Yes, obtaining free drinking water in France is both a cultural norm and, in many cases, a legal right. In French restaurants, cafes, and bistros, it is standard practice to be served a "carafe d'eau" (a pitcher of tap water) free of charge upon request. Since January 2022, French law has actually mandated that establishments open to the public must provide access to free drinking water. When dining out, if you specifically ask for "une carafe d'eau, s'il vous plaît," the waiter will bring a glass bottle or pitcher of tap water; however, if you simply ask for "water," they may offer expensive bottled mineral water like Evian or Badoit, so being specific is key. Beyond restaurants, France is famous for its public infrastructure. In cities like Paris, you will find hundreds of "Wallace Fountains" and modern water points that provide clean, chilled, and sometimes even sparkling (carbonated) water for free. These fountains are a point of civic pride and are rigorously tested for safety. This accessibility is part of a broader environmental push to reduce plastic waste from single-use bottles. Therefore, travelers are encouraged to carry a reusable bottle, as "eau potable" (potable water) is readily available in almost every public square, park, and transportation hub throughout the country.