Global tap water safety in 2026: Where is it safe to drink?
Tap water safety varies widely across the world in 2026. While many European nations meet strict standards, other regions still face risks from contamination. Travellers and locals often rely on bottled water in places where pipes, treatment, or pollution pose threats.
In Europe, the picture is mixed. Germany and most of the EU now enforce tougher rules, including new PFAS limits of 0.1 µg/L for 20 substances since January 12, 2026. Spain also complies with these standards, ensuring its tap water remains safe. Chlorine levels are closely monitored across much of the continent to prevent harmful bacteria.
Elsewhere in Europe, concerns linger. Eastern nations like Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Romania often struggle with unsafe water supplies. Even in Southern and Southeastern Europe, where tap water is generally safe, poor taste can discourage drinking it. Outside Europe, risks rise sharply. In Africa, countries such as South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania frequently have unsafe tap water. Asia presents similar challenges, with India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam advising against drinking from the tap. Contaminants—ranging from bacteria and viruses to industrial pollutants—can cause severe illness. For those with no alternative, running the tap for ten seconds before boiling the water can reduce some dangers. But when in doubt, bottled water remains the safest choice.
The gap in water safety persists between regions with strong regulations and those still battling contamination. Europe’s stricter standards, including the EU’s PFAS limits, aim to protect public health. Yet in many parts of Africa and Asia, relying on bottled water stays the simplest way to avoid risk.
