France Travel Alert: Essential Safety Tips for Holiday Visitors - Navigate Strikes, Terrorism Risks, and Petty Crime with Confidence

France remains a safe destination for most travelers, though visitors should exercise increased caution due to several ongoing concerns. The U.S. State Department currently maintains a Level 2 travel advisory for France, advising travelers to exercise increased caution due to terrorism risks and potential civil unrest. Similar advisories are in place from Canadian and Australian authorities, who recommend exercising a high degree of caution throughout the country.

For listeners planning trips to France in December, it's important to be aware of recent strike activity. A nationwide public-sector strike occurred on December 2, 2025, affecting transportation and schools. While transport authorities expected only minor disruption, with regional rail lines and some schools facing scattered closures, TGV high-speed trains and metro services were anticipated to run close to normal. Air France ground and cabin crews were urged to participate, raising prospects of short-haul flight delays at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports, though no pre-emptive cancellations were announced beforehand.

The broader European travel landscape also presents challenges. Italy scheduled a nationwide general strike for December 12, 2025, affecting long-distance trains, high-speed rail, regional services, and local public transport in major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Naples. Portugal held a nationwide general strike on December 11, impacting public services, transportation, and aviation. These strikes reflect ongoing labor disputes across multiple European nations during the busy holiday season.

Security considerations remain important for France visitors. Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in France and may strike with little warning. Listeners should stay alert at tourist locations and crowded public places, avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity, and follow the advice of local authorities. Petty theft occurs primarily in high-traffic tourist zones like the Eiffel Tower, metro stations, and popular museums, so travelers should use zippered crossbody bags and avoid keeping valuables in back pockets or leaving phones on restaurant tables.

Practical safety measures include keeping personal belongings in secure places, avoiding large sums of cash, not walking alone after dark, and being extra cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs. For driving, listeners should beware of highway tricks where thieves obstruct roads or pose as stranded motorists to steal from vehicles. Windows should remain closed and doors locked at all times.

Paris, Normandy, and the Riviera remain relatively safer zones compared to other areas. Listeners should register with their country's Smart Traveler program, maintain both paper and digital copies of passports and itineraries, and use apps like FreeNow or Bolt for transportation instead of hailing random taxis. Knowing basic French phrases can also enhance safety and communication. By staying informed about potential strikes, maintaining awareness of surroundings, and taking common-sense precautions, travelers can significantly reduce risks and enjoy a smoother holiday season visit to France.

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