Safe, good-quality water
According to Canal de Isabel II, the water supplied to almost the entire Community of Madrid offers every health guarantee and needs no additional filtering. It is described as soft water with low mineralisation and low sodium. The company carries out more than 11 million analyses a year, on several million samples, with a network of automatic monitoring stations. It says that 96% of residents drink tap water every day.
Because it is low in minerals, it leaves little limescale: the taste is neutral, sometimes judged bland by those who like mineral waters.
Public fountains
Canal de Isabel II lists nearly 4,000 public fountains across the Community of Madrid, installed by the municipalities as free drinking-water points. Its portal and app #deMadridydelgrifo offer a map and a search tool to find the nearest one. In the centre, you will find some in parks such as the Retiro Park or Madrid Río. Not every fountain is for drinking: if in doubt, look for an "agua potable" sign or a notice to the contrary, such as "agua no potable".
Water at restaurants
In bars and restaurants, ask for "agua del grifo, por favor". The Spanish waste law of 2022 requires catering establishments to offer unbottled water free of charge; it is served in a carafe or glass. More on table habits in where to eat in Madrid and meal times.
Practical tips
- Bring a water bottle: summers are hot (see the best time to visit Madrid).
- If you have a health problem, emergencies are covered in our health and emergencies in Madrid guide.
Further reading
Other local habits are in our rules and etiquette in Madrid.
