Is Berlin Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Yes, tap water in Berlin is safe to drink. It is sourced mainly from protected groundwater and is subject to strict German and European drinking water standards.
Berlin tap water is regularly tested for bacteria, chemicals, and other contaminants. In older buildings, internal plumbing can affect water quality, so let the tap run briefly if water has been standing for several hours.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
Germany is ranked as number 5 globally with a score of 97.9% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s tap water comes from groundwater drawn from wells around the city. This groundwater is replenished by rainfall and by natural filtration from the Spree and Havel rivers, as well as nearby lakes and other surface waters.
Berliner Wasserbetriebe treats the water at several local waterworks before distributing it through the city’s network. Berlin does not rely on long-distance water imports, and the water generally requires only limited treatment because it is naturally filtered through layers of soil.
Berlin Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Berlin are generally safe to use because they are supplied with drinking water that meets Germany’s strict legal quality standards. The water is regularly tested and fountains are maintained by the responsible authorities.
Use only fountains clearly marked as drinking-water fountains, and avoid any that are labeled non-potable, damaged, or temporarily closed. Let the water run briefly before drinking, especially if the fountain has not been used recently.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Berlin. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
Nearby Places
About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.