Top 5 Summer Holiday Destinations for British Tourists: Pollen Counts & Hay Fever Tips

Top 5 Summer Holiday Destinations for British Tourists: Pollen Counts & Hay Fever Tips

For many Brits, summer holidays abroad are a chance to relax — but if you're prone to hay fever, a sunny break can come with a side of sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. Pollen levels can vary widely depending on where you're travelling, the season, and the local flora.

In this guide, we highlight the five most popular foreign summer destinations for UK travellers, explain the typical pollen counts, where to check local forecasts, and recommend hay fever treatments available from Weldricks Pharmacy to keep symptoms under control.

1. Spain (Costa del Sol & Balearics)

Pollen Situation:
Spain’s southern regions and islands like Mallorca and Ibiza can trigger allergies due to high grass, olive tree and weed pollen during late spring and summer. Olive pollen (April–June) is particularly potent, while grass pollen peaks in May–July.

Local Pollen Forecast Websites:
Spain’s National Pollen Network (REA) *
Barcelona Dust Forecast Center

* Hint. Click Idioma to select the English language version.

Recommended Products:

2. Greece (Greek Islands & Mainland)

Pollen Situation:
In Greece, grass pollen is common from May to July, with strong olive pollen levels in spring. Coastal breezes may help lower airborne pollen but inland areas often see higher levels.

Local Pollen Forecast Websites:
Pollen Map for Greece pollencount.eu

IQAir Pollen Count Greece

Recommended Products:

3. Italy (Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi)

Pollen Situation:
Italy sees heavy tree pollen (birch, olive, cypress) in spring and strong grass pollen into summer. Tuscany and the Mediterranean coastlines can see varying pollen levels depending on altitude and inland proximity.

Local Pollen Forecast Websites:
Italian Pollen Monitoring Network
ARPA – Regional Environmental Agencies

Recommended Products:

4. France (South of France & Provence)

Pollen Situation:
France’s warm southern regions often experience long grass pollen seasons (May–July) and multiple tree pollen types including olive, cypress and plane tree. Provence's lavender fields are beautiful but may irritate sensitive hay fever sufferers.

Local Pollen Forecast Websites:
IQAir Pollen Network France
Météo France

Recommended Products:

5. Turkey (Mediterranean Coast & Istanbul)

Pollen Situation:
Turkey's coastal resorts can experience elevated grass and tree pollen counts (oak, cypress, olive) peaking between May and July. Inland destinations may have higher allergen exposure due to drier climate and vegetation.

Local Pollen Forecast Websites:
IQAir Turkey
European Pollen Index

Recommended Products:

General Holiday Hay Fever Tips:

  • Start treatment 1–2 weeks before travel to build protection.
  • Keep windows closed in hotels during peak pollen hours.
  • Pack plenty of medication as availability may vary abroad.
  • Shower and change clothes after outdoor exposure.
  • Use wrap-around sunglasses to reduce eye irritation.

Stock up on your hay fever essentials before you travel at Weldricks Pharmacy:
Shop All Hayfever Products

....And dont forget Shield Your Skin, Love Your Day. Find out more about why SPF matters.

Written by Allan Green, Pharmacist & Health Writer

FAQs

Which holiday destinations have the worst pollen for hay fever?

Southern Europe — particularly Spain, Greece, Italy, France and Turkey — can have high pollen counts from grass, olive and tree pollen during spring and summer.

How can I check pollen forecasts abroad?

Use national pollen networks such as Spain's REA, France’s RNSA, Italy’s PollNet and Greece’s Polleninfo.org. Many meteorological services also provide daily pollen forecasts.

What hay fever medicines should I pack for holidays?

Pack non-drowsy antihistamines (like Allevia, Treathay or Clarityn), nasal sprays (such as Pirinase or Sterimar), and eye drops like Opticrom to manage symptoms while abroad.

When is the worst time to travel for hay fever sufferers?

Peak pollen seasons vary but May to July tends to be highest for grass and olive pollen across most European holiday destinations.

Can I buy hay fever medicines abroad?

Availability and brand names differ abroad. It's best to stock up before you travel to ensure you have the exact products that work for you.

Do you get hayfever abroad?

Yes, hayfever symptoms can occur abroad — and sometimes be worse than in the UK. Different countries have unique pollen seasons and types (such as olive tree or grass pollens in the Mediterranean) that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. To stay symptom-free, check the local pollen forecast at your destination, and consider packing antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops before you travel.

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