DRINKING WATER IN ALBANIA – IS TAP WATER SAFE TO DRINK IN GOLEM AND DURRËS?

.One of the most common questions before travelling to Albania is whether the tap water is safe to drink. If you are staying at an apartment in Golem or visiting nearby Durrës, there is no need to worry – tap water is commonly used for everyday purposes. However, most tourists and local residents prefer bottled water for drinking.

This does not mean that the tap water is unsafe. The reason is much simpler: during the summer season, the water supply system is under significantly greater pressure, and water quality may vary slightly between different parts of the city. Bottled water is therefore the safest and also a very affordable choice.

What Can You Safely Use Tap Water For?

In apartments and hotels, tap water is commonly used for everyday activities.

You can safely use it for:

• showering
• washing your hands
• brushing your teeth
• washing dishes
• doing laundry
• rinsing fruit and vegetables

For drinking, we recommend choosing bottled water, particularly if you have a sensitive digestive system or are travelling with young children.

Bottled Water Is Affordable and Available Almost Everywhere

The good news is that drinking water is very inexpensive in Albania.

You can buy it almost anywhere – in supermarkets, small shops, bakeries, petrol stations and beach kiosks. Prices are low, so staying hydrated during your holiday will not significantly affect your budget.

What Do We Recommend to Our Guests?

If you are arriving at Apartment Rehati, we recommend buying a large bottle or multi-litre container of water after your arrival. There are several supermarkets and smaller shops near the apartment where bottled water is readily available.

You can then use tap water for everyday activities and keep bottled water for drinking.

Practical Tips for Hot Summer Days

Summers in Albania can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Staying properly hydrated is particularly important when spending time on the beach or taking day trips.

We recommend:

• always carrying a bottle of water
• taking at least 1.5–2 litres of water per person on longer trips
• avoiding leaving bottles in direct sunlight for extended periods
• drinking plenty of fluids after returning from the beach

Should You Be Concerned About the Water in Albania?

Definitely not.

As in many other Mediterranean countries, tourists commonly drink bottled water. This is not necessarily a sign of poor water quality, but rather a matter of reassurance, habit and convenience.

By drinking bottled water and following basic hygiene practices during your stay, you can enjoy your holiday in Albania to the fullest without unnecessary health concerns.