European travel faced disruption in February 2026, as a combination of severe winter weather and industrial action impacted air travel across the continent. While the immediate effects were felt most acutely at major hubs, the ripple effects extended to rail and ferry services, impacting travelers throughout the region, including those planning trips to popular destinations like London and Amsterdam.
A social media post from , highlighted the experience of one traveler encountering difficulties in London and Amsterdam, describing the cities as a “dump” after their first continental trip. While anecdotal, the post reflects a growing frustration among travelers facing unexpected delays and cancellations.
The disruptions stem from two primary sources. Widespread snowstorms blanketed large swathes of northern and central Europe, leading to airport closures and flight cancellations. Simultaneously, strikes by air traffic control personnel in several countries, including France and Italy, exacerbated the situation, creating a bottleneck in airspace and further delaying flights. Reports indicate that the strikes were related to demands for improved working conditions and pay.
The impact on travel between Amsterdam and London, a particularly popular route, has been significant. According to data from AmsterdamTips.com, over four million passengers travel between the two cities annually. While the Eurostar high-speed train service remains a viable option – offering a journey time of approximately four hours and four minutes – even rail travel has experienced some delays due to the broader disruption to transport networks. The website notes that Eurostar tickets can be booked through Trainline or NS International, with prices starting around €58.
Alternative travel methods, such as flights, coaches, and ferries, have faced even greater challenges. Flights have been subject to widespread cancellations, while coach and ferry services have experienced delays due to weather conditions and port closures. Flixbus coaches, typically offering a 12-hour journey, and Stena Line ferries, combined with rail travel taking around 14 hours, are experiencing significant disruptions.
The situation is particularly challenging for travelers with onward connections. The disruptions have created a domino effect, impacting travel plans across Europe. A traveler planning a multi-city trip, as outlined in a post on the Rick Steves Travel Forum, could face significant difficulties. The individual detailed a planned itinerary beginning in London in November 2026, followed by stops in Paris, Belgium, Cologne, Amsterdam, and a return to London. Such a complex itinerary is now vulnerable to further delays and cancellations.
Beyond the immediate inconvenience to travelers, the disruptions have broader economic implications. The tourism industry, a significant contributor to the economies of many European countries, is facing losses due to cancelled bookings and reduced visitor numbers. The impact is likely to be felt most acutely in cities heavily reliant on tourism, such as London, Paris, and Amsterdam.
the disruptions highlight the vulnerability of European transport infrastructure to both extreme weather events and industrial action. The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, linked to climate change, poses a growing threat to transport networks across the continent. The strikes, meanwhile, underscore the need for improved labor relations and proactive measures to prevent future disruptions.
Several cities, including Rome, Amsterdam, London, Madrid, Paris, Tromsø, and Rovaniemi, are focusing on “noctourism” to attract visitors, according to recent reports. However, these efforts could be undermined if travelers are deterred by ongoing disruptions and uncertainty.
Travelers are advised to check with airlines, train operators, and ferry companies for the latest updates on their travel plans. Flexibility and patience are essential as the situation continues to evolve. The disruptions serve as a reminder of the complexities of international travel and the importance of being prepared for unexpected challenges.
The situation remains fluid, and further disruptions are possible as the winter season progresses. The long-term impact on the European tourism industry remains to be seen.
