Can I Drink Tap Water in Italy?
Unknown
Quick Answer
Italy has excellent tap water quality that is safe to drink throughout the country, particularly in major cities. Water is strictly regulated by EU standards and ranks second globally for drinking water quality.
Italy maintains one of the highest tap water quality standards in the world, meeting strict European Union regulations. The Italian Ministry of Health rigorously monitors water quality for contaminants such as bacteria, parasites, heavy metals, and chemical pollutants. Major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, and Venice offer consistently safe and often praised tap water. While generally safe in rural areas as well, some remote regions may benefit from additional filtration. The water is treated with chlorination and filtration methods. Rome's tap water sourced from ancient aqueducts is famous for its purity, and the city's traditional drinking fountains (nasoni) are tested extensively and safe for consumption.
Water Quality Details
Italy maintains one of the highest tap water quality standards in the world, meeting strict European Union regulations. The Italian Ministry of Health rigorously monitors water quality for contaminants such as bacteria, parasites, heavy metals, and chemical pollutants. Major cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, and Venice offer consistently safe and often praised tap water. While generally safe in rural areas as well, some remote regions may benefit from additional filtration. The water is treated with chlorination and filtration methods. Rome's tap water sourced from ancient aqueducts is famous for its purity, and the city's traditional drinking fountains (nasoni) are tested extensively and safe for consumption.
Water sourceUnknown
HardnessHard
Practical Tips
- Check local water quality reports before drinking tap water
- Bottled water is available as an alternative
Traveler Advice
Risk level: low
Diarrhea risk: low
Travelers to Italy can safely drink tap water throughout the country. Fill reusable water bottles from tap water or the famous Roman fountains to save money and reduce plastic waste. The water quality is excellent and extensively tested. If you prefer filtered water, simple activated carbon filters are sufficient.
Sources & References
research
travel_advisory
Data confidence: high
Last updated: 2026-02-22
Cities in Italy