A Complete Guide: Can You Drink The Water In Greece?
In the urban areas of Greece like Athens and Santorini, tap water is totally safe to drink. But when you travel further from urban Greece to the countryside, the water quality might not be up to the mark. Moreover its always advisable to drink mineral water if you are travelling to these areas for first time.
As you go backpacking around Europe, you will find drinking water fountains available throughout the cities. But not all are safe to drink. Read the full article if you are wondering, can you drink the water in Greece?
Can You Drink The Water In Greece?
It is absolutely safe to drink tap water when you are in the urban areas of Athens and Thessaloniki. The authorities ensure the European Union standards when it comes to the safety and drinkability of the tap water in these areas.
Although the water may taste different in different parts of the cities, the taste relies on the plumbing system as well as the condition of the internal pipes. Tap water in old buildings may taste weird because of the old rusted pipes.
But the quality of the tap water in rural Greece is a bit more questionable. It is not guaranteed that you will find water in the countryside that is safe to drink. It is best to buy bottled water to stay clear of any kind of health hazards.
Greece’s Water Treatment: Things You Must Know
Greece, as a popular and most visited travel destination, focuses on maintaining the standard quality of its water. The water is sourced from both surface and groundwater. They also have desalination plants and water treatment plants across the country. Also, These plants collect the seawater and turn it into safe drinkable water for local households, restaurants, and other businesses.
The supply of water goes through several stages of filtration and purification before reaching the consumers. These efforts contribute to providing safe tap water to both locals and visitors.
Urban Centers And Popular Tourist Destinations
Places like Athens and Thessaloniki ensure the safety and good quality of drinking water. Even if you are going for a 7-day trip to Santorini, don’t worry, there are desalination plants that keep the water quality excellent.
Drinking tap water in your hotel room or any restaurant is considered okay at these places. So you can drink up without fearing for your stomach to act up!
Read our comparative article on hotel rooms to select your preferred Go room or Flamingo room.
Regional Variations
Although water in Greece is mostly safe, it may vary depending on the region. The quality of water is absolutely fine within the areas which are mostly packed by tourists.
When you move further from the usual tourist areas, make sure to check with the locals if the tap water is drinkable. People in many areas avoid drinking tap water because of high minerals and other health safety issues. The best thing will be choosing bottled water.
For a more eco-friendly and environment-efficient trip, carry your reusable bottle. You can refill the bottle before leaving your hotel, or you can refill it with filtered water from any restaurant.
Local Preference
In many areas, people simply prefer to use bottled water for drinking. In such places, people use tap water to wash up, cook, and do other chores. But they like to drink filtered or bottled water instead of directly having it from the tap.
Tourists might observe that many restaurants automatically serve bottled water instead of tap water. This is often a reflection of local customs rather than a lack of confidence in the tap water quality. Visitors can request tap water if they prefer, and it is generally provided without any issue.
Plumbing And Distribution Systems
The quality of the water often depends on the plumbing system rather than anything else. Places with old and poor plumbing systems may make the supply of water improper for drinking.
This issue is mostly found in the accommodations situated in old buildings. The newly built structures and hotels are usually free from these types of issues and ensure the quality and hygiene of the supply of water.
Quick Tips for Tourists
It is better to be cautious during your trip for the proper enjoyment of the adventure. You don’t want to fall sick and miss out on all the fun just because of sipping the wrong water.
Reusable Bottles
Having a reusable bottle is the best way to keep yourself and the environment healthy. You can refill it from a safe-ensured tap, or with filtered water. Also, you can use reusable bottles that have built-in filtering systems.
Boiled Tap Water
To be on the safe side, you can drink boiled tap water. Boiling water kills the germs within it and makes water drinkable. Although boiling does not eliminate all the minerals like iron, lead, etc from the water, it is safer than direct tap water.
Buying bottled water
Bottled water is easily available and affordable in Greece. You can buy bottled water from any supermarket, restaurant, or small shop around the place you are visiting. You can buy 500ml water at €0.50.
Seeking Local Help
If the most convenient source of water is a tap near you, you can just ask the locals to confirm the safety of drinking it. The local inhabitants and the staff of the restaurants and shops may help you find a safe source of drinkable water.
FAQ
Is it okay to drink tap water in Greece?
Yes, it is ok to drink tap water in Greece if you are in Athens, Thessaloniki, or any of the iconic tourist sites. However, as you go to rural Greece it is best to have bottled water.
Can you drink Santorini tap water?
Yes, you can drink tap water in Santorini. Because Santorini has desalination plants to ensure the quality and safety of water. However, many opt for bottled water as the taste may differ from the usual taste of water.
Can you brush your teeth with the water in Greece?
Yes, you can brush your teeth with water in Greece. Try not to swallow the water if you are not sure about the safety of the water.
Summing Up
Now that you know the answer to can you drink the water in Greece, dive in the delight of your vacation.
You have to be healthy to properly feel the pleasure of traveling. Make wise choices on where you eat and drink while traveling, and enjoy every moment with happiness.
Source for article: Travel with boys
