Greece, as a member of the European Union, is required to meet strict drinking water quality standards. In practice, this means that in many regions, especially on the mainland - tap water is safe to drink. The Greek National Public Health Organization (EODY) confirms that tap water in most parts of the country meets international quality standards. In major cities, the water is regularly tested and treated, and its quality is often comparable to that in other European nations. Moreover, a global study found that Greece ranks among the top European countries in drinking water safety, achieving the maximum score of 100/100 alongside several others.

Despite these high standards, it is important to remember that both the quality and taste of water can vary from region to region. Below we outline the main regional differences and recommendations indicating where tap water is safe to drink and where it is better to choose bottled water.

Tap water in major cities 

In Athens, Thessaloniki, and most other large Greek cities, tap water is generally safe to drink. The water infrastructure is fairly modern, and the supply comes from protected sources. For example, the Athens metropolitan area draws its water from reservoirs located in pristine regions (including the Marathon and Yliki lakes), ensuring high-quality water for residents. The water undergoes advanced treatment and continuous monitoring to meet the stringent EU standards. At times, the Athens water authority has even received distinctions for its water quality.

Residents of Athens and Thessaloniki typically drink tap water without concern, and tourists should not experience difficulties either. However, in some older buildings, water quality may be affected by aging pipes, which can cause a metallic taste or discoloration. For this reason, some people - despite the overall good quality - prefer bottled water or use filters, especially if they detect an unusual chlorine flavor or sediment. Tap water is completely suitable for cooking; boiling eliminates microorganisms and does not negatively affect the taste of food. In summary, in Greece’s major cities tap water is safe, and any preference for bottled water usually arises from personal habits or taste rather than hygiene concerns.

Tap water on Greek islands 

The Greek islands (Crete, Santorini, Rhodes, and others) present a different situation because local water conditions differ significantly from those on the mainland. On larger islands such as Crete and Rhodes, the water supply infrastructure is more developed. Crete has its own water sources (mountain reservoirs, springs), so in larger cities like Heraklion, tap water is often safe to drink. However, its taste can be hard or mineral due to the limestone bedrock - a characteristic some people may find unpleasant. In small Cretan towns and villages, caution is advised and bottled water is recommended.

The situation is quite different on smaller and very dry islands. Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, and other islands in the Cyclades have very limited natural freshwater resources. Tap water on Santorini is not recommended for drinking - because of scarce water supplies, most of it comes from desalination plants, a process that affects both taste and potentially overall quality. Local authorities and residents clearly advise tourists to use bottled water. Similarly, on Mykonos, tap water is often desalinated, with a slightly salty taste and low mineral content. Although the water is technically treated, not all visitors tolerate its flavor, and some may experience stomach discomfort, making bottled water the safer choice. Even in hotels and restaurants on Santorini and Mykonos, bottled water is commonly served, and guests are informed not to drink the tap water.

Rhodes, on the other hand, is an example of an island with a more reliable water supply. Thanks to higher rainfall and retention reservoirs, tap water in the island’s capital (Rhodes Town) is often safe to drink and meets the required standards, though its mineral profile may differ slightly. However, in rural areas of Rhodes or on smaller islands within the Dodecanese, tap water may be less dependable - bottled or boiled water is recommended, especially during the hot summer months when demand increases and water quality can fluctuate. The general rule on the islands is simple: if you have doubts, choose bottled water. This is especially true for small and dry islands where local tap water is often desalinated or delivered by tanker ships, a practice that affects both taste and consistency of quality.

Outside the main tourist routes and large cities, tap water quality in Greece can be more variable. Small mainland towns often rely on local sources such as deep wells or mountain streams. In many cases the water is clean and drinkable, but the infrastructure may be outdated. Old pipes or irregular testing can lead to poorer taste, heavy chlorination, or even microbiological contamination. In remote mountain villages, residents sometimes prefer to boil water or collect it from nearby natural springs when available.

For tourists, this means that caution is advisable in rural areas. When visiting a small town and unsure about the water quality, it is best to ask locals or use bottled water. Greek health authorities respond quickly to local incidents, for example, in 2024, after contamination of a water system in central Greece, residents were advised not to drink tap water unless it had been boiled for three minutes. Such incidents are rare, but they show that smaller communities may occasionally experience problems with their water networks. Therefore, when traveling through rural Greece, it is wise to carry a water filter or keep a supply of bottled water at hand. It is also worth noting that even if drinking tap water is not recommended, it is typically fine for brushing teeth or cooking - high temperatures kill potential microorganisms, and brief contact with the body (such as rinsing the mouth) should not pose a risk.

Practical tips for travelers

Below are several practical recommendations that will help you use water safely during your stay in Greece:

How to check if tap water is safe to drink?

The simplest method is to ask local residents or hotel staff - they know best whether the tap water is safe in a particular location. It is also useful to pay attention to taste and smell: if the tap water has an unusual chemical odor or a salty taste, it is best not to drink it untreated. In such cases, choose bottled water or boil tap water (boiling for one minute or using a filtering bottle significantly increases safety). Many travelers now carry portable water filters - simple bottle filters or faucet attachments can remove chlorine taste and impurities, making local water much more pleasant to drink.

Greece is increasingly promoting environmentally friendly solutions, so public water stations and filtration machines are becoming more common. In many cities - parks, public squares, and tourist attractions - you can find drinking fountains. For example, in Athens, visitors can refill bottles at fountains in the National Garden or on the Acropolis hill; authorities actively encourage their use to reduce plastic waste. In addition, many cafés and tavernas are happy to refill your bottle with tap water (especially in areas where its quality is reliable) - a simple request is usually enough, and it benefits both the environment and your budget.

Prices and availability of bottled water in Greece.

Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive throughout Greece. You can buy it in supermarkets, kiosks (periptero), on ferries, and even at beach stands. Importantly, prices for small bottles are regulated by law - traditionally, a 500 ml bottle could cost no more than €0.50 nationwide (even at airports), and in 2024 this limit was raised to €0.60. In practice, a 1.5-liter bottle of a well-known brand typically costs around €0.50–1.00 in shops, depending on the region. 

Water in restaurants is also affordable: a large jug or 1-liter bottle usually costs €1–2 (sometimes added to the bill as a small item). Bottled water is available in both still and sparkling varieties - local brands such as Zaro’s, Theoni, and Loutraki are high-quality and worth trying. Because the price is low, many people opt for bottled water, especially in regions where tap water has a weaker reputation. Availability is never an issue - even in small villages you will find bottled water, and on tourist islands, ensuring a stable supply of bottled water is a priority during the summer season.

Local traditions related to drinking water

Water holds an important place in Greek culture, and hospitality dictates offering visitors a glass of water. In practice, this means that in restaurants and cafés, water is usually served immediately- often before you even place your order. Sometimes this is a complimentary carafe of tap water (especially in places where its quality is trusted), while in other cases bottled water is brought automatically. In typical Greek cafés, a glass of cool water is nearly always served with coffee - usually tap water in cities where it is of good quality. In highly touristic areas, however, staff often assume visitors prefer bottled water and serve it by default (and charging a few dozen euro-cents for it is completely normal).

Greek residents have varied habits: in major cities, many drink tap water daily, while on islands or in rural areas, people more frequently buy cases of bottled water for home use. Older generations often trust natural springs more than municipal water networks - so it is not unusual to see locals filling large containers at roadside fountains supplied with mountain water. Such public spring outlets exist in many mountainous regions of Greece and have been used for generations. When using them, make sure the water truly comes from a natural spring and is regularly used (stagnant water in pipes can be unsafe). In general, Greeks trust mountain spring water; it is part of their tradition, much like serving water with meals and drinks. Tourists are welcome to take advantage of this hospitality and ask for tap water in restaurants - many establishments will gladly bring a jug of cool tap water on request.

So, is tap water in Greece safe to drink?

For the most part, yes, although it depends on the region. On the mainland and in major cities (such as Athens and Thessaloniki), tap water is generally safe: it meets EU standards, is monitored, and is consumed daily by many residents. However, on many islands and in small towns, caution is advised - the water is often desalinated or transported, which can affect both taste and potential quality. Travelers planning a trip should check local recommendations (hotel staff or hosts are usually happy to advise) and use bottled water when in doubt. Fortunately, water in Greece is inexpensive, and alternative options -filters, water vending machines, or natural springs - make it easy to stay hydrated without risk. By understanding regional differences and following simple guidelines, visitors can enjoy the Greek sun, cuisine, and - of course - a refreshing glass of water, whether from the tap or the bottle.

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