Croatia is known for its beautiful coastline and crystal-clear sea. But if you’re planning a vacation here, you’re probably wondering about the quality of the drinking water and whether tap water is safe to drink. We have investigated this in more detail, and below, we provide all the necessary information.
Sources of drinking water in Croatia
While some countries struggle with a shortage of drinking water, this is not the case in Croatia. A 2014 UNESCO study (the most recent data available) ranked Croatia 5th in Europe and 42nd worldwide in terms of water source availability and abundance. The country received this high ranking because of its many rivers, lakes, and natural springs.
Nearly 96% of drinking water in Croatia originates from underground sources. This water is among the cleanest and most reliable because it is naturally filtered of impurities. The remaining 4% originates from surface sources, such as rivers and reservoirs (e.g., Lake Butoniga in Istria).
The quality of drinking water in Croatia
Tap water is regularly monitored in Croatia. The Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ) analyzes hundreds of samples every year. According to the latest report from 2024, only 2.6% of the samples failed to meet health standards. In the event of any irregularities, the relevant authorities immediately issue a warning and organize an alternative drinking water supply until the problem is resolved.
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Is tap water safe to drink?
Due to the high quality of the water, residents throughout the country drink almost exclusively tap water. However, in some smaller towns, residents still use wells. While well water can be safe, it is not regulated as strictly as tap water, so it should be consumed with caution.
When you book a place to stay, you will probably be informed about the water quality at that location, or you will see that information displayed at the property. If you’re unsure whether it’s safe to drink the tap water during your stay, contact the owner before drinking it.
Outside the accommodation, it is important to follow local instructions. If the tap water in an establishment is unsafe to drink, it should be clearly indicated. If you are planning a trip to the countryside, it is better to stock up on drinking water than to rely on potential sources whose quality and safety cannot be guaranteed.
Are you wondering what the drinking water situation is like on the islands? Some Croatian islands, such as Brač, are connected to the water supply system of nearby cities (Split), while others have their own sources (e.g. Vis). In the event of a shortage or poor quality of drinking water, water is brought to the island by tanker. Therefore, even on islands, you should always have access to drinking water. However, it is always a good idea to check whether tap water is safe to drink before consuming it.
Conclusion
Croatia has an abundance of drinking water sources, and tap water is generally safe to drink throughout the country. However, you should always check local instructions, especially if you are staying on an island or in a rural area, or if you are planning a trip to the countryside.
