Italy and Portugal Joins Spain, France, and Other Nations in December Strikes, Creating a Travel Nightmare for Europe with Major Delays, Flight Cancellations, and Public Transport Shutdowns Across Multiple Countries

Published on November 25, 2025

Italy and Portugal are joining Spain, France, and several other nations in a massive wave of strikes this December, creating a travel nightmare for Europe. The industrial action, sparked by labor disputes, austerity measures, and government policies, will bring major transport networks to a standstill, causing widespread delays, flight cancellations, and public transport shutdowns. Travelers across the continent should brace for disruptions, as these strikes are expected to affect flights, trains, and essential services, making travel unpredictable and potentially chaotic.

As December 2025 approaches, Europe is set to face an unprecedented wave of strikes that will significantly disrupt travel across the continent. Workers in multiple countries, including Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, and more, have announced widespread industrial action over labor disputes, austerity measures, and government policies. These strikes will not only affect local workers but will bring Europe’s transport systems to a standstill, grounding flights, halting trains, and disrupting public services. Travelers heading to, from, and within Europe should prepare for possible delays, cancellations, and extensive service interruptions.

The following sections detail the strikes in each of these countries, what to expect, and how travelers can prepare for the disruptions.

Portugal: December 11 Strikes Set to Ground Flights and Halt Transport Services

Portugal has been at the forefront of the impending December strikes. The country is set to experience a general strike on December 11, primarily driven by unions protesting proposed labor law reforms. These reforms, introduced by the Portuguese government in September 2025, include changes that would make dismissals easier and introduce more flexible working hours, which unions argue threaten workers’ rights and job security. The unions have mobilized across various sectors, including public transport, health, and education, and their demands have led to a nationwide strike.

Impact on Travel
The strike on December 11 will likely see most flights at Portuguese airports grounded, with only essential services operating. Airlines, particularly those flying domestic and regional routes, will be severely affected. TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair, EasyJet, and Azores Airlines are expected to cancel or severely reduce their services on that day. Travelers looking to fly into or out of Lisbon, Porto, and Faro airports should prepare for long delays or complete cancellations.

The government’s decree of minimum services is expected to allow a few flights to operate, but these will be limited in number and capacity. It is advisable for passengers to monitor their flight statuses closely and contact airlines for rebooking options.

How Travelers Can Prepare

• Check Flight Status: Stay in constant touch with airlines for updates on cancellations or delays.
• Rebooking: Consider booking flights earlier or for a different day if possible to avoid last-minute issues.
• Arriving Early: If your flight is still operational, allow extra time at the airport for potential delays or staffing shortages.

Italy: December 12 Strikes to Hit Transport and Airports Hard

Italy is not far behind Portugal, with a significant national strike scheduled for December 12, 2025. Unions representing workers in the transport, public sector, and other essential services will take part in the industrial action, primarily in response to government budget plans and austerity measures. With mounting dissatisfaction over wage freezes and a lack of investment in public services, unions have decided that a general strike is the only way to send a message.

Impact on Travel
The December 12 strike is expected to disrupt air travel across Italy, with major airports like Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, and Venice Marco Polo seeing reduced operations. Air traffic controllers, baggage handlers, and cabin crew members are expected to join the strike, further escalating the impact on travelers. High-speed train services will also be severely affected, with disruptions to both domestic and international rail routes.

How Travelers Can Prepare

• Alternative Transport: For those traveling within Italy, consider alternative modes of transport like buses or car rentals to bypass train strikes.
• Monitor Airline Updates: Be prepared for last-minute cancellations and possible re-routing.

France: National General Strike on December 2 Disrupts Transport Networks

France has seen its fair share of labor unrest in recent years, and December 2, 2025 is set to continue that trend with a national general strike called by multiple unions. The main reason for the strike is the government’s ongoing austerity measures, which have cut into public sector wages and benefits. Teachers, healthcare workers, and other public employees will join in the protests, significantly affecting public transport and services.

Impact on Travel
Airports in France, including Charles de Gaulle in Paris, Nice, and Lyon, are expected to experience delays, with flights likely to be canceled or severely delayed. Additionally, train services, including the TGV (high-speed trains), will be impacted, making domestic and international travel across France a challenge. Public transport within major cities like Paris is also expected to be disrupted, with buses and metro services operating at reduced capacity.

How Travelers Can Prepare

• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local news and strike announcements. Many airlines will offer waivers or the option to rebook flights.
• Early Arrival: For those who have flights during the strike period, plan to arrive early at the airport as security and check-in times may be extended.

Spain: High-Speed Rail and Baggage Handling Strikes Extend Through December

Spain is also experiencing significant labor unrest, with multiple strikes extending through December. Railway workers, particularly those working on the high-speed AVE trains, are protesting over issues related to working conditions, wages, and staffing shortages. In addition, ongoing baggage handling and security staff strikes at major airports like Madrid-Barajas and Barcelona El Prat are expected to continue into the month.

Impact on Travel
The high-speed rail system, which connects major Spanish cities and several European destinations, will see severe disruptions, with some routes completely halted. Similarly, the ongoing baggage and security staff strikes at airports will cause delays and longer wait times for passengers, particularly for those arriving at or departing from Spain’s busiest airports.

How Travelers Can Prepare

• Rail Alternatives: Consider traveling by bus or car rental, especially for domestic routes where train strikes are expected to have the biggest impact.
• Airline Communication: Baggage handling issues may lead to longer wait times at check-in and baggage claim, so stay in touch with your airline for real-time updates.

Overview of Strikes Across Europe in December 2025: What You Need to Know

The December 2025 strikes will affect multiple countries across Europe. While Portugal, Italy, France, and Spain are at the forefront of the industrial action, other nations may also experience smaller disruptions, especially in public sectors. As travelers prepare for the holiday season, it’s crucial to stay informed and plan ahead. Below is a table outlining the dates and expected disruptions for each country.

As the holiday season nears, travelers heading to Europe should be aware of these widespread strikes and plan accordingly. While flight disruptions, train delays, and public transport breakdowns are expected, staying informed and flexible will help travelers navigate the chaos. Always check with airlines and transportation providers for updates on service changes, and consider alternative travel arrangements where possible.

Travelers should also factor in additional time at airports and train stations, as staffing shortages and long queues may be inevitable. Finally, consider travel insurance that covers strike-related disruptions, as this will provide peace of mind during an uncertain period for European travel.

Italy and Portugal are joining Spain, France, and other nations in December strikes, triggered by labor disputes and government policies, causing widespread travel disruptions. Passengers can expect major delays, flight cancellations, and public transport shutdowns across Europe.

December 2025 is shaping up to be a challenging month for travel across Europe. With strikes scheduled in key countries such as Italy, Portugal, Spain, and France, travelers must stay informed, remain flexible, and be prepared for possible disruptions. Keeping a close eye on flight statuses, train schedules, and public transport updates will be essential to navigating the turbulence ahead.