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Do Portuguese restaurants serve tap water?

You won't get served tap water in a restaurant unless you specifically ask for it but, if you ask for it, you should get it. Be aware that because it's not something that the Portuguese ask for, so you might get a strange look if they've never been asked before.



Yes, as of 2026, Portuguese restaurants are legally required to provide free tap water to customers upon request. This follows legislation enacted in 2021 (and strictly enforced by 2024) aimed at reducing single-use plastic waste. When you sit down, you can ask for a "copo de água" (glass of water) or a "jarro de água" (pitcher of water). While the law mandates that the water be free, restaurants are still allowed to charge for bottled mineral or sparkling water, which is the default if you simply ask for "water" without specifying "tap." In some tourist-heavy areas, staff may still try to push bottled water, but you are within your rights to insist on tap, which is safe to drink throughout mainland Portugal. It is worth noting that while the water itself is free, some establishments may charge a very small "service fee" for the glass and cleaning, though this is rare. This law applies to all HORECA establishments (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafés) across the country.

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