Planning a holiday when you live with coeliac disease can feel overwhelming. It’s not just about where to go, but whether you’ll be able to eat safely, communicate your dietary needs, and enjoy your trip without the stress of contamination.
Thankfully, some countries and cities around the world are making it much easier for people who need to avoid gluten. These destinations are not only food-aware, but many have systems in place that support those with coeliac disease, from clear food labelling to restaurant staff trained in allergen safety. That makes them well worth considering when you’re choosing your next break.
Whether you’re in the mood for city life, beaches or culture, there’s a gluten-free option for you. And if you plan ahead with a few smart travel tips, like packing essentials, bringing translation cards, and checking your travel insurance, you’ll set yourself up for a safe and relaxing trip.
With Coeliac Awareness week being from 12th to 18th May, we have included some helpful tips for travellers with coeliac.
Here are our top 8 recommended holiday destinations that are ideal for people with coeliac disease.
Italy might not be the first place you’d think of as gluten-free friendly, but it’s one of the best countries in Europe for people with coeliac disease. Many Italians are diagnosed early due to national screening, which has created high public awareness.
Restaurants offering senza glutine (gluten-free) meals are widely available. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence you’ll find dedicated gluten-free spots like Mama Eat and Senza Glutine offering pizza and pasta so good you’ll forget it’s gluten-free. Pharmacies and supermarkets also stock certified gluten-free products.
Tip: Italian menus often clearly mark gluten-free options, and it’s common for waiters to be trained to handle coeliac needs, making eating out easy and safe.
Read more about Italy’s gluten-free options here.
Australia is gluten-free gold. Strong food labelling laws, well-trained staff, and dedicated cafes make it one of the easiest places for coeliacs to eat out.
In Melbourne, try Gluten Free 4 U or Fox in the Box. In Sydney, Gigi Pizzeria and The Nourishing Quarter are must-visits. You can also find clearly-stocked labelled gluten-free products in local supermarkets like Coles.
Tip: Australia’s supermarkets also offer a wide range of gluten-free packaged foods, so you’ll always be able to find something safe to eat.
Explore Australia’s gluten-free scene, here.
Japan can be more challenging due to language barriers and hidden gluten in sauces, but it’s increasingly becoming coeliac-aware. In larger cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, you’ll now find dedicated gluten-free restaurants like Gluten Free T’s Kitchen and Coco Ichibanya (GF branches) that cater to coeliacs.
Convenience stores sell plain rice snacks, and large cities offer imported gluten-free goods. Be sure to use a translation card and ask about sauces, especially in ramen shops. Be sure to check the labels carefully.
Tip: It’s worth carrying a translation card in Japanese that explains your dietary needs, as not all restaurant staff may be familiar with gluten-free requirements.
To learn more about travelling gluten-free in Japan, click here.
France and gluten-free haven aren’t often said in the same sentence—but that’s changing fast. In Paris, NoGlu and Chambelland Bakery serve delicious, gluten free meals and baked goods.
Look for certified “Sans gluten” items at Monoprix and Naturalia stores, and don’t miss gluten-free crêpes and galettes in Brittany!
Tip: While French food is often centred around wheat, there’s a growing awareness of gluten-free diets, especially in larger cities like Paris.
Germany’s strict food labelling laws and growing coeliac community make it a solid choice for travellers. Berlin and Munich have a growing list of coeliac-safe restaurants, with vegan and organic cafes often catering to gluten-free diets as well.
Supermarkets like REWE and DM carry a wide range of “glutenfrei” products, and it’s becoming more common to find gluten-free options on mainstream menus.
Tip: Many German restaurants and cafés offer gluten-free options, and the staff are usually familiar with coeliac disease and dietary restrictions.
To learn more about gluten-free in Germany, click here.
Much of Mexican cuisine is naturally gluten-free. Think corn tortillas, rice, beans, guacamole and grilled meats. In Mexico City, Pan Gabriel is a dedicated gluten-free bakery, while Forever Vegano is popular with coeliacs.
Always double check for flour tortillas or gluten in sauces, especially mole.
Tip: Mexican food is often naturally gluten-free, but you’ll need to ask about sauces, as some may contain gluten.
Spain is another great option for coeliac travellers. The country has a strong food culture with plenty of fresh, naturally gluten-free dishes like grilled meats, fish, and rice-based paellas.
In Madrid, Celicioso offers gluten-free everything from burgers to brownies. In Barcelona, Gut and Copasetic are great coeliac-friendly choices. Menus often include allergen icons, and supermarkets label “sin gluten” products clearly.
Tip: Spain has a growing number of gluten-free restaurants and bakeries, especially in major cities. Many restaurants have allergen icons on their menus to help you easily spot gluten-free options.
Learn more about coeliac travel in Spain here.
India offers a wide variety of naturally gluten-free dishes, especially those made with rice, lentils, and chickpea flour. However, it’s important to watch out for hidden gluten in sauces and breads like naan or roti.
Southern Indian cuisine, including dosas and idlis made from fermented rice and lentils, is generally safe. Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore now have growing numbers of gluten-free bakeries and health-conscious cafes. Always use a translation card and ask about ingredients clearly.
Tip: The diverse food culture in India makes it a great destination for coeliac travellers, but be sure to communicate your needs clearly to avoid hidden gluten in sauces.
Don’t forget to make sure your travel insurance policy includes cover for coeliac disease-related medical issues and emergencies abroad.
Having the right cover, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions, gives you peace of mind and allows you to relax and focus on your trip. For more information about travel insurance for your medical conditions, visit here.
