Tap water in Portugal: Yes, it is generally safe to drink in urban and tourist areas. However, before Portugal joined the EU, there were many issues with the water infrastructure, and as a result, many people still prefer bottled water.
In addition to that, many people prefer bottled water because of its taste, especially in the south, where the water is very hard, and in Lisbon where it is slightly hard. The taste of tap water can be greatly improved with a high-quality water filter such as TAP2.
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Here is a more in-depth analysis of tap water and bottled water in Portugal.
Tap Water in Portugal
In Portugal, tap water is regulated by ERSAR — the regulatory authority for water and waste services — and distributed by local water distribution companies. All are strictly compliant with the EU drinking water directive and therefore meet international water quality standards. In 2005, several reports highlighted issues related to coliforms and fecal coliforms in tap water during an EU inspection, but by 2015, 98.7% of public water was safe. More detailed information on coliforms here.
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In fact, Portugal is one of the leading countries in Europe when it comes to making drinking water test results available to citizens. Reports regarding local tap water (updated at least every 3 months) are available online here.
A common complaint from Portuguese citizens is the taste, due to chlorination and high mineral content in the water in certain areas. This can easily be resolved with a water filter such as TAP2, which will cost you as little as €5 per month.
In recent years, the government has also started actively promoting tap water consumption. In 2017, EPAL and the Hotel Association of Portugal came together to promote tap water consumption in the city of Lisbon with the launch of a bottle designed by the famous architect Siza Vieira.
Another tip is to get a reusable stainless steel or glass water bottle like Retap for travel, sports, and other activities where access to fresh tap water may be limited.
Bottled Water
With 114 liters of bottled water per capita per year, Portugal ranks among the top countries in Europe in terms of bottled water consumption. There are many large local brands such as Luso by SCC, as well as other brands like Pedras, Vidago, Vitalis, and Frize. Generally, these products are marketed as mineral water. Although perceived as safe, the risk of getting sick from bottled water is probably similar to that of public tap water since both are subject to thorough testing.
Unfortunately, Portugal has one of the lowest recycling rates in Europe, with about 10% of plastic waste recycled. Therefore, it is recommended to buy water in glass bottles or to avoid bottled water altogether. If you prefer sparkling water, then you can get a soda machine like SodaStream.
Drinking Water in Restaurants
When you ask for water in restaurants, they usually serve bottled water, but it’s fine to ask for tap water in a jar. Additionally, the good news is that due to recent regulations, restaurants are required to use only glass bottles, which is much better for the environment.
Where can I buy a water filter in Portugal?
TAPP is sold online at Planetiers and at Pikikos in Lisbon among others. Visit their Facebook page for more information.
Learn more about how TAPP compares to Brita, PUR, Culligan, and other water filters.
Tap Water in Portugal — Conclusion
If you live or travel in Portugal:
- It is generally safe and healthy to drink public tap water throughout Portugal.
- Get a water filter like TAP2 to improve taste and reduce the risk of contaminants.
- Avoid plastic bottled water in Portugal as most plastics are not properly recycled.
- Although restaurants serve bottled water by default, it’s good to ask for tap water.
Enjoy Portugal!
Source: https://www.globe-modeuse.com/