France is set to come to a standstill this week as workers take to the streets for a strike protesting against austerity measures. This comes after Prime Minister François Bayrou’s government collapsed on Monday, following his intentions to slash France’s multi-billion-euro deficit by cutting two public holidays, freezing pensions, and implementing other austerity measures. In reaction, French workers, who feel like the measures would disproportionately affect the country’s lower and middle classes, are taking to the streets in protest.
When are the strikes taking place, and how long will they last?
The strikes protesting austerity measures came into effect on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. Several unions representing air and rail workers are participating. The strike has been scheduled to last two days, but labor unions (including the country’s largest air traffic controller union) have also called for additional work stoppage on September 18.
Where in France is the strike taking place?
The entirety of France is set to be affected by the strike, with major transport hubs and popular tourist destinations, including Paris, Nice, Lyon, and Marseille, set to see disruption.
What other transportation will be affected by the strikes in France?
The action could affect travelers visiting Paris—one of the most visited cities in the world—with transport drivers striking and action taking place at Chatelet-Les Halles, Paris city gates like Porte de Bagnolet, Porte de la Chapelle, and Porte d’Italie, and at train and bus depots, according to the New York Times.
Strikes are expected to affect transportation to and from Charles de Gaulle Airport—a major hub for international travelers—as several unions plan to participate in industrial action to express their discontent with the proposed measures. Train workers are also striking, and air transport unions are encouraging airport workers to take action, too.
Eurostar claims its cross-channel services will operate as normal, but travelers should plan ahead for transport difficulties once they arrive in the city.
The strikes come as London is brought to a standstill, as underground tube drivers take industrial action in demand for better pay and fewer working hours. The strikes have caused havoc across the capital with workers attempting to cram into buses as well as operating Overground and Elizabeth Line services, or resorting to electric bikes to go about their daily lives.
A version of this story originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK.
