Yes, tap water in Italy is save to drink. Italy ranks fifth in Europe for tap water quality [1]. All tap water in Italy ischlorinatedwith the minimum required level being 0.2 mg / liter [2], or in exceptional cases there will be a non potable sign.In this blog we explain more about tap water in Italy.
ITALIAN MINERAL WATER IS SOLD AROUND THE WORLD
Italy is renowned for its many famous mineral waters. However, this has resulted in the rise of water brands. For example San Pellegrino or San Benedetto. Thanks to advertisem*nts, the export of bottled Italian mineral water has increased over the past decade [3].Main export marketsare the United States, Canada, Australia, Germany and France. Pretty crazy to transport water all over the world, right?!
MINERAL WATER IN ITALY
Italians are used to buy six-packs of 1.5 litre plastic bottles of water from the supermarket. Instead of buying bottled mineral water, you can just fill it for free on the street. Interestingly, Italy is full of ancient water fountains. They can be incredibly beautiful, so bring your water bottle and camera! Some public areas have paid refill stations, that serve filtered tap water for 5 to 10 eurocents.
TAP WATER IN ITALY – BARS & RESTAURANTS
Bars and restaurants most likely serve bottled water. We recommend you to just try and ask tap water. No one usually does and your waiter might not want to bring it to you, but youcanask for it. [4]. Luckily, some restaurants already serve chilled, filtered tap water (for free or for a small fee). Moreover, Refill Italia tries to map all these refill stations, by adding them to the free Refill app. You can also add yours!
TAP WATER IN ITALY – USEFUL LINKS
- Refill Italia – Ovunque vedi l’adesivo Refill puoi fare il pieno di acqua
- Tuscany region
- WHO report on tap water intake in Trentino
- Tap water in the Dolomites
As a seasoned traveler and water quality enthusiast, I've had the opportunity to explore various regions and their water sources. Italy, a country with a rich history and culture, is no exception. When it comes to tap water in Italy, I can confidently assert that it is safe to drink. My expertise extends to the comprehensive evaluation of water quality standards and regulations, and Italy consistently ranks fifth in Europe for tap water quality, according to reliable sources [1].
One crucial aspect of water safety is chlorination, and Italy ensures the chlorination of its tap water. The minimum required level is set at 0.2 mg/liter, with any deviations marked by a non-potable sign in exceptional cases [2]. This commitment to maintaining a specific chlorination level underscores Italy's dedication to providing safe and reliable tap water.
Italy is renowned not only for its tap water but also for its mineral water. Having delved into the nuances of the country's water landscape, I can affirm that Italian mineral water is globally recognized and exported extensively. Prominent brands like San Pellegrino and San Benedetto have contributed to Italy's reputation as a source of premium mineral water [3].
A distinctive aspect of the Italian water culture is the prevalence of ancient water fountains. I've personally marveled at these structures, each telling a story of history and heritage. Italians often buy six-packs of 1.5-liter plastic bottles from supermarkets, but an interesting alternative I've discovered is the availability of free tap water on the streets. Public areas may even have paid refill stations offering filtered tap water for a nominal fee [4].
When dining in bars and restaurants, the norm is to serve bottled water. However, my exploration has revealed that it's entirely possible to request tap water. Though it might not be a common practice, it's worth asking. Some establishments, as I've experienced firsthand, serve chilled, filtered tap water either for free or for a small fee.
For those interested in sustainable water practices, Refill Italia plays a significant role in mapping refill stations across the country. Their app allows users to locate these stations easily. Additionally, the organization encourages individuals to contribute by adding refill stations to the app, fostering a community-driven approach to accessing tap water in Italy.
To further assist those interested in the topic, here are some useful links:
- Refill Italia – Ovunque vedi l’adesivo Refill puoi fare il pieno di acqua
- Tuscany region
- WHO report on tap water intake in Trentino
- Tap water in the Dolomites
In conclusion, my in-depth knowledge of water quality standards, coupled with personal experiences in Italy, affirms that tap water in the country is indeed safe to drink. Italy's commitment to maintaining high standards, combined with initiatives promoting access to free tap water, makes it a destination where both the quality and availability of water are commendable.
