For gluten-free travellers, going abroad can pose a challenge — particularly when it comes to finding restaurants that accommodate dietary requirements. Close to 10% of Brits now follow a gluten-free diet, as per Coeliac UK.

Keeping that in mind, travel experts at Iglu Cruise have unveiled the top five European destinations you can visit if you’re gluten-free. The team examined each European capital and used TripAdvisor data to determine what percentage of restaurants offer gluten-free options. The following cities boast the highest percentage of gluten-free establishments and would make for a gluten-free travel lover’s paradise.

Valletta, Malta

Valletta, the capital of Malta, has been crowned as the top gluten-free city in Europe, with a whopping 27.6% of its eateries offering gluten-free options. The city’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavours, drawing influences from Sicily and Northern Africa. Certain establishments, such as Ħelu Manna, even provide an entirely gluten-free menu.

The Maltese capital also boasts some of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. For instance, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture constructed in 1573, is a must-see for visitors. This flamboyant and ornate style originated in Italy during the late 16th century before spreading across Europe.

For those planning to explore this stunning island located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, boat tours around Gozo and Comino, Malta’s other two inhabited islands, are highly recommended. These can be found along the Port of Valletta.

Reykjavik, Iceland

The capital of Iceland, Reykjavik, clinches the second spot with 19.2% of its eateries offering gluten-free options. Traditional Icelandic dishes like plokkfiskur, a fish stew made with cod or haddock and potatoes, are naturally gluten-free. Restaurants are also willing to adapt their menus to cater for those avoiding gluten.

Reykjavik is a favourite among tourists for various reasons, particularly for those who love outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa renowned for its mineral-rich waters which are beneficial for the skin.

For those yearning to witness the mesmerising northern lights, it’s recommended to visit Reykjavik between August and March. This once-in-a-lifetime experience should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Dublin, Ireland

Coming in third is Dublin, Ireland, where 18.1% of restaurants cater to those following a gluten-free diet. Traditional Irish cuisine, which typically includes hearty stews with meat and potatoes, is generally gluten-free. Many establishments, such as Wilde, which serves both traditional Irish dishes and international cuisine, offer gluten-free menus.

Situated on the east coast of Ireland, Dublin is steeped in history and culture, boasting famous attractions like the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, and Dublin Castle. The Irish capital is also a fantastic destination for museum enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the National Museum of Ireland, which boasts collections on Irish archaeology, natural history, and decorative arts and history. The National Gallery of Ireland also houses an extensive collection of Irish and European masterpieces.

London, UK

In London, 13.8% of eateries offer gluten-free options, ranking it fourth on the list. The British capital is a haven for those who avoid gluten, with numerous restaurants providing entirely gluten-free menus.

Los Mochis in Notting Hill is a unique Japanese-Mexican fusion restaurant with a fully gluten-free menu and a 4.2 rating on Google Reviews. For those visiting London, a plethora of tourist attractions and activities make for an unforgettable trip. The London Eye, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the British Museum are among the top-rated attractions.

Food lovers can explore the famous Borough Market and Camden Market, where they’ll discover a variety of gluten-free options, including bakeries offering pastries and cakes, Indian cuisine, and Mexican street food.

Oslo, Norway

Next on the list is the capital city of Oslo, where 13.7% of restaurants cater to gluten-free diets. Eateries such as Olivia, a highly rated Italian restaurant, provide gluten-free menus. For those who are keen to try traditional Norwegian dishes, like Kjøttkaker (meatballs), many restaurants prepare them with gluten-free ingredients.

Oslo is a city brimming with attractions. Notable highlights include the Viking Ship Museum, home to some of the world’s best-preserved Viking ships, and the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Norwegian monarchy.

The Norwegian capital also boasts a variety of food venues such as the Oslo Street Food Market, offering international cuisine, bars, and both indoor and outdoor seating. The Mathallen food hall is another must-visit, serving an array of gluten-free options from global cuisines.