Firenze is well known as the home of Coccoli, a golden, pillowy ball of fried dough, traditionally served warm with prosciutto and creamy cheese like stracchino or burrata. I haven't tried making it myself now that I'm back in New Zealand, as I have a feeling it won’t necessarily translate well, so I'm glad I took every opportunity to eat it while in Florence.

Our accommodation was just down the road from Sgrano Gluten Free. We had delicious Tuscan sandwiches and Coccoli every day. They also have a restaurant,l’Osteria della Sgrano, which was probably the best dining experience to date. The pasta was to die for….Travel tip: Sgrano and l’Osteria della Sgrano are both 100% gluten free, so no cross-contamination worries - a rare find in Italy! Be sure to book ahead for dinner as it’s small and popular with both locals and travellers.

Mama Eats advertised a gluten-free kitchen alongside a “muggles” kitchen. Tom was excited to try a fabulous-sounding pizza, but it turned out to be a pizza topped with chips and frankfurters. Not the finest dish! We also found a wine window and had to give that a go, as one should — you ring the bell, order and pay through the window, and drink the wine on the street. Classy. Travel tip: When you see “cucina senza glutine” (gluten-free kitchen) on a sign, always double-check if it’s entirely gluten free or just has gluten-free options. Cross-contamination standards vary, so asking “È completamente senza glutine?” is a good idea.

Tom and I made it twice on a bus to Bottega Artigiana del Gusto – what a place! A huge bakery filled with very delicious offerings, and also a great selection of flours and packaged gluten-free foods. The staff were so friendly and shared our excitement. Travel tip: This bakery is a must-visit for coeliacs. It’s an easy bus ride from the city centre, and you can stock up on snacks for day trips or your journey home. Many Italian gluten-free bakeries also sell travel-friendly items like biscotti, crackers, and fresh focaccia - perfect for picnics.

And we did, of course, go and see all the tourist destinations, including David, Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, oh, and the Lego store… All in all, Florence was amazing for food, but the crowds were pretty daunting. Would love to go there again and get out into the Tuscan countryside.

If you are considering travelling to Italy, here are a few tips to consider that will make your trip run smoothly:

• Do your homework before you go. Look up gluten-free restaurants and bakeries ahead of time, and save them in Google Maps for easy access when you’re out and about.
• Learn key phrases. In Italy, “Sono celiaco/a” means “I’m coeliac.” “Senza glutine, per favore” (“gluten free, please”) is also handy.
• Download the AIC (Associazione Italiana Celiachia) app if you’re in Italy. It lists certified gluten-free venues throughout the country and is worth every cent.
• Bring a few safe snacks. Even though Italy is fantastic for coeliacs, having a stash of gluten-free crackers, protein bars, or nuts can save you in airports, train stations, or rural areas.
• Be cautious with gelato and fried foods. Always check whether cones, toppings, or oil are gluten free - cross-contamination can sneak in here.
• Carry a translation card. These explain coeliac disease clearly in the local language, making it easier to communicate your needs in restaurants.
• Cook accommodation with a kitchen, if possible. Having the option to prepare your own breakfast or simple meals can take the pressure off.
• Stay calm and flexible. Mistakes happen, but Italy is one of the most coeliac-friendly countries in the world - with a bit of planning, you’ll eat safely and wonderfully.

Article provided by Katie Martin, a member of the Coeliac New Zealand Board.