Tap water is safe to drink, although a lot of people still drink bottled water but that's down to taste. As Martin says bottled water is cheap to buy out of supermarkets.

Yes, you can technically drink the tap water in Salou, Spain, as it meets all EU safety and health standards for 2026. However, most tourists (and many locals) prefer to drink bottled water due to the taste. Because Salou is on the Mediterranean coast (Costa Daurada), much of its water is treated through desalination or contains high mineral content from local rivers, which can give it a strong "chlorine" or slightly salty/metallic flavor. While it is perfectly safe for brushing your teeth, showering, and cooking, it may not be pleasant to drink a full glass straight from the tap. To save money and reduce plastic waste in 2026, many savvy travelers bring a reusable bottle with an integrated filter (like a Brita or LifeStraw bottle), which effectively removes the chemical "tap" taste while allowing you to benefit from the free municipal supply.