How will I know if there's a train strike in Italy?
Train strikes in Italy are legally required to be announced in advance. You can check the official Commissione di Garanzia Sciopero website or the Ministry of Transport database. If you booked via ItaliaRail, we will notify you via email if your journey is affected.
Because strikes (known as sciopero in Italian) are scheduled ahead of time, you can often adjust your travel plans before you even leave home. However, checking the status of your specific train—whether it is a Frecciarossa, Intercity, or Regional train—is crucial, as not all services stop during a strike.
Strike Terminology
If you are already in Italy, listen for the word "sciopero" (pronounced sho-peh-ro) on station announcements or news broadcasts. This indicates an active or upcoming strike action.
Official Resources for Strike Updates
- Commissione di Garanzia Sciopero: The most authoritative resource is the Commissione di Garanzia Sciopero website (Italian only). It lists all strikes across transportation and other sectors.
- Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT): The MIT strike database provides a calendar of scheduled transport disruptions.
- Trenitalia "In Case of Strike": Visit the official Trenitalia Strike Information page to see lists of guaranteed trains.
Understanding Guaranteed Minimum Services
Even during active strikes, Trenitalia ensures that specific "Guaranteed Trains" continue to run to prevent the country from shutting down completely. This protection varies by train type:
| Train Type | Strike Protection Level | Guaranteed Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Frecce & High-Speed | High. Most long-distance Frecce trains are included in the guaranteed list. | Often run throughout the day (check specific train number). |
| Regional Trains | Moderate. Only specific commuter services are guaranteed. | 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
If Your Train is Cancelled
If you arrive at the station and discover a strike has cancelled your train, be prepared for long lines at the ticket counter. ItaliaRail customers can contact our customer service team for assistance with re-booking or refunds.