How many people dare to order tap water in Germany?

How many of us aren’t afraid to go against the grain and dare to order tap water in Germany? A new survey of restaurant-goers in Germany, Switzerland and Austria has revealed the answer.

Germany is a nation shy of ordering tap water

One of the first and greatest culture shocks for new arrivals in Germany - particularly Americans - is often the distinct lack of complimentary tap water available in bars, cafes and restaurants.

Anyone who dares to request Leitungswasser is often met with a flat-out “No”, a reluctant but compliant waiter who brings back a thimble-sized glass, or perhaps the worst outcome: a surprising abundance of tap water which is added to the bill at their expense.

These customs have created a nation of customers hesitant to order tap water. According to a new survey, which asked 3.000 DACH-region residents about their restaurant habits, just 22 percent of customers order tap water in Germany, compared to two-thirds of Swiss customers and 57 percent of Austrian customers.

Are German restaurants obliged to offer free tap water?

Put simply, no. Bars, cafes and restaurants in Germany are advised to serve customers free tap water, but aren’t obliged to do so. This is in accordance with the European Union’s Drinking Water Regulation of 2021.

The EU’s law outlines that public buildings, restaurants, canteens, or catering services should offer “water for human consumption” for free or at a “low service fee”.

While this doesn’t mean you’ll always have access to free tap water alongside your meal or beer, the establishment won’t be able to sell you expensive bottled water in lieu. At worst, they can charge you a small amount for tap water.

Other European countries have their own laws; in France, restaurants are obliged to serve free tap water, and in the UK, all establishments which serve alcohol must offer free tap water.