France Travel Alert: Strikes, Security Risks, and Essential Tips for Safe Summer Vacation Planning in 2025

Listeners considering travel to France should be aware that significant travel disruptions are expected on July 3 and 4, 2025, due to a nationwide strike by air traffic control unions. This industrial action, timed just before the start of the French summer holidays, will heavily impact air travel. The French civil aviation authority has instructed airlines to reduce flights at Paris airports by 25%, at Nice, Bastia, and Calvi by 50%, and at Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier, Ajaccio, and Figari by 30%. Half of all flights in Nice and Corsica, as well as a quarter in Paris, are cancelled for July 3, with continued disruption expected on July 4. Travelers are strongly advised to monitor the media, check with their airline or travel operator before departing, and follow the guidance of local authorities, especially those with connecting flights or tight schedules. This announcement comes directly from the French civil aviation agency and is widely reported by outlets such as NationalWorld.

Beyond the immediate strike-related issues, all visitors to France should exercise increased caution due to a heightened risk of terrorism and sporadic civil unrest, as noted by both the US State Department and multiple international agencies. France has been assigned a Level 2 travel advisory, meaning travelers should exercise increased caution. The French government has maintained elevated security in public spaces, including visible patrols and frequent security checks at major tourist sites, transport hubs, and events. Temporary border controls have been reestablished with neighboring Schengen countries and the UK, following both security threats and Brexit-related changes.

Petty crime remains a significant concern, particularly in crowded tourist locations like museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and the Paris metro. Pickpocketing, phone and bag theft, and vehicle break-ins are common, especially during the busy summer months. Travelers are encouraged to keep valuables secured, remain vigilant in public, avoid leaving items in vehicles, and stay alert to common scams such as staged disturbances on the road to distract drivers for theft. In the event of a theft, reporting promptly at a local police station and obtaining a theft report is necessary for insurance claims.

From 2025, all US citizens and many other non-EU travelers are required to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization before entering France. While not a visa, this electronic authorization must be obtained online prior to departure. Upon arrival, travelers must still meet all entry requirements as determined by border officials. Keeping up-to-date with health advisories from both the CDC and French health authorities is also recommended, as specific vaccination or health documentation requirements can shift in response to global health trends.

While Paris and other French destinations continue to attract visitors and are generally safe, heightened vigilance is necessary. Security has been increased across cities, and tourism officials have implemented campaigns to make visitors feel more welcome and included. It is considered prudent to secure travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unforeseen events, and to double-check all travel arrangements in light of possible last-minute disruptions.

In summary, listeners planning a trip to France in the near future should prepare for potential travel delays, heightened security, and increased caution against crime. Stay informed through official channels, review your travel insurance, fulfill all entry requirements, and maintain situational awareness throughout your trip.