Yes, you can drink tap water in Bulgaria. The water quality in Bulgaria meets the European Union’s standards and is considered safe to drink. However, some travelers may prefer bottled water, particularly in rural areas or during peak tourist season, as the water taste may vary depending on the local water treatment processes. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to check with local authorities or your hotel to confirm the safety of the tap water in a specific location, especially if you have any concerns about the water quality.
If you prefer bottled water, you can purchase it at restaurants, supermarkets, and other retail outlets. Some restaurants may offer both tap and bottled water so that you can choose your preferred option. However, bottled water may be more expensive in restaurants than in other retail outlets.
Speaking about mineral water, it is a good time to outline that Bulgaria has several domestic mineral water brands. Some of the most well-known brands include:
- Bankia is still mineral water with a high mineral content and a balanced composition.
- Devin – naturally carbonated mineral water rich in minerals and has a high content of bicarbonates.
- Mihalkovo – is probably the best natural-carbonated water spring in Europe.
- Velingrad is still mineral water and is well-known for its high mineral content and therapeutic properties.
Bulgaria’s landscape has thousands of pure, drinkable mineral and spring water sources. Not all undergo commercial branding, and many locals and tourists enjoy the refreshing taste directly from these uncommercialized springs. Two popular examples include the springs near Banya Bashi in Sofia and the few springs near the Rila Monastery, which are celebrated for their clean and refreshing water.
