Yes — you can safely drink tap water anywhere in Switzerland. The country is famous for having some of the cleanest and best-quality water in the world. For travelers, this means you don’t need to spend money on bottled water — just refill your bottle at the tap or even at many public fountains.
In this guide, we’ll explain why Swiss tap water is so safe, how it compares to bottled water, and where travelers can find free drinking fountains across the country.
Why Swiss Tap Water Is Safe to Drink
Switzerland’s water comes mainly from natural springs, lakes, and underground reserves. Strict government regulations ensure that water is tested regularly for quality and safety.
- Over 80% of Swiss drinking water comes directly from natural groundwater and springs.
- The remaining water, mostly from lakes, is treated and tested to meet the highest standards in Europe.
- Local authorities check water quality daily to make sure it remains fresh and safe.
For visitors, this means you can drink straight from the tap in hotels, restaurants, train stations, and even at fountains in public squares.
Public Fountains: Free Drinking Water Everywhere
One of Switzerland’s most charming traditions is its public fountains. Many of these are centuries old, beautifully designed, and still provide fresh, drinkable water.
- Zurich alone has over 1200 fountains with drinking water.
- Bern, Geneva, Lucerne, and Basel also have fountains scattered throughout the cities.
- If the water is not drinkable, the fountain will clearly display a sign saying “Kein Trinkwasser / Non-potable”.
👉 Tip: Travelers can carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at these fountains, saving both money and plastic.
Tap Water vs. Bottled Water in Switzerland
| Aspect | Tap Water | Bottled Water |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Natural, fresh, tested daily | Often from the same sources |
| Cost | Free | Around 2–5 CHF per bottle |
| Availability | Everywhere: taps, fountains | Shops, restaurants |
| Sustainability | No plastic waste | Plastic bottles, transport impact |
Conclusion: Tap water in Switzerland is not only safe but also cheaper and more eco-friendly than bottled water.
FAQs About Drinking Water in Switzerland
Do I need to boil tap water in Switzerland?
No. Swiss tap water is already safe to drink. There is no need to boil it.
Is hotel tap water in Switzerland safe?
Yes. Hotel tap water is the same as household water and completely safe.
What about mountain huts and remote areas?
Most mountain huts also provide safe drinking water. In rare cases, they may use untreated sources — signs will indicate if the water is not drinkable.
Can I drink water on trains?
Yes. Train stations often have refill points, and tap water from restrooms on modern trains is safe, though fountains in stations are more convenient.
Final Thoughts
So, can you drink tap water in Switzerland? Absolutely. It’s fresh, safe, and available almost everywhere for free. Bring a reusable bottle, enjoy the beautiful public fountains, and skip the bottled water. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also experience one of Switzerland’s most underrated luxuries: some of the world’s purest water straight from the tap.
