France Travel Alert: Nationwide Strikes, Protests, and Safety Tips for Visitors in September 2025

Listeners considering travel to France in September 2025 need to know that the country is experiencing significant disruptions due to nationwide strikes and organized protests. Multiple sources, including spreaker.com and the Embassy of Moldova in France, confirm that a general strike is taking place around September 18, and similar action was seen on September 10. These strikes are affecting major sectors, including urban and regional transportation in Paris, railways, airlines, education, public services, and even healthcare. Listeners planning to transit through French airports or rely on trains should double-check their departure times and consider alternative travel routes through official apps like SNCF Connect and the RATP system in Paris.

The United States State Department classifies France as a Level 2 travel advisory, meaning travelers should exercise increased caution due to threats of terrorism, civil unrest, and petty crime, especially pickpocketing in high-traffic tourist zones. This rating is echoed by Canada and the United Kingdom, who also urge travelers to monitor local news, expect possible disruptions, and allow extra time for airport transfers and major events. According to bonjourguide.com, cities like Paris, Normandy, and Bordeaux remain generally safe for visitors, but extra care should be taken during large gatherings or protests, which might result in dense crowds, increased security screening, and transit delays.

General travel precautions recommended by sources like AXA Travel Insurance and Paris Unlocked include staying aware of your surroundings, keeping your personal effects secure with zippered bags, restricting what you share about your location on social media, and using credit cards or digital payments rather than carrying large amounts of cash. Listeners should respect local laws and customs to avoid misunderstandings and legal issues—for instance, dress modestly in religious sites, follow local etiquette, and avoid prohibited areas for smoking or assembly.

Petty theft remains the most common risk for tourists in popular areas like the Eiffel Tower, bustling metro stations, and busy markets. Travelers can minimize risk by not keeping wallets or phones in back pockets and by sitting down at cafés if crowds in tourist zones become overwhelming. If traveling with children or requiring regular medication, sources suggest carrying a basic first-aid kit and knowing the location of nearby clinics. Although COVID-19 is no longer a primary concern, it remains wise to stay aware of public health updates via the France Diplomacy website, as renewed restrictions could be reinstated for travelers arriving from high-risk countries if new variants emerge.

Large annual gatherings—such as Bastille Day celebrations, major sporting finals, and popular music festivals—typically bring augmented security measures that can mean longer wait times at entry points and more visible security personnel. Listeners are advised to allow extra time to reach destinations, particularly if their trips coincide with peak events or known protest dates.

In summary, France continues to welcome visitors and remains fundamentally safe, provided travelers stay informed, take sensible precautions, and allow for flexibility in their plans. Monitor real-time travel advisories via government channels, avoid areas where large-scale protests are announced, and exercise increased caution in all crowded or high-profile settings for a smoother, safer visit.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI