Is tap water in Ireland safe to drink? A traveller's guide

This is intended to serve as a general guide. Always check with official sources for the latest government and health advice.

Opting for tap water is often the most eco-friendly and cost-effective way to stay hydrated while traveling. But when you're in a new country, knowing if the tap water is safe is crucial to avoid any unexpected health risks. If you're headed to Ireland, you're likely wondering: is its tap water safe to drink?

The quick answer is yes. This guide will clearly explain why Ireland’s tap water is safe, and detail its quality to help you prepare for your trip. We’ll also introduce the Wise card, a useful travel companion to help you save on spending during your time there.

Is tap water safe to drink in Ireland?

Yes, tap water in Ireland is generally safe to drink directly from the tap according to the Environment Protection Agency of Ireland (EPA).¹ Its quality meets stringent national and EU quality standards, as defined by the European Union (Drinking Water) Regulations 2023 (S.I. No. 217 of 2023).² This legislation transposes the latest EU Drinking Water Directive into Irish law, ensuring a high level of safety and quality for consumers.

While some residents may still choose bottled water or filters, this is typically for personal taste or preference rather than a concern about safety, as the water is subject to strict quality controls.¹ As a practical tip, always check if your specific tap is safe for drinking. Although the public water supply is reliable, older building plumbing or other disruptions could affect the water quality.

Understanding Ireland's water quality

The primary official government authorities responsible for tap water quality and regulation include the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)³ and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.⁵ They oversee the implementation of the regulations and the monitoring of water quality. The local entity responsible for water supply is Uisce Éireann (Irish Water), which works in conjunction with local authorities.⁴ Water quality is subject to continuous and frequent monitoring, with daily checks for key parameters to ensure compliance with standards.

Sources of Ireland's tap water

Ireland's tap water supply comes from surface water, which includes lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, with some supply also sourced from groundwater.² The water undergoes a multi-step treatment process, typically including coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, and filtration. This is followed by disinfection using chlorination, and sometimes UV treatment, to ensure the removal of harmful microorganisms.⁶

Mineral content and taste of Ireland's tap water

The hardness of Ireland’s tap water varies across the country, largely due to local geology. Uisce Éireann notes that hard water is a natural characteristic of much of Ireland’s drinking water and is safe to consume.⁷ In terms of taste, the water is generally described as neutral and mild, though in some urban areas a faint chlorine taste may occasionally be noticeable as a result of the disinfection process.

Heading to Ireland? Maximise your EUR spending with the Wise Card

Staying hydrated is key to a great trip, and so is managing your travel budget wisely in Ireland. The Wise card is a simple way to save when you're spending internationally, be it on bottled water, food or shopping. You can spend in 150+ countries, including Ireland, at mid-market rate — basically the rate you see on Google. With no foreign transaction fees and low, transparent pricing, Wise usually gives you the best value for your money.

Simply create a Wise account for free, order a card and top-up to get started. Having a physical Wise card allows you to make chip and pin payments, as well as make some free ATM withdrawals each month for when you're in Ireland. You can get digital cards and add to your Google or Apple Pay wallet for instant use. Spend directly with the Wise account and let auto-conversion do the trick or convert in advance to EUR. You can hold and exchange 40+ currencies in your Wise account and spend the currencies you hold for free.

Wherever your travel takes you, the Wise card makes spending money abroad cheaper and easier.

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FAQs

Do I need to boil tap water in Ireland to make it safe?

No, boiling tap water in Ireland is not necessary. It is generally safe and drinkable without boiling, as it is subject to strict quality controls that ensure its safety and compliance with EU standards.¹

How does the taste and quality of tap water differ within Ireland?

The taste and quality of water can vary by region. For example, water in the west and north-west is typically softer, while the east and south have harder water, which can influence its taste.

Is the ice served in restaurants and bars in Ireland safe to consume?

Yes, the ice served in restaurants and bars is generally safe to consume, as it is made from the public water supply that is deemed safe to drink.¹

Why do some people in Ireland use water filters if the tap water is safe?

Some people in Ireland use water filters primarily for personal taste preference due to regional variations in mineral content or a faint chlorine taste, especially in urban areas.

1. EPA News Release: Drinking Water Quality Remains High
2. EPA: Annual Drinking Water Report 2024
3. EPA: Drinking Water Compliance and Enforcement
4. Uisce Éireann: Drinking Water Standards
5. EPA: Annual Drinking Water Report 2023
6. Uisce Éireann: Drinking Water Treatment
7. Uisce Éireann: Approved Products