Can you Drink Tap Water in Paris? Get Your Clear Answer

Upon setting foot in Paris, many travelers share a common query: Can you drink tap water in Paris? Because the last thing you want on your dream trip is to worry about whether the Paris tap water is safe or if it will make you sick. And let’s be honest, lugging around liters of water? Not ideal.

But here’s the good news: Paris, the city of romance with its captivating art and architecture, also boasts a remarkable feature – a freely available tap water system that provides fresh drinking water for everyone.

In short words: Can you drink the tap water in Paris? Absolutely.

The Parisian Water – a bit chloral, isn’t it?

Drinking water in Paris is generally rich in minerals. The water mainly comprises calcium and magnesium, making it moderately hard. This mineral-rich nature gives the water its distinct taste – different but safe.

You might also notice a chloral scent. In my early days in Paris, I often felt I was sipping straight from a pool. But with time, it fades. Leave a carafe overnight in the fridge, and you’re good.

Fun Fact: My children reject filtered water. They are so used to Paris water that they can’t stand any other.

Paris Tap Water Quality Control

Paris ensures its tap water quality. Every year, around 300,000 water tests are conducted in the Île-de-France region. Such monitoring guarantees the tap water is both clean and safe. The results are published here.

European Union (EU) Regulations on Tap Water

But it’s not only the Paris region, that regulates its water quality. The EU has strict regulations for potable water. Paris, being a significant European city, adheres to these standards meticulously.

Every water source undergoes a detailed evaluation to ensure the safety of its consumption. By fulfilling these guidelines, Paris ensures that its tap water ranks among the best in Europe.

Understanding the Term “Potable”

Potable translates to “drinkable.” So when you spot signs saying “Eau non potable” on fountains, steer clear. These specific fountains aren’t for drinking. Instead, they’re primarily used for cleaning, watering plants or serve other non-consumable purposes.

Wallace Fountains: More Than Just Decorative Beauty

When being off and about exploring Paris, you will inevitably notice the beautiful green fountains that you find all over town: The Wallace Fountains.

These historical landmarks pepper the streets of Paris. They are a sight for themselves, with an interesting backstory.

Sir Richard Wallace: The Man Behind Paris’ Iconic Fountains

Sir Richard Wallace was a prominent British art collector and philanthropist of the 19th century. Born in 1818, he inherited a vast collection of art and wealth, which he used generously for public welfare.

During the Franco-Prussian War in 1870 and the subsequent Paris Commune, the city of Paris faced significant hardships, including a lack of access to clean drinking water.

Recognizing this dire need, Sir Wallace took it upon himself to finance the creation of public drinking fountains across the city. These fountains, known today as the “Wallace Fountains,” are not just utilitarian but also intricately designed, adding to Paris’ architectural beauty.

Today, about 100 of these iconic fountains adorn the Parisian landscape, serving as a testament to Sir Wallace’s profound impact on the city’s history and welfare.

The City of Paris Walks the Extra Mile

In Paris, there’s a delightful twist to the city’s commitment to providing free drinking water. Because besides apart from 1200 fountains the city installed all over town, a few are sparkling water fountains!

Introduced by the Paris City Council, these fountains are to reduce plastic waste and encourage drinking Paris tap water and reduce plastic bottle waste. (see the map with all tap water locations here)

The sparkling water fountains, or fontaines pétillantes, dispense chilled carbonated water to anyone with a bottle or cup. They work by adding carbon dioxide to regular tap water at the point of distribution.

You can find these fountains scattered throughout Paris in various parks and public spaces. A few notable locations include:

• Parc André Citroën: Located in the 15th arrondissement.
• Square Tino Rossi: Found along the Seine in the 5th arrondissement.
• Jardin de Reuilly: Situated in the 12th arrondissement.
• Parc Martin Luther King: Located in the 17th arrondissement.

To locate the closest sparkling water fountain, the Eau de Paris website often provides an updated map or list. It’s a refreshing experience, so when wandering the streets of Paris, keep an eye out for these unique fountains and enjoy some bubbly water on the go!

Water in Restaurants in Paris: What to Expect

When dining in most Parisian restaurants, ask for a “carafe d’eau,” and you’ll be provided with tap water for free. It’s a tradition and a testament to the city’s confidence in its water quality.

However, a heads-up: in more upscale, high-end establishments, you might find yourself paying for bottled water. It’s a premium setting, after all. And you can be sure it’s filtered.

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So, to answer your query, can you drink Paris tap water? Yes, you can! Enjoy your stay in Paris, and stay hydrated!

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