Italian Tap Water Safe?

John, Unless there's a sign stating Aqua Non Potabile, it should be safe to drink. I've never had any problems with water in Italy.

John You asked the same question in the Latte thread and it was well-answered. A lot of us have been drinking the water for decases without ill effects. Where were you / who told you in '98 that you have this concern?

John, Ed is right. Been visiting Italy yearly since 1996 and always drinking the water, brushing teeth with tap water, etc. Not sure where the concern is directed. That said, though, it's as easy there as it is here to walk into a shop selling cold drinks and get a bottled water if you want. But I truly would not be concerned.

Thanks Ed. I decided to give this subject it's own thread as I'm sure others may be interested. The iced latte thread was limited. So if I'm staying at a farm house near Siena I should have no problems with the water?

I probably wouldn't drink out of the horse through, but other than that, no concerns.

Hmmm.....since I've seen this subject a few times I'll say this..... Generally speaking...yes safe! Yes....don't drink out of the animal troughs.....
The area I'm in has a high concentration of calcium....two of the 4 Americans here suffer from kidney stones...those two have been here for years and, apparently, drank tap water. Whether coincidence or not I don't take the chance myself......bottled only for me but will fill up at public taps when travelling.

Tap Water in Italy is great. Lived 3+ years in Rome and drank the water everyday! I certainly miss these: Water, Water Everywhere

Ron is correct! And if you are in Rome soon, you will praise the gods for the public fountains everywhere. It has been nearly 40 C every day and it is so nice to be able to fill up your bottle at the fountain, not having to pay for water. It is amazing. If your stomach is sensitive, you may experience a little bit of trouble, but for the second summer in a row I have had none.

The Italians drink the tap water too: http://www.lodgephoto.com/galleries/italy-tuscany-lucca-peopleoflucca/fills-water-bottles-old-fountain-center-lucca-tusc-148.html

We were in Italy for a month this July. Thank goodness for good and abundant tap water, since a glass of soda or bottle water will set you back about 3 euros!!! The wine was cheaper than the soda or bottled water. We too were in Rome in 100 degree weather and the many water fountains were our only salvation. We drank it, and poured it over our heads to cool off!

John, maybe this trip you're planning is not going to be scary and adventurous enough for what you're looking for?... Syria is a bargain right now!