Is Gothenburg Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Yes, tap water in Gothenburg, Västra Götaland, is safe to drink. The municipal supply is treated and regularly tested under Sweden’s strict drinking water regulations.
Cold tap water is suitable for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth. Let the tap run briefly if the water has been stagnant, especially in older buildings, and follow any local boil-water notice.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
Sweden is ranked as number 12 globally with a score of 96.9% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Gothenburg, Sweden
Gothenburg’s tap water mainly comes from surface water in the Göta älv, Sweden’s largest river. This water is treated at the Alelyckan waterworks.
A second source is the Delsjöarna lake system, which supplies the Lackarebäck waterworks. Both treatment plants purify the water before it enters Gothenburg’s distribution network.
Gothenburg Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Gothenburg generally use treated municipal water that meets Swedish drinking water standards and are safe to use when clearly marked for drinking. The water is regularly monitored for quality and microbiological safety.
Use fountains that are clean, functioning, and maintained, and avoid any with visible damage, contamination, or a notice advising against drinking. 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 Gothenburg. 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.