What are you doing at the fountain?
What this solves
Tourists think the public fountains are a free water source for everything. Locals use them only for drinking and refilling — not for washing, washing-up, or filling bathtubs. The water is drinking-quality (rare globally) and historically protected. Municipal fines apply.
This tool surfaces the city-specific rules. Geneva, Bern and Zurich are stricter than Bernese Oberland villages — because in alpine villages the fountains often serve as the community's water source.
How to read the results
- OK = no local rule against it.
- Discouraged = locals prefer you don't.
- Forbidden = fine possible.
What this tool ignores
- Decorative fountains (sketchy, dry) — those are obviously not for drinking.
- Drinking fountains inside buildings (often marked "Kein Trinkwasser").
Common questions
Is Swiss fountain water safe?
Yes — drinking water quality. Tested daily. Cleaner than most bottled water. Cold (5–15 °C depending on altitude).
Can I fill my water bottle?
Yes, this is the recommended use. Bring a refillable bottle and save CHF 3 per day you'd spend on bottled water.
Can I wash my hands at a fountain?
In an alpine village, no. In a city, sometimes. Some city fountains have a separate lower basin for this. Look for the sign "nicht zum Trinken" / "pas pour boire".