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    Is tap water safe to drink in Finland?

    Water quality in Finnish towns and what to know about natural water sources.

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    Short answer

    Yes. Tap water from Finnish waterworks is safe and of very high quality. HSY, which supplies the Helsinki region, says residents drink tap water of excellent quality, and the City of Helsinki confirms it meets the microbiological and chemical requirements for good drinking water. You can drink it straight from the tap in hotels, restaurants and homes.

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    Why

    1. HSY says residents of the Helsinki metropolitan area drink tap water of excellent quality.
    2. The City of Helsinki says Helsinki's tap water meets the microbiological and chemical quality requirements for good domestic water.
    3. The Finnish Environment Institute says Finland has pure, healthy tap water that is available almost anywhere free of charge.

    Details

    The rules are different for private wells at summer cottages, where the owner is responsible for water quality. Water from lakes and streams should be boiled or treated before drinking.

    Tip

    Bring a refillable bottle. Many cafés and restaurants serve tap water for free, and some public places have drinking water points.

    What may differ

    If you rent a cottage, ask whether the water comes from a municipal network or a private well and whether it is suitable for drinking.

    Common misconception

    Tourists should only drink bottled water in Finland.

    What actually happens

    Municipal tap water is among the best in the world, so bottled water is not needed.

    People also ask

    • Can you drink water from lakes in Finland?
    • Is Helsinki tap water good?
    • Is cottage well water safe to drink?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Check local instructions if a water supply notice is in force.

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