A tourist in Italy lost a legal battle against a luxury hotel for requesting tap water. The dispute arose in 2019 when a visitor from Rome asked for water but was informed she could only purchase a £6 bottle of mineral water instead. Despite arguing that water is a fundamental right, the hotel prevailed in court, with the tourist’s claim of £2,300 for distress and damages being dismissed.
The hotel’s lawyer, Silvio Belardi, stated that the courts ruled in favor of the hotel, emphasizing that there is no legal obligation to serve tap water. The tourist’s plea was rejected by multiple courts, including the Italian Supreme Court.
The tourist had contended that her consumer rights were violated and likened the lack of tap water to essential amenities missing from a hotel room. However, the court ultimately decided that Italian laws do not mandate venues to offer tap water to guests; it is at the discretion of each establishment.
In contrast, countries like France require restaurants to provide complimentary water with meals, while Spain has passed a law mandating free unpackaged drinking water in bars and restaurants. Lithuania also obliges restaurants to provide tap water upon request.
The European Union has not implemented regulations mandating free tap water provision, but upcoming rules under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation could change this. The regulation encourages EU member states to ensure restaurants and other establishments offer tap water for free or a minimal fee, with enforcement starting in August.
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