Safe
Malta
·
Last reviewed:
Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Malta?
Yes, tap water in Malta is safe to drink and meets EU standards, though it is very hard and has a noticeable taste due to the blend of desalinated seawater and groundwater.
Hardness
Very hard
Country
Malta
Rating
Safe
Soft
Moderate
Hard
Very Hard
Water Source
The Water Services Corporation (WSC) supplies Malta from approximately 60% reverse-osmosis desalinated seawater and 40% groundwater extracted from the island’s limestone aquifer.
Contaminants & Concerns
No significant health concerns. The water meets all EU Drinking Water Directive parameters, though the high mineral content and desalination blend give it a distinctive taste that most visitors find unpleasant.
Tips
- •While safe, most locals and visitors prefer bottled water or use filters due to the taste
- •The hard water and high mineral content are a taste issue, not a safety concern
- •Consider a portable filter bottle if you plan a longer stay
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