European country prepares for two waves of nationwide strikes in November and December which could cause “major disruption” – and UK tourists are being warned to be prepared
Brits planning trips to Italy this November or December are being warned to brace for “major disruption” across the country on three key dates. Families visiting loved ones, holidaymakers enjoying winter breaks, and those heading to festive Christmas markets should prepare for significant transport chaos as Italy faces two waves of national strikes.
Industrial action will kick off today, Thursday, November 27, continuing through Friday, November 28, with another strike scheduled for Friday, December 12, 2025. While disruption levels differ between regions and operators, travel specialists are urging anyone flying, catching trains or using local transport to expect delays, cancellations and drastically reduced services.
Italy’s biggest unions have announced a 24-hour rail strike running from 9pm on Thursday, November 27 until 9pm on Friday, November 28, affecting the entire Italian Republic. With workers downing tools across everything from railways to public services, travel chaos is anticipated along the nation’s busiest routes, including cities beloved by British tourists such as Rome, Milan, Venice and Florence.
The nationwide general strike on November 28 is set to impact multiple sectors, including transport. A second general strike on Friday, December 12, has been called by major union CGIL in opposition to the Italian government’s 2026 budget.
Yasmin Peskel, a travel expert at cabin charter company Blue Cruise, has warned holidaymakers not to assume their journey will be unaffected just because their specific route or airline hasn’t issued an alert yet, reports the Express.
She said: “Strike days in Italy rarely affect just one type of transport. Even when guaranteed services operate, they often run at reduced capacity, and the ripple effect can disrupt travel for the entire day.
“Flights may still go ahead, but passengers can face long queues, slower ground handling and delays getting to or from the airport.”
Yasmin also highlighted that while some rail and local transport services are “protected” by law during peak commuter hours, most travellers should anticipate reduced timetables throughout the strike periods, with last-minute changes likely.
She advised: “The most important thing is to stay flexible, even minor delays early in the day can snowball into wider disruption.
“If you’re visiting Italy’s Christmas markets, give yourself breathing room so the strikes don’t impact your plans.”
What travellers should expect: Because strike participation varies between regions and operators, not all disruption is uniform. However, travellers should be prepared for possible reduced rail services, especially outside guaranteed windows.
Other issues travellers may encounter are:
Possible last-minute train cancellations, even for pre-booked high-speed services
Slower airport processes due to staff shortages, even if flights operate
Limited bus, metro and tram services in major cities
Longer journey times, particularly when travelling between airports and city centres
Some flights during guaranteed protection windows, typically morning and early evening, may operate closer to schedule, but delays are still possible.
Yasmin’s advice for anyone travelling to Italy on or around the strike periods:
Allow extra time for every stage of your journey, especially airport transfers
Check your airline, airport and rail operator apps regularly for real-time updates
Book flexible or refundable tickets wherever possible
Plan alternative routes in advance, including taxis, airport shuttles or walking routes in cities
Expect crowds, both before and after strike windows
Avoid tight connections, including onward trains or excursions
Travel earlier in the day if your schedule allows, as later services are more vulnerable to cancellations
Key dates travellers should avoid if possible:
November 27 and 28, as there’s a nationwide rail strike and a general strike in Italy.
December 12, as there’s a country-wide general strike across Italy.
Travellers with bookings on these dates are urged to check for updates frequently, as service levels may change at short notice.
