British holidaymakers visiting a popular holiday destination known for its spectacular Christmas markets have been warned to protect their belongings while visiting.

An urgent travel warning has been issued by the Foreign Office for anyone traveling to Belgium, as tourists’ Christmas travel plans could be thrown into chaos.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has recently updated its ‘Safety and Security’ advice regarding travel in busy areas of the country.

The office stressed that pickpocketing is very common and vacationers should be mindful of their belongings.

It said: “Theft and pickpocketing are common in crowded areas. Take care of your luggage and passport and beware of any attempts to distract you.

“Be extra careful at major railway stations and on public transport, especially late at night.

“Thieves, pickpockets and robbers operate in busy areas, and there have been cases of violent robberies. Be aware of your surroundings.”

The government body is said to be particularly vigilant at Brussels Gare du Midi/Zuidstation (Eurostar terminal) and Brussels Nord, on international trains, mainly Paris-Brussels and Amsterdam-Brussels and in busy areas of central Brussels, including Schuman (EU quarter).

The FCDO urged Britons to take care of their luggage at all times, warning: “Never leave luggage unattended.

“Luggage has been stolen from racks at the end of carriages on high-speed trains (TGV and Thalys), usually just before the doors close.”

The warning continued: “Thieves, usually on motorcycles, can smash a car window and grab valuables from the front or rear passenger seat when a vehicle is stopped at traffic lights. If you see anything suspicious, report it to local police authorities.”

The warning comes as many British tourists in Italy have been told of major “crimes” as Rome prepares to welcome millions of visitors.

The Italian city is preparing for the Jubilee, also known as the Holy Year, from December 24, 2024 to January 6, 2026.