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Croatia has become one of Europe’s most loved travel spots, and for good reason. With its beautiful sea, stunning islands, charming towns, and the warm and hospitable people, it is no wonder more and more travellers are heading there each year.
However, safety will always be a concern and priority when travelling abroad for many people, especially when it comes to food and water, and in this blog, we take a look at how safe tap water is for consumption in this beautiful country.
The good news is that Croatia’s tap water is generally safe to drink. In fact, the country is known for having some of the cleanest drinking water in Europe, as most towns and cities have modern water treatment systems that meet European Union (EU) safety standards.
This means that in popular destinations like Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, and Zagreb, you can safely fill your bottle straight from the tap. Many locals do it daily, and even restaurants often serve tap water when asked.
Croatia is lucky to have many natural water sources. Much of its tap water comes from mountain springs, rivers, and underground sources that are regularly tested and carefully monitored to ensure they are clean and safe and stay fresh and rich in minerals.
The government and local authorities carry out frequent checks to test for bacteria, chemicals, and other impurities. And, if there is ever an issue, for example, after heavy rainfall or pipe damage, local councils usually inform residents right away. So, all you have to do is keep an eye out for any local notices about water safety, especially if you are travelling in smaller villages.
While tap water is safe in most places, there are still a few situations where you might want to be more cautious. These include:
Remote islands or rural areas - Some small islands or countryside homes rely on water tanks or wells. These can sometimes be affected by saltwater or bacteria, especially during dry seasons.
Old buildings - In very old houses, pipes may be outdated, which could affect water quality.
After heavy rain - Flooding or bad weather can temporarily affect water systems, so it is best to check with locals if the water looks or tastes unusual.
If you are unsure, boil the water or buy bottled water, which is also easily available in supermarkets and small shops everywhere.
It is normal for tap water, sometimes even bottled water, to taste different from where you come from. You might even notice a slight difference from one region in Croatia to another. For example, water in coastal areas may have a bit more mineral taste, while in inland regions, it may feel softer and lighter.
This doesn’t mean it is unsafe. It is just a matter of natural mineral content. If you find the taste unusual, you can chill it in the fridge or use a reusable bottle with a filter.
Croatia’s tap water is clean, safe, and refreshing in most places. Whether you are staying in a city hotel or a seaside villa, you can fill your glass straight from the tap without worry.
Still, as with everywhere else, taking a little caution will help. If you are in doubt, ask the locals, especially in remote areas, and stay informed when weather conditions change. Otherwise, overall, you can leave the bottled water behind, save money, and enjoy a cool drink straight from the tap.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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