Drinking Water in Prague
Updated: Aug 1
A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers
Prague boasts one of the best water supply systems in the world, ensuring residents and visitors have access to high-quality, safe drinking water straight from the tap. The city’s water sources are diverse, mainly consisting of groundwater from the Krkonoše and Jizera Mountains, along with surface water from the Vltava River. All of these sources undergo rigorous filtration, purification, and disinfection processes to meet the strict quality standards of the European Union.
Drinking Quality Water
Tap water in Prague is among the softest in Europe, with relatively low mineral content. This softness can be noticeable in taste and texture, especially for visitors used to harder water. Despite being soft, the water contains essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which contribute to bone and muscle health. Public health authorities regularly test the water to monitor its quality and ensure compliance with stringent standards. The test results are publicly available and confirm the safety of the water for consumption.
Which Water to Buy at the Supermarket?
Note that in Czech, several types of water are labeled differently:
Still (non-sparkling) water – Neperlivá voda
Pro tip: Since there are many water brands in the Czech Republic, focus on the label details rather than the color, as branding colors vary.
Water Drinking Options
Prague offers a variety of convenient and accessible options for drinking water:
Tap water: Freely available in most hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public places. Many hotels provide glass water bottles in rooms and public areas.
Public drinking fountains: Located throughout the city in squares, parks, and major tourist sites. These fountains offer cool, refreshing drinking water and are ideal for refilling reusable bottles.
Bottled mineral water: Sold in Supermarkets, kiosks, and vending machines. Popular local brands include Mattoni, Magnesia, and Aquila, offering a variety of flavors and types (sparkling, lightly sparkling, and mineral-enriched).
Tips for Drinking Water in Prague
Stay hydrated: Prague can be hot and dry, especially in the summer. Be sure to drink water regularly to prevent dehydration and maintain bodily functions.
Bring a reusable water bottle: Save money and reduce plastic waste by carrying a reusable bottle and refilling it with tap or fountain water.
Try local mineral waters: Prague offers a wide range of bottled mineral waters with unique tastes and compositions. Explore local brands to find your favorite.
Drinking Water in Restaurants and Cafés
In restaurants and cafés, bottled mineral water is commonly served and usually comes with a charge. However, you can request tap water, which is generally served free of charge in a glass.
In Summary
Prague offers excellent-quality water from various sources, ensuring a safe, healthy, and refreshing drinking experience for all visitors. Whether you choose tap water, public fountains, or bottled mineral water, you’ll find plenty of options to stay hydrated throughout your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions about Drinking Water in Prague:
Q: Is tap water in Prague safe to drink? Can I drink from the tap in Prague?
A: Yes, tap water in Prague is safe to drink and meets strict EU standards.
Q: Does tap water in Prague taste different from bottled water?
A: Tap water in Prague is softer than bottled mineral water and has a more neutral taste.
Q: Can I refill my bottle with tap water in Prague?
A: Absolutely! It's recommended to bring a reusable bottle and refill it with tap or fountain water.
Q: Can I drink tap water in restaurants and cafés?
A: Yes, you can request tap water, which is usually served free of charge.
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