Can You Drink Tap Water in Corfu? (What Tourists Need to Know)
One of the most common questions visitors ask before travelling is:
Can you drink tap water in Corfu?
As a trusted Corfu tourist planner, Corfu Travel Co explains everything you need to know about tap water in Corfu, including safety, taste, bottled water, and what locals actually do.
🚰 Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Corfu?
In most areas of Corfu, tap water is officially considered safe to drink, especially in towns and tourist areas.
However, safe does not always mean pleasant.
Many visitors find that:
Tap water has a strong taste or smell
The mineral content is high
Pipes in older buildings affect water quality
Because of this, most tourists choose bottled water for drinking, even though tap water is generally safe.
🏘️ Does Tap Water Quality Vary by Area?
Yes — water quality in Corfu can vary depending on location.
Generally better tap water:
Corfu Town
Gouvia
Benitses
Larger hotels and resorts
Tap water may taste worse in:
Older villages
Rural or mountainous areas
Older apartment buildings
This variation is why many visitors prefer bottled water for peace of mind.
🦷 Can You Use Tap Water for Brushing Teeth?
Yes.
Tap water in Corfu is safe for brushing teeth, washing fruit and vegetables, and cooking.
Even visitors who avoid drinking tap water usually use it for:
Teeth brushing
Making tea or coffee
Cooking pasta or rice
🧊 What About Ice in Drinks?
Ice in bars and restaurants is generally safe, especially in tourist areas.
Most establishments use:
Filtered water
Commercial ice machines
If you’re concerned, you can always ask — but issues are rare.
💧 Do Locals Drink Tap Water in Corfu?
Many locals:
Drink tap water at home
Use water filters
Prefer bottled water during summer
During peak summer months, water sources are under more pressure, which is another reason bottled water is popular.
🛒 Is Bottled Water Easy to Find in Corfu?
Yes — bottled water is:
Widely available
Inexpensive
Sold everywhere
You can buy large bottles from:
Supermarkets
Mini markets
Kiosks
Petrol stations
Many visitors keep large bottles in their accommodation and refill smaller ones for daily use.
🌱 Eco Tip: How to Reduce Plastic Waste
If you want to reduce plastic use:
Bring a reusable bottle
Use a water filter bottle
Buy large bottles instead of small ones
Some hotels also provide filtered water stations.
❓ So… Should You Drink Tap Water in Corfu?
Short answer:
✔ Safe in most areas
⚠ Taste may not be pleasant
✔ Bottled water recommended for drinking
Most tourists choose bottled water simply because it tastes better — not because tap water is dangerous.
🧭 Corfu Tourist Planner Advice
At Corfu Travel Co, our honest advice is:
Use tap water for daily needs
Drink bottled water if you prefer
Don’t stress — Corfu is well-prepared for tourists
Knowing small practical details like this helps you travel with confidence.