Vandalism in France Causes Major Eurostar Train Delays: What Travelers Need to Know

Recent acts of vandalism targeting the high-speed rail line between Paris and Lille have caused significant disruptions for Eurostar travelers. The vandalism, which took place last week, led to delays and cancellations that have affected numerous passengers. Eurostar has been working tirelessly to manage the situation, with teams deployed at stations, call centers, and onboard trains to assist and inform passengers.

While the situation is expected to improve by Monday, travelers should still anticipate potential delays. Eurostar has advised passengers to postpone their trips if possible. Those affected can cancel, change, or reschedule their journeys free of charge.

In addition to these disruptions, travelers to and from Paris should be aware of traffic restrictions during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, which will further impact travel plans. From July 18 to August 11, and from August 28 to September 8, road traffic will be restricted or banned in certain zones, including routes for opening ceremonies and sports events.

Specifically, on July 26, road traffic was banned around the opening ceremony site, causing significant inconvenience. Similar restrictions were enforced on August 3 and 4 around Paris Gare du Nord and the road cycling race routes. Additionally, on September 8, access to Paris Gare du Nord will be challenging due to the Paralympic Marathon.

For those planning to travel around Paris during these periods, public transport (Metro or RER trains) is highly recommended. Travelers should plan their routes in advance and allow extra time for their journeys. Increased security measures at stations in Brussels, Antwerp, and Liège from June 14 to September 8 mean passengers should arrive at least 30 minutes before their train's departure and carry necessary travel documents.

The combination of vandalism-related delays and Olympic traffic restrictions highlights the importance of careful planning for travelers. Eurostar urges its customers to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and make necessary adjustments to their plans to minimize disruptions.