This is an often-asked question that people visiting this wonderful city do actually ask.
Can You Drink The Tap Water In Barcelona Or Not?
When you first arrive in Barcelona, you have a lot on your mind. The last thing you want to worry about is can you drink tap water in Barcelona (agua del grifo), so have no fear. We can help answer some of your most pressing questions about Barcelona’s water so you know what to expect before arrival. If you are already in Barcelona, this guide can also help address anything you already noticed during your time here. You may have also noticed a lot of talk about the drought in Spain, which impacts where you get your water from and how it is used.
Everything you need to know about tap water in Barcelona
Before you start exploring the beautiful city of Barcelona, you’re probably wondering about the tap water. According to the Rick Steves Travel Forum, the tap water is drinkable. Can you drink it? Is it safe? What’s the story behind Barcelona’s water supply? We’ve got you covered.
Brief history of Barcelona’s water supply
Water has been a scarce resource in Barcelona for hundreds of years. Historically, people got their water from public fountains and communal wells, and you may still see reminders of this time when you look at the many water towers around Barcelona. Today, tap water in Europe, including Barcelona, is drinkable. Up until 1986, when Spain joined the European Union, the country had a bad reputation for its poor tap water quality. After joining the EU, Spain received billions of euros to invest in its water infrastructure, and now it has one of the most advanced water systems in the world.
Current state of tap water in Barcelona
One of the most important things to know about Barcelona’s tap water is that it’s safe to consume. The Ministerio de Sanidad assesses all of Spain’s drinking water, and the agency has determined that tap water in Barcelona is safe to drink unfiltered, according to EU and World Health Organization standards.
With the ongoing drought in Spain, Barcelona’s water supply has become a pressing issue. The city’s water comes from two main sources: rivers and the Mediterranean Sea. The primary river Barcelona uses for its water supply is the Llobregat River, which flows into the Mediterranean south of the city. All of the water goes through an intense sanitation and de-salting process before it makes its way throughout the city for public use. Despite the drought, Barcelona’s tap water is still okay to drink, and you can enjoy it without worrying about your health.
Tap water in Barcelona
The tap water in Barcelona is a vital resource that has been a concern for the city for centuries. From public fountains to communal wells, the city has come a long way in providing clean drinking water to its residents and visitors. With the ongoing drought in Spain, it’s imperative to understand where Barcelona’s water comes from and how it’s treated.
Quality control measures
On a regular basis, the Ministerio de Sanidad assesses the quality of tap water in Barcelona, ensuring it meets the highest standards set by the European Union and the World Health Organization. This means tap water safe to drink in Barcelona with confidence, knowing it’s safe and clean.
Water treatment process
The process of treating tap water in Barcelona is rigorous and thorough. The city’s water supply comes from two main sources: rivers and the Mediterranean Sea. The primary river, the Llobregat River, flows into the Mediterranean south of the city. The water then goes through an intense sanitation and de-salting process before it’s distributed throughout the city for public use.
Barcelona’s water treatment process is designed to remove impurities and contaminants, making the water safe for consumption. The city’s investment in water infrastructure has paid off, with some of the most advanced water systems in the world. From dams to reservoirs, Barcelona’s water treatment process is a model for other cities to follow.

Where does Barcelona’s water come from?
Clearly, understanding the origin of Barcelona’s water is crucial in assessing its quality and reliability. Let’s look into the sources and distribution network that bring water to your tap.
Sources of water supply
Any city’s water supply depends on its geographical location and available resources. In Barcelona’s case, the primary sources of water are rivers and the Mediterranean Sea. The Llobregat River, which flows into the Mediterranean south of the city, is the main river used for the city’s water supply.
Water distribution network
Sources of water are just the beginning; the distribution network plays a vital role in getting water to your doorstep. Barcelona’s water distribution network is an intricate system that involves treating and transporting water from its sources to households, businesses, and public spaces.
Distribution is a complex process that involves multiple stages, including treatment, pumping, and piping. The water treatment process involves intense sanitation and de-salting to ensure the water meets EU and World Health Organization standards. After treatment, the water is pumped into a network of pipes that crisscross the city, supplying Barcelona’s drinking water to various areas. This extensive network requires regular maintenance to prevent contamination and ensure a steady supply of water.
Is the tap water in Barcelona safe to drink?
Unlike what you might have heard or read about tap water in other parts of the world, the tap water in Barcelona is absolutely safe to consume. The Ministerio de Sanidad, the Spanish Ministry of Health, assesses all of Spain’s drinking water, and Barcelona’s tap water meets the EU and World Health Organization standards, making it perfectly safe.
This means you can confidently drink the water straight from your home tap, without worrying about filtering it or going to the supermarkets here and buying bottled water. And, if you’re out and about, you can also drink from public tap water fountains scattered throughout the city’s parks and public spaces, as Barcelona’s drinking water is perfectly safe. There’s even an app, Fonts BCN, to help you find the nearest fountain!
Now, while the tap water is good enough to drink, some people might find the taste and smell unpleasant, especially if they’re used to water from other countries. This is mainly due to the high levels of chlorine and minerals like potassium and magnesium in the water, which can give it a distinct taste and make it “hard” water. But don’t worry, it’s still perfectly fine to drink!
Can You Brush Your Teeth with Tap Water in Barcelona?
Absolutely! It’s perfectly safe to brush your teeth with tap water in Barcelona. Given that Barcelona’s tap water meets the safety standards for drinking, there’s no need to use bottled water for typical uses like brushing your teeth. If you are visiting, your accommodation will have clean water.
What are the alternatives to tap water in Barcelona?
To ensure you stay hydrated and comfortable during your time in Barcelona, you may want to explore alternatives to tap water, especially if you’re not fond of the tap water taste or smell. Fortunately, there are several options available to you, including drinkable tap water, which is perfectly safe.
Bottled water is popular still and a convenient alternative, widely available in supermarkets and convenience stores across the city. You can expect to pay anywhere from under a euro to a few euros per bottle, depending on the size and location. However, it’s vital to consider the environmental impact of disposable bottles and the potential presence of microplastics in bottled water.
If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly and cost-effective solution, external water filters might be the way to go to improve the tap water taste. Water filter pitchers, like those from Brita, can be purchased for around 15-25 euros, with replacement filters costing under 10 euros. There are also water delivery services that provide filtered mineral water to your home or business, with prices ranging from 20-30 euros per month.
Sink filters are another option, attaching directly to your faucet to filter out chemicals as the water flows. These filters typically cost between 50-100 euros, with recurring costs for replacement filter heads. Gravity water filters, which sit on your kitchen counter, can remove parasites, bacteria, pesticides, soap, and chlorine from the water, among other contaminants. These filters come in various sizes, priced between 100-200 euros.
Ultimately, the alternative you choose will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and concerns about the tap water in Barcelona. Whether you opt for bottled water, external filters, sink filters, or gravity water filters, you can rest assured that you’ll have access to clean drinking water during your time in this beautiful city.
What is happening with the water shortage?
Now, you may be wondering what’s behind the shortage of water in Barcelona. As you’ve probably noticed, the drought in Spain has been making headlines, and its effects are being felt in Catalonia, where Barcelona is located.
Causes of the water shortage
To put it simply, the main cause of the shortage of water is the severe drought that has been affecting Catalonia for years, as noted in various Barcelona forum discussions. This drought is the worst the region has seen in 100 years, and it’s having a devastating impact on agriculture and water supply.
Effects on daily life
With the shortage of water, you’ll notice some changes in your daily routine. Consider whether to drink bottled water or tap water, knowing that the tap water is drinkable. For instance, decorative fountains in parks are no longer running, and you can’t use the fountains at the beach to wash off sand.
Shortage measures are in place to conserve water, and these restrictions will affect your daily life. For example, irrigation use has been reduced by 80%, and industrial and urban use by 25%, according to a local water company. The average daily limit per person in a municipality has been reduced from 210 to 200 liters. Additionally, water usage for recreational activities like swimming pools and decorative fountains is prohibited. These measures are necessary to ensure that everyone has access to this precious resource.
How is the water shortage possible?
Not surprisingly, the water shortage in Barcelona is a complex issue with multiple factors contributing to it. Despite having one of the most advanced water filtration systems in the world and investing billions of dollars in water management, Spain and especially Catalonia continue to struggle with water shortages.
Climate change and drought
Scarcity of rainfall is a significant contributor to the shortage of water in Barcelona. The current drought is the worst Catalonia has seen in 100 years, affecting agriculture in the countryside and urban areas like Barcelona.
Infrastructure and management issues
Water scarcity is also attributed to infrastructure and management issues, as discussed in the Barcelona forum. With a large portion of Spain’s freshwater being used by farmers, who have faced harsh restrictions during drought protocols, the ability to grow crops has been severely impacted.
With the current water management systems not yet ready to manage the pressures of climate change, the Catalan Water Agency is set to receive 2.5 billion euros to double water production and filtration. This investment aims to increase the water supply despite limited rainfall, but it’s a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach.
What is the government doing about the water supply?
After years of struggling with water shortages, the government has finally taken concrete steps to address the issue. The Catalan Water Agency will receive a whopping 2.5 billion euros from the Catalan government to double water production and filtration. This investment will enable the agency to increase Barcelona’s drinking water supply despite limited rainfall.
Conservation efforts
An vital part of the government’s plan is to reduce water consumption. The Barcelona City Council has implemented a Climate Emergency Declaration, which aims to decrease the amount of drinking water used, increase the use of alternative water sources like regenerated water, and make the city more flood-resistant through better drainage.
Infrastructure upgrades
The government is also investing in infrastructure upgrades to improve the water supply system. The number of water production plants throughout the autonomous region will double, allowing the water agency to put more resources into increasing the water supply.
Plus, the government is working to upgrade the existing infrastructure to make it more efficient and resilient, ensuring that you’re safe to consume the tap water in Barcelona. This includes improving the water distribution network, fixing leaks, and implementing smart water management systems, all to ensure the water from the tap remains drinkable. These upgrades will help reduce water waste and ensure that every drop of water is used efficiently.
Emergency phase: what does it mean for residents?
Many residents in Barcelona are wondering what the emergency phase means for them, and how it will impact their daily lives.
Rationing and restrictions
Restrictions on water usage have been put in place to conserve this precious resource. For example, irrigation use has been reduced by 80%, industrial and urban use by 25%, and the average daily limit per person in a municipality has been reduced from 210 to 200 litres.
Preparing for the worst-case scenario
This phase means that residents need to be prepared for the possibility of even stricter water restrictions in the future.
For instance, residents may need to adapt to using less water for recreational activities, such as washing cars or filling swimming pools. Additionally, public services like street cleaning and green spaces may need to reduce their water usage significantly. It’s vital for residents to stay informed about the latest updates and guidelines from the Catalan government and water agency to ensure they are doing their part to conserve water during this critical period.
Practicalities in Barcelona
Despite the reassurances about the safety of tap water in Barcelona, you may still have some concerns about accessing safe drinking water during your stay.
Finding safe drinking water
Water-wise, you’re in luck! The tap water in Barcelona is perfectly safe. Barcelona has numerous public drinking fountains scattered throughout the city, making it easy to refill your bottle on-the-go with drinkable water from the tap. These fountains are regularly maintained and tested to ensure the water is safe. You can also use the Fonts BCN app to find the nearest fountain to you.
Staying hydrated on-the-go
On a hot day of sightseeing, it’s necessary to stay hydrated. You can refill your water bottle at public fountains or purchase bottled water from supermarkets or convenience stores. However, be mindful of the environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles.
With a little planning, you can stay hydrated while also being eco-friendly. Consider investing in a refillable water bottle and taking advantage of Barcelona’s public drinking fountains. Many cafes and restaurants also offer free water refills, so don’t hesitate to ask your server.
Comparing Tap Water to Bottled Water
Keep in mind that when it comes to choosing between tap water and bottled water in Barcelona, there are some significant differences to consider. Tap water in Europe generally meets high standards.
Tap Water | Bottled Water |
---|---|
Free or very low cost | Can be expensive, especially in tourist areas |
Environmentally friendly | Contributes to plastic waste and microplastic contamination |
Safe to drink, meeting EU and WHO standards | May contain microplastics and other contaminants, so some people prefer to drink bottled water. |
Cost Comparison
Comparing the cost of tap water to bottled water, it’s clear that tap water in Spain is the more budget-friendly option. While bottled water can cost anywhere from under a euro to several euros per bottle, tap water is vitally free or very low cost.
Tap Water | Bottled Water |
---|---|
Free or very low cost | €0.50 – €5.00 per bottle |
Environmental Impact
Any consideration of tap water versus bottled water must also take into account the environmental impact of each option. In theory water treatment plants can change the content of the water completely. But to turn hard water into soft water is expensive, a waste of healthy minerals and bad for the environment. This is why many still prefer bottled water instead.
For instance, bottled water contributes to plastic waste and microplastic contamination, while tap water is a more environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, the production and transportation of bottled water require significant resources and energy, further exacerbating its environmental footprint.
Debunking myths about tap water
Once again, it’s time to separate fact from fiction when it comes to tap water in Barcelona. Let’s probe some common misconceptions and set the record straight.
Common misconceptions
About the quality of tap water, many people assume it’s not safe to consume or that it’s of poor quality. However, the reality is that Barcelona’s tap water is some of the highest quality drinking water in the world, meeting EU and World Health Organization standards.
Separating fact from fiction
An important distinction to make is that while local tap water may not taste great to everyone, it’s not because it’s unsafe. The unpleasant taste and smell are due to the high levels of minerals like potassium and magnesium, as well as the chlorine used in the sanitation process.
The good news is that these additives don’t make the water unsafe to drink. In fact, the water treatment process in Barcelona is one of the most advanced in the world, ensuring that your tap water is clean and you can drink the tap water. So, go ahead and fill up that water bottle – your taste buds might not thank you, but your health will!
Tips for Visitors and Expats
All travelers and expats should be aware of the unique aspects of tap water in Barcelona, especially since the tap water is drinkable. Here are some tips to help you navigate:
- Get familiar with the local water habits and adjust your consumption accordingly.
- Consider investing in a water filter or pitcher to improve the taste and quality of your tap water.
- Stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months, but be mindful of your water usage.
- Some people choose bottled water available from local shops to take out with them while walking.
- Take advantage of public drinking fountains and refill your bottle instead of buying bottled water.
- Be prepared for water restrictions during emergency phases and adapt your daily routine accordingly.
The key to enjoying your time in Barcelona is to be aware of the local context and adapt to the unique circumstances surrounding tap water.
Adapting to Local Water Habits
On arrival, you may notice that the locals have a different approach to water consumption. They tend to be more mindful of their water usage, especially during times of drought, but Barcelona’s tap water is still considered drinkable. By adopting these habits, you can not only reduce your environmental impact but also save money on your water bill.
Staying Healthy While Traveling
Water is necessary for our bodies, and staying hydrated is crucial while traveling. However, it’s equally important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with tap water in Barcelona, such as microplastics and high mineral content. Take precautions by using a water filter or pitcher, and consider consulting with a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns.
Local health experts recommend taking extra precautions to stay healthy while drinking tap water in Barcelona. This includes avoiding drinking tap water during peak drought seasons, using a water filter or pitcher, and being mindful of your overall water consumption. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risks associated with water and enjoy your time in Barcelona.
To wrap up
Drawing together the threads of our exploration, you can rest assured that Barcelona tap water, is meeting EU and World Health Organization standards. While the taste and smell might not be to everyone’s liking due to the high levels of minerals and chlorine, the water is thoroughly sanitized and de-salted before distribution. Tap water in Barcelona is safe for cooking too. Barcelona tap water has low levels of chlorine to prevent contamination. If you are eating out, restaurants generally serve bottled water, not tap water, however the Barcelona water company has started a campaign to encourage restaurants to serve tap water like they did in the old days.
With the ongoing drought in Spain, water conservation measures are in place, but you can still enjoy the city’s public drinking fountains and tap water with confidence. Just remember to be mindful of your water usage to help Barcelona navigate this challenging time.
If you’re from the UK and used to having water meters, which means you are more frugal with your time in the shower, then keep in mind that here in Spain we get a tiny fraction of the rain that the UK does, so once again, make your showers quick, please.