Bottled Water in Zurich

• Pricimo Score
  Tourist Trap

CHF 3-14 for what flows free from 1,200 fountains

Bottled water in Zürich restaurants and shops is one of the city’s most outrageous tourist traps. A 500ml bottle typically costs CHF 3-8, while one traveler paid CHF 14 each for two waters at a fondue restaurant—CHF 28 total for what’s essentially free throughout the city.

Here’s what makes this absurd: Zurich operates over 1,200 public drinking fountains providing 24/7 free access to top-quality alpine water. The city conducts approximately 5,000 microbiological and chemical analyses annually. Switzerland ranks fourth globally in water quality with a 98% score. About 70% comes from Lake Zurich, 15% from natural springs (often untreated), and 15% from groundwater.

WHY AVOID: You’re paying CHF 6-28 for something that’s literally everywhere for free, and the free version is often better quality. Restaurant water can cost as much as wine. PRICE RANGE: CHF 3-14 per bottle in restaurants.

Better alternative: Carry a SIGG refillable bottle (Swiss brand, great souvenir) and fill at any fountain. Ask for “Hahnenwasser” or “Leitungswasser” (tap water) in restaurants—some will serve it free or for CHF 1-2. Self-service restaurants like Migros often have free water stations.

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