Navigating France’s Southeast Motorways During July 2025 Strike Action
Last Updated July 17, 2025
If you're planning a road trip through southeastern France this July, you should know there’s strike action underway that could affect parts of the motorway network, especially the A8 and A51. The disruptions aren’t expected to be major, but it’s still smart to plan ahead and give yourself a little extra time.
What’s Happening
Two major unions, the CFDT and CGT, have filed strike notices covering motorway operators in the south-east. While union leaders say they’re not trying to disrupt travelers, the strike could still lead to reduced staffing at toll booths or slower response times if technical problems come up.
The CGT’s motion runs through mid-September, covering busy summer travel weeks. So far, the impact has been minimal, but conditions could change depending on turnout and escalation.
How This Might Affect Your Drive
The A8 (from Aix-en-Provence to Nice) and the A51 (between Aix and the Alps) are key routes to both the coast and the mountains. You probably won’t see full closures or heavy traffic jams, but you might run into:
Longer lines at toll booths, especially on weekends
Slower support if toll systems fail or need troubleshooting
Some service points running with skeleton staff
What You Can Do to Prepare
1. Check Conditions Before You Go
Stay updated using official sources:
Bison Futé – France’s national traffic service
Autoroutes.fr – live traffic and road service updates from motorway companies
Local news apps like France Bleu or Connexion France for regional coverage in English
2. Bring Multiple Payment Options
Most toll booths accept cards, cash, and automated transponders. But during strikes, card terminals can go offline or queues can build.
Have coins or small bills ready
Keep a physical toll ticket (not just your app)
If you’re using a rental car, double-check if it includes a télépéage transponder (most don’t)
3. Consider Alternate Routes
The A7 via Lyon adds time but avoids affected zones
Routes nationales (like the N7 or D900) are slower but scenic and often strike-proof
Avoid late afternoon and Saturday midday, when traffic is heaviest in summer
4. Pack Like You’ll Be Waiting
Water and something to eat
Phone charger for the car
Paper map or offline GPS in case your app loses coverage
Games or books if you’ve got passengers who don’t like traffic
A Quick Note on Strikes in France
Strikes are part of the public and private labor landscape here, especially in summer. For many French workers, it’s a way to negotiate better pay or conditions. In this case, the unions have made it clear that they want to make a point, not a mess. Still, it helps to be ready in case the situation shifts.
If You’re on the Road
Check traffic before you leave and again mid-journey
Don’t rely only on your GPS app—some local issues won’t show up immediately
Keep your schedule flexible, especially if you’re heading to the airport or a timed event
In an emergency, dial 112 or use roadside phones, which are spaced every 2 km along the motorway
Looking Ahead
There’s talk of long-term changes, like tollbooth-free highways, but for now, most of France’s autoroute system still relies on staffed stations. If you're traveling this summer, stay informed and keep a little extra buffer in your timing.
As with most strikes in France, a bit of patience and a good playlist go a long way. Bonne route!