You can absolutely drink the tap water in Crete—it’s clean, treated, and safe.
Crete sources water from mountain springs and aquifers, treated through modern facilities. The supply is reliable and safe for consumption across most towns and villages.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ✅ Yes, it’s safe to drink Common Risks: Minimal — high quality standards Brush Teeth? ✅ Yes, no concerns Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ✅ Yes, safe to use tap water Use Ice in Drinks? ✅ Yes, generally safe in restaurants Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ❌ No, not necessary
Verified through CDC and WHO data, along with reports from municipal water services.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
The best water filter bottles do three things: protect your health, protect the planet, and protect your wallet. We don’t sell them ourselves, but we’ve analyzed and compared models based on how well they filter contaminants, how easy they are to carry, and how often travelers actually use them. The ones we trust most are featured below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Even when tap water meets international safety standards, it can still take some adjustment for travelers. Differences in water chemistry, treatment methods, or piping systems may not affect locals but could lead to minor digestive issues for visitors.
Potential (but low-level) concerns include:
- Changes in mineral content that your body isn’t used to
- Older buildings with worn-out plumbing systems
- Ice or raw produce that might have been rinsed with tap water in less consistent establishments
- Regional variation — even within safe countries, rural areas may differ from urban centers
- Travelers with sensitive stomachs may benefit from filtered water in the first days
These aren’t major health risks, but staying aware of how your body reacts can make your trip more comfortable.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Crete, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Crete
Tap water in Crete varies greatly by region. In the mountains, it often comes from natural springs and can taste surprisingly good. In coastal towns like Chersonissos or Chania, however, the water tends to be harder and may have a noticeable aftertaste.
Many Cretans play it safe and buy bottled water—especially in summer when occasional pressure drops or service interruptions occur. That said, tap water is still commonly used for cooking or making coffee. It’s more a matter of taste than safety.
FAQs About Tap Water in Crete
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
Absolutely. The tap water in Crete is safe enough for brushing, rinsing, and even drinking.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Yes, feel free to use tap water for face washing—there’s no contamination risk.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
Feel free to have drinks with ice here—it’s made with clean, safe water.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
There’s no risk in showering with tap water—it’s fully treated.
Even clean-looking water can be harsh on your skin when you’re abroad. A travel shower filter screws on in seconds and can help. Just check that the showerhead isn’t recessed or built into the wall—you’ll need access to connect it. This one’s a traveler favorite for a reason. Click here to check it out.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
Absolutely—you can wash fruits and veggies just like you would at home.
Is bottled water expensive in Crete?
Bottled water is cheap, but honestly, it’s not needed here unless it’s for convenience.
Crete is frequently explored alongside mainland Greece or Cyprus on Eastern Mediterranean trips. Each location treats drinking water differently.