Strikes to Disrupt Italy’s Transport in November and December: What Travelers Need to Know

Published on November 27, 2025

Travelers heading to Italy in the upcoming months should be prepared for significant disruptions. Unions across the country have announced two major strikes that will affect transportation, including rail services, ferries, and potentially airports, in November and December. This follows a nationwide labor movement largely in response to the government’s fiscal plans and the ongoing concerns about the state of public services.

The first strike is set for 28 November, with unions from both the public and private sectors joining forces. This 24-hour strike is expected to cause major disruptions to long-distance trains, local transportation, and ferry services across the country. A second strike, lasting 21 hours, has been scheduled for 12 December, further affecting travel options in Italy, particularly on rail networks.

Why Are These Strikes Happening?

The ongoing strikes are largely in protest against Italy’s government budget plans. Unions, including CGIL, Cobas, Usb, and Sgb, are calling for greater investment in public services such as healthcare, education, and other essential services. They are also demanding a reduction in military spending.

The unions argue that Italy’s fiscal policies are putting undue pressure on schools, hospitals, and other public services that are already facing staffing shortages. Additionally, rising living costs and unresolved labor contracts have created frustration among workers in the public sector. These unions are pushing for a mass mobilization in response to what they view as cuts to essential services and the government’s failure to address long-standing issues.

The timing of the strikes has raised concerns, particularly with December being a busy month for both holiday travel and business trips. This has prompted mixed reactions, with some political figures criticizing the timing, while unions defend their right to strike as a means to secure better conditions for workers.

What This Means for Travelers to Italy

For tourists planning to visit Italy in November and December, the strikes are likely to create significant disruptions to transportation services. Here’s a closer look at what travelers can expect:

November 28th Strike:

• Long-Distance Trains: Expect delays and potential cancellations on high-speed and regional train routes. Services between major cities such as Rome, Milan, Florence, and Turin could be impacted, so travelers should plan for potential delays and disruptions.
• Local Transport: Bus and tram services in major cities may operate on a reduced timetable or be completely suspended. If you are relying on public transport within Rome or Milan, be prepared for longer travel times.
• Ferries: Ferry connections to and from Sicily and Sardinia are expected to be affected, with services either delayed or canceled.
• Airports: While airports are not explicitly mentioned in the initial strike announcements, disruptions to ground services (such as baggage handling and check-in) could occur, especially in busy airports like Rome Fiumicino and Milan Malpensa.

December 12th Strike:

• Rail Services: The second strike, which will run for 21 hours, is likely to cause even more disruption to rail services. Long-distance trains, including high-speed connections between cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence, could be canceled or delayed. Passengers are advised to check train schedules and book tickets in advance.
• Ferries and Airports: While the December strike is centered around the rail network, it may also affect ferry services and airport operations, particularly at Rome and Milan airports, where ground handling staff are involved in the action.
• Public Services: As these strikes are nationwide, expect delays or disruptions in public services across cities. From local transport to public health services, travelers may experience impacts in certain regions.

Tips for Travelers Visiting Italy

Travelers heading to Italy in the coming months can take these steps to minimize the impact of the strikes:

1. Plan Ahead and Stay Updated

• Keep an eye on updates from the Italian Ministry of Transport and local news outlets. Websites like Trenitalia and Italo (high-speed train services) will also offer real-time information on train disruptions.
• Be sure to check your hotel or tour operator for information on transport changes and available alternative routes.

2. Book Train and Ferry Services Early

• If you’re planning to travel by train or ferry, book tickets early and check if your travel time overlaps with the strike dates. Be flexible with your plans and consider alternative routes or modes of transport, such as bus services or private transfers.

3. Allow Extra Travel Time

• In cities, local transport delays are likely, so allow for extra time when heading to the airport or train stations. Always leave plenty of time for connections, especially if traveling to airports or between cities.

4. Consider Alternative Destinations

• While major cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence may experience disruptions, smaller towns and rural areas may offer a quieter, more peaceful experience. Areas like Tuscany, Umbria, and Cinque Terre may provide excellent alternatives to bustling city centers.

5. Know Your Rights

• In case of cancellations, particularly for long-distance trains or flights, know your rights. You may be entitled to a refund or alternative travel arrangements. Pre-booked tickets for services affected by the strike can often be refunded or exchanged for other travel options.

Key Points at a Glance

• 28 November and 12 December are key dates for nationwide strikes in Italy, impacting public and private transport.
• Rail services, ferry connections, and local transport in major cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence will likely be disrupted.
• Travelers should plan their itinerary around potential delays and book transport early.
• Airports may experience disruptions to ground handling services, though flights are expected to run as scheduled.
• Keep updated through official transport websites and local news sources for the latest information on the strikes.

Conclusion: Navigating Italy’s Strikes During the Holidays

While the strikes in Italy are set to cause some disruptions, the country remains a top destination for both business and leisure travelers. With some planning, flexibility, and awareness of the situation, visitors can still enjoy the beauty of Italy’s historic cities, beaches, and countryside. Be sure to stay informed, book your transport in advance, and allow for extra time in case of delays. Despite these temporary inconveniences, Italy’s charm and allure as a cultural and culinary hub continue to make it a must-visit destination.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated