Italy is starting October with a wave of strikes. Affected are, among others, nationwide rail services on October 2, regional services in Sicily on October 12/13, and DB Cargo Italia’s rail freight traffic in Lombardy. Travelers must also expect restrictions on metros, trams and buses.
Quick overview
This report is particularly relevant for rail travelers, as it may have concrete impacts on planning, connections or infrastructure. The focus is on Italy, strike, rail traffic, local transport, DB Cargo and travelers. The key points are summarized compactly below.
Key points
- On October 2, a nationwide, cross-sector strike takes place with a three-hour rail walkout (11:00–14:00), excluding FS Security in Sicily.
- On October 12/13, Sicily is hit by a 24-hour strike of RFI Infrastrutture Sicilia (DOIT Palermo) staff – starting at 21:01 on October 12.
- On October 15, DB Cargo Italia’s rail freight traffic in Lombardy stands still for 24 hours.
- In Milan (October 9), Florence (October 10), Bari (October 12), Foggia (October 15) and Naples (October 16), local transport is affected by separate strikes.
- On October 30, Usi Cit calls a general strike – the transport sector is excluded.
What this means for travelers
If you are traveling during the affected period, you should re-check connections shortly before departure, allow more time for transfers and keep flexible alternatives ready. International journeys in particular can quickly lead to longer knock-on problems due to missed connections.
Context
The wave of strikes at the beginning of October affects nearly all transport sectors in Italy and is directed against employment and working conditions in the respective sectors. Travelers and tourists must expect considerable restrictions in rail, local and rail freight transport. German freight customers of DB Cargo Italia are also affected.
What to watch now
- Check the connection on the day of travel in the rail operator’s app.
- For important appointments, choose an earlier connection or an alternative route.
- Keep receipts and delay information for possible refunds.