Mass Strike in Italy Disrupts Trains, Roads, and City Travel
On September 22, 2025, Italy went through a widespread strike affecting multiple sectors. It was considered one of the most notable in recent years and was organized by trade unions from multiple sectors. The protest was held in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and spread to more than 70 cities. Tens of thousands of demonstrators took part in the protest in Rome, Milan, Turin, Genoa, Bologna, and other major cities. Key public services, including transportation, education, and port operations, were significantly disrupted, and traffic congestion worsened in many urban areas.
The general strike highlighted how political and social actions in Italy can quickly affect national infrastructure and daily movement. For travelers, the strike underscored the importance of staying informed about local developments, building in extra travel time, and keeping itineraries adaptable whenever protests are expected. Mass demonstrations remain a constant feature of Italian public life, and awareness of their potential impact is an important part of travel planning, especially for visitors who use rail, metro, or other shared transportation.
The strike strongly affected daily routines and activities. Protester groups established road blockades on major highways, bringing traffic to a full standstill for several hours. Protesters took control of key railway stations, including Rome’s Termini and Milan’s Central Station, resulting in interruptions to both intercity and regional train services. Metro networks were also targeted, with Milan’s new MM4 line completely suspended. In some cities, confrontations between protesters and police occurred, although most demonstrations remained largely peaceful throughout the day.
Travelers moving across Italy encountered widespread disruption in both local and national transport. Rail schedules were unreliable, with many cancellations and delays reported on regional and high-speed lines. City buses, trams, and metro services were reduced or suspended altogether, while blocked roads created heavy traffic delays in urban centers. Authorities issued multiple advisories urging travelers to monitor official updates, adjust their itineraries, and plan alternative routes in order to avoid being stranded in key travel hubs or at closed stations.
Airports continued to operate flights according to schedule, but ground transportation suffered significant losses. Shuttle buses, local trains, and metro lines at airports were reduced or canceled, especially in cities such as Rome, Milan, and Bologna. As a result, many passengers had to rely on taxis or private transfers, leading to long lines and crowded airport entrances. Travelers reported that transfer times were much longer than normal, and the heightened demand for private transport services resulted in increased costs and additional logistical difficulties.