Can You Drink Tap Water in Málaga? Is the Water Safe?

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

Málaga, Spain is a beautiful Mediterranean city located on Spain’s popular Costa Blanca. Known for its lively Old Town, pristine beaches, and mild climate, Málaga is a place for any traveler’s bucket list!

But what about the water (no, we don’t mean the beach water!)?

Is the water safe to drink in Málaga?

The safety of drinking tap water in Málaga is a common concern. Maybe you have had tummy troubles when traveling before. Or, perhaps you want to cut down on plastic use. Saving money on bottled water in Málaga is applicable, also.

In this post, we’ll review everything you need to know about drinking water in Málaga—from whether its safe to drink and how it tastes to the best water filter bottles and more—from someone who has been to Málaga many times!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Can You Drink Tap Water in Málaga?

So, is the water in Málaga safe to drink?

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

The tap water in Málaga meets the strict health regulations set by the World Health Organization, the European Union, and the health authorities in Spain.

Since 1986, Málaga’s water has been managed by Empresa Municipal Aguas de Málaga (Emasa). A comprehensive water cycle management company, Emasa seeks continuous improvement in its quest to provide safe and reliable water for 600,00 people.

In order to guarantee Málaga drinking water is healthy, the water is tested daily according to strict international water quality standards.

Emasa’s lab leaves no stone unturned either, scanning for metals, minerals, pathogens, bacteria, etc. In fact, they tested 258,715 parameters in 2020!

Water quality reports are then made available to the public.

Some sources fret over chlorine by-product odor, microplastics, nitrates, and contaminants found in local pipes when it comes to general tap water in Spain.

Still, Empresa Municipal Aguas de Málaga (and Spain’s Ministry of Health) maintains that you can drink the water in Málaga.

To sum up, Málaga tap water is safe to drink—water is drinkable in all of Spain, for that matter! (The Spanish Ministry of Health concluded Spain’s water is 99.5% safe in 2018)!

So, grab your water bottle, and drink up!

Where does Málaga’s Water Come From?

In general, Malaga’s high-quality tap water comes from two sources.

Most of the water comes from the Guadalhorce River swamp system. Several months worth of water is stored in reservoirs.

But, in the summer and during droughts, they often use desalinated water.

The water is then treated in one of Emasa’s three drinking water plants (El Atabal, Pilones and El Limonero).

With several million euros invested in 2020, Emasa is committed to renewing its facilities and water processing systems to ensure a safe and stable Málaga water supply system for years to come.

How Does Málaga Tap Water Taste?

Birds enjoying their own water fountain in Málaga

Even though it’s safe to drink, most Málaga locals and visitors (70% in some studies) drink bottled or filtered water.

They will say the water in Málaga is too hard.

But, how does hard water relate to taste?

First off, hard water means the water has a high mineral content. The minerals in question here are calcium, magnesium, potassium, and bicarbonate

However, authorities say that these minerals shouldn’t be removed just because of taste. The associated costs and the fact that only 1% of tap water is used for drinking are some of the reasons why.

More importantly, the minerals in question are vital for human health.

The high levels of chlorine used to disinfect the mineral-rich water is what leads to a strong water flavor in Málaga.

What About Bottled Water in Málaga?

For many Málaga residents (and tourists) tap water isn’t palatable. Thus, drinking bottled water is a must.

This is because of the taste of the water. (In reality, there’s no scientific evidence that bottled water is healthier than tap water.)

Between the high mineral content, the saltiness of desalinated water, and the chlorine used to clean the water, some people think the water in Málaga doesn’t taste good or isn’t as healthy as bottled water.

If you prefer to buy bottled water, here’s what you need to know.

Bottled water is readily available in Málaga at any supermarket. It’s inexpensive, too. You can get a 1.5-liter bottle of mineral water for less than $0.83 (0.75€).

Choosing bottled mineral water from a local source will minimize your carbon footprint. Lanjarón is a renowned brand of water from the Sierra Nevada. Plus, it’s delicious!

Don’t forget to recycle empty water bottles in Málaga! The city has good plastic recycling facilities. Still, most plastic ends up in landfills, eventually contaminating our groundwater—and contributing to microplastic pollution.

All things considered, the choice is up to you: bottled water in Málaga instead or straight from the faucet!

Tap Water in Málaga: Water Filter Options

Although you do not need to treat faucet water, many people use water filters to improve tap water taste and water quality in Málaga.

Let’s delve into a few available choices.

Best Water Filter Bottles for Málaga

While water filter bottles aren’t necessary for Málaga travel, they prove to be a wise investment for 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.

Best Málaga Water Filters

If you live or are staying for an extended period in Málaga, you might consider a water filter pitcher or installing a filter on your houses’ water faucet.

These are both good options that will purify your water—not to mention save money, reduce plastic waste, and save you from the hassle of carrying home bottles every week.

Filters are designed to eliminate unwanted tastes—such as chlorine—and contaminants.

Avoid the expensive and water-wasting reverse osmosis filters. A standard pitcher or filter should serve your purposes in Málaga.

Filters Costa del Sol and Aquavitae Laboratorio specialize in providing water filters in Spain.

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

Can you drink the water in Marbella?

Yes, the tap water in Marbella is safe to drink. It undergoes treatment to meet quality standards. That being said, some people don’t like the taste due to the mineral content or local treatment methods. If you’re uncertain or prefer a different taste, you’ll find bottled water readily accessible.

Can I drink tap water in the Costa del Sol?

Yes, the tap water along the Costa de Sol is safe to consume. It undergoes purifying treatment and meets rigorous standards. If you don’t like the taste due to the mineral content or local treatment methods, you’ll can always buy bottled water.

Is it safe to have ice in drinks in Málaga?

Seeing as tap water in Málaga is safe to drink, it’s okay to have ice in Málaga. In general, ice cubes in Málaga 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. Ice in hotels is often made with filtered water.

Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Málaga?

Yes, you can safely brush your teeth with tap water in Málaga. The tap water is generally treated and meets safety standards for consumption, which includes brushing your teeth. If you’re really concerned about water quality, you can use bottled water for teeth brushing during your stay—but it’s unnecessary.

Do Málaga residents drink tap water?

Yes, some malagueños do drink tap water. Although Málaga’s tap water is safe to drink, the majority of locals prefer bottled water due to the taste or concerns about water quality. Bottled water or water filters are also readily available and relatively inexpensive.

Can I drink the water in Málaga from water fountains?

There are about 350 water fountains in Málaga after a major push to more than double the amount in 2021. These are maintained to provide free water and reduce plastic waste. As such, the water is safe to drink. Still, a personal water bottle with a filter can’t hurt.

The government is mandated to inform citizens if a water fountain isn’t drinkable. You’ll find a clearly identifiable sign if the water is not potable:

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 Málaga restaurants?

Yes, you can get free tap water in Spanish restaurants. While some restaurants in Málaga 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 upon request.

Where can I learn more about the history of the water supply in Málaga?

Alicantinians have been very imaginative about how to get water since they started living in the area 7000 years ago. Santa Barbara Castle, for example, has several water facilities such as ancients water tanks. https://www.aguasdeMálaga.es/en/el-museo-de-aguas-de-Málaga

Final Words: Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Málaga?

Water fountain in the Alcazaba in Málaga, Spain

To sum up, tap water in Málaga is okay to drink. The advanced filtration systems and dedication of Emasa ensure water quality and availability for years to come!

Now that you know the answer to the question, “Is tap water safe to drink in Málaga, Spain?” you can get back to the fun part—like shopping in Málaga!

Finally, if you’re still unsure or find the taste unappealing, much like many residents, bottled water or water filters will do the trick!

Can You Drink Tap Water in Málaga? Is it safe?