Is Istanbul Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Tap water in Istanbul meets Turkish national and WHO standards for microbiological and chemical safety. It is treated and monitored regularly.
However, many locals and visitors prefer bottled or filtered water due to occasional taste, old pipes, or localized contamination concerns.
Using tap water for brushing teeth or cooking is generally considered safe, but drinking directly is less common due to taste and potential pipe issues.
Last checked: 2025-04-25
Turkey is ranked as number 69 globally with a score of 63.7% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul's tap water primarily comes from surface water reservoirs, including the Ömerli, Alibey, and Terkos lakes. These are managed for potable water supply.
Additional sources include the Büyükçekmece and Darlık reservoirs, which collect water from surrounding catchment areas to support the city's growing demand.
Water treatment plants process the collected water, ensuring it meets safety standards before distribution through Istanbul’s extensive pipeline network.
Istanbul Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Istanbul provide treated water that generally meets safety standards. However, maintenance and cleanliness can vary widely by location.
Some fountains may have outdated infrastructure or exposure to environmental contaminants, affecting water quality and safety for direct consumption.
Using public fountains cautiously, such as filling bottles rather than drinking directly, is advisable. Bottled or filtered water remains a common choice for many.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Istanbul. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.