Is Leiden Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Yes, tap water in Leiden is safe to drink. It is treated and routinely monitored under the strict requirements of the Dutch Drinking Water Act.

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Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Leiden’s drinking water is supplied by Dunea and is suitable for everyday use, including drinking and cooking. If a building has old lead plumbing, let the tap run briefly before drinking, especially after water has stood overnight.

Last checked: 2026-08-31

The Netherlands is ranked as number 26 globally with a score of 91.1% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Leiden, The Netherlands

Tap water in Leiden is supplied by Dunea. The water comes mainly from river water taken from the Afgedamde Maas and naturally filtered through the coastal dunes at sites such as Meijendel and Berkheide.

Dunea also uses naturally occurring dune groundwater as part of the supply. After dune filtration, the water is treated and tested before it enters Leiden’s distribution network.

Leiden Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Leiden, South Holland are generally safe to use when they are marked as drinking-water fountains and appear clean and well maintained. Dutch tap water is subject to strict quality standards and is routinely monitored.

Do not drink from a fountain marked “geen drinkwater” or one that is damaged, dirty, or has stagnant water. 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 Leiden. 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.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Leiden is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.