Traveling to Spain with Celiac Disease: A Gluten-Free Guide

Celiac.com 06/14/2025 - Planning a getaway to the sun-soaked coasts, historic cities, and culinary delights of Spain is an experience filled with anticipation. For individuals with celiac disease, however, that excitement also comes with a need for extra care and preparation. Fortunately, Spain is increasingly gluten-aware, and many options are available for those who need to avoid gluten while traveling. From savoring classic Spanish cuisine to finding celiac-safe supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels, this comprehensive guide will help ensure your trip is both delicious and safe. Join us on a gluten-free journey through Spain as we explore how to book flights with gluten-free meals, secure gluten-friendly accommodations, navigate Spanish grocery stores, enjoy safe dining at restaurants, and pack the right snacks for the road.

With just a bit of planning, your trip to Spain can be a celebration of both culture and cuisine. Get ready to enjoy vibrant flavors, warm hospitality, and unforgettable sights while keeping your gluten-free lifestyle on track.

Booking a Gluten-Free Meal on Your Flight

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When planning your journey to Spain, it’s important to ensure your flight caters to your dietary needs. Many international airlines offer gluten-free meal options for long-haul flights, including Iberia, Vueling, Air Europa, British Airways, Lufthansa, Delta, and United. Always request a gluten-free meal when booking your ticket, and follow up with the airline closer to your departure to confirm the request.

Regardless of your airline’s offerings, it’s wise to pack your own gluten-free food to avoid surprises. Bring sandwiches made with gluten-free bread, protein bars, fruit, nuts, or gluten-free crackers. Being prepared can help you start your vacation stress-free and well-fed.

Booking Gluten-Friendly Hotels and Vacation Rentals in Spain

To find gluten-aware accommodations in Spain, use apps like Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor. Many Spanish hotels, especially in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville, are familiar with dietary restrictions and can accommodate gluten-free needs if given advance notice.

For more control over your meals, consider a vacation rental through Airbnb, Vrbo, or HomeToGo. Access to a kitchen makes it easier to prepare safe meals using ingredients you trust, which is especially helpful when exploring less touristy areas.

Staying at Spanish Resorts or Paradores

Resorts and Paradores (state-run historic hotels) in Spain offer excellent service and are often willing to accommodate dietary restrictions. Here are some notable options:

• Paradores de Turismo: These luxury hotels in castles, monasteries, and historic buildings often have onsite restaurants and may offer gluten-free menus upon request.
• Barceló Hotels & Resorts: With locations throughout Spain, Barceló properties typically offer buffet and à la carte dining with gluten-free selections available.
• Meliá Hotels International: Meliá hotels, found in major cities and coastal resorts, have gluten-free meal options and cater to dietary needs.
• Globales Hotels: These family-friendly resorts offer gluten-free food labeling at their buffets and have staff trained to support food allergies and celiac disease.

Contact the hotel in advance and let them know your gluten-free requirements. Many resorts will work with you to plan meals that are both delicious and safe, especially when given notice before your arrival.

How to Eat Gluten-Free in Spanish Restaurants

Spanish cuisine includes many naturally gluten-free dishes, but always double-check ingredients and preparation methods. Apps like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Find Me Gluten Free can help you locate restaurants that cater to gluten-free diners. In Spain, look for restaurants certified by FACE (Federación de Asociaciones de Celíacos de España) for added peace of mind.

• Tortilla Española (Spanish omelette with potato and egg)
• Paella (rice dish – ensure broth and seasoning are gluten-free)
• Jamón Ibérico (cured ham)
• Chorizo (check for gluten-free varieties)
• Pimientos de Padrón (fried green peppers)
• Gazpacho and Salmorejo (cold soups – verify thickeners)
• Grilled fish and meats (a la plancha)
• Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician-style octopus)
• Tapas – inquire about breading, flour use, and sauces

Always ask if the dish contains "harina de trigo" (wheat flour) or "pan rallado" (breadcrumbs). Be cautious of sauces, soups, and fried foods which may be cross-contaminated. Below is a restaurant card you can show staff:

Gluten-Free Spanish Restaurant Card:

Quote

Hola, tengo enfermedad celíaca y no puedo comer nada que contenga gluten. El gluten está en el trigo, la cebada y el centeno. No puedo comer pan, pasta, ni alimentos con harina de trigo. Incluso pequeñas cantidades pueden hacerme daño.

¿Puede confirmar si este plato está completamente libre de gluten, sin harina, pan rallado, salsas o ingredientes que puedan contener trigo o contaminados con gluten? ¡Muchas gracias por su ayuda!

Spanish Foods That Often Contain Gluten

1. Croquetas – usually made with wheat flour
2. Churros – made with wheat flour
3. Albóndigas – check for breadcrumbs or wheat in the sauce
4. Empanadas – traditional versions contain wheat
5. Tapas with battered or breaded items
6. Beer – traditional Spanish beers contain barley
7. Soups thickened with flour or using bouillon cubes

Many of these items are available in gluten-free versions in Spain, especially in cities with large tourist populations. Always ask or check packaging for “sin gluten” (gluten-free) labeling.

Finding Gluten-Free Foods in Spanish Supermarkets

Major Spanish Supermarket Chains with Gluten-Free Options:

• El Corte Inglés / Hipercor
• Mercadona
• Carrefour
• Alcampo
• Eroski
• Lidl (some gluten-free products available)
• Aldi (look for "sin gluten" labels)

Popular Spanish Gluten-Free Brands:

• Dr. Schär
• Adpan
• Santiveri
• Proceli
• NutriFree
• Gullón (has a gluten-free product line)

Look for gluten-free sections or ask a store associate for products “sin gluten.” Many items will also carry the official FACE certification symbol.

The Importance of Packing Gluten-Free Snacks and Sandwiches While Traveling

Always carry gluten-free snacks when on the move. Whether on planes, trains, or local buses, it's not always easy to find safe food options at short notice. Good snack options include gluten-free granola bars, rice cakes, protein bars, trail mix, and homemade sandwiches. For longer stays, pack a small jar of nut butter or travel-safe bread.

With the right preparation, your trip to Spain can be as safe as it is delicious. Spain’s growing awareness of gluten-related conditions makes it one of Europe’s top destinations for celiac travelers. ¡Buen viaje!