Last updated October 22, 2026. This overview summarises what has been reported so far. Details change quickly, so check local news and official sources before you travel.

Autumn 2026 has brought a wave of demonstrations to several European countries. They are not one coordinated movement: each has its own causes, organisers and dynamics. Many share common themes, though, including the cost of living, housing, education funding and public services. Most protests have been peaceful, but some have turned into clashes with police. Here is a country-by-country look at what has been reported, and what it means for travelers.

France

France has seen the largest mobilisation. A student movement over conditions in secondary schools began in late September and grew into nationwide protests about the cost of living, joined by trade unions. On October 17, the Interior Ministry counted 550,000 marchers across the country, while organisers claimed 800,000. Violence, looting and fires followed in several cities that evening, and curfews were introduced in parts of Paris, Lyon and other cities.

New national days of action are planned on October 24 and 31, and the main unions have called a strike on November 5. Read our detailed guide: Protests in France, October 2026: What Travelers Need to Know.

Italy

On October 16, students marched in dozens of Italian cities in what organisers called "No Meloni Day", a protest against the government's education policies. Their grievances included school funding, the state of school buildings and a recent decree capping the share of foreign pupils at 30% per class. The Milan march remained peaceful, while clashes with police were reported in Turin, Rome and Bologna. The Education Ministry's provisional figures put national participation at around 1% of students. Some student groups have talked about a general strike on October 30.

Belgium

Demonstrations have been reported in Brussels, Liège, Mons and Charleroi, inspired in part by the French student movement and focused on education and living costs. Belgium regularly holds national strike days, which can disrupt trains, airports and public transport, so check the SNCB and your airline before traveling.

Greece

Since October 13, protesters have set up tents on Syntagma Square, in front of the Greek Parliament in Athens, over housing costs and public funding. Syntagma is a major transport hub and a tourist area. Expect police presence and occasional road closures in central Athens.

Albania

Riots were reported in the capital, Tirana, on October 14. If you are visiting, avoid the area around government buildings during demonstrations and follow local media.

Spain and Portugal

Demonstrations about housing and the cost of living have also been reported in Spain and Portugal, on a smaller scale. Housing protests have been a recurring feature in Spanish and Portuguese cities in recent years, and they are usually peaceful.

What this means for travelers

None of these countries is closed to visitors, and daily life continues normally in most places. The risks are local and usually predictable:

  • Large demonstrations tend to take place in city centres, often on weekends or on announced strike days.
  • Public transport can be closed or diverted near marches, sometimes with little notice.
  • Clashes, when they happen, usually break out late in the day or after the official march has ended.
  • Curfews and gathering bans can apply to specific neighbourhoods, as in France.

The single most useful habit is to check local news each morning and to stay away from crowds and police lines. Our guide on how to stay safe near a protest or riot abroad covers what to do if you get caught up in one.

Emergency numbers

112 works in every country of the European Union, including France, Italy, Belgium, Greece, Spain and Portugal. In Albania, the local numbers are 129 for police, 127 for ambulance and 128 for fire. Weelp. keeps the verified numbers for every country on your phone, available offline.

Frequently asked questions

Which European countries have protests right now?

As of late October 2026, demonstrations have been reported in France, Italy, Belgium, Greece, Albania, Spain and Portugal. France has seen the largest and most disruptive protests.

Should I cancel my trip to Europe?

No major government advises against travel to these countries. Check the official travel advice of your own country and stay flexible on the days demonstrations are announced.

Will my flight be affected?

Airports have remained open. Disruption is more likely from separate strike days or from roads and public transport near demonstrations. Check with your airline and leave extra time.

Sources

This article is general safety information compiled from public sources. It does not take a position on the demands of protesters or the actions of governments. Always follow the instructions of local authorities.