You’ve landed in a new city, checked into your hotel, and now you’re wondering: can you drink the tap water here?

The good news: across much of Europe, tap water is clean, safe, and among the best in the world. That means you can avoid expensive bottled water and reduce plastic waste.

Here’s a clear guide to drinking tap water in Europe, city by city, with signage tips and trusted sources.

Can You Drink Tap Water in London?

Yes. London tap water is strictly monitored by the Drinking Water Inspectorate and is safe across England.

• Safe from hotel, café, and home taps

• Bathroom taps are usually fine in modern buildings

• In older properties, kitchen taps are safer

Signage: “Drinking Water” marks safe taps. Unsafe taps are clearly labelled.

Can You Drink Tap Water in France?

Yes. Tap water in France, including Paris, is safe and regularly tested by Eau de Paris. Paris even has public drinking fountains.

• Some people prefer bottled water for taste, not safety

Signage: Eau potable = safe. Eau non potable = not safe.

Can You Drink Tap Water in Spain?

Yes. In Madrid, Barcelona, and most cities, tap water is safe.

• The taste can be mineral-heavy due to local sources

• Filters are common, but bottled water is a preference, not a necessity

Signage: Agua potable = safe. No potable = not safe.

Can You Drink Tap Water in Italy?

Yes. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan meet EU safety standards.

• Rome has thousands of public fountains with free drinking water

Signage: Acqua potabile = safe. Non potabile = not safe.

Can You Drink Tap Water in Portugal?

Yes. Lisbon, Porto, and most tourist regions have water regulated to EU standards.

• Some visitors find the taste different, but it’s safe

Signage: Água potável = safe. Não potável = not safe.

Can You Drink Tap Water in Amsterdam?

Yes. Amsterdam and the Netherlands have some of the cleanest and best-tasting tap water in Europe.

Signage: Drinkwater = safe.

Can You Drink Bathroom Tap Water in the UK?

Often yes. Most bathroom taps share the same mains supply as kitchens.

• In older homes, bathroom water may come from storage tanks

• When unsure, use the kitchen tap or ask at your hotel

Travel Hydration Tips for Europe

• Carry a refillable bottle to cut down on plastic

• Learn local signs (eau potable, agua potable, acqua potabile)

• Drink extra if you’re walking a lot or flying

• Skip sugary drinks that dehydrate you

Final Thoughts: Can You Drink Tap Water in Europe?

Yes! In London, Paris, Madrid, Rome, Lisbon, Amsterdam, and most major cities, tap water is safe, heavily tested, and high-quality.

Bring a refillable bottle, know the local signage, and you’ll stay hydrated without relying on bottled water.