France Introduces Night Curfews in Paris, Lyon and Nice

by · Greek City Times

France has introduced local night-time curfews in parts of Paris and other cities following riots and looting over the weekend, with restrictions varying by location and age group. The measures follow President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement on Sunday, 18 October, that authorities would restrict certain public gatherings in coordination with local mayors.

According to French media reports, citing local elected officials, a curfew will apply in central Paris from 23:00 to 06:00. It covers Place de la République and surrounding streets in the Les Halles area, and applies to everyone, regardless of age.

Although initial reports suggested the Paris curfew would begin at 22:00, authorities later clarified that it would start at 23:00 and remain in force until 06:00.

Other cities have introduced different restrictions. In Lyon, a curfew runs from 22:00 to 06:00 in the central Confluence district. In Nice, the same hours apply in the city centre, but the restriction affects minors only.

Read more: French President Blames Far-Left Groups for Violent Riots

Meanwhile, Marseille has banned public gatherings from 12:00 to 20:00.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu called on regional authorities to impose what he described as “partial curfews” in cities affected by the weekend’s unrest. According to France 24, he urged local authorities to introduce the measures on Monday evening, 19 October 2026.

Authorities have described the restrictions as partial and localised, with the stated aim of protecting businesses after serious incidents of violence. However, reports indicate that the practical details of enforcement remain unclear.

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