The initial inspiration for this blog sprouted in Milan’s Centrale station during one of the infamous Italy train strikes. I was stuck at the station, and the word I heard murmured from a passerby was sciopero—strike.
After a few moments of disbelief, I realized that all the trains leaving from Milano Centrale were canceled until 6 PM, and I would be stranded there for another three hours.
It was my mistake—I hadn’t researched the strike schedules ahead of time. To help you avoid that same fate, I’ve included a list of the train strikes so far in 2026. But what happens if you can’t avoid a strike? I have some suggestions, the most important being to download a car-sharing app like BlaBlaCar.
TL;DR: Train strikes are common in Europe during the summer. Keep reading for the scheduled strikes so you aren’t affected by one in Italy. If you are, plan an alternative route through BlaBlaCar.
What Are The Scheduled Strikes in Italy for 2026?
Here are the reported train strikes for the remainder of 2026. While strikes are most common in the summer in Europe, they can happen at any time of the year. The Earth To Editorial team updates this article regularly as we find new information.
January 2026
Jan 9–10, 2026 — National transport strike including rail staff. Industrial action by multiple unions affects rail services across Italy, with disruptions expected from trains at various times during the period.
Jan 20, 2026 — National rail and rail-freight strike — 24-hour industrial action by CUB Trasporti and SGB affecting passenger and freight rail services.
Jan 25–26, 2026 — Railway workers’ strike reportedly scheduled (local or national) – check official MIT list for sector details.
Jan 27–28, 2026 — FS Group traincrew national assembly/strike — 24-hour action where onboard staff and drivers assemble; services may be reduced outside guaranteed windows. Starts ~9:00 PM on 27 Feb to ~8:59 PM on 28 Feb.
February 2026
Feb 2–3, 2026 — Regional/Trenord strike from 3:00 AM 2 Feb to 2:00 AM 3 Feb can affect regional, suburban, airport, and long-distance routes in northern Italy.
Feb 27–28, 2026 — FS Group national rail strike (major) — 24 hours starting ~9:00 PM 27 Feb through ~8:59 PM 28 Feb; high-speed, Intercity, and regional trains likely impacted with service changes/cancellations.
Why Are There So Many Strikes in Europe?
After hearing that infamous word—sciopero—over the Milan station intercom, followed by a chorus of groans from the commuters standing around me, I had a mix of emotions. Anxiety. Anger. Frustration. Fear.
Getting stranded in a foreign city where you aren’t able to speak the language is scary. In 2023, Unions across Italy called for 1,419 strikes, and while it’s always a nuisance to have travel plans changed because of a strike, remember that it’s a constitutional right that protects the dignity of workers.
After I got over my initial panic, I reminded myself of these things. Most workers in Italy hold strikes in an attempt to preserve essential rights, like fair wages and safe work environments
I began to see the positive in my situation: at least I had only a light backpack and a phone charger, and not a huge suitcase full of stuff.
Strikes are a part of normal life, not just in Italy, but all of Europe. They don’t usually occur out of the blue, and there are some things you can do to prepare ahead of time.
How to Travel During an Italian Strike
While you may have to change your travel plans because of a strike, it’s unlikely that you’ll be completely stranded.
Regulations require unions to inform the public of planned strikes weeks and sometimes months in advance. Regulators require transportation to operate at a minimum level.
Take it from someone who began blogging about Italian strikes during a three-hour delay because of a sciopero. These are my tips for dealing with an Italy train strike.
Search Information on Upcoming Strikes in Italy
Before any trips to Italy or Europe, make sure to check EU websites for upcoming strikes.
Depending on how soon your trip is, you might be in the clear if you don’t see your dates listed. If your trip is a few months out, it’s a good idea to continue checking in case the strike dates haven’t yet been released.
Consider alternative transportation
Navigating through a foreign country already requires a certain level of gumption and thinking outside the box. If you’ve figured out how to use a subway in a foreign language, then you can definitely find alternative transportation in Italy.
For example, there is no Uber in Italy, but you can use another ridesharing service like BlaBlaCar. If you’re relatively close to your destination, you might also consider renting a bike or scooter.
There will likely be Guaranteed Minimum Service
Most transportation lines require Guaranteed Minimum Services, which occur when commuter trains still run during a strike. These are typically during rush hour, between 6-9 AM and 6-9 PM Monday through Saturday.
You may have to sit tight and approach the Italy strikes with the same amount of patience as a Buddhist monk. My suggestion is to bring your vice of choice: a book, music, or TV show on your phone.
Avoid a major travel city
Most of the major train strikes in Italy occur in larger cities or places where many trains connect, like Verona. If you’re concerned about having your travel plans fall apart because of a strike, I suggest trying slow travel through the countryside.
It’s pretty easy to fall in love with La Dolce Vita when you’re holed up somewhere in a villa, bathing suit on and a drink in hand. You likely won’t even notice there’s a train schedule going on!
Try a car rental
I’ve said it a million times online, in my newsletter, and in the pages of the Undiscovered Italy Travel Ebook: The most stunning places in Italy aren’t always connected by public transportation.
It pains me to say, because as a sustainable traveler, I always try to take a train where I can. But when it comes to Italy? Renting a car might just be the way to go.
What about air travel during a strike?
Most of the airports will still be operating even if there is a sector of professionals on strike. Just be sure to pack a carry-on, and you likely won’t feel too much of the effects.
What if it’s a more significant strike? You can potentially avoid challenges with baggage handler strikes, but air traffic control is a bit more problematic.
According to The Times, “Air traffic control strikes and those by airport staff not directly employed by an airline are considered ‘extraordinary circumstances’, which means you won’t be due any compensation from the airline.”
It’s always best to check directly with the specific airline you’re flying with and keep in mind that airlines do have obligations to you as a customer if you’re traveling. If you experience a flight cancellation, you may be entitled to a refund or voucher for another flight.
The best way to avoid the headache of an Italy train strike is to check the schedule ahead of time and move your travel dates if needed.
Are trains in Italy reliable?
Yes, Italy’s trains are generally reliable, especially the high-speed services like Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa and Italo. These routes run frequently between major cities such as Rome, Florence, Milan, and Naples, with minimal delays. Regional trains, however, can be less punctual and sometimes older, so it’s a good idea to allow for extra time when traveling outside big hubs.
What to do during a train strike in Italy
Train strikes (scioperi) do happen in Italy, but they’re usually announced in advance. During a strike, essential “guaranteed” services often run during peak hours. If your train is canceled, you can either request a refund or switch to another available service. Alternatives include long-distance buses, renting a car, or using rideshare apps for shorter trips.
Does Italy have bullet trains?
Yes, Italy operates high-speed “bullet trains” that can reach up to 300 km/h (186 mph). Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa and Italo trains connect major cities like Rome to Florence in just 1.5 hours. These trains are comfortable, modern, and often cheaper if you book tickets in advance.
Can I get a refund if my train in Italy is cancelled?
Yes, if your train is canceled due to a strike, technical issue, or another disruption, you’re entitled to a full refund. With Trenitalia and Italo, you can usually process this online, at ticket counters, or through the app.
