Chapter 1 of 7
What the treated city supply tells you
Officially, the water supplied to Rhodes city meets all Greek and European standards. It’s regularly tested and is considered safe at the source. This is a good starting point, as it means we're not dealing with an untreated system.
However, that's where the guarantee ends. That official report doesn't cover the pipes, storage tanks, and plumbing inside every hotel, villa, and apartment complex. The quality of the water coming out of your tap depends heavily on the building's own infrastructure.
So, whether you’re in a resort in Faliraki or a flat in Rhodes Old Town, the general 'Rhodes' rule doesn't apply. You need to know about the specific property you are staying in.
Chapter 2 of 7
What to ask your hotel or apartment host
When you check in, you need to ask a very direct question. I find that “Can I drink the cold water from the kitchen/bathroom tap?” works best. If you just ask “Is the water OK?”, they might think you’re asking if the water pressure is working.
You don't need to be a plumbing expert. Just ask for a clear confirmation from the staff or host. It’s their property; they should know.
- Is the water from this specific tap safe to drink?
- Does the water come straight from the mains, or does this building use a storage tank?
- If you use a tank, is the water in it maintained as drinking water?
- Are there any local warnings or rules for this property I need to know about?
- If you're recommending bottled water, is that just for taste, or is it for safety?
If the answer is vague
If you get a hesitant or unclear answer, my advice is to use bottled water for drinking. A water tank isn't automatically a red flag, but it is a reason to seek clear confirmation. A vague 'oh, everyone drinks it' isn't the same as a definite 'yes, it's drinking water'.
If reception hands you a bottle of water and says you should drink that, ask them to clarify if you can still use the tap for brushing teeth. Don't assume anything.
Chapter 3 of 7
Taste and bottled water: keep the distinction clear
You'll see locals and restaurants using bottled water all the time. Honestly, most of us do it simply for taste and convenience. Please don't take this as a sign that all tap water is unsafe.
I have to be very clear about this: taste is not a safety test. Water that tastes a bit different isn't necessarily bad for you, and water that tastes fine isn't automatically safe. It's an unreliable guide.
If your accommodation gives you the all-clear on a tap, then it's your choice. Drink from the tap or buy bottles; it's just a matter of preference. If you're ever in doubt, buying a bottle is the sensible choice, not a travel failure.
Chapter 4 of 7
Brushing teeth, cooking and washing
If your host confirms a tap is for drinking water and there are no warnings, you can absolutely use it for everything—drinking, cooking, and brushing your teeth.
However, if you've been told not to drink from a tap, I would not use it for rinsing your mouth or washing food you plan to eat raw, like salads. Use your confirmed drinking water source (tap or bottle) for those tasks until you're told otherwise.
Keep the advice separate. A 'don't drink' notice doesn't usually mean 'don't shower', but you should always follow the specific guidance you're given rather than making assumptions.
For anyone self-catering, this is the first thing you should sort out. Find out which tap to use for cooking and confirm that the process of boiling doesn't override any safety advice.
Chapter 5 of 7
Ice, restaurant water and refills while you are out
In a bar or restaurant, don't just assume the ice is made from filtered water. If you're concerned, just ask. If the staff seem unsure, I'd just order my drink without ice. It's an easy fix.
When you ask for water with a meal, be clear if you want tap water or a sealed bottle. If you'd rather not worry about the venue's supply, ordering a bottle is always a perfectly normal option.
When you head out for the day, especially in the heat, please carry water with you. Underestimating the heat is a classic mistake I see visitors make every summer. Don't rely on finding a shop mid-excursion.
- Only refill your bottle from a source you know is safe for drinking. Don't just use the nearest public tap.
- I'd never use an unlabelled outdoor tap you might see in a village or by a beach unless a local confirms it's a drinking fountain.
- Always leave your hotel with a full bottle of water. Don't depend on finding a refill point.
Bring a bottle, but check where you fill it
A reusable bottle is a great idea. You can fill it with confirmed tap water or just buy large bottles of water to decant from. Check my Rhodes packing checklist for other essentials for your day bag.
Always think about your water source when planning a day out. My Rhodes weather guide gives you the seasonal temperatures, so you know how seriously to take this.
Chapter 6 of 7
If you feel unwell during your stay
If you get an upset stomach, don't automatically blame the tap water or write it off as just a 'change of diet'. My advice is to stop guessing and get proper advice from a pharmacist or a doctor.
Your hotel can always help you find medical assistance. I've put together a guide to pharmacies and hospitals in Rhodes with details on opening times and emergency contacts. For any medical emergency, the number to call is 112 or 166.
Chapter 7 of 7
Your drinking-water decision checklist
My approach is simple: make the decision tap by tap, not island by island.
If you have any other practical questions about health, safety, or planning your trip, you'll likely find the answer in my full list of Rhodes practical travel questions.
- Confirmed drinking-water tap: Feel free to use it. Bottled is still an option if you prefer the taste.
- Unclear source or vague answer: My rule is to stick to bottled water until you get a clear 'yes'.
- Official notice or property rule: Follow the instructions exactly for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth.
- Leaving the hotel: Always take water with you. Only refill from a source you know is safe.
Sources and product information
Frequently asked questions
Can you drink the tap water in Faliraki, Lindos or other resorts?
I give the same advice for Faliraki, Lindos, Ialyssos, or anywhere else on Rhodes. The official city supply is one thing, but your hotel's plumbing is another. Ask your host directly if your tap provides drinking water and if they use a storage tank. If there's any doubt in your mind, my recommendation is to use bottled water.
Does a complimentary bottle in my hotel room mean the tap water is unsafe?
No, not necessarily. This is the part that confuses people. Hotels often provide it as a welcome gesture or a convenience. It doesn't automatically mean the tap water is unsafe. You still need to ask reception for a clear answer about your tap.
Should I buy water before a late arrival?
Yes, I think that's a very smart move. If you're arriving late and haven't had a chance to confirm the water situation with your host, either ask them to leave some bottled water for you or just grab a large bottle at the airport or a kiosk on your way.
Do children need a different water-safety check?
My advice is to apply the same rules for children as you do for yourself: confirm the water source is safe for drinking. For preparing baby formula or if you have any specific health concerns, I strongly recommend you consult your doctor or paediatrician before you travel for their specific guidance.