General Strike on 11 November in Madrid: What Visitors Need to Know
This post reflects the situation as of 7 November 2026. Things may have changed since, so please check official sources before your visit.
In 30 seconds
What: a 24-hour general strike across Spain, called by the CCOO and UGT trade unions.
When: Wednesday 11 November 2026, from 00:00 to 23:59.
Transport: there will be minimum services on the Metro, buses, trains and flights, but as of 7 November they had not been published yet.
Tip: if you're arriving or leaving that day, allow plenty of time; if you're already in town, plan a day exploring the centre on foot.
If you'll be in Madrid in mid-November, make a note of this date. As guides who work in the city centre every day, here's a summary of what we know so far and how to plan so the strike doesn't spoil your trip.
What is it and why is it happening?
CCOO and UGT, Spain's two largest trade unions, have called a 24-hour general strike for Wednesday 11 November. It covers public- and private-sector workers nationwide. The unions link it mainly to wages, housing costs and the cost of living.
A general strike doesn't mean everything shuts down: many businesses open as usual and essential services run with minimum staffing. But public transport is usually slower and there are often demonstrations in the city centre.
Metro, buses and trains in Madrid
Metro and EMT buses: minimum services are set by the Madrid authorities and have not been published yet. Expect less frequent, busier trains and buses, especially at rush hour.
Cercanías, AVE and long-distance trains: the Ministry of Transport sets minimum services, usually a few days in advance. For reference, during the 2012 general strike 30% of Cercanías trains ran (35% at peak times) and 20% of AVE and long-distance trains.
Other rail strikes that week: the train drivers' union Semaf has also announced strikes at Renfe on 10 and 12 November. If you're travelling by train between the 10th and the 12th, check your ticket.
Taxis and ride-hailing: demand is likely to be high and prices higher. Book ahead if you need to get to the airport or a station.
Flights and Barajas airport
As of 7 November, the Ministry of Transport had not published minimum services for flights and airlines had not announced cancellations. For reference, in 2012 the minimum services guaranteed 10% of mainland domestic flights, 20% of flights to other EU countries and 40% of other international flights, and around 700 flights were cancelled.
If you're flying on 11 November, check your flight status directly with your airline in the days before and get to the airport at least three hours ahead.
Your rights if your flight is cancelled
Refund or rerouting: under EU rules you can choose between a refund or alternative transport, plus care (meals and, if needed, a hotel).
Compensation: the €250–600 compensation isn't owed if the cancellation is due to extraordinary circumstances. Whether a general strike counts is decided case by case.
Don't cancel first: if you cancel your flight before the airline does, you usually lose your right to a refund and rerouting.
Museums, shops and restaurants
There is no official information yet on special opening hours for museums or monuments on 11 November. Some public sites may open shorter hours or close. If you have tickets for the Prado, the Royal Palace or the Reina Sofía, check their official website the day before and, where possible, book with free cancellation.
Demonstrations in the centre
General strikes usually come with demonstrations, often in the afternoon. As of 7 November no times or routes had been published for Madrid. If they coincide with your visit, expect road closures and bus diversions around Sol, Cibeles, Atocha, Colón or Plaza de España. The easiest option is to get around on foot and avoid those areas during the marches.
How to plan your day
The day before, check the websites and apps of Metro de Madrid, EMT, Renfe and your airline.
If you're arriving or leaving that day, book your transfer in advance and allow plenty of time.
Spend the day exploring the centre on foot: Habsburg Madrid, the Barrio de las Letras, Plaza Mayor and the Retiro are all close to each other.
Choose free-cancellation bookings for museums and activities.
Wear comfortable shoes: you'll walk more than you planned.
Booked a tour with us that day?
Our tours are on foot in the city centre. If you've booked one for 11 November, message us on WhatsApp at +34 614 500 379 and we'll confirm the meeting point and plan for the day.
No plans yet? Take a look at our tours: a tapas walk through the centre is a great way to enjoy Madrid without relying on public transport.
Sources: CCOO, UGT, Spanish Ministry of Transport, European Union (Your Europe) and Spanish press, checked on 7 November 2026.
Cover photo: Alex Moliski on Unsplash
Comments