Can you drink tap water in Germany?
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Are you going to Germany, or are you already in Germany and wondering whether you can drink the tap water in this country?
Then, you’re in the right place to find the answer.
Can I drink tap water in Germany?
The short answer is yes. Yes, you can drink tap water here—and you should! It is one of the most delicious tap waters I’ve ever had.
German tap water is subject to very strict regulations and frequent tests to ensure the water quality is up to standard and safe to drink.
Can I drink from any tap?
If water isn’t safe for consumption, then this needs to be stated on or near the tap.
You can also drink tap water at amusement parks or airports and don’t rely on those hefty prices for bottled water.
Can I get free tap water in restaurants?
Usually no. It is not common to get a free table bottle or even just a glass of tap water. When you order still water you will have to pay for the drink.
It is very common in Germany to drink water with gas, so be sure to ask for still water when you order some at a restaurant.
Some cafés participate in the refill scheme but usually not when you sit down there to have something to eat.
Do Germans drink tap water?
Less and less so. It is very common for Germans to buy bottled water at a supermarket. Either in a plastic or glass bottle – even though tap water is perfectly safe and free-ish (compared to bottled water, the price of tap water is negligible).
People drink more bottled water due to advertisements and the hardness of water in some regions.
Some areas have a higher level of minerals in the water, which makes it a bit less pleasant to drink – however, it’s still perfectly safe to drink.
Why do people drink carbonated water?
Because it’s delicious. Carbonated or sparkling water is very common in Germany and many people find it more refreshing than still water.