New rail strike in France and museum closures in Rome: what travelers need to know this

France: rail strike from July 20

A nationwide strike by French rail workers starts Monday July 20, affecting most TGV, Intercités and regional TER trains, according to reports. Expect cancellations and delays through at least July 22. Eurostar and Ouigo services may also run reduced timetables.

Check the official SNCF app hourly before heading to the station. If you can push your journey to after July 23, do it. For shorter trips inside France, consider long-distance buses (FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus) or carpooling via BlaBlaCar. The strike avoids Paris metro and local RER lines, so getting around Paris itself should be fine.

If you are heading to Barcelona or Madrid from France, the high-speed cross-border services may be disrupted too. For travel advice inside Spain, see our Barcelona and Madrid guides.

Rome: Borghese Gallery closes for works

The Galleria Borghese in Rome shuts to the public from July 25 for a two month renovation of its air conditioning system. The museum holds Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings.

Last entry before closure is July 24 at around 5pm (tickets from about 15 EUR). After July 25, switch to the Capitoline Museums or the Palazzo Barberini for Baroque art. Both are less crowded than the Borghese anyway. Book ahead online as summer queues are long. Check our Rome guide for other options.

Amsterdam: canal parade dates confirmed

Amsterdam's annual Pride canal parade sails on Saturday August 1. The parade runs from 12pm to 6pm along the Prinsengracht. Expect packed bridges and canal-side crowds all day. Book a boat spot months ahead or watch from the Westerkerk area for a decent view without the crush. See our Amsterdam guide for more summer events.

All prices vary by season and booking date. Always verify opening hours and strike updates on official sites before you go.