Safe
France
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Last reviewed:
Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Lyon?
Yes, tap water in Lyon is safe to drink. Eau du Grand Lyon manages the supply from one of Europe’s largest groundwater capture zones, with over 300,000 quality analyses performed annually.
Hardness
Moderately hard
Country
France
Rating
Safe
Soft
Moderate
Hard
Very Hard
Water Source
Lyon’s water comes from the Crépieux-Charmy wellfield along the Rhône River, one of Europe’s largest alluvial groundwater capture zones. Natural sand and gravel filtration provides excellent pre-treatment.
Contaminants & Concerns
No significant health concerns. Trace PFAS/TFA has been detected (a nationwide French issue) but Lyon is not among the worst-affected areas. Over 300,000 quality analyses are conducted annually.
Tips
- •Ask for “une carafe d’eau” at restaurants — it’s free by law in France
- •Lyon’s Crépieux-Charmy source benefits from exceptional natural filtration through alluvial deposits
- •Public drinking fountains are available throughout the Presqu’île and Vieux Lyon
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & References
The safety rating and guidance on this page draw on the following sources. See our full methodology.
- •WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality
- •CDC Travelers' Health destination pages
- •The municipal water utility's published quality data