Health & safety in The Azores While mineral water is available in restaurants and shops, it's safe to drink the tap water in hotels and homes in the Azores, so remember to bring refillable water bottles and keep your family hydrated round the clock.

Yes, the tap water in the Azores is completely safe to drink in 2026. The water is treated to high European Union standards and is primarily sourced from the islands' abundant natural springs and deep wells. Because of the volcanic nature of the islands, the water is naturally rich in minerals, which can sometimes give it a slightly different taste than what you might be used to at home. In some regions, you may notice a faint scent of chlorine, which is used for purification, but this does not affect its safety. For those who are particularly sensitive to taste, using a simple charcoal filter pitcher is an easy fix. Locals and tourists alike regularly consume tap water, and the government strictly monitors the supply to ensure public health. Drinking tap water in the Azores is also an environmentally friendly choice, as it helps reduce the significant plastic waste generated by bottled water on these remote and pristine North Atlantic islands.