Gluten-Free Rome & Greece: A Celiac-Friendly Family Trip
Lisa came to Gluten-Free Vacations with a very special trip in mind: a graduation celebration for her daughter, who had always dreamed of visiting Greece. They wanted to make the trip memorable and explore somewhere a little different, eventually deciding to combine Greece with a few days in Rome.
The tricky part was that both her husband and daughter have celiac disease and they wanted to skip the more common islands like Crete and Santorini. While Greece is adding more and more restaurants with gluten-free protocols in place, it’s still not the easiest destination to navigate with celiac disease. Italy felt a little less intimidating since gluten-free dining is so well established there, but Greece was definitely the more challenging destination.
We worked together to create a trip that included both countries, starting with a home base near the Vatican in Rome before heading to the islands of Naxos and Paros. It turned out to be the perfect mix of fun and relaxation. I also found them a dinner at a beautiful luxury resort surrounded by an olive grove, which ended up being one of the highlights of the entire trip.
From the hotels to the boat trip they took and the restaurants I helped them find, I made sure every part of their trip was planned with their dietary needs in mind. That way, the family could relax, explore, and enjoy their time together without having to worry about the details.
Travel Advisor: Anjli Patel
Destination: Rome & Greece
Why did you choose your vacation destination?
We planned a family trip to celebrate my daughter's high school graduation, and Greece had always been her dream. She and my husband both have celiac disease. We knew that Italy would be easy to navigate in terms of gluten-free food, but we weren't sure about Greece. Having Gluten-free Vacations help (specifically Anjli's!) was invaluable to us feeling safe and cared for.
What were your favorite activities on your vacation?
The Vatican was important to our family, so Anjli chose the perfect hotel for us to have as our base near there while in Rome. We then flew to the Greek islands. My daughters requested islands that would be fun, but that wouldn't be quite as crowded as some of the better known ones like Santorini. Anjli suggested Naxos and Paros, and they were absolutely perfect. There were definitely crowds in June, but nothing overwhelming. One of our favorite activities was a day-long semi-private catamaran cruise from Naxos. Anjli had informed them in advance of our dietary restrictions, and they had safe, homemade snacks and a delicious lunch for us on board. It was wonderful.
Of all the hotels, we loved our hotel in Paros the most. They were the loveliest, most welcoming staff and supplied us with beach towels and even a beach umbrella, while also helping us make plans.
What was your most memorable moment on vacation?
One of our best memories actually revolves around food. Anjli had arranged dinner at a luxury resort for us, that is surrounded by an olive grove. It was one of the best meals we've ever had. It was a prix-fixe meal with multiple courses, and the owner was lovely. Every dish was gluten-free and most were also dairy-free, and she just kept bringing one dish out after another full of local ingredients from her farm or nearby, including delicious wine that her brother makes. We felt so welcomed and cared for, and all three of my children, ranging in age from 11-19, ate everything she put in front of us! It was magical.
What were some of your favorite gluten-free meals?
We loved the fresh seafood available everywhere. In Athens, we also discovered two dedicated gluten-free restaurants that had the best pita bread we've ever eaten, along with traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
A few of Lisa’s favorite gluten-free dishes from her trip!
What was your experience using Gluten-free Vacations?
Anjli was always responsive and always helpful. I would use them again in a heartbeat (and hope to!).
Thank you, Lisa, for sharing your trip with us!
Why Rome & Greece are worth the trip
Lisa’s trip is a great example of how much is possible when a gluten-free vacation is planned with celiac safety in mind. From Rome’s incredible history and food scene to the beaches and laid-back island atmosphere of Naxos and Paros, this trip offered the perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and unforgettable meals.
Rome and Greece are incredible destinations for gluten-free travelers, offering amazing views, rich history, beautiful beaches, and unforgettable food and culture. With plenty of naturally gluten-free foods and dedicated gluten-free options, the whole family can enjoy the experience. With the right planning and guidance, eating gluten-free doesn’t have to limit your adventure.
Let us turn your dream vacation into reality!
When you work with us, you’ll get the following:
Recommendations for destinations, hotels, and cruises based on your needs
A custom itinerary and assistance booking excursions and transportation
Gluten-free travel tips and restaurant recommendations for your destination
Gluten-free translation cards to show restaurant servers
Custom document package mailed to you with your itinerary, confirmations, travel tips, and more!
Blog by: Anjli Patel
Travel Advisor
Anjli specializes in European travel for travelers with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, combining her knowledge of Europe with Gluten-free Vacations’ focus on safe, stress-free travel.
Contact Info:
info@glutenfreevacations.com
443-609-7171
Based in Maryland, USA.
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