Can You Drink Tap Water in Alicante? (Alicante Tap Water)

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Is it safe to drink tap water in Alicante? Should you drink bottled water instead? Read our guide to tap water in Alicante to find out!

Alicante, Spain is a beautiful Mediterranean city located on Spain’s popular Costa Blanca. Known for its stunning beaches, year-round mild climate, and vibrant nightlife, there are very few things not to love about Alicante!

One thing that locals and visitors do complain about is Alicante’s bad-tasting drinking water!

But, just because it tastes bad, does that mean Alicante water is safe to drink?

Wondering if Alicante tap water is drinkable is a concern many share. Maybe you have gotten sick from food or drink while abroad. Or, perhaps you want to reduce your plastic usage. Saving money on bottled water in Alicante is also a factor.

In this post, we’ll review everything you need to know about drinking tap water in Alicante—from safety and environmental concerns to why Alicante water tastes bad—from my experience living in the Valencian Community in Spain!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Can You Drink Tap Water in Alicante?

So, is the water in Alicante safe to drink?

The answer is, yes! Alicante’s tap water is safe to drink.

The tap water in Alicante may have a bad reputation, but it more than meets the strictest health regulations established by the World Health Organization, the European Union, and the health authorities in Spain.

Since 1898, Alicante’s water has been supplied by Aguas de Alicante. The company is dedicated to providing water that is hygienic and is supplied 24/7.

In order to guarantee Alicante drinking water is healthy, Aguas de Alicante analyzes water samples on a daily basis at its high-tech laboratory.

Water quality reports are then made available to the public.

Significantly, over 10,000 water samples are analyzed per year. This translates to 50,000 individual analyses, of which over 35,000 are on drinking water in Alicante!

The lab tests for many parameters including pesticides, trihalomethanes (THMs), metals, hydrocarbons, fecal contamination, Salmonella, intestinal parasites, and bacteria.

They even organize a free campaign to determine water quality on consumers’ taps in homes, public buildings, shops, and companies. About 350 residents volunteer each year.

Some sources say we should worry about chlorine by-product odor, microplastics, and contaminants found in local pipes when it comes to general tap water in Spain. Still, Aguas de Alicante (and Spain’s Ministry of Health) maintains that Alicante tap water is safe to drink.

To sum up, it is safe to drink the water in Alicante. Grab your water bottle, and take a refreshing sip!

Where does Alicante’s Water Come From?

A fountain in Alicante—non potable water sources should be marked clearly in Spain

The Alicante area is known to be arid. Rainfall is scarce and irregular, and the region has no natural water sources. On top of that, there’s a very high demand for water during the summer when Alicante’s can population can more than double—from 330,000 to 800,00 on average!

Accordingly, Alicante needs a reliable water filtration and supply system.

For many years, water sources have come from outside the immediate area. The tap water in Alicante mainly comes from groundwater, surface water bought from other regions (River Taibilla and the Tajo-Segura), and desalination plants.

Coupled with the fact that the facility in Alto Vinalopó alone can manage the volume of water coming through for 3 months without fresh supplies, tapping multiple sources results in a stable water supply system for Alicante locals.

Treated water is ultimately supplied to six municipalities: Alicante, El Campello, Monforte del Cid, Petrer, Sant Vicent del Raspeig, and Sant Joan d’Alacant. Aguas de Alicante also manages services in other towns in the province.

Why Does Alicante Tap Water Taste So Bad?

Water from the tap may be safe, but Alicante has a reputation for poor-tasting water

Even though it’s safe to drink, most Alicante locals and visitors will tell you the water in Alicante isn’t drinkable since the water is hard.

But, how does hard water relate to taste?

First off, hard water means the water has a high mineral content. The mineral in question here is calcium, also known as limescale—that white residue that collects at the bottom of your kettle.

The good news is calcium is an essential mineral salt that our bodies need. According to Aguas de Alicante, it carries oxalic acid out of our bodies. This is good for the prevention of kidney stones—although there’s a common myth in Spain that tap water causes kidney stones.

What’s more, limescale is harmless to the human body.

So, what do these high levels of minerals have to do with taste?

The reason why the water in Alicante tastes so terrible is because of the high levels of chlorine added to disinfect the hard water. (According to the WHO, chlorine is not detrimental to health.)

Combine hard, mineral-rich water and chlorine, and you’ve got very bad-tasting water. For this reason, a majority in the region drink bottled.

What About Bottled Water in Alicante?

Mineral water is available everywhere in Spain

For many Alicante residents (and tourists) drinking bottled water is a no-brainer.

Bottled mineral water is safe to drink as it’s held to strict manufacturing standards. Alicante also has good recycling facilities for plastic. Unfortunately, the reality is that most households and businesses don’t sort plastic properly. As a result, an estimated 80% of plastic bottles end up in landfills and incineration plants.

There’s also the question of microplastics, but those are found in tap water, too.

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of plastic from used water bottles (but still prefer bottled water), there are a few things you can do.

First, choose a local brand to minimize the carbon footprint. Lanjarón is a popular and tasty brand of water from the nearby Sierra Nevada.

Second, buy larger bottles. If you’re staying somewhere like an apartment rental where you have access to cups or glasses, refill from the larger bottle.

All things considered, bottled water is readily available in Alicante at any supermarket.

Now you just have to decide if you want to drink tap or bottled water in Alicante!

Tap Water Alicante: Treatment Options

Aguas de Alicante asserts that residents do not need to treat or alter the characteristics of the water that comes out of their faucets.

That being said, many people still prefer to use a water filter to improve tap water taste and water quality in Alicante.

Let’s explore some of the available options.

Best Water Filter Bottles for Alicante

While water filter bottles aren’t necessary for travel in Alicante, they’re a good investment for avid travelers.

Brita Premium Filtering Water Bottle

The Brita water filter bottle focuses more on taste than some of its competitors. It features a replaceable filter that reduces chlorine taste, odors, and contaminants without removing beneficial minerals. Carbon filters, like those used Britas, do not get rid of limescale.

This filter bottle is good for travelers who want to reduce single-use plastics and drink refreshing-tasting water. It’s particularly good for travelers to use with Spain’s tap water and public drinking fountains.

LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle

The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle is an excellent investment. It will purify your drinking water from tap water, streams, or river! It removes bacteria, parasites, chemicals (including chlorine), and microplastics. The filters also last for up to 1,000 gallons (4,000 liters) for long-lasting protection and money saving!

If you like to camp or visit developing countries—or just like to be extra safe—LifeStraw is a good choice.

GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle

The GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle is a convenient solution for purifying water on the go. With a simple press, the bottle removes bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and particulates from untreated water sources. Its innovative design also gives crisp-tasting water in just 15 seconds.

GRAYL is a good choice for travelers and adventurers who want to clean their water quickly, and are also particular about taste.

Water Filters in Alicante

If you live in Alicante, you may want to consider installing a filter on your water faucet. These will purify your water—not to mention save money, reduce plastic waste, and save you from the hassle of carrying home bottles every week.

These filters are designed to eliminate unwanted tastes (like chlorine), odors, and contaminants like microplastics, lead, and pesticides.

Additionally, you can save money over time compared to purchasing bottled water. The average household in Spain spends about $350 (€320) per year on bottled water. In comparison, a water filter could cost as little as $88 (€80) annually!

TAPP Water and Aquavitae Laboratorio specialize in providing water filters in Spain and other European countries.

Water Softeners for Alicante Homes

While the limescale in Alicante tap water isn’t harmful to your health, installing a water softener is something to consider if you live in Alicante.

The hard water in Alicante is rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium. This often results in limescale deposits on faucets, appliances, and utensils.

A water softener effectively removes these minerals, preventing limescale formation and extending the lifespan of your appliances. It also helps preserve the efficiency of water-using systems, reduces energy consumption, and minimizes the need for harsh cleaning products.

While Aguas de Alicante doesn’t completely disavow the use of water softeners, it does say to use them only if truly necessary. If they aren’t maintained, they could grow bacteria or demineralize the water too much—leading to less safe water.

Is Tap Water in Alicante Safe to Drink: FAQ’s

Can you drink the tap water in Spain?

Yes, water is safe to drink in Spain. To illustrate, the Ministerio de Sanidad finds that 98.5% of Spanish tap water is thought to be safe for human consumption. (1% is unrated, and 0.5% is unfit as of 2021.)

Is it safe to have ice in drinks in Alicante?

Seeing as tap water in Alicante is safe to drink, it’s okay to have ice in Alicante. In general, ice cubes in Alicante will come from two places: from the tap or from ready-made bags. The ice served in restaurants and bars typically comes from store-bought bags which are considered safe since they are subjected to health and safety regulations similar to bottled water. Either way, ice in Alicante is safe to consume.

Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Alicante?

Yes, you can safely brush your teeth with tap water in Alicante. The tap water is treated and meets safety standards for consumption, which includes brushing your teeth. However, if you’re concerned about the taste or quality of the water, you could technically use bottled water for brushing your teeth during your visit. You’re not going to get sick off the water, though.

Is water safe for Alicante residents?

Yes, some people in Alicante drink tap water. Although Alicante’s tap water is safe to drink, a lot of Valencians (the autonomous community where Alicante is located) actually prefer bottled water due to the taste or concerns about water quality. In fact, Valencians consume the fourth-highest amount of bottled water of all the autonomous communities in Spain!

Is the water safe to drink in Alicante hotels?

Yes, tap water in hotels in Alicante is generally safe to drink. Nevertheless, some travelers prefer bottled water for drinking. But for tasks like brushing your teeth, showering, or boiling water for tea, they feel more comfortable. In any case, tap water in Spanish hotels is considered safe. If you have concerns, ask the hotel’s reception for details on water quality.

Can I drink the water in Alicante from water fountains?

There are many water fountains in and around Alicante. Water fountains are safe to drink from and meet the proper legal water quality standards. Still, you might want to use a personal water bottle with a filter.

If a water fountain is not potable (unsafe to drink), it will be clearly identifiable with a sign with something like:

No bebas el agua – Don’t drink the water
No potable – Not potable
A picture of a water glass or spigot with an X over it

Is water free in Alicante restaurants?

Yes, you can get free tap water in restaurants in Alicante. While some restaurants in Alicante already served tap water upon request, a Spanish law passed in April 2022 requires all eating and drinking establishments to provide free tap water to guests.

Can I use tap water for espresso?

If you’re traveling and have an espresso machine in your hotel room, you can make espresso with tap water supplied by Aguas de Alicante. Although, filtered water may make better coffee and hinder buildup on the machine. You can also use Alicante tap water to cook without any concerns as it has passed all the rigorous controls established by health authorities.

How can I make the tap water in Alicante taste better?

Yes, there are a few simple ways to greatly increase the palatability of hard tap water, like that found in Alicante (and the whole of the Valencian community, really!).

Get a water filter. Filters save on the time and expense of buying, carrying, and storing water bottles. Equally, it’s better for the environment. Travelers will love the Brita water filter bottle.
Store your Alicante tap water in the fridge for 12-24 hours. Much of the chlorine will evaporate. Besides, cold water always tastes better on a hot summer day in Spain, we think.
Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime to your water.

Where can I learn more about the water supply in Alicante?

To delve into the fascinating history of Alicante’s water supply, head to the Museo de Aguas de Alicante. Established in 2009, it explores the evolution of water techniques, distribution methods, and sustainability efforts. Even better, check out the views of the Mediterranean from the museum! Located in Alicante’s Old Town, museum admission is free.

Final Thoughts: Can You Drink the Water in Alicante?

Playing in a public water fountain in Altea, Alicante

To sum up, tap water in Alicante is okay to drink. The advanced filtration systems and dedication of Aguas de Alicante, which has a 125-year history of providing water, ensure water quality and availability year-round!

Now that you know the answer to the question, “Is tap water safe to drink in Alicante?” you can get back to the fun part—planning your visit to Spain!

And if you’re still feeling uneasy or really can’t stand the taste, like many of the locals, bottled water or water filters will do the trick!

Can You Drink Tap Water in Alicante? Alicante Tap Water Guide