Is it safe to drink tap water in Lake Como?

The tap water in Lake Como is safe to drink and even quite healthy as it comes from the alps. But never drink water from mountain streams as it could contain agricultural wastes, parasites or other unfriendly organism.



Yes, it is perfectly safe to drink the tap water in the towns surrounding Lake Como, such as Como, Bellagio, and Varenna. The water in the Lombardy region of Italy is highly regulated and undergoes rigorous testing to meet both Italian and European Union safety standards. In 2026, many of the local municipalities draw their water from Alpine springs or deep wells, which provide high-quality, mineral-rich water. You will also see many public drinking fountains (fontanelle) throughout the villages that provide cold, fresh water for free—a great way for 2026 tourists to refill reusable bottles and reduce plastic waste. While some visitors might find the mineral content (hardness) slightly different from what they are used to at home, it is bacteriologically safe and often tastes better than bottled water. The only exception would be if you see a sign specifically marked "Acqua non potabile" (Non-potable water), which is sometimes found at decorative fountains or in very old, unrestored buildings.

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Can you drink tap water in Italy hotels? The water quality across Italy is of a pretty high standard. So you can drink tap water in hotels across Italy with no problems.

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The short answer is yes. Drinking water from the tap in Italy is considered safe. Tap water in the major cities and towns around Italy is safe for consumption, and there are thousands of old-style water fountains dotted around cities, like Rome, where you can fill up water bottles.

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Some guides advise bringing one with you from home. But plastic water bottles work just as well, and they're sold in every cafe in Italy. Buy one when you're here and just keep refilling it at the fountains you'll see everywhere.

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If you ask locals “Do you tip in Italy?”, they'll explain that while they sometimes leave a small tip, it's generally not necessary. In Italy, gratuity (or una mancia, pronounced oo-nah MAN-chah) is considered a bonus for exceptional service. And it's not often that you'll find a tip jar at a register.

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Lake Como is generally quite safe at night. The area is well-policed and violent crime is relatively rare. That being said, it's always important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone. Keep your belongings close and try to stick to well-lit, populated areas whenever possible.

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