On this page, you can find an overview of announced rail strikes across Europe and other train disruptions caused by industrial action.
The overview below is in chronological order, with the most recently announced rail strikes listed first.
This list should give you a clear overview of recent strikes in the railway sector across Europe, as it also shows how often trains have been disrupted by industrial action in recent months and years.
Rail strike overview
8 March – 11 March 2026: Nationwide rail strike in Belgium (read more)
23 November – 26 November 2025: Nationwide rail strike in Belgium (read more)
4 September – 5 September 2025: Nationwide rail strike by Trenitalia staff in Italy (read more)
7 July – 8 July 2025: National rail strike in Italy (read more)
10 June – 11 June 2025: Rail strike in the Netherlands (read more)
6 June 2025: Rail strike in the Netherlands (read more)
May 2025: Possible rail strikes in France (read more)
10 April – 11 April 2025: National rail strike in Italy (read more)
16 March – 17 March 2025: National rail strike in Belgium (read more)
March and April 2025: Rail strikes on multiple days across Spain (read more)
TGV high-speed trains at Paris Montparnasse station. ©AndyBTravels
About this list of rail strikes
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, as I may have overlooked some strikes, or intentionally left out smaller local rail strikes that barely affect (international) train travel.
If you learn about a rail strike that is not yet included in this overview, feel free to contact me!
What to do when there is a rail strike
If you are hit by a rail strike while travelling by train across Europe, check with the operator first to see how it will affect your plans.
In many countries, a limited timetable will still be in effect during rail strikes, with a skeleton service operating during the morning and the late afternoon or early evening rush hours on the main lines.
You may therefore still be able to reroute on other trains to reach your destination.
However, be aware that the few services still running during rail strikes are likely to be crowded, and in countries with compulsory seat reservations, it’s sensible to reserve a seat as soon as possible.
If you cannot travel due to a rail strike, you generally have the option of a full ticket refund or of rescheduling your trip for another time or day free of charge.
Exact policies vary between countries and rail companies, so you should always check with the operator, as there is no single rule for all of Europe.
