How To Get The Best Tasting Tap Water In Prague: A Local’s Guide

“How is tap water in Prague?” is a question that arises among travelers and residents alike. Prague, the captivating capital of the Czech Republic, is renowned for its architectural beauty, rich history, and thriving cultural scene. However, understanding the quality and safety of its tap water is crucial for ensuring a healthy and enjoyable stay.

Source of Prague’s Tap Water

Prague’s tap water originates primarily from surface water reservoirs, specifically the Vltava River and its tributaries. These sources are collected and treated at modern water treatment facilities before being distributed to households and businesses.

Treatment Process

The water treatment process employed in Prague adheres to strict EU regulations. It involves several stages to ensure the removal of impurities and harmful substances:

• Coagulation and Flocculation: Chemicals are added to the water to encourage suspended particles to form larger flocs.
• Sedimentation: The flocs settle to the bottom of sedimentation tanks, removing solids.
• Filtration: The water passes through sand and gravel filters to remove remaining particles.
• Disinfection: Chlorine or ozone is added to kill bacteria and other microorganisms.

Quality Standards

The quality of Prague’s tap water is regularly monitored by the Prague Water Supply and Sewerage Company (PVK) and the Czech Institute of Public Health (SZÚ). The results consistently meet or exceed EU drinking water standards.

Taste and Odor

Prague’s tap water has a slightly hard taste due to the presence of dissolved minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium. The taste and odor can vary depending on the season and the source of the water.

Safety for Drinking

Tap water in Prague is safe to drink directly from the tap. It does not contain harmful bacteria or other contaminants that could pose a health risk.

Benefits of Drinking Tap Water in Prague

Drinking tap water in Prague offers several benefits:

• Convenience: It is readily available and accessible throughout the city.
• Cost-effective: It is significantly cheaper than bottled water.
• Environmental friendliness: Reducing bottled water consumption helps minimize plastic waste.

Considerations

While Prague’s tap water is generally safe to drink, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Lead Pipes: Some older buildings may have lead pipes that can leach lead into the water. If you are concerned, you can have your water tested for lead.
• Chlorine Taste: Some individuals may find the taste of chlorine in the water unpleasant. Using a water filter can help remove the chlorine taste.

Final Thoughts

Prague’s tap water is of high quality and safe to drink. Its treatment process ensures that it meets or exceeds EU drinking water standards. While there are some considerations to be aware of, such as the potential presence of lead pipes and chlorine taste, these can be easily addressed. For a convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly way to quench your thirst, tap water in Prague is an excellent choice.

What You Need to Know

Q: Is tap water in Prague safe to drink for foreigners?
A: Yes, tap water in Prague is safe to drink for both locals and foreigners.

Q: What is the hardness of Prague’s tap water?
A: Prague’s tap water is slightly hard, with an average hardness of 150-200 mg/L of calcium carbonate.

Q: Can I boil Prague‘s tap water to make it safer?
A: Boiling tap water does not make it safer as it does not remove harmful chemicals or contaminants.

Q: How can I reduce the chlorine taste in Prague’s tap water?
A: Using a water filter that removes chlorine or letting the water stand for a while before drinking can help reduce the chlorine taste.

Q: Is it cheaper to drink tap water or bottled water in Prague?
A: Drinking tap water in Prague is significantly cheaper than purchasing bottled water.