paris tourism strikes

Protests in Paris: how unrest could impact Easter travel plans

Mar 31, 2023 • 5 min read

Paris has been gripped by strikes and demonstrations related to the recent, controversial pension reform. Left Bank bistro La Rotonde was damaged on the 11th day of action © Julian de Rosa/AFP via Getty Images

Over the last few weeks, images of overflowing garbage bins and violent street protests in Paris  have dominated the international news cycle – raising qualms among travelers.

If you have plans to visit the French capital this spring, here’s the low-down on how to experience the city fully – but safely.

What’s happening in France and why are people striking? 

Over the last three months, the government’s unpopular pension-reform scheme, which will gradually raise the age of retirement from 62 to 64, has unleashed a wave of discontent in France .

The level of anger and violence escalated after the government used a controversial executive power to push through the bill without putting it to a vote in parliament, where it faced fierce opposition.

Millions of people have marched in union-organized protests since they began in January. The 11th day of protests took place this week on Thursday April 6 with trains and planes disrupted as well as hundreds of thousands taking to the streets to demonstrate. Left Bank  brasserie La Rotonde, a haunt of  President Macron, saw it's awning set on fire.  Trade unions have vowed to continue staging rolling strikes until the bill is withdrawn.

Is it safe to visit Paris?

Since October 2022, the US State Department has placed France at a Level 2 travel advisory, which recommends that citizens exercise “increased caution” due to threats of terrorism and civil unrest.

The US embassy has also been regularly releasing “demonstration alerts” advising people to avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity, to be vigilant of surroundings and to notify friends and family of their safety. The most popular spots for protests have been Place de la Bastille , Place de la République and Place de la Concorde . 

Overall, authorized protests have been largely peaceful and can even be festive in atmosphere, with music, food and dancing. But this vibe has been largely restricted to the early start of the marches. The atmosphere tends to degenerate as the protests continue and the crowds of peaceful demonstrators begin to thin, and clashes between anarchist infiltrators and anti-riot police heat up. These violent protesters set fires, shoot fireworks, smash storefront windows and throw projectiles; in reaction, police have been using tear gas, water cannons and batons to disperse crowds.

Travelers should also be aware that protesters, mainly young people, have been staging spontaneous, unauthorized protests and sit-ins that have often ended in violence as well. 

You can minimize the risk of being caught up in the chaos and being at the receiving end of either projectile or tear gas by steering clear of the protests as much as possible.

How can I keep up to speed on the latest developments?

Aside from international news sites, the best way to keep your ear to the ground on the latest developments in Paris is to monitor local English-language sites like France24 , RFI and The Local France . 

On these platforms, you’ll find information about how Paris was left to stew in 10,000 tons of uncollected waste after garbage collectors joined the pension-reform strikes. Waste collection has since resumed, but workers warn strike action could resume.

For the latest updates, your best bet is Twitter, where tourist attractions and public transport operators post closures and disruptions in real-time. The city’s official tourism office also posts a comprehensive list of how strike action affects Métro, regional RER and Transilien train lines, as well as Parisian airports and attractions. On the most recent day of protests, March 28, walkouts resulted in the closure of the Eiffel Tower , the Musée d’Orsay , the Musée du Louvre and the Château de Versailles .

How do strikes and protests affect public transport and airports?

On strike days, service is drastically reduced on rail lines (including the Eurostar), buses, ferries and air travel. 

The French civil aviation authority regularly asks airlines to cancel up to 30% of flights on and around strike days when air traffic controllers walk off the job. (Most of the cancellations have affected short-haul flights in and out of Paris–Orly; long-haul international flights out of Charles de Gaulle airport have seen fewer cancellations.) Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary has called for political intervention , complaining that the French strikes have forced his airline to cancel 230 flights, and that one million passengers have been affected.

Travelers should consult their airlines for updates.

Be aware, however, that protesters have also stormed Paris airports and set up blockades on highways, forcing travelers to reach the airport on foot. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport, especially if you’re traveling on a strike day.

Expect reduced service and overcrowded trains on the Métro , as well as on train cancellations. Count on packing a pair of good walking shoes.

What do I do if closures affect my itinerary?

Restaurants and shops are generally open, but may close on strike days if they lie along demonstration routes (consult local media for those).

If your booking for the Louvre or Eiffel Tower is canceled due to strike action, take it as an opportunity to discover alternatives. 

For instance, instead of the Louvre, check out the Musée Bourdelle , which is dedicated to the sculptor Antoine Bourdelle and which reopened to the public this month following extensive renovations. Instead of the Eiffel Tower, consider climbing to the top of the Tour Montparnasse , which offers sweeping views of the city (including perhaps the best view in town of the Eiffel Tower itself). And instead of Versailles, consider visiting the Château de Chantilly , a magnificent castle 40 minutes by train from Paris that houses the second-largest collection of antique paintings in France (after the Louvre) as well as sprawling gardens.

Overall, if you’re vigilant, flexible about last-minute changes and open to new experiences, your Parisian experience should go relatively smoothly.

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Have a Trip to Paris Planned? What to Know About Ongoing Protests

After a series of pension protests throughout the first half of the year, french citizens again took to the streets after a police officer killed a 17-year-old boy. here’s the latest information..

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In France, riot police have been repeatedly called in as tensions escalate.

Photo by Shutterstock

A fresh wave of protests took place throughout France in late June and early July after a police officer killed a 17-year-old delivery driver during a traffic stop. The teenager, named Nahel, was of North African descent and died on Tuesday, June 27, sparking outrage throughout the country.

In the days following the killing, riots broke out in dozens of cities throughout France, with incidents of arson, clashes, and looting, the Associated Press reported . After six nights of unrest and more than 3,400 arrests, the violence appeared to be abating as of this week, AP reported.

In its latest update , security risk and crisis management firm Crisis24 notes that “protests and widespread incidents of violence in reaction to the June 27 police-involved killing of a teenager near Paris have reduced significantly, as of July 5. Authorities reported that Paris and other urban centers were relatively calm overnight July 3–4 and 4–5. Police announced significant reductions of violent incidents, arrests, and injuries, after a peak on June 30.”

According to Crisis24, several political organizations have called for additional marches on July 8 . “These demonstrations are likely to attract thousands of attendees. The locations and timings of events are not yet known,” the firm stated. “Tensions will likely remain high nationwide as authorities prepare for possible rioting in the coming days.”

The most recent unrest comes in the wake of numerous rounds of protests that have been taking place in Paris and around France since the start of the year. Previously, demonstrators had been voicing their opposition to French President Emmanuel Macron’s new pension plan, which pushes the retirement age from 62 to 64 and was enacted into law on April 14. Those protests had become more muted recently, having dwindled from gatherings with tens of thousands of participants earlier this spring to much smaller groups of several hundred citizens.

Heaping piles of garbage were removed from the Paris streets at the end of March and in early April when a garbage collectors’ strike that had been in effect since March 6 was finally called off; the strike was in response to their newly proposed retirement age, up to 59 from 57.

A new round of escalations could again disrupt services such as public transportation.

Is it safe to travel to Paris?

The U.S. Embassy in Paris has issued a “security alert,” warning that there are ongoing demonstrations in and around the Paris region and other major French cities “following the June 27 police shooting in the Parisian suburb of Nanterre.”

“These demonstrations, along with spontaneous protests, are expected to continue and may turn violent. U.S. citizens should avoid mass gatherings and areas of significant police activity as they can turn violent and result in clashes,” the U.S. Embassy states.

The embassy also reports that some cities in France are imposing curfews and advises that U.S. citizens avoid demonstrations and areas with increased police activity and monitor the news for updates. (English-language French media outlets include France 24 , RFI, and the Local. ) The locations of protests are not often known in advance, so it’s important to stay up to date on the latest.

As of July 6, 2023, the U.S. State Department’s France Travel Advisory remains unchanged at a Level 2 (indicating that travelers should continue to exercise increased caution). The U.S. Embassy cites the reasons as terrorism and civil unrest.

What should you do if you’re traveling to France? The U.S. State Department recommends that U.S. citizens in France “avoid areas around protests and demonstrations” as “past demonstrations have turned violent . . . in case of violence or property damage, French authorities may use chemical agents and water cannons to disperse crowds.” It also notes that “strikes can interfere with travel plans.”

For additional assistance, contact the U.S. Embassy in Paris at +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 or [email protected].

Are flights to France, transportation services, and other businesses affected by the protests?

Following the latest unrest, the public transit system “remains disrupted, with bus, tram, and rail services in several major cities suspending or limiting operations,” Crisis24 reports. In the Paris region, the transport operator RATP has at time suspended some bus, tram, metro, and RER train lines, so be sure to check the latest before making any travel plans using public transit.

During the pension protests, among those that had been walking out on the job were air traffic controllers, which most recently planned strike actions on May 1 and 2. As a result, the French Civil Aviation Authority asked all airlines to reduce their flight schedules to and from Paris Orly airport and several other French airports on May 1 and May 2.

During the strike, Air France operated all of its long-haul flights, all flights to and from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, and about 70 percent of flights between Paris-Orly and other French airports. Passengers who experienced a flight cancellation due to strike activity could opt for either a future flight credit or a full refund, according to Air France.

During strike actions, “last-minute delays and cancellations cannot be ruled out,” Air France said.

Another round of air traffic controller strikes has not yet been announced or scheduled but shouldn’t be ruled out by travelers.

In addition to worker strikes that can affect services such as public transport systems, the ongoing protests in France can create traffic and transportation congestion and service interruptions in and around major cities, including potential delays in travel between downtown and the main Paris airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly.

Crisis24 advises travelers to confirm all transportation reservations. “Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed,” the firm notes, adding that travelers should allow extra time for travel in major French cities.

As of press time, major museums and attractions in Paris, including the Louvre , Musée d’Orsay , Eiffel Tower , and Sacré Coeur , remain open to visitors during regular operating hours—although the Louvre and Eiffel Tower have both temporarily closed during protests, so be sure to check daily with regards to opening hours and operations.

Graffiti in Paris in the aftermath of a police killing of a teenager named Nahel.

Lyndsey Matthews

What does it feel like on the ground in Paris right now?

The riots have “definitely died down,” says Lyndsey Matthews, AFAR’s senior commerce editor, who was in Paris at the height of the latest round of uprisings in early July following the police killing. “When I was there, I saw nothing. I noticed a few shops on the Champs-Elysées were boarded up and they apparently cleared the Place de Concorde after I was there Friday evening, but it wasn’t noticeable as a tourist.” On the average day in Paris, “it feels fine on the ground, honestly,” says Lindsey Tramuta, a freelance writer and frequent AFAR contributor based in Paris. “I would recommend travelers keep following the news about it and if and when there are additional strikes or demonstrations planned, which are announced in advance, that they avoid those areas.”

What are the 2023 Paris protests about?

The latest unrest in Paris and throughout France followed the police shooting of Nahel, a 17-year-old boy of Algerian heritage, in the Paris suburb of Nanterre, an incident that was captured on video, CNN reported . The killing surfaced concerns and outrage about ongoing issues of racism and poverty in France, and the subsequent uprisings prompted President Macron to ban large-scale events in France as tensions remain high.

The riots come in the wake of months of pension protests in Paris and throughout France that represent the most significant demonstrations since the Yellow Vests Movement (named after the fluorescent vests protesters wore during the demonstrations), which began in late 2018 and continued into early 2019. Back then, French people were opposed to President Macron’s fuel tax hike (instituted to reduce emissions) and to the government’s economic policies and the high cost of living.

In 2023, French citizens are once again fed up—this time that Macron’s government implemented Article 49.3 of the Constitution to pass a bill without a vote in the Assemblée Nationale that pushes back the retirement age from 62 to 64 for most workers and requires that citizens have worked for at least 43 years in order to access a full pension. The global average retirement age in 2020 was 64.2 for men and 63.4 for women, according to the most recent data available from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) .

President Macron explained the reasoning behind the new policy, stating, “People know that yes, on average, you have to work a little longer . . . because otherwise we won’t be able to finance our pensions properly,” the Associated Press reported .

But as Lisa Bryant of NPR’s Morning Edition notes , “The French are fiercely protective of their universal health care and generous pensions. It’s a choice society has made: Work hard, pay high taxes, but also retire at a relatively young age with a high standard of living.”

And now French citizens are rising up again in opposition to police brutality and discrimination against marginalized communities.

This story was originally published on March 21, 2023, and has been updated to include current information.

What to Know If You’re Traveling to Paris During Protests and Strikes

There may be garbage piling up and transit unpredictability, but you can still have a smooth trip to the City of Light.

Garbage cans overflowing with trash on the streets as collectors go on strike in Paris, France on March 16, 2023. Garbage collectors have joined the massive strikes throughout France against pension reform plans.

The guests who checked in to Rosewood’s Hotel de Crillon this week were likely visiting Paris for all the city’s enduring draws: The food, the romance, the museums, the fashion. But on Thursday evening, their $2,450-per-night rooms became the doorstep of a massive protest in the adjacent Place de la Concorde filled with thousands of citizens speaking out against the government’s use of a constitutional provision to pass its retirement bill , which failed to gather a majority of representatives in France’s lower house of parliament. In response to the reforms planned by President Emmanuel Macron, garbage collectors have been on strike since March 6. Piles of trash are stacking up around Paris, as garbage collectors protest the raising of their industry’s retirement age from 57 to 59. The trash collectors’ walkout is set to run at least through March 20, but could run longer.

Until this year, last time that protests on this scale affected the city was in late 2018 and early 2019, when Yellow Vests clashed with government forces, sometimes violently, in cities throughout France. Tourism took a clear hit; local transit and hotel companies such as Accor SA saw shares dip, and tourist sites such as the Louvre and Orsay museums shut down for safety.

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What to know if you are travelling to Paris during protests and strikes

PARIS – The guests who checked into Rosewood’s Hotel de Crillon last week were likely visiting Paris for all the city’s enduring draws – the food, the romance, the museums and the fashion.

But last Thursday evening, their US$2,450 (S$3,290)-a-night rooms became the doorstep of a massive protest at the adjacent Place de la Concorde filled with thousands of citizens speaking out against the government’s use of a constitutional provision to pass its retirement Bill, which failed to gather the majority of representatives in France’s lower house of parliament. 

In response to the reforms planned by President Emmanuel Macron, garbage collectors have been on strike since March 6.

Piles of trash are stacking up around Paris, as garbage collectors protest against the raising of their industry’s retirement age from 57 to 59. The walkout of the trash collectors was set to run at least to March 20, but could run longer. 

Until this year, the last time that protests on this scale affected the city was in late 2018 and early 2019, when Yellow Vests clashed with government forces, sometimes violently, in cities throughout France.

Tourism took a clear hit. Local transit and hotel companies such as Accor saw their shares dip and tourist sites such as the Louvre and Orsay museums shut down for safety.

Thus far, the protests in Paris remain unthreatening to tourists.

There is no indication that travellers should consider cancelling their plans, and the United States’ Department of State travel advisory remains at a standard Level 2 – the same as virtually every popular tourism destination in Europe or the Caribbean.

There are some signs of rising tensions, however. Police used water cannons last Thursday to disperse the protestors at the Place de la Concorde, which is just across a bridge from France’s National Assembly.

There is a lot at stake. In 2022, France’s international tourism spending reached €50 billion (S$71.6 billion), surpassing pre-pandemic levels by €1.2 billion, and representing 10 per cent of France’s gross domestic product. 

France also remains on track to regain its pre-pandemic title as the most-visited country in the world by 2025, according to data analytics.

National carrier Air France is also boosting its service to pre-pandemic levels this summer, ahead of an anticipated surge in demand and the return of Chinese travellers.

Difficulty getting around

But that does not mean that visitors will find Paris unaffected. Some pavements in the city have become impassable, full of garbage bags leaking rotting food and spilling broken bottles onto the pavement.

Although France’s interior minister has promised to requisition rubbish collectors to start to dig out the backlog, there has not been any evidence that many are back on the job in those neighbourhoods affected by the strike.

Meanwhile, the arrival of Americans on spring break and other international travellers has led to visitors spreading photos, posts and comments about the rubbish piles around Paris.

How to plan ahead

Those piles could disappear rapidly if collectors are, indeed, forced back onto the job. For residents and visitors, there is not much to do about that – except perhaps to hold your nose.

But there are a few precautions that travellers can take to ensure their trips are otherwise unaffected by the political unrest.

In anticipation of possible transit strikes, which took place amid the 2018 and 2019 protests, it could be prudent to schedule an airport transfer via your hotel.

Not only will you circumvent any unplanned changes to the public transit service, but the hotel will also be responsible for guaranteeing your service or communicating clearly about any anticipated challenges should taxi drivers suddenly join the trash collectors. 

Before leaving on a romantic stroll of the city, check in with the front desk or concierge. They are likely to know where and when protests are planned, so you are not inadvertently swept into a demonstration. 

Note that the next major day of strikes and protests is scheduled for Thursday.

Ms Gail Boisclair, founder of furnished rentals company PerfectlyParis, has been telling her clients to avoid the areas around Republique and Bastille on Saturdays because of the demonstrations, but says strikes come with the territory.

“Everyone knows the French strike, and if you come to France, you might get a strike,” she notes. “But it’s not always with our garbage.” 

Ms Boisclair says she saw rubbish piled up high around the ninth and 17th arrondissements. 

Ms Lindsey Tramuta, journalist and author of The New Parisienne, recommends that visitors download the Citymapper app. “It’s great to use for knowing if public transport is disrupted and which routes in particular, or in the case of big demonstrations, if certain stations will be closed for safety,” she says.

For those who do not speak French, she also advises keeping an eye on English-language media such as France24 and The Local France for up-to-date information on strikes.

And while it may seem obvious, check the social media of attractions such as museums, to make sure they are open. You do not want to trek across a city only to find out that museum workers are also on strike.

The Paris Tourism Office’s Twitter (@ParisJeTaime) is also a good resource on closures, as well as that of local guide @paris_by_elodie.

But most importantly, tourists should exercise patience and budget extra time to get around. The metro service, rail schedules and even airport operations have all seen on-and-off disruption during the recent protests. BLOOMBERG

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Eiffel Tower strike: why workers are striking, how long it will last and tourist impact

Tourists were left disappointed on Monday when the Eiffel Tower was closed due to strike action

It’s arguably the world’s most well-known tourist attraction and welcomes on average a staggering 7 million visitors a year – but this week, tourists were left disappointed as  Paris ’s iconic  Eiffel Tower  was closed due to strike action. It’s the second strike held at the landmark since December. Wondering if you’ll be able to visit the tower? This is everything we know about the Eiffel Tower strikes and what to do if you have a ticket.

Why is the Eiffel Tower on strike?

Eiffel Tower staff are striking over how the monument is managed. Unions representing the workers claim the city is underestimating maintenance costs and overselling tickets, which puts a burden on staff and poses safety risks to both visitors and employees. It’s also been reported that staff are demanding a salary increase in line with rising ticket costs.

How long will the Eiffel Tower be closed?

The Eiffel Tower was closed on Monday, February 19 and will remain closed today (Tuesday, February 20), a ccording to a notice on the  official Eiffel Tower website . The website warns that the strike could be extended and disrupt the tower’s opening on Wednesday, February 21, too. It’s predicted that the monument could remain closed for the entire week.

Can tourists still visit?

It is not possible to climb the tower while it’s closed due to strike action. Those with e-tickets for the tower are advised to check their e-mail for advice.

Will the strikes impact the Olympics?

The Paris 2024 Olympics  kick off in the summer, with the official opening ceremony scheduled for July 26. Whether staff at the Eiffel Tower strike during the games remains to be seen, but it’s been reported that public sector workers have been offered a bonus to stave off any industrial action that could impact the games.

What’s been said about the strike so far?

A joint statement from the CGT and FO unions called on the city of Paris ‘to be reasonable with their financial demands to ensure the survival of the monument and the company operating it’. 

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Is it safe to travel to Paris during strikes and protests?

A general strike is set to take place across france on thursday 23 march 2023, article bookmarked.

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Protests and strike action have swept across France in recent months following President Emmanuel Macron ’s attempts to push through a controversial pension reform bill without a vote in the lower house.

Workers across the transport, education, fuel and utility sectors have walked out in protest of the bill, which would push the retirement age from 62 to 64.

Industrial action by sanitation workers has resulted in giant stacks of rubbish piling up in the French capital, plus Marseille , Nantes and Angers, a visible (and pungent) symbol of the resentment felt by public-sector workers.

And on Thursday (23 March), another general strike is set to take place across France, with further disruption expected.

But is it safe to travel to Paris during this period of protest and strikes? Here’s everything you need to know.

Is it safe to travel to Paris amid strikes and protests?

France has a proud reputation of being a nation unafraid of taking to the streets to make its disdain for political processes felt.

While recent protests have been significant in their scale, protests are not an uncommon sight in France, particularly in the capital.

Last weekend, police clashed with protesters after they lit a fire in the Place de la Concorde near the National Assembly building in Paris.

Footage showed police firing tear gas at protesters, while hundreds of people were arrested.

And on Friday (17 March), police pepper-sprayed students near the Sorbonne University.

Current guidance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises visitors to avoid demonstrations and remain vigilant.

“On 16 March, large-scale demonstrations started in central Paris and elsewhere in France and police presence increased.

“Protests could turn violent and/or continue. These could lead to disruptions to road travel.

“You should monitor the media, check the latest advice with operators before travelling, avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.”

It adds: “If demonstrations do turn violent, a heavy police/gendarmerie presence is to be expected. In all cases, you should avoid demonstrations wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities.”

Travellers visiting Paris should avoid the Place de la Concorde, situated between the Champs-Élysées and the Jardin des Tuileries (the park adjacent to the Louvre) in the eighth arrondissement and the National Assembly, which are assembly points for the protests.

How will travel be affected?

Transport services across France are likely to be severely impacted by the general strike.

Eurostar has confirmed it will be running a revised service on Thursday 23 March, with eight services currently cancelled – click here to see the full list.

In a statement, Ryanair said it was expecting possible cancellations and delays on flights to and from France from 20 to 23 March.

“Any affected passengers will be notified as soon as possible,” it said.

“Ryanair advises all passengers to monitor their Ryanair app and the Ryanair website for the latest updates regarding their flight.

Elsewhere, the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) has asked airlines to reduce their flight schedules to and from Paris Orly and certain French airports as a result of the strike action.

In a statement, Air France said: “Air France plans to operate on these days 95 per cent of its flight schedule, including all its long-haul flights and its flights to and from Paris Charles de Gaulle.

“Last-minute delays and cancellations cannot be ruled out.

“The flight schedule is updated and customers affected by cancelled flights are notified individually by SMS and e-mail.”

Anyone planning to travel to France over the next 48 hours should check with their provider ahead of departure.

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Strike closes Eiffel Tower in blow to tourists ahead of Paris Olympics

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Reporting by Noemie Olive, Ardee Napolitano, Dominique Vidalon; Editing by Nick Macfie

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Australia police arrest teenage boy after stabbing at Sydney university

Australian police said it had arrested a 14-year-old boy after a stabbing at the University of Sydney on Tuesday morning, which triggered a lockdown of the university buildings.

City of blight: Paris visitors alarmed at trash strike

Paris (AFP) – Portuguese tourist Fabio Figueirado wanted to admire beautiful buildings on a romantic getaway in Paris, but instead he and his girlfriend have found themselves navigating pavements piled high with garbage.

Issued on: 14/03/2023 - 19:10 Modified: 14/03/2023 - 19:08

"I've never seen a city with so much trash on the street," said the 25-year-old, near a mound of bulging bin bags across the road from the city's main opera house.

"They must collect it once a week or something, it's not very nice at all."

Tourists flock to Paris for fairy-tale walks and iconic monuments, but piles of uncollected trash because of strikes against a pension reform are spoiling the experience for many foreign visitors.

The French capital's municipal garbage collectors have been on strike since last week as part of nationwide action against the deeply unpopular bill to hike the retirement age and increase contributions for a full pension.

The walkout has left 6,600 tonnes of rubbish piled up on sidewalks in around half of the capital, according to city authorities.

Sitting near the Notre-Dame cathedral, Martha Velasquez, 52, was tucking into an ice-cream with her family not far from another stream of black bags.

"I think it's really sad to see so much trash here in this beautiful city," said the visitor from Colombia.

"It's been several streets that we see piles of trash."

'I'll be poor'

The capital's municipal garbage collectors and cleaners on Tuesday voted to extend their walkout until at least next Monday, a union representative told AFP.

Garbage collectors and truck drivers are opposed to their retirement age being pushed back from 57 to 59 if the new law is passed, the CGT union says.

They also want a wage increase so that they receive a slightly higher pension.

Murielle Gaeremynck, 56, is among those striking.

She said she had been working for more than two decades as a city garbage worker.

But when I retire, "I know I'll be poor," she said, explaining her pension would be less than 1,200 euros (around $1,200) a month.

Nabil Latreche, 44, said he and other municipal collectors had a gruelling job and deserved a decent retirement.

"We work whether there's rain, snow or wind," he said.

"When we're riding behind the truck, we breathe in all sorts of fumes. We often get sick from work."

Sign of a 'free country'

In parts of Paris where pickups have been interrupted, some tourists in recent days have complained of the smell.

But others have been much more understanding.

In a narrow back alley of restaurants near the River Seine, Andrey Naradzetski, 21, posed for a picture in front of a giant heap of rubbish.

But he saw the detritus as a healthy sign of democracy.

"It feels like it's a really liberated, free country because here there are strikes," said the young Belarusian who lives in Poland.

I don't "believe the same situation can happen in my home country."

Not far off, near more overflowing dustbins, US tourist Daniel Gore, 53, said he too respected those striking.

"This time we obviously noticed a difference -- that there's trash piled up -- but we also know why and we understand."

Jean-François Rial, president of the Paris tourism office, admitted all the rubbish was "not optimal for foreign visitors".

But the ongoing strikes will have "no impact" on tourism numbers in Paris, he told AFP.

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Eiffel Tower operator warns the landmark is closed as strike turns visitors away for a second day

Unions flags are pictured at the Eiffel Tower, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024 in Paris. Visitors to the Eiffel Tower were turned away for the second consecutive day because of a strike over poor financial management at one of the world’s most-visited sites. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)

Tour Eiffel employees talks to visitors at the Eiffel Tower, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024 in Paris. Visitors to the Eiffel Tower were turned away for the second consecutive day because of a strike over poor financial management at one of the world’s most-visited sites. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)

Visitors stand at the closed gates leading to the Eiffel Tower, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024 in Paris. Visitors to the Eiffel Tower were turned away for the second consecutive day because of a strike over poor financial management at one of the world’s most-visited sites. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)

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PARIS (AP) — A strike at the Eiffel Tower over poor financial management turned away visitors on Tuesday for the second consecutive day. The 330-meter (1,083-foot) landmark in central Paris has seen soaring sightseer numbers in the lead-up to the Olympics in the French capital.

Tourists planning to visit the Eiffel Tower were warned on its website that the monument is “currently closed” due to a strike by some of its employees. Visitors were advised to check the website before heading to the monument as visits could be disrupted “due to a renewable strike notice.” Electronic ticket owners were told to check their inboxes beforehand.

Denis Vavassori of the CGT union, which represents a large number of the Eiffel Tower’s employees, said its members voted unanimously to extend the strike on Tuesday. He said employees were willing to persist until their demands were met but hoped to reach an agreement with the Paris municipality, the monument’s owner, before the start of the Summer Games.

“It would be a shame to continue the strike and its demands during the Olympic Games,” Vavassori told The Associated Press. “For now, it looks like (the strike) could go on for several days, even weeks.”

The operator of the Eiffel Tower did not respond to requests for comment.

Some who traveled to Paris from faraway places came to the monument despite being advised to postpone the visit.

“So it’s closed,” said Guillermo Lopez, a tourist from Argentina. “A trip of thousands of kilometers and for nothing!”

He regained perspective after initial disappointment. “OK, it’s not for nothing. It’s a beautiful city but unfortunately, we cannot see the Tower.”

Matija Antonovic, a tourist from Croatia, said the strike ruined his plan to visit the Eiffel Tower. He decided on the spot to revisit Paris soon. “It’s something to do once in a lifetime. You need to climb this monument.”

Striking employees are demanding an increase in salaries that is proportionate to the incoming revenue from ticket sales. They also want to improve maintenance of the 135-year-old tower that will feature prominently in the July 26-Aug. 11 Paris Games and the following Paralympics.

Union leaders have repeatedly criticized the Eiffel Tower operator’s business model, saying it’s based on an inflated estimate of future visitor numbers, at the expense of maintenance cost expenses and employees’ work compensation.

The Eiffel Tower is typically open 365 days a year. Tuesday’s closure is the second in two months due to strikes. In December, it was closed to visitors for an entire day during Christmas and New Year’s holidays because of a strike over contract negotiations.

Last year, the monument was closed to visitors for 10 days during massive protests across France against the government’s plan to reform the country’s pension system.

Associated Press journalists Florent Bajrami in Paris and Barbara Surk in Nice, France, contributed to this report.

Travelers to Paris should be prepared for trash piles and protests

The guests who checked in to Rosewood’s Hotel de Crillon this week were likely visiting Paris for all the city’s enduring draws: The food, the romance, the museums, the fashion. But on Thursday evening, their $2,450-per-night rooms became the doorstep of a massive protest in the adjacent Place de la Concorde filled with thousands of citizens speaking out against the government’s use of a constitutional provision to  pass its retirement bill , which failed to gather a majority of representatives in France’s lower house of parliament.  In response to the reforms planned by President Emmanuel Macron, garbage collectors have been on strike since March 6. Piles of trash are stacking up around Paris, as garbage collectors protest the raising of their industry’s retirement age from 57 to 59. The trash collectors’ walkout is set to run at least through March 20, but could run longer. 

Until this year, last time that protests on this scale affected the city was in late 2018 and early 2019, when Yellow Vests clashed with government forces, sometimes violently, in cities throughout France. Tourism took a clear hit; local transit and hotel companies such as Accor SA saw shares dip, and tourist sites such as the Louvre and Orsay museums shut down for safety.

Thus far, the protests in Paris remain unthreatening to tourists. There’s no indication that travelers should consider cancelling their plans, and the US State Advisory remains at a standard Level 2—the same as virtually every popular tourism destination in Europe or in the Caribbean. There are some signs of rising tensions, however. Police used water cannons on Thursday to disperse the protestors at the Place de la Concorde, which is just across a bridge from France National Assembly.

There’s a lot at stake. In 2022, France’s international tourism spending reached €50 billion ($53.4 billion), surpassing pre-pandemic levels by €1.2 billion, and representing 10% of France’s GDP. France also remains on track to regain its pre-pandemic title as the most-visited country in the world by 2025, according to Global Data. National carrier Air France is also  boosting its service to pre-pandemic levels  this summer ahead of an anticipated surge in demand and the return of Chinese travelers.

Difficulty Getting Around

But that doesn’t mean that visitors will find Paris unaffected. Some sidewalks in the city have become impassable, full of garbage bags leaking rotting food and spilling broken bottles onto the pavement.

Although France’s interior minister has promised to requisition trash collectors to start to dig out the backlog, there wasn’t any evidence yet that many were back on the job in those neighborhoods affected by the strike. Meanwhile, the arrival of Americans on spring break and other international travelers has led to visitors spreading photos, posts and comments about the trash piles around Paris.

How to Plan Ahead

Those piles could disappear rapidly if collectors are, indeed, forced back onto the job. For residents and visitors, there’s not much to do about that—except perhaps to hold your nose. But there are a few precautions that travelers can take to ensure that their trips are otherwise unaffected by the political unrest.

In anticipation of possible transit strikes, which took place amid the 2018 and 2019 protests, it could be prudent to schedule an airport transfer via your hotel. Not only will you circumvent any unplanned changes to public transit service; the hotel will be responsible for guaranteeing your service or communicating clearly about any anticipated challenges should taxi drivers suddenly join the trash collectors. 

Before leaving on a romantic stroll of the city, check in with the front desk or concierge; they are likely to know where and when protests are planned, so you’re not inadvertently swept into a demonstration. Note that the next major day of strikes and protests is scheduled for March 23.

Gail Boisclair, founder of furnished rentals company  PerfectlyParis  has been telling her clients to avoid the areas around Republique and Bastille on Saturdays because of the demonstrations, but says strikes come with the territory. “Everyone knows the French strike, and if you come to France, you might get a strike,” she notes. “But it’s not always with our garbage.” Boisclair says she saw trash piled up high around the 9th and 17th arrondissements. 

Lindsey Tramuta, journalist and author of  The New Parisienne , recommends for visitors to download the app  Citymapper . “It’s great to use for knowing if public transport is disrupted and which routes in particular, or in the case of big demonstrations, if certain stations will be closed for safety,” she tells Bloomberg. For those who don’t speak French, she also advises keeping an eye on English language media such as  France24  and  The Local France  for up-to-date information on strikes.

And while it may seem obvious, check social media of destinations like museums to make sure they’re open. You don’t want to trek across a city only to find out that museum workers are also on strike. The Paris Tourism Office’s Twitter ( @ParisJeTaime ) is also a good resource on closures, as well as that from local guide   @paris_by_elodie .

But most importantly, tourists should exercise patience and budget extra time to get around. Metro service, rail schedules and even airport operations have all seen on-and-off disruption during recent protests.

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Is it safe to travel to France during strikes and protests?

Emirates and etihad airways flights to and from paris are operating as normal, but other airlines have warned of disruptions.

Protests and strikes are taking place in Paris and across France. AFP

On Tuesday, piles of rubbish built up over the last few weeks were set on fire around central Paris.

Armed police were out in force and fire engine sirens could be heard throughout the evening in the City of Light.

Near the Place de la Concorde, protesters and officers clashed.

And from the city’s rooftop terraces, often the place where travellers flock for the best views of the Eiffel Tower and other landmarks in the world's most visited country, large smoke plumes could be seen rising up from the streets below.

There are further strikes planned and for travellers heading to Paris or France at this time, here's what to know.

Why are there strikes and protests in France?

Protests and strike action have been taking place across France since the government announced a contentious bill to raise the country's retirement age from 62 to 64.

Demonstrators believe authorities are not listening to the people.

On Monday, President Emmanuel Macron narrowly survived a vote of no confidence — a move that sparked more protests across Paris.

And tonight the streets are burning as protestors set alight the piles of rubbish, of which Paris City Hall estimates there are some 13,000 tons of on the streets. #parisprotests #france pic.twitter.com/at1UFmQOOM — Hayley (@HayleyScottie) March 20, 2023

On Wednesday afternoon, the French president spoke live on national television about the proposed new bill, and said he was “willing to accept unpopularity over the pension reform”.

Sanitation workers remain on strike and rubbish piles littered around the city, the ones that haven't been ignited, continue to grow.

Further national strikes are planned with several industries due to take part.

Is it safe to visit France currently?

Travellers have not been told not to travel to France during strikes and protests.

The UK Foreign Office has warned of disruption and delays, but does not imply that travel plans should be cancelled.

The protests are against the government and not aimed at travellers, meaning tourists in Paris should remain safe, so long as they avoid protest activities.

Holidaymakers wishing to avoid protests can check with their hotel concierge and local news services to find out which areas have protests planned each day.

Public gatherings and protests have been officially forbidden on Concorde square, but travellers should still avoid this area and its surroundings during official days of strike action.

Are protests in Paris affecting holidays?

While unsightly piles of rubbish aren’t the best inclusions in holiday pictures, they are somewhat unavoidable in many parts.

Some roads and paths where streets are narrower are quite difficult to pass, especially in the evening when rubbish is strewn onto the roads and set alight.

Public transport services are impacted by the strikes, with several metro trains being cancelled on Tuesday evening after protests took place in the city centre.

Tourists with tickets booked for the Louvre Museum on Thursday, the next day of national strikes, have been advised that some areas of the museum may not be fully accessible.

Are flights being cancelled at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport?

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Air France cancelled 5 per cent of its services from Paris airports, including long-haul services.

Emirates and Etihad Airways flights to and from Paris are operating as normal at the time of writing. Other airlines including KLM and Ryanair have announced possible disruption to flight services this week.

It's possible more flight cancellations or delays could occur at airports around the country on Thursday as air traffic controllers are expected to take part in the action.

What should I do if I have upcoming travel to Paris?

Tourists with upcoming travel plans to France should reconfirm itineraries, booked activities and flight details before travelling.

When in the city, leave time for disruption to travel plans. Recent protests have caused disruptions at train stations and on metro services, and some roads in central Paris have been blocked.

The state-owned public transport operator RATP posted a statement on its website advising travellers to expect “very disrupted traffic” on Thursday on rail and metro networks. It also said that bus and trams will operate almost as “normal”.

Eurostar has also confirmed it will operate a revised service on Thursday, with trains to London, the Netherlands and Belgium cancelled.

Travellers should consider not using public transport to get to and from the airport. Instead, try to pre-book an airport transfer. It's also a good idea to leave extra time at the airport, as some operations such as immigration services, may only have skeleton staff.

Are other cities in France impacted?

While Paris has been at the forefront of protests, other cities around Paris are also facing disruption as the national day of strike action on Thursday will take place across the country.

Protests have been reported by local media in Nantes, Marseille, Bordeaux and other cities around France.

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Strikes, protests pose new headache for Paris tourism

Tourists stroll on the trocadero square, in front of the eiffel tower during a rainy day in paris.

By Dominique Vidalon PARIS (Reuters) - As Paris tourism struggles to overcome last November's Islamist attacks, the world's most visited city faces a new threat: a wave of protests and further planned strikes, tourism officials warned on Monday. Labor unions have scheduled stoppages that threaten to disrupt transport for millions of visitors and fans hoping to follow the Euro 2016 soccer tournament from June 10 onwards, after weeks of violence-marred street protests against planned labor reforms. "The scenes of guerrilla-type action in central Paris, beamed around the world, reinforce the feeling of fear and misunderstanding from visitors in an already angst-filled climate," Frederic Valletoux, head of the Paris region tourist board said in a statement on Monday. "There is still time to save the tourist season by putting an end to these blockades that are being shown the world over." Evelyne Maes, head of the UMIH-Paris-Ile de France hotel federation, told Reuters that bookings for June to August were down 20 to 50 percent from a year ago. French trade association GNI said in a statement last week it feared "massive" booking cancellations by foreign tourists. "A strike of that scope a few weeks before Euro 2016 and at the heart of the tourist season is more than unacceptable," it said. The tourist board issued the warning a few hours before French authorities began a new campaign to bolster the appeal of the French capital to foreign visitors. Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo and Ile-de-France region Vice-President Jerome Chartier joined forces at the Eiffel Tower to promote Paris as a safe and attractive destination. "I believe that a spirit of responsibility will prevail. We will find a solution through dialogue. Our country has a real tradition of hospitality," Ayrault said, when asked about possible disruption to the Euro tournament. France, which is seeking to revive its economy, depends heavily on tourism, which generates over 7 percent of national gross domestic product and over 13 percent of that of the Ile-de-France region, which includes Paris. Data published by national statistics office INSEE this month showed that nearly six months after the Paris attacks, foreign visitors still shun the capital. The number of their nightly hotel stays in the Paris region was down 9.1 percent in the first quarter from a year ago. Hotel stays by Japanese visitors were down 56 percent in the first quarter compared with the same period in 2015, while Russians were down by 35 percent and Chinese 13.9 percent, the Paris region tourist board said. That is worrying for local authorities and professionals. About 500,000 people in Ile-de-France have jobs linked to tourism, making it the biggest industry in the region. The Nov. 13 attacks, when Islamist militants killed 130 people in a spate of shootings and suicide bombings, cost French hoteliers an estimated 270 million euros ($300 million) in lost revenue last year, research firm MKG Group said. Paris alone accounted for 146 million euros. Hopes of a significant recovery in 2016 for Paris hoteliers were derailed by the Brussels attacks in March. Figures from MKG put annual revenue per hotel room in Paris down by around 10 percent so far in 2016. About 2.5 million spectators are expected for Euro 2016, which starts on June 10 for a month. The CGT labor union has called for another big national street protest in Paris on June 14. France is the most-visited country in the world, with almost 85 million foreigners last year, around 16 million in Paris alone. France eyes 100 million foreign tourists by 2020, Ayrault reiterated on Monday. (Reporting by Dominique Vidalon, additional reporting by Michel Rose; Editing by Larry King)

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Traveling to Europe? What you should know about recent and planned strikes

Travelers visiting Europe in the coming weeks may want to prepare for disruptions beyond the usual flight delay or cancellation.

A series of ongoing and planned strikes among transit and aviation workers – among others – in popular tourist destinations such as France and the United Kingdom could impact various parts of their trips, from the speed of entry upon arrival to the ease of getting around once they're there.

International travelers can take steps to stay informed about ways the strikes might impact them during their visit. Here's what they should know about recent and upcoming strikes in Europe.

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Where are the strikes in Europe?

Tens of thousands of people marched in Paris and other cities across France Wednesday to denounce the government's pension plan as unfair to female workers, in demonstrations meant to coincide with International Women's Day.

The show of anger against French President Emmanuel Macron's plan to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 is set to continue in the coming days, as train and metro drivers, refinery workers, garbage collectors and others have said they would continue ongoing strikes.

Unions aim at maintaining pressure on the government as senators debate the changes.

Story continues below. 

► Rail and metro authorities announced that trains, including international lines, and the Paris metro will be severely disrupted on Thursday, like on previous days. In addition, up to one-third of all flights are expected to be canceled in French airports.

► Unions have also called for a new day of nationwide demonstrations on Saturday.

Travelers headed to the U.K. may also face longer wait times at border control due to a strike later this month. 

► Border Force operations will be impacted by a strike between March 15 and the morning of March 16, according to the U.K. Home Office.

"The proposed strike action will impact international arrivals at all UK air and maritime ports, as well as those travelling to the UK from UK border controls in Calais, Dunkirk and Coquelles in Northern France," the Home Office said in a news release .

► There are also ongoing strikes among air traffic controllers in Spain, and baggage handlers and transit workers in Italy have plans to strike this month, according to the country's Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. There have been recent strikes at several Germany  airports, as well.

How can travelers prepare for strikes in Europe?

Going to France:

Visitors and American residents in France "are advised to assess the impact of the strikes on their personal travel plans by monitoring social media accounts of major service providers, including their operating airline and airport, RATP (for Paris area transport), and local police authorities," a spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy in Paris said in an email.

U.S. travelers should register for the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , the spokesperson said, which can help them get current safety information and allow the embassy to reach them in case of an emergency. They also noted that the majority of French authorities and service operators have apps that can provide travelers with service updates.

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"Road, rail, sea and air transportation may all impacted and restrict the ability to access major cities and travel within them," the spokesperson said. "Service disruptions will be announced by operators as plans for the strikes evolve."

Going to the United Kingdom:

The U.K. Home Office is working with airports and ports on plans to minimize delays if the strike goes forward, according to a spokesperson, but travelers should prepare for possible disruptions. "We will deploy suitable resource to meet critical demand and support the flow of passengers and goods through our border," the spokesperson said in an email.

The Home Office also said travelers should check the most recent guidance from their operators before their trip, and encouraged those eligible to use eGates if they are available.

"Please be patient and respect officers who are working to keep our citizens safe and border secure, and supporting travellers during the strike action," the government department said in its  release .

What happens if my flight is canceled because of a strike?

If a flight is canceled, passengers are entitled to have their ticket reimbursed, to be rerouted or a booked on a return flight, no matter the circumstances, according to European Union rules . They may also be entitled to compensation if they were notified fewer than two weeks before their departing flight.

If a carrier can prove the cancellation was caused " extraordinary circumstances ," however, travelers are not owed compensation. A strike organized by a carrier's trade union staff to support worker demands does not meet that definition. 

"Therefore, internal strike action does not release the airline from its obligation to pay compensation in the event of cancellation or long delay of flights," the E.U. website reads. "However, strikes ‘external’ to the airline, such as strike action taken by air traffic controllers or airport staff, may constitute an extraordinary circumstance."

Flyers who arrive at their destination 3 hours late or more may also be owed compensation, if the delay was not because of extraordinary circumstances. Airlines are also required to provide travelers who are delayed two or more hours at departure with refreshments and accommodations when needed.

The U.K.  has similar rules .

Contributing: Kathleen Wong, USA TODAY; Sylvie Corbet and Alexander Turnbull, Associated Press

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Home > Paris Travel Tips > Tips for Visiting Paris during Transportation Strikes

Tips for Visiting Paris during Transportation Strikes

Paris transportation strikes.

Unfortunately, Paris is sometimes affected by transportation strikes. While there’s nothing you can do to avoid a transportation strike in Paris – sometimes they are announced on short notice – you can learn to deal with them.

This article provides information and our best tips for visiting Paris during a transportation strike. Use these workarounds and strike strategies to deal with the strikes in Paris. Spoiler: flexibility is key.

1. Get the Latest News

Our posts on upcoming strikes in Paris and France are updated as soon as new information is available. If you are traveling to Paris during transportation strikes, we recommend checking them from time to time and planning your day accordingly:

• Upcoming Transportation Strikes in France – all transportation in Paris and France
• Train Strikes in France – Info and Best Tips     – train strikes in France
• Air France Strikes – Info and Best Tips   – Air France strikes and strikes affecting Air France flights

2. Consider Private Transportation for your Transfers Paris – Airport

With only a few RER trains operating and only for 2-3 hours a day, we recommend considering a private /shared transfer Airport – Paris. Avoid the transportation hassle with a door-to-door service by English-speaking drivers.

• Book your CDG or Orly Airport Transfer with Welcome
• Book your Orly Airport Shared Transfer with Get Your Gide

My personal recommendation is to pre-book with Welcome Pickups , a reliable and top-rated private transfer service. Your driver will wait for you outside of the arrivals hall with a sign bearing your name, plus a bottle of water and a map of the city. Welcome Pickups has introduced strict safety protocols to protect drivers and guests.

3. Get to Know your Neighborhood

Let us tell you a secret: there’s a lot to see and do in Paris apart from the main sights!

Go out and explore your neighborhood in Paris. Walk the streets around your hotel /apartment to see what the area has to offer: boulangeries, little cafes, hidden alleys, and lesser-known sites… You can start by reading our Paris Arrondissements Quick Guide  and our posts by Arrondissement .

You can also ask the hotel staff and other guests, most probably you will get good tips from them.

4. Consider a Day Tour with Hotel Pick up and Drop off

The most popular day tours from Paris are always proposed by all the companies, which means competitive prices and a great service to get better reviews than the competitors. Some tours also come with the hotel pick up /drop off, which is perfect when public transportation in Paris is scarce.

Check out our list of Paris’s most popular day tours with hotel pick-up. All these guided tours always have great reviews.

• Versailles full-day tour from Paris
• Normandy D-day landings day tour from Paris
• Reims and champagne tasting day tour from Paris
• Full-day ticket and shuttle to Disneyland Paris
• Loire Valley Castles full-day tour from Paris

5. Stick to Metro Line 1

Line 1 (the yellow line) is an automatic line that runs all day. Line 1 is one of the main metro lines in Paris, crossing the city from east to west. Here’s the list of the most interesting things to see and do at walking distance from line 1:

» Louvre Museum (metro station Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre )

» Saint Germain-l’Auxerrois Church , just in front of the Louvre (metro station Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre )

» Musée des Arts Décoratifs (metro station Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre )

» Seine River boat tours (the Batobus , for example, has a stop near the Louvre)

» Tuileries Christmas Market  (seasonal, metro station Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre )

» The Tuileries Garden (metro station Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre )

» Palais Royal and Gardens (metro station Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre)

» Place Vendôme (metro station Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre)

» La Défense Christmas Market (seasonal, metro station La Défense )

» Shopping at Champs Elysées (metro stations Champs Elysées – Clemenceau  to Charles de Gaulle – Étoile )

» Exhibitions at Petit Palais and Grand Palais are always excellent (station Champs Elysées – Clemenceau )

» Le Marais (station Saint-Paul or Hôtel de Ville )

» Centre Georges Pompidou (station Hôtel de Ville )

» Château de Vincennes (station Château de Vincennes )

» Bois de Vincennes (station Château de Vincennes )

TIP:  avoid taking the metro line 1, towards La Défense, during peak hours (8 am to 9.30 am) when line 1 gets super crowded /saturated: you definitely don’t need this during your trip to Paris!

6. Join a Marais Guided Walking Tour

Explore one of the most beautiful corners of Paris on a guided walking tour by a knowledgeable guide. All the tours below start from places located along line 1

• Marais Walking Tour
• Le Marais Gourmet Tour

7. Learn about French Wines at Les Caves du Louvre

Built in the 18th century by Trudon, the wine steward of King Louis XV, Les Caves du Louvre is now dedicated to French wine tours. Through a playful and interactive visit with an expert sommelier, discover the vine and enology while stimulating your five senses. The different rooms will make you discover French “terroir”: from vineyards to aromas, flavors, and sounds, until, of course, the final tasting.

Les Caves du Louvre are located near the Louvre Museum, so you can easily reach them with metro line 1.

8. Consider Other Means of Transportation for Exploring Paris

The metro doesn’t work? This is not the end of the world! Of course, there are taxi or Uber options but expect big traffic jams during strike days in Paris.

There are other ways to explore Paris besides walking, especially if the weather is good. Here are our favorites:

Paris by Bike: environmentally friendly, cheap, healthy, and surprisingly convenient for navigating perilously congested city streets, the bike is becoming the preferred mode of transportation in Paris. Check out this Paris by Bike Quick Guide , with all that you need to know if you want to bike in Paris.

Sail the Seine on the Batobus: the Batobus is a boat service along the Seine River. It has nine stops, and you can hop on hop off it as many times as you want during the duration of your ticket. The bonus point is that with the Batobus, you can avoid traffic jams! The Batobus proposes three different passes: 24 hours, 48 hours, and annual past. Holders of the Navigo pass or a student car get discounts on these three passes.

9. Look on the Bright Side…

Big transportation strikes in Paris are a real bummer, but they also have their positive side, like lesser crowds in museums, shops, or restaurants.

This is how one of our readers on France Bucket List lived the first days of the huge Paris transport strike in 2019:

Saying thanks for all your support, advice, and info on the strike. I’d at last found a friend to talk to. Home tomorrow and my train has not been canceled. Yesterday and today were excellent for me. The Boulevard Haussmann and surrounds were peaceful to walk, the museums were quiet, no queues. I’ve spent more time eating locally at night and got to know people instead of rushing down the metro. It’s been different but still superb. 

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About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.