Hydration on a European holiday can come with a surprising cost, as policies regarding free tap water vary significantly across the continent. While some countries mandate that establishments provide tap water at no charge, others leave it to the discretion of businesses, leading to potentially steep bills for thirsty travelers.
In France, asking for "une carafe d'eau" in cafes and restaurants typically yields a free jug of water, especially when a meal or even a snack is ordered. Similarly, Portugal's laws require hotels, restaurants, and cafes to offer free tap water upon request, though specifying "copos de água" (cups of water) is advised to avoid charges for bottled water. Spain also aligns with this practice, with its 2022 Waste Law ensuring that tap water should be available free of charge in cafes.
The United Kingdom follows a similar approach, with licensed premises in England and Wales legally obligated to provide free tap water to customers. While unlicensed venues may not have the same requirement, obtaining tap water is generally not an issue.
Countries Where Water Can Cost Extra
Italy presents a more complex situation, as there are no national laws compelling establishments to serve tap water for free. A reported court case involved a woman who was charged for bottled water at a five-star hotel, with judges ruling that the provision of tap water is at the venue's discretion. Consequently, travelers in Italy should be prepared for the possibility of paying for water, with bottled options sometimes costing around €7 (£4.30) for a 0.75-litre bottle.
Switzerland and Germany are also noted for their higher water prices. A bottle of water in Switzerland can average $4.58 (£3.40), reflecting the country's general cost of living. In Germany, while free tap water is not guaranteed, bottled water can cost as much as $2.69 (£2), sometimes exceeding the price of soft drinks.
Norway also falls into the pricier category, with bottled water averaging $2.69 (£2). Although there isn't a strict legal requirement for free tap water, most Norwegian establishments are willing to provide it upon request. Furthermore, cities like Oslo offer numerous free public drinking water fountains for residents and tourists alike.