Can You Drink Tap Water in Italy? An Easy Guide

Tap water in Italy is widely safe to drink, providing a refreshing and budget-friendly option for both tourists and locals. Strict government regulations ensure high water quality for safe consumption. Cities like Rome and Florence feature offering clean, potable water. Drinking tap water can save a lot of money, especially on trips longer than a 2-day city break.

Italy’s water supply undergoes rigorous testing and treatment processes to maintain safety standards. The water is typically sourced from natural springs or underground aquifers, which keeps it fresh. Some areas may have harder water due to higher mineral content, affecting the taste slightly. If uncertain, ask locals or your accommodation about water quality.

When and where can you drink tap water in Italy?

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Italy, especially in major cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. Many public spaces have drinking fountains, called “nasoni” or “fontanelle,” providing fresh, clean water. While tap water isn’t always offered in restaurants, you can easily request it. These fountains are common in historic city centers and parks, making hydration easy and cost-effective.

However, in some rural areas or older buildings, people prefer bottled water due to taste or outdated pipes. Always check local advice, especially in remote areas, to be safe. In restaurants, it’s common to be served bottled water, but you can ask for tap water if you prefer. It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in certain islands or small coastal towns where water quality might vary

Cities with the best tap water in Italy

Several cities in Italy are famous for their excellent tap water quality. In places like Caserta, Aosta, and Perugia, the water is fresh and clean, sourced from natural springs. Southern cities such as Campobasso and Palermo also offer top-quality, safe tap water. These cities are ideal for filling reusable water bottles and staying hydrated without extra cost.

In northern Italy, cities like Trento, Udine, and Parma stand out for their high-quality tap water. Livorno, Pavia, and Alessandria are also known for their reliable and refreshing water supply. Sardinia, particularly around San Leonardo and Tempio Pausania, offers some of the best spring water in Italy. These regions are perfect for travelers looking to save money and reduce plastic wast

Can you drink tap water in Italy hotels?

 you can safely drink tap water in Italian hotels. The water meets strict safety standards and is regularly tested for quality. It’s safe for drinking, brushing your teeth, and making coffee. This makes it convenient to refill your reusable water bottle and save money.

In Italian hotels, there’s no need to buy bottled water as tap water is perfectly fine. Bottled water in hotels can be overpriced, so choosing tap water is a cost-effective option. Unlike in some countries, like India, where tap water might be unsafe, Italy’s tap water is clean and drinkable. This ensures a hassle-free stay for travelers.

If you ever have doubts, hotel staff can confirm the safety of the tap water. However, throughout Italy, the water is reliable and drinkable, even in older buildings. By opting for tap water, you also help reduce plastic waste, making it an eco-friendly choice during your travels. 

Is it rude to ask for tap water in Italy?

In Italy, asking for tap water in restaurants is not considered rude, but it’s not always common practice. Most Italians prefer bottled water, and many restaurants automatically serve it. However, if you request tap water, the staff will usually provide it upon request. Just be prepared for some places to prefer selling bottled water.

In cafes and bars, especially in Rome, it’s normal to get a glass of tap water with your coffee. This is a customary practice and won’t be seen as unusual. In restaurants, though, they might offer bottled water first, but feel free to ask politely for tap water if you prefer.

Some restaurants may be less enthusiastic about serving tap water because it’s free, but they will still accommodate you. If you’re ever unsure, simply observe what others do or ask the server. By drinking tap water, you can save money and reduce plastic waste, especially during your travels.

Italian mineral water brands

Italy is known for its various mineral water brands, many of which are popular worldwide. Brands like S.Pellegrino, Acqua Panna, and Ferrarelle are widely recognized for their quality. These waters come from natural springs, offering both still and sparkling options. Many Italians prefer bottled mineral water for its taste and perceived health benefits.

Other well-known Italian brands include Levissima, Sant’Anna, and Uliveto. Smeraldina, sourced from Sardinia, is highly praised and has won international awards for its taste. Bottled mineral water is often served in restaurants across Italy, both still (“liscia”) and sparkling (“frizzante”). Choosing bottled water is common in Italian dining culture.

Italian words for drinking water 

• Tap water >> Acqua del rubinetto
• Still water >> Acqua liscia
• Sparkling water >> Acqua frizzante
• Lightly sparkling water >> Acqua leggermente frizzante. Sometimes, they might refer to it by only saying “leggermente“
• A glass of water >> Un bicchiere d’acqua
• A bottle of water >> Una bottiglia d’acqua
• Drinkable water >> Acqua potabile
• Non-drinkable water >> Acqua non potabile

Acqua del rubinetto (Tap water): This is the water that comes from the faucet. It’s generally safe to drink in most places in Italy. Tap water is convenient and free in homes and public fountains. It might not be served in restaurants unless you ask for it.

Acqua liscia (Still water): This refers to water without bubbles. Italians often drink still water with meals. You can buy it in bottles from stores or ask for it at restaurants. It’s commonly served cold.

Acqua frizzante (Sparkling water):Sparkling water is water with bubbles, also known as carbonated water. Many Italians prefer this instead of still water. You can find it in restaurants and stores. It’s often served alongside meals.

Acqua leggermente frizzante (Lightly sparkling water):This water has fewer bubbles than regular sparkling water. It’s a middle ground between still and fully sparkling water. Some people find it gentler to drink. In casual conversation, people might just say “leggermente.”

Un bicchiere d’acqua (A glass of water) :This is how you ask for a single serving of water in a glass. It’s a common request in restaurants or cafés. The glass can be filled with still or sparkling water. If you don’t specify, they usually serve still water.

Una bottiglia d’acqua (A bottle of water)When you want a full bottle, this is what you ask for. It can come in various sizes, from small to large. You can get either still or sparkling bottled water. Bottled water is often preferred inestaurants.

Acqua potabile (Drinkable water): This refers to water that is safe to drink. Public fountains labeled “acqua potabile” offer clean water. It’s common to refill your water bottle from these fountains. Always check for this sign before drinking.

Acqua nonpotable (Non-drinkable water): This means the water is not safe to drink. You’ll see this sign in areas where the water may be unsafe. It’s important to avoid drinking from these sources. The water is usually only for cleaning or other non-drinking purposes

Frequently Asked Question

Can you drink the tap water in Rome in 2024? 

Yes, tap water in Rome is safe to drink in 2024. The city even has public fountains offering drinkable water.

Should I take a water bottle to Italy? 

Yes, taking a reusable water bottle is a good idea. You can refill it at public fountains in many cities.

What is tap water called in Italy? 

In Italy, tap water is called “acqua del rubinetto.” Drinkable water is labeled “acqua potabile.”

Which country has the safest tap water?

Countries like Switzerland, Iceland, and Norway are known for having the safest tap water. Their water quality is excellent due to strict regulations and natural resources.

Can you drink tap water in Florence?

Yes, the tap water in Florence is safe to drink. The city’s water quality is well-regulated and clean.

Conclusion 

In Italy, tap water is safe to drink in most places, including cities like Rome and Florence. Bringing a reusable water bottle is helpful since you can refill it at public fountains. The water is commonly called “acqua del rubinetto,” with “acqua potabile” meaning it’s drinkable. However, in some rural or coastal areas, it’s best to check local advice. Italy’s tap water is generally reliable, making it easy for travelers to stay hydrated.