Tap water in Spain: Drinkable or not?

Tap water in Spain: Drinkable or not?

If you're traveling abroad, you're probably familiar with the different rules everywhere regarding whether tap water is safe to drink. Here's a clear explanation of tap water in Spain.

Is tap water drinkable in Spain?

Tap water in Spain is definitely drinkable. Over 99.3% of all tap water in Spain is safe to drink, according to the Spanish Ministry of Health . The water is regularly tested and treated to ensure it meets the Spanish government's quality standards. Most major Spanish cities and tourist areas have excellent water supplies.

Can I drink tap water in my apartment, Airbnb, or hotel?

Generally, you can drink the tap water . If this isn't the case, a sign will clearly indicate this. If it isn't translated into English, look for something like "No bebas el agua" or "El agua no es potable." However, it's best to get used to the tap water in Spain. To get used to it, try boiling it for the first time, for example, using a kettle. Most Airbnbs and apartments even have water filters installed to improve the water's taste.

Can you drink tap water in Spanish restaurants?

Since 2022, all bars and restaurants have been required to provide free tap water to guests. This means the water must be properly purified. Since tap water is safe to drink, you don't have to worry about ice cubes in your drink. In most cases, these ice cubes are purchased , which means they must meet various health and safety regulations , and are usually made from filtered water.

Why does tap water taste like chlorine?

To make tap water clean and safe , chlorine is usually added. Chlorine kills bacteria and makes the water cleaner. Chlorine is n't harmful to your health; it can only give the water an unpleasant taste and odor . The amount of chlorine in water varies by location, time of year, water source, temperature, etc. Because of this, it may taste less strong in other places. This doesn't mean the water is better or worse. You can use this water for cooking or rinsing fruit; it won't affect the taste.

Tap water or bottled water, which is better?

Tap water is safe to drink in Spain. The choice between bottled or tap water depends largely on personal preference. Bottled water is generally more expensive than tap water, but it does have a higher environmental footprint due to its production and waste. It may be wise to choose bottled water if you're traveling to an area where tap water is of lower quality , or if you're prone to stomach problems . What many people don't realize is that even if you buy bottled water, chlorine is sometimes added.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I drink the tap water in Spain? Yes, you can drink tap water in Spain. If not, a sign will indicate this.
• Is the chlorine taste in tap water harmful? No, the chlorine taste poses no health risks. The taste is actually present in the water to keep it clean.
• Can an ice cube in my drink at a restaurant be harmful? No, the ice cubes are usually made from purified water. If they're made from tap water, you can still use them.
• Can I use tap water for cooking? Yes, you can cook with tap water, and you can also rinse your fruit with tap water.

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