What Countries Have the Best Drinking Water

Access to safe, clean drinking water is something that many of us take for granted. However, not all tap water is safe to drink . While some countries suffer with long-term issues with their water quality, others produce some of the best tap water in the world.

If you’re wondering which countries have the cleanest tap water, we have put together a list of countries with the best drinking water.

5 Factors That Contribute to the Countries With The Cleanest Tap Water In The World

• Natural Protected Water Sources
• Government Regulation & Water Testing
• Water Treatment Technology
• Environmental Policies
• Quality Controlled Infrastructure

What Countries Have The Cleanest Tap Water in the World?

Finland

Much of Finland’s water is sourced from underground granite rocks and its 187 thousands lakes. As groundwater collects in the rocks and is naturally filtered by sand and stone, very little contaminants make it into tap water. Regulations are also consistently enforced meaning Finnish tap water is always safe to drink.

Not only is tap water in Finland safe, it’s also reportedly delicious. Bottled water isn’t a huge market in Finland because tap water is often tastier.

Iceland

With its dramatic landscape and fresh water straight from the source, it’s no surprise that Iceland is in our list of countries with the cleanest tap water. Most of Iceland’s drinking water comes from snow and rain. This moisture filters through porous volcanic rocks underground and is easily accessible from mountain streams.

Given the purity of water in Iceland, it doesn’t even need to be treated. According to Water Technology, only 0.9% of water is treated before it reaches consumers. Taps in Iceland fill cup after cup of fresh, clean drinking water.

Netherlands

Groundwater and natural surface water are combined with “some of the most sophisticated purification technology” in Dutch water supply companies according to Water Technology. Sand filtration, ultraviolet light and membrane reactions all play a part in the treatment process. Chlorine is barely used during treatment making Dutch tap water some of the safest in the world.

Norway

Similar to Iceland, Norway’s water comes mainly from the mountains. Glaciers and snow melt into treated reservoirs that supply most of the country. With a commitment to the environment and consistent monitoring, Norway provides their population with fresh, clean tap water.

Switzerland

Spring water is big in Switzerland. In fact, about 70% of the communities within Switzerland source water from protected springs. Not only this, but water from mountain lakes go through natural filtration layers before being accessed by towns and cities.

Great environmental practices have kept Swiss water sources clean. Rigorous testing and contamination regulations have allowed Switzerland to provide some of the best tap water in the world.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has some of the safest tap water in the world. Governments regulations and testing ensures that everyone has access to safe drinking water throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Although the water is clean and safe to drink, the UK does suffer from hard water. Hard water areas may leave taps with mineral residue and white limescale stains. UK residents may turn to bottled water as it tastes better.

Denmark 

Approximately 90% of Danish drinking water comes from groundwater. By sourcing water this way it is naturally filtered through different substances before it’s accessed. Rigorous testing and incredibly high environmental standards means that Denmark rank high when it comes to clean tap water.

Singapore

Singapore stands out for a different reason. Unlike countries blessed with abundant natural freshwater, Singapore has invested heavily in water technology. Through a combination of reservoir collection, desalination and advanced recycled water treatment (known as NEWater), the country produces extremely high-quality drinking water. Its innovative approach demonstrates how technology can help deliver the cleanest water even in water-scarce regions.

Is it Safe to Drink Water Abroad?

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Western European countries, North America, Australia, and some Eastern Asian countries. If you’re traveling through Africa, South America or Asia, it may be best to avoid drinking water straight from the tap. It's probably not treated and can contain bacteria or parasites that lead to sickness.

If you’re unsure about the water’s safety:

• Check official travel guides  
• Ask a local, hotel staff or someone who knows if the water is potable
• Avoid ice in your drinks if you’re unsure about the water
• Drink bottled water 

It’s always better to be safe than sorry. You can drink bottled water, ensuring that it hasn’t been opened already. Even places with safe drinking water may have different minerals than what you’re used to at home. 

If you're not sure if the water is safe stick with liquids that don’t require you drink water from the tap. This will help you avoid an upset stomach while still keeping you hydrated.

What Additional Benefits Do You Get From Drinking Clean Water?

Access to good quality tap water impacts wellbeing for the whole population, reduces plastic waste from bottled water and shows government responsibility, environmental leadership and a positive infrastructure.

Drinking water in the workplace and beyond should be no different. Businesses, offices, restaurants and cafes are required to provide customers and employees with safe, clean water. Whether sourced directly from mains supply or enhanced through filtration systems, ensuring clean water builds trust and promotes wellbeing.

Conclusion

From the glacier fed tap water of Iceland, to the technologically advanced water systems in Singapore, these countries demonstrate what is possible when natural resource meets responsible water management.

While water quality varies globally, the countries listed above consistently rank among those with the best tap water in the world. Their commitment to safety, sustainability and innovation ensures that residents and visitors alike can enjoy clean, refreshing water straight from the tap.