Tap water in Santorini: is it safe to drink?
Santorini, the Greek island of whitewashed houses and blue domes, is a true paradise for travellers. But one question comes up again and again: can you drink the tap water in Santorini? The answer is simple: no, tap water is not recommended for drinking.
Also read: The best hotels in Pyrgos, Santorini
IMPORTANT: No, tap water is not recommended for drinking in Santorini. Not even just for brushing your teeth.
Why? Well, Santorini's water comes mainly from the sea and is desalinated in local plants. Although this process makes it safe for cooking and bathing, it can taste salty and isn't ideal for drinking straight. What's more, desalinated water can lack some of the essential minerals usually found in drinking water.
It can also contain certain bacteria that could potentially give you traveller's diarrhoea during your stay. And having experienced it myself, I don't recommend it.
Water quality in Santorini: what do the experts say?
Local water quality experts confirm that, although tap water is generally safe for cooking and bathing, it isn't ideal for drinking straight.
According to the World Health Organization, desalinated water can lack essential minerals and taste salty. That's why most locals and visitors in Santorini prefer to buy bottled water for drinking.
Ultimately, it's always best to follow local advice and drink bottled water in Santorini to stay hydrated and healthy.
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Beware of ice cubes made from non-drinking water
On one of my trips to Santorini, I had an experience that reminded me how important water quality is. One evening, after a day exploring the island's picturesque villages, I decided to unwind in a little bar in Pyrgos. I ordered a refreshing cocktail, packed with ice cubes to beat the summer heat.
Unfortunately, the next morning I woke up with an unpleasant feeling in my stomach. After consulting a doctor on Qare, it turned out I had caught an intestinal infection. The likely cause? The ice cubes in my cocktail. They probably weren't made with drinking water.
Using drinking water for your daily routine in Santorini
Even for simple things like brushing your teeth, I recommend using bottled water in Santorini. Tap water may contain bacteria or minerals that aren't ideal to ingest, even in small amounts.
During my stay at one of Imerovigli's luxury hotels, I got into the habit of filling a glass with bottled water to brush my teeth. It's a small change, but it can make a big difference to your health.
Alternatives to tap water in Santorini
So what can you do if you can't drink the tap water in Santorini? Don't panic, there are several safe and practical alternatives.
The most common is bottled water. You'll find it everywhere on the island, from small kiosks to large supermarkets. On my last trip to Santorini, I always kept a bottle of water with me, whether on my hikes to Skaros Rock or on my lazy days at Red Beach.
Another option is water refill stations. Some towns in Santorini, such as Fira, have stations where you can fill up your water bottles, like the ones from Lifestraw, with drinking water for a minimal cost. It's an excellent option if you plan to stay in the area for a while.
The environmental impact of bottled water in Santorini
However, it's important to note that using bottled water has an environmental impact. Plastic bottles contribute to pollution and can take hundreds of years to break down.
So how can you minimise your carbon footprint while staying hydrated in Santorini? One solution is to bring a reusable water bottle. You can fill it at water refill stations or at your hotel if the water there is drinkable.
When I visited Oia, I was delighted to see that many restaurants and cafés were happy to refill my reusable water bottle. It's a small action that can make a big difference for the environment.
In the end, staying hydrated in Santorini is essential, but it's just as important to do it responsibly. Whether you choose bottled water, water refill stations or a reusable water bottle, every choice counts in protecting Santorini's natural beauty.
Tips for staying hydrated in Santorini
Santorini is known for its glorious sunshine and summer heat, so staying hydrated is crucial. Here are a few tips to help you stay cool and hydrated during your stay.
- 01Always carry water with you: whether you're kayaking or exploring ancient Thera, make sure you always have a bottle of water to hand.
- 02Drink before you're thirsty: not waiting until you're thirsty to drink is a golden rule. Thirst is a sign that your body is already starting to dehydrate.
- 03Go for hydrating drinks: water is the best choice, but fresh fruit juices and sports drinks can also help rehydrate your body.
- 04Avoid alcohol in the full sun: alcohol can dehydrate you quickly, especially under the Santorini sun. If you plan to enjoy a glass of local wine, try to do so in the shade or in the evening.
Conclusion: drinking water in Santorini
Drinking water in Santorini is an important topic for every traveller. Although tap water is generally not recommended for drinking, there are plenty of safe and practical alternatives, such as bottled water and water refill stations. However, keep in mind the environmental impact of bottled water and make responsible choices to minimise our carbon footprint. Finally, staying hydrated in Santorini is essential, especially given the island's summer heat.
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