

SNCTA, the largest union representing air traffic controllers in France, has dropped plans for a 24-hour strike on Thursday after reaching a deal on pay and working conditions.

However, the deal came too late to roll back cancellations ordered by France's DGAC civil aviation authority.

As a result, 75 per cent of flights remain canceled at Paris Orly Airport on Thursday and 55 per cent at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport in Roissy. In Marseille-Provence, 65 per cent of flights are cancelled along with 45 per cent in other airports in mainland France.

Two other unions, UNSA-INCA and Usac-Cgt, had also called a strike. It is not clear whether they will still go ahead with the action.

A ‘black day’ for French airports

France ’s largest air traffic controllers union had filed a strike notice for this Thursday, protesting the restructuring of workers' services.

The SNCTA, which represents over 60 per cent of France’s air traffic controllers, told the French press earlier this week that they expected a "record turnout".

The national press has dubbed the 25th a “journée noir” (black day) for French airports.

"People should expect major disruption and long delays," a spokesperson for the SNCTA union told AFP.

It was predicted that the 24-hour strike would lead up to 70 per cent of flights in and out of French airports to be cancelled.

• Dublin Airport could break a 76-year tradition of blessing planes due to new safety rules
• Ranked: The world’s most stressful airports to travel through this Easter

Despite the strike being called off, the news came too late for cancellations to be reversed, and they remain at or just slightly below original figures.

However, flights that need to enter French airspace should no longer be affected, as air traffic controllers will be working as normal.

Why did French air traffic controllers call a strike?

Unions were objecting to the restructuring of air navigation services, a debate that has been ongoing for the last 15 months.

Air traffic authorities are overhauling work schedules to cope better with predicted increases in flight traffic.

Unions were demanding an accompanying rise in salaries and employee numbers.

SNTCA was seeking pay increases of 5.04 per cent per year in 2025, 2026 and 2027, as well as the doubling of their “special qualification allowance”.

It is not yet known what deal has been reached.

The strike threat came despite the agreed ‘Olympic truce’ to suspend industrial action until the end of the games.

Could strikes hit the Paris Olympics?

CGT-RATP union members also announced a seven-month strike notice from 5 February to 9 September that could hit the Ile-de-France bus and metro network - including during this summer's Olympic Games .

However, the French Senate adopted a bill on 9 April to allow the state to ban transport strikes for set periods each year to avoid disruption during major events like Paris 2024.

• Europe's travel strikes: Flight and train disruption you can expect in April and May
• Are German train strikes finally ending? Deutsche Bahn strikes deal with train drivers’ union

It also calls for more advance warning of strikes and increased minimum service obligations.

The bill faces opposition and must be adopted by the French National Assembly before it becomes law.

Workers at the state-owned public transport company say they are walking out over pay.

You might also like

Two thirds of UK adults unaware of EU’s new Entry/Exit System

French commuters to benefit from free public transport to Luxembourg

New train line proposed for Spanish coast linking seaside cities

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

France Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, france - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in France due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in France. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Incidents such as pickpocketing and phone snatchings occur frequently and can happen anywhere, especially in crowded areas such as airports, train stations, subway and train cars, and near tourist attractions.

Peaceful demonstrations and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France occur regularly and can disrupt transportation. On rare occasions, demonstrations have included violence and property damage and police have responded with water cannons and tear gas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to France.

If you decide to travel to France:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and large crowded public venues.
• Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
• Find a safe location and shelter in place if unable to leave the vicinity of a demonstration.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for France.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

Paris will become a no-fly zone to safeguard its wildly ambitious Olympic opening ceremony

PARIS — Skies over the Paris region will be closed for six hours as part of the massive security operation for the July 26 opening ceremony of the Olympic Games , the Paris airports operator said Wednesday.

Augustin de Romanet, chairman of Aéroports de Paris, said airlines are being warned in advance about the closure and told they will have to fly around the restricted airspace.

“For six hours, there won’t be any aircraft over the Paris region,” he said on France Info radio.

The no-fly zone will extend for a radius of 150 kilometers (93 miles) around Paris, the civil aviation authority and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin have said.

The unprecedented waterborne ceremony on the River Seine running through the French capital is the stiffest single security challenge for Paris Games organizers, with crowds of more than 320,000 people expected to line the waterway.

At least one French military AWACS surveillance aircraft will police the skies during the Olympics , using its powerful radar to watch for any potential airborne threats, the French AWACS squadron’s commander previously told The Associated Press . Other military aircraft can be scrambled to intercept any non-authorized flights that enter restricted Olympic airspace.

Separately, de Romanet said there’s still a “very, very high” probability that small electric-powered airborne taxis will be trialled with passengers over Paris during the July 26-Aug. 11 Games, which he said would be a world first.

But European air-certification authorities might initially only allow the taxis to fly passengers on an experimental basis, not commercially, he added.

“We have high hopes that we will be able to carry passengers experimentally which will pave the way, over Paris, for the first flight in the world of an electrical vertical take-off aircraft,” he said.

Multiple companies are developing electrically powered aircraft that take off and land vertically. Some have already flown demonstration flights , in a race to turn their promises of environmentally friendly air transport into a commercially viable reality.

De Romanet insisted that the aircraft are safe, saying: “I am ready to climb aboard.”

Critics worry that taxis zipping through the airs of Paris will be a noisy and potentially dangerous nuisance and affordable only by the wealthy. The Socialist mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, is among opponents of proposals to trial them on a few Paris-region routes during the Games.

AP Olympics coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games

Parisians protest against Islamophobia amid Gaza war tensions

• Medium Text

Sign up here.

Reporting by Manuel Ausloos, Louise Dalmasso Writing by Tassilo Hummel Editing by Frances Kerry

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

World Chevron

A ceremony to install a stalled presidential transition council in Haiti will take place Thursday morning on the outskirts of the capital Port-au-Prince, the office of outgoing Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced in a statement on Wednesday.

A coalition vessel successfully engaged one anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) launched from the Iranian-backed Houthi "terrorist-controlled areas" in Yemen over the Gulf of Aden, the U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) said on Thursday.