You can get free tap water at all dining establishments If you ask for l'eau, or d'eau, you are likely to get mineral water, which is chargeable and sometimes expensive. What you want to ask for is une carafe d'eau or un pichet d'eau, which ensures that you get free tap water.

Getting free, high-quality drinking water in Paris is incredibly easy thanks to the city's network of over 1,200 public fountains. The most famous are the ornate, green cast-iron Wallace Fountains, which have provided potable water since the 19th century. In 2026, Paris has also expanded its "Ici je choisis l'Eau de Paris" initiative, where over 1,000 shops and businesses display a sticker in their window indicating they will refill your water bottle for free with no purchase necessary. For a unique experience, look for the "Fontaines Pétillantes" (Sparkling Water Fountains) located in many public parks, which dispense chilled, carbonated water at no cost. Additionally, in 2026, all restaurants in France are legally required to provide a carafe of tap water ("une carafe d'eau") for free to patrons. By carrying a reusable bottle and utilizing the "Eau de Paris" app to find the nearest fountain, you can stay hydrated for the duration of your trip without spending a single Euro on plastic bottles.