Is Tap Water in Prague Safe to Drink? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re visiting Prague, one question you might have is, “Can I drink the tap water?” The good news is that Prague’s tap water is safe, tasty, and widely available.
When I travel, one of the first things I want to know is whether the tap water is safe to drink. If you’re visiting Prague, you might ask the same thing. The good news is that Prague’s tap water is safe, tasty, and widely available.
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about drinking tap water in the Czech capital, from its safety and taste to practical tips and some interesting facts.
Prague Tap Water Is Safe To Drink
First things first – yes, tap water in Prague is safe to drink. The city’s water supply meets both local and European Union strict standards, ensuring it’s free from harmful contaminants. Whether you’re filling up a reusable bottle or enjoying a glass at your hotel, you can trust the quality of the water.
Regular Tests of Prague Drinking Water
Prague’s water undergoes rigorous testing to maintain its high standards. Water treatment facilities monitor it regularly for bacteria, chemicals, and other impurities. These efforts guarantee that the water reaching your tap is clean and healthy.
Why Is It Better to Drink Tap Water?
Choosing tap water over bottled water isn’t just a money-saver. It’s an environmentally friendly choice too. By drinking tap water, you’re reducing plastic waste and minimising your footprint.
Taste of Tap Water
Prague’s tap water has a clean and refreshing taste. Sometimes you can notice a faint taste of chlorine, which is used as a disinfectant to ensure the water remains safe and clean. To reduce the chlorine taste, simply let freshly poured water sit for a few minutes before drinking.
Do Locals Drink Tap Water?
Yes, many locals drink tap water at home. In fact, a survey showed that over 80% of people in Prague drink tap water at home. However, bottled water, especially sparkling water, is also popular in the Czech Republic. This preference can sometimes extend to restaurants, where bottled water is often the default choice.
Tap Water in Prague Restaurants
While tap water is safe, it’s not always served in restaurants. Some establishments are happy to provide it, while others prefer to sell bottled water. If you want tap water, politely ask for “kohoutková voda” (tap water) when placing your order.
Public Fountains With Drinking Water in Prague
You’ll find public drinking fountains scattered throughout Prague, especially in parks and busy areas. Most of these fountains provide safe and clean water, but it’s always a good idea to look for signs indicating whether the water is potable.
You can also find these fountains marked on the map at Mapy.com (online or in the app). Just search for “drinking water” or “pítko” in Czech.
How to Find Still and Sparkling Water in Grocery Stores
If you prefer bottled water, you’ll find plenty of options in Prague’s grocery stores. Look for labels like “neperlivá” for still water (with a blue label), “perlivá” for sparkling water (red label), and “jemně perlivá” (green label), which means lightly sparkling. These color codes make it easier to grab the one you want without translating every bottle.
Facts
Where Does Prague’s Tap Water Come From?
Prague’s water comes from the Vltava River and nearby reservoirs. It’s treated at state-of-the-art facilities before being distributed to homes and businesses. The city’s water supply system has a long history, with roots dating back to medieval times.
Quality of Water in the Vltava River
The Vltava River, a major source of Prague’s water, is carefully monitored for pollution. While it’s not directly drinkable, advanced treatment processes ensure the water is purified and safe by the time it reaches your tap.
The Very First Water Pipes in Prague
Prague’s water supply history dates back to the 12th century, when the city began building its first water pipes. Over the centuries, this system has evolved into the modern infrastructure that ensures safe and reliable water for residents and visitors alike.
Podolí Waterworks
The majestic Podolí Waterworks looks more like a grand government building than a technical facility. No wonder it’s nicknamed the “Temple of Water.” Built in the 1920s in the style of monumental classicism, it was designed by renowned Czech architect Antonín Engel.
At the time, it was the largest reinforced concrete structure in interwar Czechoslovakia. On its southern façade, you’ll spot 11 statues of women, each representing a Czech river. At the top stands Vltava, joined by her many tributaries.
Final Sip: One Last Tip
So don’t hesitate – pack that reusable water bottle and keep it handy. Whether you’re in your hotel room or out exploring the city, you’ll find plenty of places to fill up with fresh, clean water. Prague’s got you covered!
Useful Travel Resources
I want to share and recommend these travel resources that I personally use, as they can be helpful when planning your visit to Prague.
Accommodation: Booking.com has the largest selection of incredible places to stay.
Tours: Getyourguide.com has the widest selection of guided tours and experiences from various providers, conveniently sortable by rating.
Getting around: PID Lítačka mobile app lets you buy public transportation tickets and plan your journey easily.
Last article update: May 21, 2025
Author and photo: Vera Nemochovska
