Getting Around Paris and France During the Strikes

Strikes are part and parcel of French life. France is bracing itself for upcoming strike action on September 10 and 18th. French people are well versed at adapting. But that doesn’t mean cocooning is all there’s left to do! If you’re in Paris or France, or planning a visit during strikes, here are our best tips to make the most of your stay and get around efficiently. 

WHY ARE THE FRENCH STRIKES HAPPENING?

The latest strikes are in response to government budget proposal that many unions and social movements find too severe. Protestors contend that the savings measures will be at the expense of public services and the general standard of living.

One particular measure that has outraged many members of the public is the abolition of two public holidays. Protests will also target pension freezes, stagnant wages and the lack of funding for public services like schools and hospitals.

WHICH SECTORS ARE IMPACTED BY THE NATIONWIDE STRIKE?

The transport sector (including air travel, local and regional trains and Paris metro lines), retail, public services, education, government offices, and medical services. Roads are also due to be impacted with demonstrations on major roads and freeways.

Retail

Some retail stores may experience closures or disruptions including Carrefour, But, Kiabi, Primark, Flunch, Elior, Sysco, and Sodexo. Most shopping centers are expected to remain at least partially open. Check online to see if stores are open before visiting.

Transportation Disruptions

SNCF

• Highly disrupted: Lined K, H, and R; RER D
• Severe disturbance: Line N, Line U, RER C
• Disturbed: Lines L and J, RER E
• No disturbance: Line V

RATP (Paris metro, buses, trams, and some RER lines)

• Mostly uninterrupted traffic: metro, RER A and buses
• Disrupted: Line B
• No disturbance for street cars.

Air Transport

The CGT and Sud-Aérien unions are calling for strike action and blockades at CDG and Orly airports. This could lead to cancellations. Check with your airlines before travel.

Roads and Freeways

Blockades are expected on freeways and roads including the Boulevard Périphérique. Free-toll operations are also expected to be impacted.

Education

A number of unions are demanding strikes in schools, colleges and lycées. There is also a strike notice at Sorbonne Nouvelle Paris 3.

Hospitals and Pharmacies

Unions are also calling for strikes at Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP) in protest of budget cuts.

Massive strikes are planned at pharmacies against reduced discounts on generic medicines. Clousures are expected on September 18th and then every Saturday starting on September 27.

​Strikes in Paris – General ADVICE

• Reconfirm all appointments and schedules at government offices, healthcare facilities and other public sector agencies, including public transport.
• Check flight schedules for travel dates.
• Allow extra time for travel plans.
• Consider alternatives like cycling to get around. Bonjour RATP can help you find self-service bikes and scooters.
• RER B, C, D and Lines H, K, N, R U will be severely impacted but the metro, buses and trams should have nearly normal service.
• Check flight info before traveling to the airport and arrive earlier than normal.
• Work from home if possible.
• Check ahead to see if schools, hospitals and stores are open.

For real-time updates check SNCF Connect, the RATP website or RATP app.

Citymapper – For when you need help planning your journey

Within Paris, Citymapper is incredibly useful, strike or no strike. Its daily updates let you know the train timetables and the app will provide routes that navigate you around affected lines. Citymapper will also suggest alternative transit options, including scooter, moped, bicycle, and ride share—all with estimated fares.

RENTING A CAR

If you need to get around France, renting a car during the strikes is an option worth considering, although not advisable in Paris where parking is very difficult. The best way to get around Paris is by foot, and by checking the updated timetables from RATP.

Taxis

Ride-sharing, as well as the G7 taxis (which takes credit cards and has an English language website) are good options. Be sure to check schedules regularly online as service times may be subject to change.

GET READY TO WALK AND CYCLE (OR EVEN RIDE YOUR SCOOTER)

Paris is a compact city, and it’s easy to move from one neighborhood to the next. Plan your days so that your activities are generally in the same area, minimizing the need for public transit. Several public transit lines are operating so you can cross the city when really needed though it is advised to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Also be prepared for congestion on walking and cycling routes due to trash on the roads and increased numbers of people choosing to get around this way.