ATMs in Malta: Credit cards and fees
Malta may be small, but it’s a fascinating place, packing in a whole load of history, culture, nature and a cool city vibe. Popular for holidays, it’s not...
Is tap water in Malta 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 Malta, you're likely wondering: is its tap water safe to drink?
The quick answer is yes. This guide will clearly explain why Malta'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.
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Is tap water safe to drink in Malta?
Yes, tap water in Malta is generally safe to drink according to the Malta Environmental Health Directorate1. Its quality meets the national Drinking Water Quality Regulations. The Water Services Corporation (WSC), the public entity responsible for water supply, confirms that the water is safe and regularly tested to maintain its quality2.
While some residents may still choose bottled water or filters, this is typically due to a preference for a different taste rather than a concern about safety, as the water is subject to strict quality controls.
Understanding Malta's water quality
The official government authority responsible for tap water quality and regulation include the Water Services Corporation (WSC)3. The WSC is the primary entity responsible for all aspects of water management and supply. Water quality is subject to continuous and frequent monitoring, with regular checks conducted for key parameters to ensure compliance with national standards4.
Sources of Malta's tap water
Malta relies on a combination of water sources to meet demand, including groundwater from aquifers and, significantly, desalinated seawater purified through reverse osmosis5. The Water Services Corporation continuously monitors the blend of these sources to ensure consistent quality.
Mineral content and taste of Malta's tap water
Malta’s tap water is safe to drink and is regularly monitored by the Water Services Corporation, with free chlorine levels kept between 0.5 and 1 mg/L as required by law1. The water supply may sometimes have a noticeable chlorine taste or odor, especially in areas closer to the treatment works or during peak demand periods when water moves more quickly through the network.
Heading to Malta? 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 Malta. 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 Malta, 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 Malta. 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.
This general advice does not take into account your objectives, financial circumstances or needs and you should consider if it is appropriate for you.
Please see Terms of Use and product availability for your region or visit Wise Fees & Pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
FAQs
Do I need to boil tap water in Malta to make it safe?
No, boiling tap water in Malta is not necessary. It is generally safe and drinkable without boiling1.
How does the taste and quality of tap water differ within Malta?
The public water supply is of consistent quality across the islands due to centralised management. However, a slight chlorine or "hard" taste may be noticeable depending on the specific source and local distribution.
Is the ice served in restaurants and bars in Malta 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, which is deemed safe to drink.
Why do some people in Malta use water filters if the tap water is safe?
Some people in Malta use water filters primarily for personal taste preference due to the water's mineral content or a noticeable chlorine taste.
Sources
- Malta Environmental Health Directorate - Water for Human Consumption FAQs
- Water Services Corporation (WSC) - Water Monitoring
- Government of Malta - Water Services Corporation Overview
- Water Services Corporation (WSC) - 2024 Audit Monitoring Report (PDF)
- UNFCCC - Malta's First Biennial Transparency Report (BTR) 2024 (PDF)
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
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