The U.S. Updated Its Travel Advisory for This Popular European Destination Citing Crime and Civil Unrest—What Travelers Should Know
The U.S. Its Travel Advisory for This Popular European Destination Citing Crime and Civil Unrest—What Travelers Should Know
Michael CappettaWed, August 5, 2026 at 12:06 PM UTC
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Skyline of Liege, Belgium as seen from the top of the Montagne de Bueren Staircase.Credit: Allard Schager/Getty Images
Famous for its waffles, chocolate, and beer, Belgium is home to culinary delights and stunning outdoor views. However, travelers are now being encouraged to stay alert when visiting the European country due to new safety concerns.The United States’ Department of State recently added warnings for both crime and civil unrest to its travel advisory for Belgium. The country is currently classified under the second-lowest Level 2 travel advisory, recommending Americans “exercise increased caution” when traveling there.
The advisory was July 23.
“Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings,” the State Department wrote. “Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing.”
Additionally, the department warned “large-scale, generally peaceful demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur.” These could potentially disrupt transportation and other essential services.
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When traveling to Belgium, the State Department recommended Americans avoid demonstrations and crowds, monitor local media for breaking news, stay alert in tourist spots, and stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
The agency also noted marijuana and other drugs are illegal in Belgium, and traveling with drugs could “lead to serious criminal penalties, even if you are just passing through the airport.”The U.S. isn’t alone in cautioning travelers heading to Belgium. Canada similarly its travel guidance on July 29, recommending travelers “exercise a high degree of caution” there “due to the threat of terrorism.”
Belgium remains a popular destination for tourists in Europe. Last year, the country saw more than 46 million overnight stays, according to government statistics. That represented a 2.9 percent increase compared to 2024. Camping stays saw the highest rate of growth with a 10 percent year-over-year increase, but hotels still accounted for 46 percent of all overnight stays.Many visitors to Belgium spend time in the capital city of Brussels, which hosts a variety of summer events from the Flowercarpet exhibition to classical music festivals. Other popular destinations include cities like Bruges, which boasts a walkable historic center filled with canals and markets, and Mechelen, where visitors can take in Gothic architecture and an authentic brewery.Whether traveling to Belgium or any foreign country, the State Department encourages travelers to register their trips with its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). The free service assists travelers with automated alerts and notifications and allows the State Department to more easily locate and contact American travelers in an emergency.
on Travel & Leisure
Source: “AOL Breaking”
